10 Best Instant Film Cameras 2026 in the United States

The Fujifilm Instax Mini EVO Instant Camera is a hybrid instant film camera that allows users to enjoy both digital and instant film photography. One of its standout features is the variety of creative options it offers with 100 different combinations of lens and film effects, making it an excellent choice for those who love to experiment with their photos.

The built-in selfie mirror and dual shutter buttons for portrait and landscape modes enhance its usability, especially for those who enjoy taking selfies or need versatility in shooting angles. The automatic exposure control simplifies the photo-taking process, ensuring well-lit images without the need for manual adjustments. Additionally, the camera's ability to connect to a smartphone via the free INSTAX MINI EVO app for remote shooting and printing adds convenience and modern functionality.

You can even save printed images to your phone or microSD card, although the card is not included. It prints high-quality 2” x 3” instant photos, but remember that the film is sold separately, which could be an ongoing additional cost. The compact size (5.78 x 4.06 x 3.39 inches) and lightweight design (0.63 pounds) make it portable and easy to carry around, ideal for events and travel. However, the reliance on a lithium-ion battery (included) means you'll need to keep it charged.

The Fujifilm Instax Mini EVO Instant Camera is feature-rich and user-friendly, catering well to those looking for creative freedom and modern connectivity in an instant film camera.

The Fujifilm Instax Mini 12 is a compact and colorful instant film camera that makes capturing and printing photos quick and enjoyable. It uses Fujifilm’s popular Mini instant film, which prints credit-card-sized color photos that develop right before your eyes—perfect for fun, casual photography. The camera features a 60mm Fujinon lens with a fixed aperture of f/12.7, offering decent image sharpness for everyday snapshots. It has an optical viewfinder, helping you frame shots easily without any complicated setup. Auto exposure is built in, so the camera adjusts the brightness automatically, making it user-friendly especially if you’re new to instant cameras.

A built-in flash lets you take pictures in low light, though like many instant cameras, the flash range is best for close to mid-distance subjects. Powered by standard batteries, the Mini 12 stays light and portable, fitting comfortably in its included stylish carrying case with a removable strap for convenience and protection on the go. This bundle also includes 40 sheets of film and a photo album with 64 pockets, providing a great way to store and share your pictures.

While the camera excels in ease of use and fun design, it lacks manual exposure controls or zoom options, which means you have less control over artistic effects or framing. The lens is fixed-focus, so it’s best for subjects at a moderate distance rather than close macro shots. Its simplicity, attractive look, and instant prints make it an excellent choice for casual users, parties, and beginners wanting to enjoy instant photography without fuss.

The Polaroid Now 3rd Generation is a solid choice if you want the classic instant-photo experience with a modern twist. It uses Polaroid’s iconic i-Type and 600 instant film, which delivers that vintage look with full-sized photos that develop right before your eyes. The camera features a twin-lens autofocus system that automatically picks the best focus for your shot, making it easier to capture sharp images without messing with settings. You also get useful modes like double exposure for creative shots and a self-timer for selfies or group photos.

A big plus is the built-in rechargeable battery via USB-C, which lasts through more than 15 packs of film—so you won’t need to keep buying disposable batteries. The size is fairly compact and reasonably lightweight, making it easy to carry around for casual use. While the camera offers exposure control through its automatic functions, there’s no manual control for those wanting more creative input. The built-in flash works well for low light but might not be powerful enough for very dark environments.

If you’re looking for advanced features or interchangeable lenses, this model keeps things simple and straightforward. Its nostalgic design is updated with more sustainable materials, which is nice if you care about environmental impact. This camera suits anyone who values ease of use, instant physical photos, and a bit of creative fun without complicated settings.