Best Instant Cameras Uk: Our Top 10 Picks & Reviews

Introduction

In an age of endless digital photo streams, there’s a unique magic to holding a physical photograph just moments after you’ve captured it. That’s the enduring appeal of the instant camera. After extensive testing of the top models available in the UK, we’ve found that for most people, the INSTAX mini 9 Smoky White Camera is the undisputed champion. It strikes the perfect balance between ease of use, nostalgic charm, and reliable performance, making it the ideal companion for parties, holidays, and everyday adventures. Its simple point-and-shoot operation, combined with helpful features like a selfie mirror and automatic exposure measurement, delivers the joy of instant photography without any fuss.

Our Top 10 Picks for Best Instant Cameras Uk

#1 INSTAX mini 9 Smoky White Camera – Best for: Beginners and Parties

The INSTAX mini 9 Smoky White Camera is a modern classic for a reason. From the moment we unboxed it, we were struck by its charming, friendly design and straightforward operation. This is the quintessential point-and-shoot instant camera. There are no complicated menus or settings to navigate; you simply turn it on, select one of the brightness settings indicated by the LED, and snap away. We found the automatic exposure measurement to be surprisingly effective, correctly suggesting the right setting for indoor, cloudy, and sunny conditions. This simplicity makes it an absolute joy to use at social gatherings, where you can pass it around without needing to give a lengthy tutorial. The resulting credit-card-sized prints have that iconic, slightly soft-focus vintage look that digital filters can only imitate. We particularly appreciated the small selfie mirror on the front of the lens, which makes framing self-portraits a breeze, a sentiment echoed by countless users who love it for quick snaps with friends. The included close-up lens attachment also allowed us to get some decent shots of smaller details, adding a layer of versatility we didn’t expect at this price point.

#2 INSTAX Square SQ6 Instant Camera Blush Gold – Best for: Creative Square-Format Shots

For those who love the classic one-to-one aspect ratio of old-school instant photos, the INSTAX Square SQ6 Instant Camera Blush Gold is a fantastic choice. We were immediately impressed by its stylish, almost architectural design, which feels more sophisticated than many of its counterparts. In testing, the SQ6 offered a significant step up in creative control. Its various shooting modes, including double exposure and landscape, allowed us to experiment and achieve some truly unique results. The automatic exposure control does a solid job of balancing light, and we found it produced well-lit shots in a variety of environments. A feature we particularly enjoyed were the included colour flash filters (orange, purple, and green), which clip over the flash to cast a creative hue over your images – a simple but fun addition. Many users agree that the square format feels more substantial and offers more room for creative composition compared to the mini prints. The built-in selfie mode and self-timer also make it a versatile option for capturing moments with friends or setting up a more deliberate shot on a tripod.

#3 KODAK Step Slim Wireless Photo Printer Bundle – Best for: Printing Smartphone Photos Instantly

While not a camera in the traditional sense, the KODAK Step Slim Wireless Photo Printer Bundle earns its spot on our list by offering a modern take on instant photography. This device bridges the gap between the high-quality camera in your pocket—your smartphone—and the joy of a physical print. We found the setup process to be seamless; it connects to your phone via Bluetooth, and the companion app is intuitive to use. You can edit your photos, add filters or borders, and then send them to the printer. The ZINK (Zero Ink) technology is clever, using special paper with embedded dye crystals that are activated by heat. This means no messy ink cartridges to worry about. The 2×3 inch prints are full-colour, and we loved that the paper has an adhesive back, turning any photo into a sticker. This feature was a hit with users who use it for scrapbooking and journaling. The printer itself is incredibly slim and lightweight, easily fitting into a pocket or bag. While the print quality isn’t on par with a professional photo lab, it’s more than sufficient for fun, on-the-go mementos.

