Best Budget Instant Camera Uk: Our Top 10 Picks & Reviews

Introduction

In a world of fleeting digital images, there’s a unique and tangible joy in holding a physical photograph moments after you’ve captured it. Instant cameras bring back that magic, and thankfully, you don’t need to break the bank to join the fun. We’ve spent weeks testing, snapping, and evaluating the best budget-friendly options available in the UK to find the perfect blend of performance, price, and pure enjoyment. After all our testing, one camera consistently stood out: the INSTAX mini 9 Camera Smoky White. It’s the quintessential instant camera experience—simple, reliable, and incredibly fun, making it our top recommendation for anyone starting their instant photography journey.

Our Top 10 Picks for Best Budget Instant Camera Uk

#1 INSTAX mini 9 Camera Smoky White – Best for: Pure and Simple Instant Fun

The INSTAX mini 9 Camera Smoky White is a modern classic for a reason. From the moment we unboxed it, we were struck by its charming, straightforward design. It’s the perfect camera for parties, family gatherings, or just capturing everyday moments with a nostalgic flair. Operation is incredibly simple: pop in two AA batteries, load the film, and you’re ready to shoot. The camera helpfully suggests the best brightness setting via an LED indicator, and you just turn the dial to match. We found the automatic exposure measurement did a commendable job in various lighting conditions, producing those classic, slightly soft-focus instant prints that are so beloved. The credit card-sized photos are perfect for wallets, phone cases, or stringing up as decorations.

A feature we particularly appreciated at this price point is the built-in selfie mirror next to the lens. It makes framing self-portraits a breeze, eliminating the guesswork that plagued older instant models. The included close-up lens attachment also allows for surprisingly decent macro shots. Our experience was confirmed by numerous users who praised the camera’s ease of use, calling it a great purchase for all ages. While it’s not a professional camera and won’t deliver high-definition sharpness, that’s not its purpose. It’s about capturing a feeling, and the INSTAX mini 9 Camera Smoky White does that beautifully. The main drawback, as with any instant camera, is the ongoing cost of film, but for the sheer joy it brings, we think it’s a worthy trade-off.

#2 INSTAX Square SQ6 Instant Camera Blush Gold – Perfect for: Stylish Social Photography

For those who love the instant format but desire a bit more frame to work with, the INSTAX Square SQ6 Instant Camera Blush Gold is a superb choice. The 1:1 square aspect ratio immediately evokes the classic Polaroid feel, offering a larger canvas for your compositions than the Mini format. During our testing, we were impressed by the SQ6’s feature set, which strikes a great balance between ease of use and creative control. The automatic exposure control handled most situations well, but the ability to switch between modes like Selfie, Macro, and Landscape gave us welcome versatility. We especially had fun with the double exposure mode, creating some wonderfully artistic shots.

The design is another highlight. The blush gold finish is elegant, and the camera feels solid and well-built in hand. Many users agree, loving the style and build quality. The inclusion of three coloured flash filters (orange, purple, and green) is a thoughtful touch that encourages experimentation right out of the box. A key feature that users particularly love is the self-timer, which is surprisingly absent on many other Instax models and is perfect for group shots. The main critique, echoed by some users, is the cost of the square film, which is pricier per shot than the Mini format. However, if you value the larger, classic format and creative features, the INSTAX Square SQ6 Instant Camera Blush Gold offers a fantastic and stylish package.

#3 KODAK Step Slim Wireless Photo Printer Gift Bundle – Ideal for: Printing Smartphone Snaps Instantly

It’s important to note that the KODAK Step Slim Wireless Photo Printer Gift Bundle isn’t an instant camera, but rather a pocket-sized mobile printer. For those who love the look of their smartphone photos but crave a physical copy, this is a brilliant solution. We found the setup to be incredibly straightforward; connecting to our phones via Bluetooth through the companion app was seamless. The ZINK (Zero Ink) technology is a game-changer, embedding all the colour into the paper itself, so you never have to worry about ink cartridges. The 2×3″ prints have an adhesive back, which is fantastic for scrapbooking, journaling, or just sticking photos anywhere you like.

The print quality is decent for a portable device of this nature. While it won’t match a dedicated photo printer, the colours are vibrant enough for fun, casual prints. Many users find the quality perfectly acceptable for its purpose, though our testing and some user feedback noted that occasional lines can appear on prints. The Barbie-themed bundle is a fun, stylish package with a case, album, and stickers, making it a great gift. The printer is slim, lightweight, and can print up to 25 photos on a single charge. If your goal is to get the best shots from your phone into the physical world without the unpredictability of a true instant camera, the KODAK Step Slim Wireless Photo Printer Gift Bundle is a versatile and convenient choice.

