10 Best Instant Cameras 2026 in the United States

The Fujifilm INSTAX Wide 400 Instant Camera in Sage Green is a solid choice for those who enjoy instant photography. It utilizes Instax Wide film, which is known for producing larger prints compared to the standard Instax Mini film. This is great for capturing more detail and fitting more subjects into your shots.

The camera’s automatic exposure and flash control are user-friendly features that help ensure well-lit and properly exposed photos without manual adjustments. The inclusion of a self-timer with an LED countdown is particularly useful for group shots or selfies. Three focus modes—Normal, Landscape, and Macro (via an included close-up lens)—offer versatility in different shooting scenarios, and the package comes with handy accessories like a shoulder strap and a camera angle adjustment accessory to help you take perfectly angled photos.

The camera requires 4 AA batteries, which are included, making it ready to use right out of the box. With dimensions of 9.75 x 4.24 x 5.75 inches and weighing 1.34 pounds, it’s relatively portable, though a bit bulkier than some other models. Nonetheless, for those who prioritize ease of use and larger print sizes, this camera is a strong contender.

The Polaroid Now 3rd Generation instant camera is a solid choice for anyone who enjoys the classic experience of instant photography with a modern twist. It uses Polaroid i-Type and 600 film formats, which are easy to find and deliver iconic, full-sized color photos. The camera is designed to be user-friendly with features like autofocus and auto exposure, making it straightforward to point, shoot, and have instant physical pictures. Its built-in flash and improved light meter help capture better photos even in varied lighting conditions, improving the image quality compared to older models.

One of the camera's strengths is its portability. Weighing just under a pound and being compact, it’s easy to carry around for parties, travel, or casual outings. The rechargeable USB-C battery is a nice upgrade over disposable batteries, adding convenience and sustainability. The design is also eye-catching and mindful, made partly from recycled materials.

Special features like a self-timer for group shots and a double-exposure mode let users get creative with their pictures, adding fun options beyond basic snapshots. While the image quality is improved, it still has the characteristic softness and sometimes unpredictable exposure of instant film, which might not satisfy those wanting very sharp or highly detailed images. This camera is ideal for casual users and Polaroid fans who want reliable instant prints with creative options and ease of use but is less suited for those needing professional-level image sharpness or more advanced manual controls.

The Fujifilm Instax Mini EVO Instant Camera stands out in the instant camera category thanks to its hybrid capabilities, allowing users to capture moments digitally and print them instantly. With 10 different lens and film effects, it offers a creative playground for photography enthusiasts, providing up to 100 combinations to express individual styles. The built-in selfie mirror and dual shutter buttons make it user-friendly, especially for selfies, ensuring perfect framing for memorable shots.

One notable strength is its ability to save photos directly to a smartphone using the INSTAX MINI EVO app, which allows for remote shooting and printing via Bluetooth. This feature can be particularly appealing for users who enjoy sharing their photos digitally, as it seamlessly combines instant printing with modern technology.

However, there are some limitations to consider. The camera prints 2” x 3” photos, which might feel small for those used to larger prints. Additionally, the film (INSTAX MINI instant film) is sold separately, which is an important factor for budget considerations since ongoing film costs can add up over time. The camera's automatic exposure control is a plus for beginners, but more advanced users might find it lacks manual controls for fine-tuning shots. Weighing in at just 10.08 ounces, it's portable and easy to carry, making it great for events or travels. However, a microSD card is needed for saving images digitally, and that’s an extra cost if you don’t already have one.