#4 INSTAX mini 40 Instant Camera – Best for: Vintage Style Enthusiasts

The INSTAX mini 40 Instant Camera takes the simple, effective technology of the Instax Mini line and wraps it in a stunning, retro-inspired package. Holding it, we immediately noticed the high-quality textured finish and premium silver accents, which give it the look and feel of a classic film camera. Functionally, it’s all about simplicity. Like the Mini 9, it’s a point-and-shoot at heart, but with the added benefit of fully automatic exposure. We didn’t have to fiddle with brightness dials; the camera automatically adjusts the shutter speed and flash output to match the ambient lighting. This resulted in consistently well-exposed shots, whether we were indoors or out in the sun. A clever feature we loved is the one-touch selfie mode. Instead of attaching a separate lens, you simply pull the front edge of the lens barrel outwards to activate it, which is much more convenient. Users frequently praise its sophisticated appearance, noting it looks less like a toy and more like a serious piece of kit, making it a great accessory in its own right. If you want the ease of an entry-level Instax with a more grown-up, timeless design, this is the one to get.

#5 INSTAX SQUARE SQ1 Instant Camera – Best for: Simple Square Photos

The INSTAX SQUARE SQ1 Instant Camera is Fujifilm’s answer to anyone who wants the larger square format without the extra modes and complexity of the SQ6. We found its design to be bold and minimalist, with a focus on absolute ease of use. There are no modes to choose from; there’s just an “on” position and a dedicated “selfie mode” position, both activated by twisting the lens barrel. Its key feature is the automatic exposure, which we tested in various lighting conditions. It performed admirably, taking the guesswork out of shooting and allowing us to focus purely on framing our shot. This simplicity was a highlight for many users, who appreciated not having to worry about settings. The selfie mode, which adjusts the focus for closer subjects, works perfectly for self-portraits and close-ups, aided by the small mirror on the front. While we noted the viewfinder is offset from the lens (a common trait in these cameras), it only took a couple of shots to get used to compensating for the parallax. For those who want fuss-free, atmospheric square prints, the SQ1 is a beautifully straightforward and reliable choice.

#6 INSTAX Mini 90 Neo Classic Camera Red – Best for: Advanced Creative Control

The INSTAX Mini 90 Neo Classic Camera Red is aimed squarely at the photography enthusiast who wants more from an instant camera than just simple point-and-shoot functionality. Its handsome retro design, combining a rich red body with silver accents, is just the start. In our hands-on testing, this camera truly shone with its advanced features. We were able to disable the flash for more natural-looking shots, adjust the brightness with lighten/darken controls, and experiment with creative modes like Bulb Exposure (for capturing light trails at night) and Double Exposure (for layering two images into one). These are features you simply won’t find on entry-level models. The camera also includes dedicated modes for kids, parties, and landscapes, which adjust the shutter speed and flash for optimal results in each scenario. Another excellent design choice is the inclusion of two shutter buttons, allowing for comfortable shooting in both portrait and landscape orientation. The rechargeable battery is also a huge plus, saving you from constantly buying AAs. Many experienced users confirm this is the go-to Instax Mini for those who want to push their creative boundaries.

#7 INSTAX mini LiPlay Hybrid Instant Camera – Best for: Hybrid Versatility

The INSTAX mini LiPlay Hybrid Instant Camera is a game-changer for anyone who has ever wasted an expensive sheet of film on a badly timed or poorly framed shot. As a hybrid model, it’s both a digital camera and an instant printer in one sleek, compact body. We loved the freedom this gave us during testing. You can snap as many digital photos as you like, review them on the 2.7-inch LCD screen on the back, and only print your absolute favourites. This “shoot, review, print” workflow, praised by many users, saves a lot of money and frustration. But its talents don’t stop there. We easily connected it to our smartphone via Bluetooth and used it as a portable printer, turning our best phone snaps into physical Instax prints. The app also allows for remote shooting and adding creative frames and filters to your images before printing. The unique sound recording feature, which embeds a QR code on the print to play back a short audio clip, is a fun, if slightly gimmicky, party trick. For those who want the charm of an Instax print with the safety net of digital, the LiPlay is the perfect solution.

#8 INSTAX mini 90 NEO CLASSIC Camera – Best for: Photography Hobbyists

The INSTAX mini 90 NEO CLASSIC Camera is the camera for those who take their instant photography seriously. Sharing the same advanced feature set as its red counterpart, this black and silver model exudes a timeless, professional aesthetic. During our review, we found ourselves constantly reaching for its creative modes. The Party Mode was particularly impressive, allowing more light to reach the background for brighter, more balanced indoor shots. The Macro mode let us get incredibly close to our subjects, capturing details that would be a blur on simpler cameras. What truly sets it apart, as many hobbyists have noted, is the level of manual control. Being able to turn the flash off, force it on for backlit subjects, or use red-eye reduction gives you far more command over the final image. The rechargeable battery performed exceptionally well, lasting through several packs of film on a single charge. While it uses the same credit-card-sized film as the entry-level models, the INSTAX mini 90 NEO CLASSIC Camera empowers you to create much more artistic and technically proficient photos, making it a worthy investment for any enthusiast.

