Best instant cameras to buy now
Table of Contents
With a focus on nostalgia, this type of camera has become a trend for capturing photos at various moments, but do you know how to choose the ideal one for your daily life? showmetech This helps you choose a model and even lists the best instant cameras available in Brazil. Check it out now:
How to choose?
Size and portability
Instant cameras became popular for bringing back that retro look, but it's also important to consider their weight and how you'll carry them around. Some simpler models are lighter and designed to fit in a small bag, but professional models can be heavier and, of course, more difficult to carry.
At the same time, it's worth remembering that larger cameras can also have better sensors, but this also means greater weight, which can impact handling, especially if you're going to use it for hours at a time. It's the classic dilemma: practicality in your pocket or presence in your hand. Like any good piece of equipment, it depends on its use and how much patience you have for carrying weight.
Film type (format and cost)
The choice of type of film for instant camera This is one of the most important aspects, because it defines not only the look of the photo, but also the cost and user experience. Each film has its own characteristics in terms of size, aesthetics, and availability, which directly influences how and how often the camera will be used on a daily basis.
O Instax Mini, FujifilmThis is the most popular format in Brazil. It produces small photos with classic white borders, approximately the size of a credit card. It's the easiest film to find and also one of the cheapest, making it ideal for those who intend to take a lot of photos, at parties, on trips, or for casual use. Development is quick, and the result is usually consistent, even indoors.
O Instax Square It offers a square format, visually more balanced and very close to the traditional aesthetics of the old ones. PolaroidsThe photos are larger than those from the Mini, allowing for better image composition. It is highly sought after by those who value visual appeal and want something more refined, while still maintaining good film availability in the Brazilian market.
Already Instax Wide It's geared towards those who want impact. The film produces larger photos, ideal for groups, landscapes, and shots that deserve more attention. However, both the camera and the film take up more space and are more expensive. It's a less practical choice for carrying around, but excellent for special occasions.
The movies Polaroid i-Type e 600 They maintain the classic look that made the brand famous: large photos with wide borders and softer, retro-looking colors. They are highly valued for their style, but require more care during development and tend to be more expensive. In Brazil, they are also a little harder to find, which limits their frequent use.
Finally, the ZINK movie, used by models of Kodak And with hybrid cameras, it works by thermal printing, without the use of liquid ink. The photos tend to be more durable and the cost per print is usually lower. On the other hand, the visual result departs from the classic aesthetics of instant photos, becoming closer to a printed digital photograph.
| Film type | Photo size | Visual / Aesthetic | Film cost | Main indication |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Instax Mini | Small (credit card) | Classic, white trim | Low | Daily use, parties |
| Instax Square | Medium, square shape | Balanced and elegant | Medium | More aesthetically pleasing photos |
| Instax Wide | Grande | High visual impact | High | Groups and landscapes |
| Polaroid i-Type / 600 | Grande | Traditional retro | High | Classic style |
| ZINK (Kodak, hybrids) | Small to medium | Digital, less vintage | Medium/low | Casual and practical use. |
Ease of Use
This tip seems simple, but it's worth emphasizing: nowadays, it's important to understand that your camera needs to be ready to use when needed, and if you have to make a lot of adjustments, you'll have trouble taking a simple photo. There are cameras with scene modes or brightness adjustment that offer more control, but require a little more attention to each shot, so if you're not an expert, it's worth investing in "point-and-shoot" models.
Another important detail is the flash and focusing systemHaving a reliable automatic flash, and preferably the option to turn it off, prevents overexposed photos in well-lit environments. Fixed focus works well for close-up shots, but models with... real autofocus They deliver more consistent results at different distances, reducing errors and film waste.
Finally, it is worth noting that physical usability of the cameraWell-positioned buttons, a clear display, and simple features like a selfie mirror or status indicators make it more intuitive to use. In hybrid models, the ability to preview the photo before printing helps save film, but adds a level of technology that may not appeal to those who prefer the more classic instant experience.
Battery and autonomy
Instant cameras are known for being very versatile: some run on batteries and others on rechargeable batteries. The idea behind this is simple: it's worth considering where you go most often and how both situations would work: check the battery life in hours or whether it's more worthwhile to invest in a model with batteries that can be easily replaced instead of having to find a power outlet.
Extra features (flash, selfie mirror, modes)
The extra features directly influence the versatility of the instant camera. Built-in flash It's essential for ensuring good photos indoors or in low light, but it makes a difference when it can be turned off or adjusted, preventing overexposed images in well-lit locations. Simpler models usually activate the flash automatically, while intermediate options offer greater control to the user.
