Look, I get it—phones are wild these days. You can take a photo, slap on a filter, and have it uploaded to five apps in under a minute. It’s cool, it’s convenient, and honestly, most of us live on our camera rolls. But there’s still something about instant cameras that pulls me in every time. It’s hard to explain unless you’ve used one—like really used one, not just snapped a test photo and tossed it in a drawer.
There’s this little rush when you press the shutter. Then you wait, and that blank square starts to fade in, slowly showing whatever moment you just froze. It’s a bit messy.
The colors aren’t always right. Sometimes the light blows everything out, or someone’s blinking, or half out of frame. But honestly, that’s kind of the charm. It feels real. There’s no endless retakes or obsessing over angles—it’s just the moment, exactly as it happened. And the best part? These cameras are ridiculously easy to use.
So if you’re thinking of picking one up, this will help you choose the best instant cameras you can grab in 2025. No tech jargon, no fuss—just what works, and why it might be the right fit for you.
Here are some of our favorite picks from what’s out there right now—definitely worth checking out if you’re thinking about grabbing the best instant camera.
 | Instax Mini EVO | $299.00 on Amazon | |
 | instax mini 99 | $177.92 on Amazon | |
 | Fujifilm Instax Mini 12 | $79.95 on Amazon | |
 | Polaroid Go Gen2 | $69.99 on Amazon | |
 | Kodak Mini Shot 3 Retro | $139.99 on Amazon |
Fujifilm INSTAX Mini EVO Hybrid Instant Camera (Black) Bundle.
The Mini EVO is kind of the best of both worlds. It feels like a film camera but gives you a digital preview before you print. You can mess with filters and lens effects using the dials, which makes it fun to use without needing an app or editing later.
It handles indoor lighting pretty well and charges with USB-C, which is way better than the old micro USB stuff. You can also pop in a memory card to save more pics—but only the ones you actually print.
The menus are a little clunky at first, and it doesn’t save every photo like a regular digital camera. But if you want something that mixes modern features with the charm of instant prints, it’s a solid pick.
Specs
- Brand: Fujifilm
- Manufacturer: Fujifilm
- Special Feature: Hybrid Instant Camera
- Film Format Type: Instant
- Included Components: Mini EVO Camera (Black), FUJIFILM Soft Cas, INSTAX Mini Film (30 Exposures), 32GB MicroSDHC Memory Card, Card ReaderMini EVO Camera (Black), FUJIFILM Soft Cas, INSTAX Mini Film (30 Exposures), 32GB MicroSDHC Memory Card, Card Reader
- Model Name: Instax Mini EVO
- Film Color: color
- Compatible Devices: Camera
- Exposure Control Type: Automatic
- Compatible Camera Film Format Type: Instax Mini
- Color: Black
What Works Well
- You get to preview shots before printing, so no wasted film on random blinks
- Loads of filters and lens effects make it fun to mess around creatively
- Has a great vintage look and feels sturdy in your hands
- Prints phone photos easily over Bluetooth
- Battery holds up nicely and charges with USB-C (no ancient cables here)
What Could Be Better
- Image quality on screen isn’t sharp—totally fine for prints, just not great digitally
- Built-in storage runs out quickly, so a microSD is basically a must
- You can only send printed photos to your phone, not every digital pic
- The app does the job, but it’s kinda clunky and not super smooth
instax Mini 99 Instant
The instax Mini 99 Instant Film Camera is a fantastic choice. It takes beautiful photos with fun color effects. Brightness control makes each shot perfect. The different modes—landscape, normal, and macro—offer great flexibility. Switching to a manual vignette is easy and adds a nice touch. Using this camera feels simple and enjoyable. It’s lightweight, making it easy to carry around.
There’s no screen, though—whatever you shoot, you print. So you kinda have to commit to each photo. But if you’re into hands-on photography and don’t mind some surprises, the Mini 99 gives you that classic feel with more control than most.
Specs
- Brand: Instax
- Special Feature: Tripod Mountable, Timer, Aperture Priority, Built-In Flash
- Film Format Type: Instax Mini
- Item Weight: 340 Grams
- Item dimensions L x W x H: 2.36 x 4.06 x 4.65 inches
- Included Components: Camera, user manual, charging cable, battery, battery charger unit, shoulder strap, (film sold separately)Camera, user manual, charging cable, battery, battery charger unit, shoulder strap, (film sold separately)
- Model Name: Instax Mini 99
- Film Color: colour
- Compatible Devices: Camera
- Exposure Control Type: Automatic
- Color: Black
What Works Well
- Packs in manual controls—dials for exposure, color effects, plus bulb & double-exposure options
- Feels solid and premium; folds down compact and easy to carry
- Rechargeable battery, which means around 100 shots per charge
What Could Be Better
- Images aren’t quite as crisp as the hybrid Mini EVO
- Dials can bump in travel, accidentally changing your settings
Fujifilm Instax Mini 12
The Fujifilm Instax Mini 12 in Pastel Blue brings instant fun to use. Pictures develop quickly and look great. This camera is perfect for parties, trips, or everyday fun. It prints photos instantly, so you can share smiles right away. Easy to use, it offers simple controls for everyone. The cute design makes it a stylish accessory too. Enjoy making lasting memories with friends and family!
