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If you love snapping pictures but can’t wait to get a tangible photograph, you probably need a polaroid camera.
With a built-in self-developing film, you can get your captured image almost immediately.
In this guide, we’ll be talking about some of the best polaroid cameras you can buy.
Contents
- Review of the Best Polaroid Cameras
- Best Overall: Polaroid Mint Instant Print Digital Camera
- Runner-up: Polaroid One Step Close-Up 600
- Best for the Money: Polaroid i20X29
- Best Vintage Polaroid Camera: Polaroid Originals 4711 Sun 660 Auto-focus Camera
- Best Polaroid Instant Camera: Polaroid Originals OneStep 2 VF Instant Film Cameras
- Best Polaroid Camera for Kids: Polaroid Snap Instant Digital Camera
- Best Mini Polaroid Camera: Polaroid Cube Act II
- What is a Polaroid Camera?
- How Does a Polaroid Camera Work?
- How to Use a Polaroid Camera
- Polaroid Camera Tips, Tricks, and Hacks for Success
- People Also Ask
- When Was the Polaroid Camera Invented?
- Who Invented the Polaroid Camera?
- How Long Do Polaroid Pictures Last?
- Is a Polaroid Worth it?
- How Long Do Polaroids Take to Develop?
- Can You Take a Polaroid Picture at Night?
- How Much is a Polaroid Camera?
- How Many Pictures can a Polaroid Camera Take?
- Does Shaking a Polaroid Help?
- Do Polaroids Need Batteries?
- Conclusion
Review of the Best Polaroid Cameras
Polaroid cameras or instant cameras are a great investment if you are impatient about getting your photos in tangible form. But, buying one is not that easy, especially when you are looking for the best one available at a good price.
Don’t worry, in this section, we present you some of the best polaroid cameras based on features, specifications, and price.
Best Overall: Polaroid Mint Instant Print Digital Camera
PROS
- Great camera for handheld photography
- Easy to carry and a great travel companion
- Comes with a variety of tweaking options and settings
- Shoots stunningly sharp images with its 16-megapixel lens
- Unique design allows you to take pictures like a smartphone
CONS
- No indicator lights
- There were several connection issues reported
What Recent Buyers Report
A vast majority of the recent buyers seem to be completely satisfied with the purchase of this Polaroid Mint Instant Print Digital Camera camera. They believe that this polaroid camera operates flawlessly and provides a seamless user interface and experience. You can easily snap tons of photos quite easily with multiple settings and other tweaking options. Overall, it is a great camera.
Why it Stands Out to Us
This model appeals to us in many ways. It offers a multitude of features that is quite attractive and appealing to photographers. It has a brilliant 16-megapixel lens that is capable of shooting vibrant and sharp images. Moreover, it has a modern and unique design that allows it to capture photos like a smartphone.
Who Will Use This Most
We think that it is designed for anyone who is impatient to get tangible photographs instantly. The best part? The photo quality is just amazing, and it takes very little time to create tangible photographs. In addition, it is also travel-friendly so that you can take it with you anywhere you want.
Bottom Line
One of the best polaroid cameras of 2020, this model has various settings and tweaking properties combined with user-friendly and flawless operating capabilities. Consequently, you can experience an ultimate user experience.
- Awesome handheld device lets you take 16-megapixel photographs & print instantly on 2”x3”...
- Innovative zero ink technology - there’s no need for pricy toner; zinc Cartridges combine paper &...
- Unique vertical orientation - modern design lets you snap upright, just like a smartphone.
Runner-up: Polaroid One Step Close-Up 600
PROS
- Has a significantly longer battery life
- Photos are quite sharp with vibrant colors
- Features a manual mode for greater versatility
- Size of this polaroid camera is decent and not bulky
- Comes with a number of settings and other options
CONS
- Body is made of plastic
- Film quality is not that great
What Recent Buyers Report
A large number of buyers who purchased this Polaroid One Step Close-Up 600 polaroid camera praise the quality and performance of this camera. They say that it is capable of capturing some high-quality images instantly and with vibrant colors. Most importantly, it has a ton of tweaking options, which provides you additional photo-tweaking capabilities.