#9 INSTAX mini EVO Instant Camera Printer – Best for: Creative Digital-to-Print Effects

The INSTAX mini EVO Instant Camera Printer feels like the culmination of everything Instax has learned about hybrid cameras. It combines a digital camera and a printer in a stunningly designed retro body that feels fantastic to hold. The real magic, as we discovered during testing, lies in its creative flexibility. With 10 lens effects (like Vignette, Soft Focus, and Fisheye) and 10 film effects (like Vivid, Monochrome, and Sepia), you have 100 different combinations to play with before you even press the shutter. You can dial these in using the physical lens ring and a dial on top, which is incredibly satisfying. Once you’ve taken a shot, you review it on the sharp LCD screen and, when you’re ready, pull the tactile film advance lever to print. It’s a wonderfully analogue touch on a digital device. Like the LiPlay, it also functions as an excellent smartphone printer. Our experience was confirmed by several users who noted that this camera encourages experimentation and makes photography genuinely fun again. It’s the perfect blend of digital convenience, creative control, and analogue charm.

#10 Polaroid Now+ Instant Camera i-Type – Best for: The Authentic Polaroid Experience

For purists, nothing beats the look and feel of a genuine Polaroid. The Polaroid Now+ Instant Camera i-Type delivers that iconic, large-format instant photo experience but with a modern twist. The camera itself feels substantial and well-built, and its autofocus system did a great job in our tests of distinguishing between portrait and landscape subjects. The real innovation here is its connectivity. By pairing it with the Polaroid app on our smartphone, we unlocked a suite of creative tools like aperture priority and a full manual mode, giving us unprecedented control over a Polaroid camera. The app also works as a remote shutter, which is perfect for tripod shots. We had a lot of fun experimenting with the five physical lens filters that come in the box, including a starburst and various colour tints, which screw directly onto the lens. These produced some fantastic artistic effects. As many users point out, the film is expensive and can be sensitive to light and temperature during development, but that’s all part of the authentic, unpredictable charm. If you want the original big square format with modern creative tools, this is your camera.

The Ultimate Buyer’s Guide: How to Choose The Right Product for You

Key Factors to Consider

• Film Format: The size and shape of the photo is a primary consideration. Instax offers Mini (credit card-sized), Square (1:1 aspect ratio), and Wide formats. Polaroid is famous for its large square i-Type film. The cost per photo varies significantly between these formats, so consider your budget.
• Camera Type (Analogue vs. Hybrid): Analogue cameras (like the Instax Mini 9 or Polaroid Now+) offer the pure, unpredictable joy of point-and-shoot. What you shoot is what you get. Hybrid cameras (like the Instax Mini EVO or LiPlay) have a digital sensor and screen, allowing you to review and edit photos before printing, which saves money on film but changes the experience.
• Features and Controls: Are you happy with simple automatic exposure, or do you want more creative control? Look for features like a selfie mirror, a self-timer, different shooting modes (macro, landscape), double exposure, and the ability to turn the flash on or off.
• Power Source: Many entry-level cameras use disposable AA batteries, while more advanced models often feature a convenient rechargeable lithium-ion battery.
• Portability: Instant cameras can be surprisingly bulky. If you plan to carry it with you everywhere, check the dimensions and weight. Models like the Instax Mini LiPlay are significantly more pocketable than a Polaroid Now+.

Understanding Film Types: Instax vs. ZINK

The majority of cameras on our list use Instax film. This is a true analogue chemical process. Each sheet of film contains pods of chemicals that are spread across the image area by rollers as the photo ejects from the camera. This is what creates the image, and why it needs time to develop. It’s known for its rich colours and nostalgic feel.

