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10 Best Film Cameras 2026 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Hasselblad 907X Anniversary Edition Kit

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,462
Camera Type

Most important from
1 reviews

Camera Type
Easy to operate and a joy to use, making it accessible even for those new to medium format cameras.

The Hasselblad 907X Anniversary Edition Kit is a premium film camera that stands out with its medium format 50MP CMOS sensor, ensuring high-quality, detailed images. It captures both 16-bit RAW images and full-resolution JPEGs, providing flexibility for photographers who value image quality. The dynamic range of up to 14 stops allows for capturing scenes with a wide range of light and shadow details, making it ideal for professional use.

The camera's compatibility with the XCD 30mm f/3.5 lens offers versatility and excellent performance for various shooting scenarios. The inclusion of an optical viewfinder and control grip enhances user experience by providing more intuitive controls and comfortable handling. Additionally, the kit comes with various accessories, such as lens shades, protective pouches, and multiple cables, which add value.

However, the camera’s relatively heavy weight (6.3 pounds) and larger dimensions (11.22 x 11.22 x 4.92 inches) might make it less portable and convenient for on-the-go shooting. The automatic exposure control may not appeal to photographers who prefer manual settings for greater creative control. While it is a limited edition, adding a unique touch, the high price point could be a barrier for casual users. This camera is best suited for professional photographers and serious hobbyists who prioritize image quality and build robustness over portability and cost.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,462
Camera Type

Most important from
1 reviews

Camera Type
Easy to operate and a joy to use, making it accessible even for those new to medium format cameras.
#2

Leica M6 35mm Film Rangefinder Camera

The Leica M6 is a classic 35mm film rangefinder camera that appeals to those who appreciate high-quality, reliable analog photography. It uses the popular 35mm film format and maintains compatibility with Leica’s rangefinder lenses, giving you access to a wide range of glass for different shooting styles. The camera features a 0.72x magnification optical viewfinder, making it easy to frame your shots with clarity.

Its exposure control is enhanced by a built-in light meter that uses simple red dot and arrow indicators to help you set the right exposure, plus a battery warning to keep you informed. The camera's build quality is exceptional, crafted in Germany with a solid brass top cover finished in abrasion-resistant black lacquer, giving it a sturdy yet refined feel that can last for years. The metering system reads light through the shutter curtain, which is a traditional, trusted method that suits the Leica’s heritage.

Blending modern enhancements with classic design, the M6 is a specialist tool best suited for photographers comfortable with manual exposure settings who enjoy the tactile experience of film. It is not the most budget-friendly option and may feel heavy for casual use, but for serious film enthusiasts wanting a dependable, iconic rangefinder, the Leica M6 is a standout choice.

#3

Leica MP 0.72 Silver Compact 35mm Rangefinder Camera Body with 0.72x Viewfinder Magnification

Rating
8.8
Camera Type
Build Quality
Viewfinder Type

Most important from
1 reviews

Camera Type
It may seem crazy to own a film camera in the digital age, but the Leica MP 0.72 is too beautiful to let go.
Build Quality
The Leica MP 0.72 is beautifully and impeccably made, handling like a dream with its mechanical marvel.
Viewfinder Type
The view through the rangefinder window is thrilling, and the smooth shutter advance adds to the tactile experience.

The Leica MP 0.72 Silver Compact 35mm Rangefinder Camera is a high-quality option for photography enthusiasts who appreciate the tactile experience of film. Its compact 35mm format makes it a versatile choice for various photography styles, and the manual exposure control offers precise control over your shots, which is ideal for those who enjoy experimenting with different settings. The camera's build quality is solid, thanks to Leica's reputation for durable and reliable construction. The 0.72x viewfinder magnification provides a clear and bright view, making it easier to compose your shots accurately.

Additionally, the camera is compatible with a wide range of Leica M lenses, allowing for flexibility in focal lengths and lens types, from 21mm to 135mm, including high-performance lenses with fast apertures like f/1. This compatibility is a significant advantage for photographers who already own or plan to invest in Leica lenses. One of the standout features is the camera's quiet and vibration-free operation, which is crucial for candid and street photography.