O selfie mirrorAlthough it may seem like a small detail, it greatly facilitates framing in self-portraits and group photos. This item can also be purchased separately and placed around the lens, providing support for taking better portraits.
The scene modesFeatures like portrait, landscape, or low-light modes help adapt the camera to different situations without requiring technical knowledge. These features make it more intuitive to use and increase the chances of good results, especially for those who want practicality without sacrificing high-quality photos.
Total cost (camera + film + accessories)
When calculating the cost of an instant camera, it's essential to look beyond the price of the camera body. The largest portion of the long-term expense is usually related to... moviesfor example, a Instax Mini film pack with 20 photos average cost R$ 100–R$ 130 In Brazil, larger packages (40 photos) cost around... R$ 228–R$ 290 or more, depending on the store and the package size. Films for larger formats, such as Instax SquareThey generally end up being more expensive per photo and film. Polaroid i-Type/600 — in addition to being larger — they tend to cost more per pose than Instax, reflecting the retro style and higher production costs.
Furthermore, it's wise to consider accessories that might be needed or enhance the experience: protective cases, photo albums, extra batteries/chargers for rechargeable models, and even photo albums or frames to display the photos. These items add value, but also increase the total budget.
Therefore, evaluate the expected total cost This involves the price of the camera, the average cost of film depending on the format you intend to use, and the accessories you want to have. A cheaper camera may end up being more expensive over time if the film is expensive or difficult to find, so it's worth doing the math before deciding.
Style and experience (nostalgia/everyday use)
Instant cameras go beyond simply capturing images; they deliver an experience. The design, the retro look, and the development time are all part of the appeal, reinforcing the feeling of nostalgia. Some models prioritize this classic charm, while others adopt more modern lines to facilitate everyday use.
In everyday life, style directly influences how often you use a camera. More compact and discreet cameras tend to be better suited for daily routines, while larger, visually striking models are better for events and special occasions. The choice involves less technology and more identification with the way you photograph, valuing the moment as much as the final photo.
Best models
Instax Mini Evo
Opening our list of the best instant cameras, the Instax Mini Evo It stands out for having ten film modes that allow for different captures, such as color shifting, light leak removal, and more. In addition to printing photos taken with your smartphone, the Instax app shows what the camera is seeing in real time to ensure the perfect shot. The Instax Mini Evo has a rechargeable battery that prints up to 100 photos and takes pictures for up to three hours.
Buy the Instax Mini Evo on Amazon by R$1.949.
instax mini 12
Latest release of Instax in Brazil, instax mini 12 It offers an interesting experience for under R$600. Besides having automatic exposure control to prevent overexposed or underexposed photos, it also features a mirror near the lens to help you take better selfies. It also has a constant-firing flash that adapts to the lighting conditions. The Instax Mini runs on alkaline batteries (2 AA type) and can take approximately 100 to 200 photos before needing to be replaced.
Buy the Instax Mini 12 by R$479 in Magazine Luiza.
instax mini 9
A instax mini 9 It is distinguished by its manual exposure controlUnlike the Mini 12, it doesn't adjust the light automatically, requiring you to rotate the lens ring according to the sensor's indication to avoid dark or overexposed photos. Its distinguishing features include the mode... High-Key (for softer photos), an extra zoom lens and a mirror for selfies. However, it lacks the practicality of... automatic exposure and the more compact body of its successor, while still being powered by two AA batteries.
Buy the Instax Mini 9 for R$ 429 in the Free Market.
instax mini 40
With a retro look and premium leather-like finish, the instax mini 40 It's the choice for those seeking the style of classic cameras without sacrificing simplicity. It delivers exactly the same internal technology as the Mini 12, featuring... automatic exposure controlThis model features a shutter speed and flash that automatically adjusts the shutter speed and flash. Its main difference compared to color models is purely aesthetic and in terms of construction, being a more sober and robust model that is better suited to social or professional environments.
Unlike the Instax Mini 9, it It does not have manual adjustments.This makes it much faster and more intuitive to use, since you don't need to rotate light rings to set up the photo. The Mini 40 maintains a more square and traditional format and also features an integrated selfie mode and a front mirror, working with... 2 AA batteries which last for about 100 photos.
Buy the Mini 40 for R$ 1.692 at Amazon.