Why it Stands Out to Us
What we like about this unit is its outstanding quality and performance. It shoots some amazing photographs that display natural and vibrant colors. It has a number of settings that allow you to adjust according to your needs and wants. In short, it offers great versatility and flexibility, paired with high performance and decent quality.
Who Will Use This Most
Well, this model is designed for anyone looking to snap some sharp images. It is flawless when it comes to capturing portraits to as close as two feet. The film, on the other hand, is also quite decent and provides a decent image of the captured photos. All in all, it’s a great camera at the given price.
Bottom Line
If you are looking for the best polaroid camera that offers everything, then look no further. It is your best bet. Available with a ton of features and high-quality images, it is second to none. Overall, it makes a great investment.
- Vintage Polaroid 600 Close-up Camera: This camera has been refurbished and is ready for another...
- Features: This camera comes with great features like a Built-in Flash, Close-up lens and comes with...
- Refurbished and Restored: Each camera is cleaned, serviced and tested to ensure their functionality...
Best for the Money: Polaroid i20X29
PROS
- There exists a 2.8-inch LCD monitor
- Comes with 1080p Full HD video recording
- Promises a built-in flash for low-light conditions
- Has a 10x optical zoom lens for close-up photos
- Features an amazing 20-megapixel image sensor
CONS
- Auto-focus is very slow
- There are several problems reported with the battery
What Recent Buyers Report
A large number of positive reviews suggest that this Polaroid i20X29 polaroid camera is simply the best. Users report it as being highly reliable and performance that delivers superb and high-quality images. It has very useful features that ensure you get the best of everything. It’s highly recommended by most users.
Why it Stands Out to Us
We are greatly impressed by the overall quality and performance that this polaroid camera has to offer. It features a stunning 20-megapixel image sensor that allows you to capture phenomenal images. In addition, you can also capture high-resolution videos in 1080p as well. Moreover, there is a 10x zoom lens for close-up images, as well as a built-in flash for dim lighting.
Who Will Use This Most
We think that it is designed perfectly for anyone looking for a camera that shoots high-resolution photos and videos. With its amazing capability to capture 1080p Full HD resolution videos, you can capture the action with the greatest detail and natural colors. Therefore, if you are into snapping photographs and videos, this is the perfect choice for you.
Bottom Line
All in all, this is a superb polaroid camera that promises high-resolution images and fine video quality. It promises a decent performance backed with some useful features that make it stand out more than most conventional cameras.
- 20MP image sensor
- Hd 1080P video
- 10x optical zoom Lens
Best Vintage Polaroid Camera: Polaroid Originals 4711 Sun 660 Auto-focus Camera
PROS
- Squared-off and short aesthetic design
- There is a lighten/darken slider for flexibility
- Features Sonar auto-focus to capture fine details
- Capable of 600 film and imprints images instantly
- Comes with an automatic flash with override option
CONS
- Film is quite expensive
- Construction might not appeal to everyone
What Recent Buyers Report
A high percentage of positive reviews is what we got from the users of this Polaroid Originals 4711 Sun 660 Auto-focus Camera. Most users were pleased and overwhelmed with the outstanding images that it can capture. A lot of users also found it to be nostalgic since it portrays a camera from the ’80s.
Why it Stands Out to Us
It stands out to us as a class act in the polaroid camera regime. It features Sonar auto-focus that enables it to capture crystal clear and sharp images. The images can be achieved instantly while there is a lighten/darken slider as well. Moreover, it comes with an automatic flash that features an override capability.
Who Will Use This Most
Well, if you are a big fan of vintage cameras, this is probably one of the best you can find. It is a sensation from the 80s that are refurbished by Polaroid Originals. If you are nostalgic about this camera, it won’t disappoint you.