However, the Leica MP 0.72 is entirely manual, which might be a drawback for beginners or those accustomed to automatic settings. The high-quality build and premium features come at a price, making it a considerable investment. Weighing 1.3 pounds and featuring a compact design, it is portable but still requires a level of care in handling. The camera also comes with a neck strap and a battery, adding some convenience. The camera's classic design and robust features make it an excellent choice for traditionalists and serious hobbyists who value the art of manual photography.

Rating
8.8
Camera Type
Build Quality
Viewfinder Type

Most important from
1 reviews

Camera Type
It may seem crazy to own a film camera in the digital age, but the Leica MP 0.72 is too beautiful to let go.
Build Quality
The Leica MP 0.72 is beautifully and impeccably made, handling like a dream with its mechanical marvel.
Viewfinder Type
The view through the rangefinder window is thrilling, and the smooth shutter advance adds to the tactile experience.

Buying Guide for the Best Film Cameras

Choosing the right film camera can be a rewarding experience, especially if you appreciate the art and nostalgia of analog photography. When selecting a film camera, it's important to consider several key specifications that will impact your photography experience. Understanding these specs will help you find a camera that fits your needs and preferences, whether you're a beginner or an experienced photographer.
Camera TypeFilm cameras come in various types, including point-and-shoot, SLR (single-lens reflex), and rangefinder cameras. Point-and-shoot cameras are compact and easy to use, making them ideal for beginners or casual photographers. SLR cameras offer more control over settings and interchangeable lenses, which is great for those who want to experiment with different photography styles. Rangefinder cameras are known for their precision and are often favored by street photographers. Choose a camera type based on your level of experience and the kind of photography you want to pursue.
Film FormatFilm format refers to the size of the film that the camera uses. The most common formats are 35mm, medium format, and large format. 35mm film is widely available and versatile, making it a popular choice for most photographers. Medium format film offers higher resolution and better image quality, which is ideal for professional work or fine art photography. Large format film provides the highest quality but requires more specialized equipment and is less portable. Consider the availability of film and your desired image quality when choosing a film format.
Lens CompatibilityLens compatibility is crucial if you plan to use different lenses for various photography styles. Some film cameras have fixed lenses, while others allow you to interchange lenses. SLR cameras typically offer the most flexibility with interchangeable lenses, while point-and-shoot cameras usually have fixed lenses. If you want to experiment with different focal lengths and effects, choose a camera with interchangeable lenses. Otherwise, a fixed-lens camera might be sufficient for general photography.
Exposure ControlExposure control determines how much light reaches the film, affecting the brightness and quality of your photos. Cameras can have manual, automatic, or semi-automatic exposure control. Manual control allows you to adjust settings like shutter speed and aperture, giving you full creative control. Automatic exposure is convenient for beginners, as the camera adjusts settings for you. Semi-automatic modes offer a balance, letting you control some settings while the camera handles others. Choose the level of exposure control based on your comfort with adjusting camera settings and your desire for creative control.
Build QualityBuild quality refers to the materials and construction of the camera. A well-built camera is more durable and can withstand regular use and various shooting conditions. Metal-bodied cameras are generally more robust than plastic ones, but they can be heavier. Consider how and where you plan to use the camera. If you need a rugged camera for outdoor adventures, prioritize build quality. For casual or indoor use, a lighter, less durable camera might be sufficient.
Viewfinder TypeThe viewfinder is the part of the camera you look through to compose your shot. There are optical viewfinders, electronic viewfinders, and LCD screens. Optical viewfinders, found in SLR and rangefinder cameras, provide a clear, real-time view of the scene. Electronic viewfinders and LCD screens, more common in modern cameras, can offer additional information like exposure settings but may have a slight lag. Choose a viewfinder type based on your preference for real-time viewing and additional information.
Metering SystemThe metering system measures the light in a scene to help determine the correct exposure settings. Common metering modes include center-weighted, spot, and matrix metering. Center-weighted metering averages the light in the center of the frame, spot metering measures a small area, and matrix metering evaluates the entire scene. If you often shoot in varied lighting conditions, a camera with multiple metering modes can be beneficial. For more controlled environments, a simpler metering system might suffice.

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