10 Best Polaroid Instant Cameras 2026 in the United States

The Polaroid Now 3rd Generation is a user-friendly instant camera that brings the classic Polaroid experience with modern improvements. It uses Polaroid i-Type and 600 film, providing the nostalgic look of full-sized instant prints without complicated settings. The standout feature is its sharp twin-lens autofocus, which automatically selects the best lens for your shot, ensuring clear pictures without guesswork.

It also includes creative options like double-exposure mode for artistic photos and a self-timer to help with selfies or group shots. The built-in flash and tripod mount add to its versatility. Its rechargeable USB-C battery is a significant advantage, lasting long enough for over 15 packs of film and eliminating the need for disposable batteries. Weighing just under a pound and designed with the iconic Polaroid look, it is both portable and stylish.

The maximum shutter speed is 1/60 seconds, which may limit sharpness in very bright or fast-moving scenes. While it offers creative features, it lacks advanced settings, making it best suited for casual users who want simplicity and fun rather than professional control. This camera is ideal for anyone interested in easy-to-use instant photography with a vintage feel, especially if modern conveniences like rechargeability and autofocus are appreciated.

The Fujifilm Instax Mini 12 is a colorful and compact instant camera that’s great for anyone wanting to capture and print photos instantly with ease. It uses the popular Instax Mini film, which produces small, credit card-sized prints that develop right before your eyes. The included 40-sheet film pack gives plenty of chances to snap and share memories right away. Its Fujinon 60mm lens and built-in flash make it easy to take bright, clear pictures in various lighting conditions, and the auto exposure feature helps you get good results without fiddling with settings. The camera is lightweight and portable, making it easy to carry around for casual outings or parties.

The bundle also includes a stylish carrying case and photo album, which are practical touches for protecting the camera and organizing your prints. On the downside, the lens aperture (f/12.7) means it’s not designed for professional-quality photos or detailed close-ups, so it’s best suited for fun snapshots rather than serious photography. It also doesn’t have advanced creative modes, so it’s mainly for straightforward instant photo-taking rather than experimenting with effects.

The camera’s size and weight are reasonable, though it’s a bit heavier than some ultra-compact models. This camera bundle is well suited for beginners, casual photographers, and anyone who loves the charm of instant prints and wants a simple, no-fuss camera that comes ready to use with film and accessories.

The Polaroid Now+ 3rd Generation is a stylish instant camera that uses Polaroid's classic i-Type and 600 film, delivering that familiar vintage look with full-sized photos. It stands out with its ability to connect to the Polaroid app via Bluetooth, allowing you to control settings remotely and access creative modes like manual exposure, aperture priority, and double exposure that aren’t built directly into the camera. This makes it a great choice for users who want more control over their photos without complicated equipment.

The camera features an upgraded autofocus system and a built-in flash, helping you capture clear shots in various lighting conditions. Its USB-C rechargeable battery is a big plus, offering the convenience of powering through about 15 film packs without needing disposable batteries, so you won’t get interrupted during your photo sessions. Weighing just under a pound, it’s portable enough to carry around easily, though it might feel a bit bulky compared to smaller instant cameras.

Maintaining the classic Polaroid look with updated, more eco-friendly materials, the camera may be pricier compared to simpler models without app connectivity. Additionally, relying on the app means you need a smartphone nearby to unlock the full creative potential. If you enjoy the charm of instant photography but want some modern flexibility and creative options, the Polaroid Now+ is a solid pick. For those who prefer straightforward point-and-shoot simplicity without app controls, this model might offer more features than necessary.