Bottom Line
In a nutshell, if you’re a fan of old and vintage polaroid cameras, you can’t get any better than this. It is a masterclass from the 80s that delivers outstanding photos in high resolution. What are you waiting for? Buy now!
- Classic white frame - Format: 8.8 cm 10.8 cm - Image area: 7.9 cm 7.9 cm
- Polaroid 600 Camera - Sonar Autofocus - Automatic flash (with override)
- Lighten/darken slider - Fitted with protective film shield
Best Polaroid Instant Camera: Polaroid Originals OneStep 2 VF Instant Film Cameras
PROS
- Comes with a powerful built-in flash
- Has a step motor shutter for snapping images
- Very easy to use with point and shoot operability
- High-quality lithium-ion battery with a 60-day life
- Features a high-end lens for superb quality images
CONS
- Doesn’t include a film
- Does not work with the Fujifilm Instax film
What Recent Buyers Report
With its ability to capture some razor sharp images, it is an eye-catching sensation. Users are truly amazed by the quality of images that this Polaroid Originals OneStep 2 VF Instant Film Cameras can capture. Most of the recent buyers are quite pleased and believe that it is worth buying.
Why it Stands Out to Us
What we like about this model is the lens quality. It features a high-quality lens paired with optical grade Polycarbonate and Acrylic lenses. These combined outperform any other camera with their stunning and marvelous images. Moreover, it has a self-timer, 60-day battery life, built-in flash, and comes with various accessories.
Who Will Use This Most
If you’re looking to invest in a top-notch polaroid camera, buy this one. It provides extreme ease of use due to its point and shoot capability. Therefore, if you are looking for a camera that performs while being user-friendly, this is your best bet.
Bottom Line
In short, this is a magical camera that delivers the qualities of a high-end model. It has all the qualities of a great polaroid camera while being available at an affordable price. You should buy this, considering the value it offers.
- Easy to use: just point & Shoot. Compose your shot, press the red button and magic will appear!
- Self-timer function - 60-day battery life: high performance lithium Ion battery, 1300mAh, 3.7V...
- High-quality lens: optical grade Polycarbonate and Acrylic lenses - fixed focus lens: 2 feet -...
Best Polaroid Camera for Kids: Polaroid Snap Instant Digital Camera
PROS
- Very affordable and offers value for your money
- Uses Zink printing technology for instant snapping
- Has a 10-megapixel image sensor for sharp images
- You can get vibrant colors with this polaroid camera
- Features a compact design with bold and attractive colors
CONS
- Users reported problems with the flash
- Requires a micro SD card for firmware update
What Recent Buyers Report
Most users seem to be satisfied with the purchase. Their opinion regarding this Polaroid Snap Instant Digital Camera is quite motivating if you are looking for a decent polaroid camera. Since it is a great addition to your photographic arsenal, it provides a lot of versatility. Users highly recommend purchasing it.
Why it Stands Out to Us
To put it simply, this has a lot to offer. However, what strikes us most is the Zink printing technology that this camera uses. Zink printing technology enables you to achieve instant images as soon as you capture them. Most importantly, it keeps the great details and fine quality to provide a sense of relief.
Who Will Use This Most
The Polaroid Snap is designed for someone looking to capture instant photographs. Whether on an event, function, or a family gathering, it is enough to amaze people around you. With its crystal-clear images and fine details, you can expect high flexibility with its tons of features.
Bottom Line
A final word on this polaroid camera will be that it’s an amazing choice if you seek a high-quality and reliable model. If you are looking for a feature-rich camera that delivers great picture quality, this is what you want.
- SNAP, PRINT, SHARE - The Polaroid Snap instant digital camera captures all the fun and spontaneity...
- ZERO INK, ZERO TONER, INSTANT RESULTS - The integrated ZINK printing technology enables you to...
- EMBRACE YOUR INNER PHOTOGRAPHER - Get snapping, capture details with the powerful 10 megapixel...