#4 INSTAX mini 40 Instant Camera Automatic Exposure – Best for: Vintage Style with Modern Simplicity

The INSTAX mini 40 Instant Camera Automatic Exposure captures the essence of classic film photography with its timeless design. We were immediately drawn to the textured black finish and premium silver accents, which give it a much more sophisticated look than many of its colourful siblings. It’s a camera that feels great to hold and looks fantastic on a shelf. But it’s not just about looks; the Mini 40 is incredibly easy to operate. There are essentially two controls: a button to pop the lens out and power it on, and the shutter button. The automatic exposure function, which adjusts shutter speed and flash output based on ambient light, worked flawlessly in our tests, taking the guesswork out of getting a good shot. This simplicity was a sentiment echoed by many users, who found it refreshingly straightforward.

For selfies, a simple pull on the front of the lens barrel engages the selfie mode, which adjusts the focus for close-up shots. The small mirror on the front helps with framing. The photos it produces are the standard, credit card-sized Instax Mini prints with that characteristic charm. We found the results were generally well-exposed, though, like many instant cameras, it can struggle in very bright outdoor conditions, an issue a few users also pointed out. Overall, the INSTAX mini 40 Instant Camera Automatic Exposure is a perfect choice for those who want the fun of an instant camera but prefer a more grown-up, retro aesthetic without sacrificing ease of use.

#5 INSTAX SQUARE SQ1 Instant Camera – Perfect for: Effortless Square-Format Snaps

The INSTAX SQUARE SQ1 Instant Camera is Fujifilm’s answer to making square-format photography as simple as possible. Where the SQ6 offers more modes and controls, the SQ1 strips things back to the essentials, making it a true point-and-shoot experience. We loved its minimalist, modern design and the chunky, comfortable grip. Powering it on is as simple as twisting the lens barrel, and twisting it a second time activates the dedicated selfie mode. The camera’s automatic exposure system takes care of all the settings, so all you have to do is frame your shot and press the shutter. This makes it an excellent choice for parties or events where you want to pass the camera around without having to explain complex settings.

The photos are crisp and have that wonderful vintage feel that Instax is known for, all within the satisfyingly large square frame. As one user noted, it captures exactly the “faded and vintage style photos” they were looking for. However, the simplicity of the auto-exposure can be a double-edged sword. We, along with several users, found that it can struggle in bright daylight, sometimes washing out faces and backgrounds. It performs best in evenly lit conditions or indoors with the flash. Also, the placement of the shutter button is quite sensitive, and we accidentally wasted a few shots. Despite these minor quirks, the INSTAX SQUARE SQ1 Instant Camera is a fantastic, user-friendly entry point into the world of square instant photography.

#6 INSTAX Mini 90 Neo Classic Camera – Suits: Aspiring Instant Photography Artists

The INSTAX Mini 90 Neo Classic Camera is the camera for those who have mastered the basics and are ready for more creative control. While it’s at the upper limit of what we’d call “budget,” the features it packs in justify the price for enthusiasts. Its handsome retro design is the first thing you notice, but the real magic is under the hood. Unlike its simpler siblings, the Mini 90 boasts a rechargeable battery, which we found much more convenient and cost-effective than constantly buying AAs. The camera offers multiple shooting modes, including Party, Kids, and Landscape, which genuinely help tailor the shot to the scene. But the real standouts are the Bulb and Double Exposure modes.

We had a blast creating light trails in the dark with Bulb mode and layering images with Double Exposure. These are features typically found on much more expensive cameras. It also allows you to turn the flash off, a crucial feature for controlling your lighting that many basic models lack. As one happy user noted, the ability to activate/deactivate the flash and choose from various modes makes it a “very good option.” The learning curve is a bit steeper, and as some reviews mention, it takes practice to master modes like double exposure. However, for the budding photographer looking to experiment, the INSTAX Mini 90 Neo Classic Camera offers a level of creative freedom that is hard to beat in the instant camera world.

#7 INSTAX mini LiPlay Hybrid Instant Camera Printer – Best for: The Best of Both Digital and Instant Worlds

The INSTAX mini LiPlay Hybrid Instant Camera Printer cleverly bridges the gap between digital convenience and the charm of instant prints. This hybrid device is a game-changer for anyone who has ever mourned a wasted, poorly-timed instant photo. In our testing, the standout feature was the 2.7-inch LCD screen on the back. You can capture as many digital photos as you like (it holds about 45 internally or more with a Micro SD card), review them, and then choose only the best ones to print. This feature alone can save a significant amount of money on film, a point celebrated by many users. As one reviewer put it, “with this camera you don’t need to waste more photos!”