Specs
- Brand: Fujifilm
- Manufacturer: Fujifilm
- Special Feature: Auto Exposure
- Film Format Type: Instant
- Item Weight: 16 ounces
- Item dimensions L x W x H: 4.4 x 3.2 x 5.1 inches
- Included Components: Camera Body & Accessories
- Film Color: colour
- Compatible Devices: Camera
- Exposure Control Type: Automatic
- Color: Pastel Blue
What Works Well
- Super easy to use—twist the lens to power it on, simple controls
- Fun close-up mode and selfie mirror make it handy for group shots
- Lightweight, cute design, and affordable price point
What Could Be Better
- Lacks manual controls or app features—it’s pretty basic
- Flash can’t be turned off, and outdoors, it can overexpose things sometimes
Polaroid Go Generation 2
The Polaroid Go is tiny and super portable. You can toss it in your bag or even your pocket. Despite the size, it still gives you a self-timer, double exposure, and a selfie mirror.
It takes bright, punchy photos, just not great in low light. There’s no close-up mode either. The film is more expensive and comes in smaller packs (only 8 shots), but the camera itself is easy to use and fun to bring around.
Specs
- Brand: Polaroid
- Manufacturer: Polaroid
- Special Feature: Timer, Built-In Flash
- Film Format Type: Instant
- Item Weight: 0.32 Kilograms
- Item dimensions L x W x H: 4.13 x 3.3 x 2.42 inches
- Included Components: Camera Body & Accessories
- Model Name: Polaroid Go Gen2
- Film Color: Colored
- Compatible Devices: Camera
- Exposure Control Type: Automatic
- Color: White
What Works Well
- Super tiny and cute—easy to carry anywhere
- Prints are bright and detailed, plus it’s got double exposure, self-timer, and selfie mirror
- USB-C charging with solid battery life—around 15 to 18 shots
What Could Be Better
- No macro mode, and film packs can get pricey
- Not great in low light—darker scenes don’t always come out well
KODAK Mini Shot 3 Retro
The KODAK Mini Shot 3 Retro is one’s part instant camera, part photo printer. You can shoot with it or print pics from your phone. It combines a camera and printer in one. Taking pictures is easy and fun. The 3×3 inch prints look great and are perfect for sharing. Setup was simple. Just follow the instructions, and you’re ready to go. The design is stylish and compact, making it easy to carry anywhere. Friends love the instant prints.
Everyone enjoys capturing memories on the spot. The quality of the photos is impressive. Colors are vibrant, and details are clear. Printing takes only a few seconds, which is exciting. This product is perfect for parties or trips. Using the app is straightforward. You can edit photos before printing. It adds a personal touch to each picture. Overall, this camera and printer combo is a great choice for anyone who loves photography.
Specs
- Brand: KODAK
- Manufacturer: Prinics Co., Ltd
- Special Feature: 4PASS technology
- Film Format Type: Instant
- Item Weight: 467 Grams
- Item dimensions L x W x H:5.4 x 6.3 x 2.3 inches
- Included Components: Camera, Photo printer, 8 sheets
- Model Name: Kodak Mini Shot 3 Retro
- Film Color: Colored
- Compatible Devices: Smartphone
- Exposure Control Type: Automatic
- Color: Yellow
What Works Well
- 2-in-1 setup lets you preview and cancel prints; you can also print from your phone
- Dye-sublimation prints are water-resistant and look sharper than typical ZINK prints
- Retro look is charming, and it’s fun to share both physical and digital versions
What Could Be Better
- Printer has a warm-up delay, and it can shut down between prints
- Build feels cheap, screen is tiny, and image quality is just okay
- Some users have reported print issues like banding or blur
Buying Guide On Best Instant Cameras
Understand your needs
Think about why you want a best instant camera. Do you want fun photos for parties? Or quick pictures for memories? Knowing your needs helps narrow choices.
Image quality
Check the resolution of the camera. Higher resolution means clearer pictures. Look for models that offer good photo quality.
Film type
Instant cameras use different film types. Some produce credit card-sized photos. Others create larger prints. Choose what fits your style best.
Camera size and weight
Consider how portable you need the camera to be. Lighter models are easier to carry. Compact designs fit well in bags.
Battery life
Look for cameras with long battery life. A good battery lasts for many shots. Some models allow USB charging for convenience.
Features to look for
Check for useful features like flash, filters, and timers. Some cameras have bluetooth for easy sharing. Extra features can enhance your experience.
Brand reputation
Research brands known for the best instant cameras. Popular brands often offer reliable products. Read reviews to learn from other users.
Price range
Set a budget before shopping. Instant cameras come in various price ranges. Find a model that offers good value for your money.
Warranty and support
Check if the camera comes with a warranty. A good warranty offers peace of mind. Customer support can help with any issues.
Accessories
Consider accessories like cases and extra film. Some cameras include starter packs. Additional accessories can enhance your photography experience.
Final Thoughts
Each of these cameras gives you that instant camera thrill—no perfect lighting, no filter stress—just real moments you can hold. If you want hands-on, film-first control? Try the Mini 99. Keep it simple and fun? Mini 12 is your buddy.
Love convenience in a mini package? You’ll dig Polaroid Go Gen 2. It’s super straightforward, great for anyone who just wants to snap fun pics without thinking too hard. The Kodak Mini Shot 3 Retro stands out for being a two-in-one digital and instant printer setup, which is perfect if you like the idea of printing from your phone, even if the build feels a bit plasticky.
And then there’s the Instax Mini EVO—it’s kind of the best of both worlds, blending digital preview with classic prints, and gives you a lot of creative wiggle room without being overcomplicated. Whatever your vibe is—minimal, artsy, retro, or something in between—there’s something in this bunch that’ll probably click. Whichever one you go for, you’re not just buying the best instant camera—you’re grabbing a fun little way to freeze moments you’ll actually want to keep.