Best Mini Polaroid Camera: Polaroid Cube Act II
PROS
- Very simple and easy to use
- Comes with a number of useful accessories
- Capable of capturing high-resolution videos
- Can capture 6-megapixel still photos with ease
- Build construction is great even for extreme conditions
CONS
- Not a waterproof camera
- Doesn’t offer you any warranty
What Recent Buyers Report
The end-users are truly stunned and amazed by the high-resolution videos and photos. They think that it is the go-to option for anyone looking for a high-end polaroid camera. Buyers highly recommend this Polaroid Cube Act II camera due to the great flexibility and versatility it offers to its users.
Why it Stands Out to Us
What attracts us is the price of this model. It is available at an extremely low price while outperforming most polaroid cameras. The best part? It can capture high-resolution photos as well as videos with extreme ease. Most importantly, it is easy to use and offers a number of accessories to enhance your experience.
Who Will Use This Most
We think that it is particularly designed for users who love to capture their life moments in great detail. With the high-resolution results, it ensures you are happy and satisfied. If you can get your hands-on this camera, it promises to deliver what is expected from it.
Bottom Line
All in all, it’s a great all-round performer and an amazing polaroid camera available on the market. If you have a low budget and want decent performance, we urge you to buy this model.
- ITSY-BITSY BRILLIANT – The Polaroid CUBE ACT Two is here to prove that the best things do indeed...
- ADVANCED CAMERA TECHNOLOGY – The Cube records Full HD either720p or 1080p video and can take...
- CAPTURE EVERY MOMENT– The rubberized rugged body ensure you on all types of extreme conditions.
What is a Polaroid Camera?
Polaroid cameras, also known as instant cameras, are one of the greatest inventions of the modern era. These cameras use a self-developing film that creates a chemical print shortly after clicking a photo. Now, with the help of Polaroid cameras, you don’t have to wait for your photos to be developed before you can get them in tangible form.
With polaroid cameras, you can get your favorite snaps almost instantly after you have captured an image. If you’re impatient about getting your digital photos in a tangible form, then it’s time to invest in a polaroid camera.
How Does a Polaroid Camera Work?
Polaroid cameras are renowned for their instant delivery of tangible photos. You can get your favorite pictures in a tangible form, right after you capture them. Typically, polaroid cameras have film packs that contain sheets of plastic negatives that are covered with reactive chemicals.
While snapping photos, the negative is held in this specific position for a period of time while the shutter opens. As a result, the light from the lens exposes the film and imprints the image. In just under a few moments, the imprinted image can be obtained in tangible form.
How to Use a Polaroid Camera
Using a polaroid camera is quite simple and doesn’t require a lot of expertise. However, if you are using it for the first time, you might want to refer to the instruction manual.
In this section, we will provide you a step-wise guide of how to use a polaroid camera. It is essential that you perform these steps in order to avoid any inconvenience.
- The first thing you need to do is open the lower bottom flap of your polaroid camera. This is where the film cartridge is to be installed. Once you have placed the film inside, close the flap.
- As soon as you insert the film, a dark slide will pop from the camera. This shows that the film is installed properly and ready to use.
- Now, turn on your camera. You might need to flip it up or close your flash bar to wake it up.
- Polaroid cameras are very sensitive to light. Therefore, you will need some exposure adjustments before you can snap some pictures. Adjust the exposure accordingly to your needs and external environment for an ideal result.
- Stand several feet away from the subject and use the viewfinder, which allows you to frame your shot.
- Once done, snap the photograph by pressing the trigger.
- Keep the film in a dark place for 15 minutes to achieve the desired results.
However, if you are still unsure, refer to the video below for a detailed demonstration of what was described.
Polaroid Camera Tips, Tricks, and Hacks for Success
Using polaroid cameras is quite easy and simple. Even for a first-timer, it is significantly easy and interesting to snap photos.
However, there are certain tips and tricks that you can use to improve your photography. Here are some of the tips to keep in mind for capturing good-quality images using your polaroid camera.