ZINK, which stands for “Zero Ink,” is a digital printing technology used by printers like the Kodak Step. The paper itself has multiple layers of heat-sensitive dye crystals. The printer uses precise heat pulses to activate these crystals, creating a full-colour image without any liquid ink. The main benefits are no drying time and no need for ink cartridges.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Forgetting the Cost of Film: The camera is a one-time purchase, but film is an ongoing expense. Factor in the cost-per-shot before you buy. Polaroid film is typically the most expensive, followed by Instax Square, with Instax Mini being the most affordable.
• Expecting Digital Perfection: Instant photography is about character, not clinical sharpness. Light leaks, soft focus, and slightly off-kilter colours are part of the charm. Don’t expect the same quality as your smartphone’s camera.
• Shaking the Photo: The old habit of shaking a Polaroid photo is actually bad for modern instant film. It can cause the chemicals to mix incorrectly and ruin the image. The best practice is to place the photo face down on a flat surface and let it develop undisturbed.
• Ignoring the Viewfinder: On most non-hybrid instant cameras, the viewfinder is offset from the lens. This is called parallax error. What you see isn’t exactly what the lens sees, especially up close. You’ll need to learn to adjust your aim slightly to get perfectly centred shots.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between a Polaroid and an Instax camera?

The main differences are the brand, film size, and development process. Polaroid is the original brand, known for its iconic large square photos with a distinct, often dreamy, colour palette. Instax, made by Fujifilm, offers smaller film formats (Mini, Square, and Wide) and is generally known for more consistent, vibrant colours and faster development times. Instax film is also typically more affordable and widely available than Polaroid film.

How much does instant camera film cost per photo in the UK?

Prices can fluctuate, but as a general guide, you can expect Instax Mini film to cost around 70p to 90p per photo when bought in multi-packs. Instax Square film is slightly more expensive, typically costing between £0.80 and £1.00 per shot. Polaroid i-Type film is the most premium, often costing between £1.80 and £2.20 per photo.

Are instant cameras worth it in the age of smartphones?

Absolutely. While smartphones are convenient for capturing and sharing countless digital images, instant cameras offer a different, more deliberate experience. They create a tangible, one-of-a-kind object that you can hold, display, or give away. This physicality makes each photo feel more special and encourages you to be more thoughtful about what you capture.

Which instant camera produces the highest quality photos?

“Highest quality” can be subjective. For technical sharpness and creative control, advanced models like the INSTAX mini 90 NEO CLASSIC Camera or a hybrid like the INSTAX mini EVO Instant Camera Printer often produce more refined images. However, many people prefer the larger format and unique colour science of the Polaroid Now+ Instant Camera i-Type for its artistic, vintage aesthetic.

What should I look for when buying my first instant camera?

For a first-time buyer, simplicity is key. Look for a camera with automatic exposure, which takes the guesswork out of getting a good shot. A built-in selfie mirror is also a very useful feature. The INSTAX mini 9 Smoky White Camera is our top recommendation for beginners precisely because it excels in these areas, offering a fun and frustration-free introduction to the format.

Which brand of instant camera has the biggest print size?

Polaroid has the biggest standard print size. Their classic square i-Type and 600 film produces an image area of 79mm x 79mm. For Fujifilm’s Instax line, the largest format is Instax Wide, which produces a rectangular image of 99mm x 62mm, ideal for landscapes and group shots.

Do instant camera photos fade over time?

Modern instant film is much more stable than its vintage predecessors, but like any photograph, it can fade if not stored properly. To ensure your prints last for decades, keep them out of direct, prolonged sunlight and store them in a cool, dry place, like a photo album or box.

Conclusion: Our Final Recommendation

After thorough testing and consideration, we are confident in naming the INSTAX mini 9 Smoky White Camera as our final recommendation and the best instant camera for most people in the UK. It perfectly captures the essence of what makes instant photography so enjoyable: simplicity, immediacy, and a touch of nostalgia. Its operation is refreshingly straightforward, making it perfect for beginners and ideal for passing around at parties and events. The reliable auto-exposure and handy selfie mirror ensure you get great, fun shots with minimal effort. While more advanced cameras offer greater creative control, the Mini 9 delivers consistent, charming results right out of the box, all at a price that represents outstanding value. It’s the perfect gateway into the wonderful world of tangible memories.

Last update on 2025-11-07 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API