The functionality doesn’t stop there. The LiPlay also doubles as a portable smartphone printer. We found the app easy to use, allowing us to print any photo from our phone’s gallery, complete with filters and frames. The camera itself is incredibly compact and lightweight, making it the most pocketable camera on our list. The digital image quality isn’t going to rival your smartphone, but it’s perfectly adequate for the small Instax Mini prints. The unique “sound recording” feature, which embeds a QR code on the print to play back an audio clip, is a fun, if niche, addition. For ultimate control and no wasted film, the INSTAX mini LiPlay Hybrid Instant Camera Printer is an innovative and highly practical choice.

#8 INSTAX mini 90 NEO CLASSIC Black – Perfect for: Creative Control with a Classic Look

The INSTAX mini 90 NEO CLASSIC Black offers the same fantastic feature set as its red counterpart but in a timeless, understated black and silver finish. This camera is aimed squarely at the photo enthusiast who enjoys the instant format but craves more control than a basic point-and-shoot provides. During our review, we found ourselves constantly reaching for the mode dial to experiment. The ability to force the flash, suppress it, or use a “party mode” that brightens backgrounds in dark rooms gave us a level of creative input that’s simply missing from entry-level models. Many users who upgraded from simpler cameras echoed this sentiment, praising the newfound control.

We were particularly impressed with the camera’s performance in macro mode, capturing sharp close-ups, and the creative potential of the double exposure and bulb modes. These features encourage experimentation and can produce truly unique images. The rechargeable battery is a significant upgrade over disposable AAs, lasting through several packs of film on a single charge in our tests. While some users noted that it can still overexpose whites in harsh light, the ability to select lighter or darker exposure compensation helps mitigate this. If you’re willing to invest a bit more for a camera that grows with your skills, the INSTAX mini 90 NEO CLASSIC Black is an outstanding and stylish choice.

#9 INSTAX mini EVO 2-in-1 Camera and Printer – Ideal for: Maximum Creativity in a Hybrid Camera

The INSTAX mini EVO 2-in-1 Camera and Printer feels like the culmination of everything Instax has learned about hybrid cameras. It combines a handsome, retro-inspired design with an incredible amount of creative functionality. The headline feature is the combination of 10 lens effects and 10 film effects, which can be mixed and matched to create 100 unique styles. We spent hours cycling through options like “Vignette,” “Soft Focus,” “Retro,” and “Monochrome,” all applied digitally before printing. This level of in-camera customisation is unparalleled. The physical dials and rings for changing these effects are tactile and incredibly fun to use, making the creative process feel engaging and hands-on.

Like other hybrids, you can review your shots on the LCD screen before committing to a print, saving you from costly mistakes. The print quality is sharp and vibrant, among the best we’ve seen from an Instax hybrid. The ‘wind-on’ lever used to initiate printing is a delightful, nostalgic touch. It also functions as a very capable smartphone printer. While we loved the creative freedom, we did have to agree with some users that the camera’s own lens is not its strongest point; your phone will likely take a better digital picture. However, as an all-in-one device for capturing, creating, and printing memories with a unique flair, the INSTAX mini EVO 2-in-1 Camera and Printer is an absolute joy to use.

#10 Polaroid Now+ Instant Camera – Suits: The Modern Polaroid Enthusiast

For those who crave the original, iconic square format, the Polaroid Now+ Instant Camera is a fantastic modern take on a classic. This camera connects the analogue world of Polaroid chemistry with the digital control of your smartphone. Out of the box, it functions as a simple autofocus point-and-shoot, but its true power is unlocked via the Polaroid app. We were able to connect our phone via Bluetooth and access a suite of creative tools like double exposure, light painting, and a full manual mode that gives you control over aperture and shutter speed. This is a game-changer for creative photographers.

Another brilliant addition is the included set of five physical lens filters. We had great fun with the starburst and coloured vignette filters, which clip directly onto the lens and add creative effects in-camera. The larger Polaroid i-Type film produces big, beautiful prints with the classic dreamy colour palette Polaroid is famous for. However, as many users correctly point out, Polaroid film is significantly more sensitive to light and temperature during development than Instax film and is also more expensive. It requires more care to get a perfect shot. But for those who are willing to embrace the process, the Polaroid Now+ Instant Camera offers a uniquely rewarding experience that blends vintage charm with modern technology.

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

Key Factors to Consider

Choosing the right budget instant camera comes down to a few key considerations. First, think about the film format and cost. Instax Mini film is the most common and generally the most affordable per shot. Instax Square offers a larger, classic look but at a higher price. Polaroid i-Type film is the largest and most iconic, but also the most expensive and temperamental. ZINK paper for printers is somewhere in the middle and offers the bonus of being a sticker.