Exposure
Always make sure you adjust the exposure before snapping any image. This is because polaroid cameras are very sensitive to light. Even a minute misalignment in exposure can cause blobs and unsatisfactory results.
Therefore, it is advised to adjust the exposure accordingly. If you are capturing at night, you will need to enhance the exposure while lowering it in broad daylight.
Photographs
Once you have captured the image, be sure to keep the film in a dark place. The film is very light-sensitive, and any light exposure can disturb the chemical formation of photographs. Therefore, always keep your film in a dark place for at least 15 minutes for ideal results.
Brand
Nowadays, there are a lot of brands that offer different Polaroid-type cameras. Most of them offer cameras at a relatively low price. Beware of third-party brands which can trick you for less money. These brands charge a lower price, but they have poor quality and performance as compared to the original manufacturer product.
People Also Ask
Users always ask questions regarding the products that they purchase or are going to purchase. In order to address these questions, it’s necessary to identify and clear any ambiguities in the mind of the user.
To facilitate you, we have come up with a list of frequently asked questions to improve your experience.
When Was the Polaroid Camera Invented?
A polaroid camera, also known as an instant camera, was first invented on February 21, 1947. It was displayed for the first time in a meeting of the Optical Society of America held in New York City. Initially, it was regarded as a land camera that comprised of a roll of positive paper with chemicals developing on the frame.
Who Invented the Polaroid Camera?
The polaroid camera was invented by American scientist Edwin H. Land in 1947. These cameras were initially known as land cameras. In 1948, the first model 95 land camera was rolled out that was user-friendly and easy to use. Since then, they are known for their instant images and ease of use.
How Long Do Polaroid Pictures Last?
Typically, polaroid pictures last nine years, more or less. Chemical development plays a vital role in determining the lifespan of the polaroid pictures. If you own a good quality model, the pictures are quite capable of lasting a long time. Otherwise, they won’t survive much longer.
Is a Polaroid Worth it?
The answer is yes. Polaroid cameras are definitely worth purchasing. You must be wondering why? Well, polaroid cameras offer high-quality images and videos while delivering them in a tangible form almost instantly. If you get impatient about snapped photographs, it might prove a great solution.
How Long Do Polaroids Take to Develop?
Polaroid cameras are renowned for providing tangible photos almost instantly. It is due to their unique chemical formation on the film that enables them to imprint photos. However, it usually takes around 15 minutes for the film to develop. In addition, it requires a dark place since it is very sensitive to light.
Can You Take a Polaroid Picture at Night?
Well, the answer is yes. You can capture a polaroid picture at night, however, you need several adjustments. You would probably need to adjust to the indoor settings and adjust the exposure for a decent photograph. Since these films are light-sensitive, the presence of light is extremely necessary for ideal results.
How Much is a Polaroid Camera?
Polaroid cameras can cost you depending upon the quality and features they possess. They might range from a few bucks to several hundred dollars depending upon their quality and performance. However, you cannot judge a product by its price as most polaroid cameras offer you value for the money.
How Many Pictures can a Polaroid Camera Take?
Usually, when you insert new film on the polaroid camera, it resets the number of pictures you can capture. Typically, with new film, you can capture up to 10 pictures. However, you can actually capture 8. When it says 2 pictures left, it means you have used up all of the available pictures.
Does Shaking a Polaroid Help?
No, shaking a polaroid does not help. In fact, it disintegrates the quality of the image being taken. Most manufacturers demotivate shaking since it creates blobs in the images. As the image never makes contact with air, the shaking has almost no effect on the picture.
Do Polaroids Need Batteries?
Vintage polaroid cameras do not feature batteries. Instead, they have a tiny battery embedded with the film cartridge that powers the camera for ten shots. Therefore, if your polaroid camera is irresponsive, it might be possible that the battery in the pack is dead.
Conclusion
If you are still unsure whether to buy a polaroid camera or not, we urge you to try it once. Although there are so many products available, choosing from our list of products can help you save time and money. Therefore, invest wisely, and we are sure you are going to love the end results.