Instax Square SQ1
A Instax Square SQ1 It focuses on the simplicity of the square format, delivering photos 1,5x larger than the Mini line. Its operation is... fully automatic, adjusting the light and flash without the need for setup, and features a handy Selfie mode activated simply by rotating the lens.
Unlike basic cameras that use regular batteries, this one uses two lithium batteries. CR2which are more powerful. What it doesn't offer is versatility of control: It's not possible to turn off the flash.It does not have a timer or creative modes (such as double exposure), being a strictly "point and shoot" camera.
Buy the Instax Square SQ1 at Amazon for R $ 1.013.
Instax Square SQ40
A Instax Square SQ40 In practice, it's a "new look" for the SQ1 technology, focused on those who value retro design with a textured finish. It delivers photos in square shape (larger than the Mini) with functionality fully automatic, automatically adjusting the exposure and flash power to ensure the background doesn't appear dark, even indoors.
It shares the same mechanics as the current line: simply rotate the lens to turn it on and rotate it again to activate the Selfie modewhich focuses between 30cm and 50cm. Power is also supplied by two lithium batteries. CR2What it lacks is flexibility: just like in SQ1, It's not possible to turn off the flash.There is no timer, nor manual or creative modes, resulting in a higher price purely for its classic aesthetic compared to the colorful square model.
Buy the Instax Square SQ40 for R $ 1.734,88 in Magazine Luiza.
Kodak Mini Shot 3
A Kodak Mini Shot 3 This marked the company's return to Brazil in 2023. It features a 12 MP lens and a flash that can be turned on or off, as well as a border system that can be placed directly on the LED viewfinder. Its smartphone app can be used to edit everything it takes, and you can also send photos taken with the phone's camera for printing, with higher quality, via Bluetooth. The rechargeable battery can take up to 200 photos on a single charge.
Buy the Kodak Mini Shot 3 for R$ 892 on Mercado Livre.
Kodak Printomatic
A Kodak Printomatic It breaks away from traditional chemistry: it's a hybrid camera that prints on paper. ZINC (Zero Ink), water-resistant and with adhesive on the back. Its great advantage is digital practicality, as it allows you to save a copy of the photos on a card. MicroSD In case you want to reprint or post it later.
What it lacks is the analog "soul": the photo isn't developed instantly with chemicals; it comes out ready like a regular printer print. The image quality tends to have less faithful and vibrant colors than an Instax or Polaroid, and it doesn't have an adjustable flash or manual creative modes.
Buy the Kodak Printomatic for R$690 on Amazon.
Polaroid Flip
With a "clamshell" design that protects the lens when closed, the Polaroid Flip It recaptures the robustness of 80s cameras (like the Sun 600) with current technology. The highlight is the system of... sonar autofocus (It uses sound waves to measure distance), which is usually more accurate than optical systems, ensuring sharp photos. It also connects to the Polaroid app for full manual controls.
What it lacks is pocket portability: even when closed, it's a robust piece of equipment. Furthermore, it uses film. i-Type ou 600which are significantly more expensive per photo than those in the Instax Mini line, requiring a larger budget to maintain frequent use.
Buy the Polaroid Flip on Amazon for R$2.544.
Polaroid Now 2
A Polaroid Now 2 It's an update to the brand's classic camera, now made with recycled materials and charging via... USB-CIts strong point is the system of Dual lens with autofocus, which automatically switches between portrait and landscape lenses to ensure sharpness without requiring manual adjustments.
What it lacks compared to the "Plus" (Now+) version is Bluetooth connectivity: you're limited to what the camera physically offers (flash, timer, and double exposure), without access to advanced manual modes via your phone. Compared to the Instax, film development takes longer (about 10 to 15 minutes) and requires protection from light while developing.
Buy the Polaroid Now 2 for R$ 1.179 at Amazon.
Polaroid GB
Closing our list of the best instant cameras, the Polaroid GB It sells the idea of being the world's smallest instant camera. It's extremely portable and "wearable," fitting in any small bag. The second generation brought improvements to the lens aperture to capture more light, attempting to correct the problem of very dark photos from the previous version.
What it lacks is the photo size: the Go film is tiny, even smaller than the Instax Mini, which can make it difficult to see details. It also doesn't have variable autofocus (it's fixed focus), which requires you to carefully maintain the minimum distance to avoid blurry subjects, and its flash is less powerful, struggling in bright nighttime environments.
Buy the Polaroid Go for BRL 804 at Magazine Luiza.
See also other features
With some info: Engadget l Tom's Guide l Analogue Wonderland
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