Next, consider your desired level of creative control. Are you happy with a simple point-and-shoot experience like the INSTAX mini 9, or do you want features like double exposure, bulb mode, and flash control offered by the INSTAX Mini 90? Models with app connectivity, like the Polaroid Now+, offer even more advanced manual settings.

Finally, decide if you want a pure analog vs. hybrid digital camera. Analog cameras like the Mini 40 have the magic of unpredictability—what you shoot is what you get. Hybrid cameras like the INSTAX mini EVO let you review and edit photos on an LCD screen before printing, which saves money on film but arguably loses some of the spontaneous charm.

Understanding Different Film Types

The “film” is the heart of your instant camera, and each type has its own character. Instax film, made by Fujifilm, is known for its reliability, stable colours, and relatively quick development time. The chemistry is robust, making it great for beginners. Polaroid film has a dreamier, softer, and more vintage aesthetic. Its colours can be less predictable, which is part of its charm for enthusiasts. It’s also very sensitive to temperature and must be shielded from light immediately after ejection. ZINK (Zero Ink) paper isn’t film at all. It’s a special paper with heat-activated dye crystals. It requires no development time and produces clean, consistent digital-style prints, but it lacks the chemical depth and character of true instant film.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

One of the biggest mistakes new buyers make is underestimating the ongoing cost of film. Before you buy a camera, check the price of a multi-pack of its compatible film to understand the true cost per photo. Another common error is expecting digital sharpness. Instant photography is about character, mood, and imperfection—embrace it! Don’t buy an analog instant camera if you want pixel-perfect images. Lastly, avoid buying a camera with lots of features you won’t use. If you just want simple snaps at a party, a basic model will serve you better and save you money over a complex one like the Mini 90.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best instant camera you can buy for under £100?

Based on our testing, the best instant camera under £100 is the INSTAX mini 9 Camera Smoky White or the very similar INSTAX mini 40. Both offer fantastic ease of use, reliable performance, and access to the affordable Instax Mini film format, making them excellent value for money.

Are cheap instant cameras any good for beginners?

Absolutely. In fact, they are often the best choice for beginners. Cheaper, simpler models like the INSTAX mini 9 are designed to be intuitive point-and-shoot devices. They remove the complicated settings, allowing a newcomer to focus on framing a shot and enjoying the fun of instant prints without a steep learning curve.

Which budget instant camera has the cheapest film?

Cameras that use the Instax Mini film format, such as the INSTAX mini 9, mini 40, and mini 90, generally have the cheapest and most widely available film. You can often find multi-packs that bring the cost per photo down significantly compared to Instax Square or Polaroid i-Type film.

What features do you sacrifice on a lower-priced instant camera?

On lower-priced models, you typically sacrifice creative controls. This includes the ability to turn off the flash, different shooting modes (like macro, landscape, or double exposure), self-timers, and advanced features like bulb mode for long exposures. They also almost always use disposable batteries instead of a rechargeable one.

Is it better to buy a second-hand premium camera or a new budget one?

This depends on your comfort with risk. A new budget camera comes with a warranty and is guaranteed to work out of the box. A second-hand premium camera like an Instax Mini 90 could offer more features for the same price, but it comes without a warranty and may have hidden issues with its rollers or electronics. For beginners, we recommend starting with a new budget model.

How can I save money on instant camera film in the UK?

The best way to save money is to buy in bulk. Look for multi-packs of film (e.g., 50 or 100 sheets) as they offer a much lower price per photo than single packs. Also, keep an eye out for sales on major online retail sites and in high-street electronics stores, especially around holidays.

What’s the best value for money instant camera available right now?

For the best overall value, we believe the INSTAX mini 40 strikes an excellent balance. It has the modern convenience of automatic exposure, a timeless design that won’t look dated, and uses the affordable Mini film format. It offers a slight step-up in style from the most basic models without a significant jump in price.

Conclusion: Our Final Recommendation

After countless test shots and careful consideration, we are delighted to reaffirm our top pick: the INSTAX mini 9 Camera Smoky White. While there are more advanced and stylish cameras on this list, none capture the pure, unadulterated fun of instant photography for such an accessible price. Its dead-simple operation means anyone can pick it up and start creating memories immediately. The selfie mirror is a genuinely useful feature, and the automatic brightness suggestion helps beginners achieve great results without frustration. It’s the perfect camera for parties, holidays, and creating tangible keepsakes in our digital age. For its unbeatable combination of simplicity, charm, and value, the INSTAX mini 9 Camera Smoky White is the best budget instant camera for most people in the UK today.

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