10 Best Instant Cameras 2025 in the United States

The Fujifilm Instax Mini 12 is a fun and straightforward instant camera that prints small, credit card-sized photos right after you take them. It uses Instax Mini instant film, included with 50 sheets in this bundle, so you’re ready to start capturing moments immediately. The camera has a Fujinon 60mm lens, which is great for typical casual shots, and an optical viewfinder to help you frame your picture easily. It also features an automatic exposure mode and built-in flash, so you don’t have to worry much about lighting conditions — the camera adjusts itself to help get a decent photo whether you’re indoors or outside. A handy selfie mirror on the lens makes taking self-portraits simpler. It runs on two AA batteries, which are included, making it easy to replace batteries anywhere.

The bundle adds value with a custom fitted case and a 20-pocket photo album to store your prints, which is perfect if you want to keep your memories organized. At just over 2 pounds and a compact size, it’s easy to carry around for casual outings or parties. The main limitation is that the photos are fixed at a small size and the camera doesn’t offer manual settings, so it’s best suited for fun, quick snapshots rather than detailed or professional photography. If you want an easy-to-use, cheerful instant camera that instantly delivers physical prints and comes with useful accessories, the Instax Mini 12 is a solid pick.

The Fujifilm Instax Mini 12 is a charming instant camera well suited for casual users who want fun, quick photo prints without fuss. It uses the popular Instax Mini film format, delivering credit-card-sized, colorful prints in about five seconds. The camera’s compact size and lightweight design make it easy to carry around, perfect for parties, travel, or everyday snapshots. Turning the camera on and off is simple with the twistable lens, and the built-in selfie mirror helps frame selfies nicely. Automatic exposure and flash adjustments mean photos are usually bright and clear without needing manual settings, which is great for beginners. The close-up mode with parallax correction helps keep near subjects sharp, enhancing the picture quality further.

As with many instant cameras, image quality won’t match digital cameras—photos have a soft, nostalgic look but sometimes can appear slightly washed out or blurry in low light. The use of AA batteries is convenient but may require replacements often if you take lots of pictures. Also, the instant film is sold separately, which adds to ongoing costs.

Its ease of use, cute design, and fast prints make the Instax Mini 12 an ideal choice for those wanting a simple, fun instant camera experience without complex controls or heavy gear.

The Polaroid Now 3rd Generation I-Type Instant Camera offers a classic analog photography experience with modern enhancements. It supports Polaroid i-Type Film and 600 Film, ensuring compatibility with commonly used film formats. The camera features an automatic exposure control, simplifying the process of taking well-lit photos in various conditions.

Its upgraded two-lens autofocus system and improved light meter position contribute to sharper images, making it a solid choice for capturing memories effortlessly. The built-in flash ensures your photos are properly lit, even in dim settings. One of the standout features is its USB-C rechargeable battery, which is more convenient and eco-friendly compared to traditional batteries.

Additional creative options include self-timer and double exposure modes, allowing for fun and artistic shots. Moreover, the camera is designed with 40% recycled materials, appealing to environmentally conscious users. However, the camera's relatively heavy weight of 15.9 ounces might be cumbersome for some users, especially for prolonged use. This instant camera is well-suited for those who enjoy nostalgic photography with modern conveniences and a touch of creativity.