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+ Generation 2 camera is a modern take on the classic instant camera, featuring significant upgrades and creative options. It arrives with 16 color photos included in the bundle, providing an immediate start to your photography fun. One standout feature is its Bluetooth connectivity, allowing you to pair the camera with the Polaroid App for iOS and Android. This app unlocks various creative tools like manual control, double exposure, and light painting, adding depth to your photographic endeavors.

The camera’s dual lens autofocus system is another highlight, making it easy to capture clear and sharp images automatically, whether you're shooting close-ups or standard scenes. Additionally, the camera includes a bonus lens filter kit with five creative filters, offering more versatility in your shots. The built-in flash and tripod mount enhance its functionality for different shooting conditions.

On the downside, the camera is relatively heavy at 2.24 pounds, which could be a concern for those looking for something more portable. Another point to consider is that it requires a Lithium-Ion battery, which is included but will need charging via the USB-C port. For eco-conscious users, the camera is made with 40% recycled plastic, making it a slightly greener option. This makes the Polaroid Now+ Generation 2 well-suited for creative photographers who enjoy instant prints and want to explore various artistic features through an app-controlled interface.