Which Camera to Choose? A Comparison of 5 Types of Polaroid Cameras
por Daria Tsurkan en Aug 07, 2025
Want to buy a Polaroid camera but not sure which one to choose? Let's figure it out together!
Everyone has unique needs, but by understanding the differences between the main models, you can decide which camera suits you best. Today, we’ll compare the most popular Polaroid cameras:
Polaroid Now/OneStep 2 Cameras
Easy to use, staying true to its classic design. The autofocus system with two high-quality lenses ensures the best image quality, while the built-in double exposure mode and timer offer even more creative possibilities.
- Compatible with all i-Type and 600 cartridges;
- Simple and intuitive design;
- Autofocus;
- Built-in double exposure mode;
- Brighter photos in low-light conditions;
- Powerful built-in flash with an improved algorithm to balance the background and foreground;
- Accurate distance measurement;
- Exposure control;
- 60-day USB battery life;
- Built-in timer;
- Attractive camera colors.
Polaroid Now+/OneStep+ Cameras
The Now+/OneStep+ cameras are possibly the best today among Polaroid models. Easy to use, with a powerful flash, long battery life, and two lenses — portrait and landscape. A key feature of the camera is Bluetooth connectivity, which, with the Polaroid app, gives access to 7 additional creative modes.
- Simple and convenient design;
- Bluetooth connectivity providing access to 7 additional creative shooting modes;
- Powerful built-in flash;
- Exposure control;
- 60-day USB battery life.
Polaroid 600 Cameras
Released in 1981, the 600 series is the camera most people think of when they hear the word “Polaroid.” Its reliability, built-in flash, and low prices on second-hand markets make it very popular.
- Simple "point and shoot" design, easy to use;
- Built-in automatic flash and fixed-focus lens;
- Exposure control;
- No battery (battery is built into each 600 cartridge);
- Cheap and perfect for beginners.
Polaroid SX-70 Cameras
Released in 1972, the SX-70 was the world’s first folding SLR camera with lower ISO than other Polaroid cameras. To shoot with it, more light is needed, offering greater depth and detail. This (and its cool look) made the SX-70 a favorite model for photographers and professionals.
- Folds for portability;
- Glass lens with a minimum focus distance of about 10.4 inches;
- No battery (the battery is built into each SX-70 cartridge);
- Available in both manual focus and autofocus models;
- No built-in flash (sold separately);
- Works with SX-70 cartridges, but also compatible with 600 cartridges when using an ND filter.
Ideal for those looking to use a more technical camera, and for professional photographers who want to experiment with instant photography.
Polaroid I-2 Cameras
Polaroid I-2 is the most advanced camera from Polaroid, designed for true instant photography enthusiasts. The camera is equipped with precise autofocus with laser distance measurement and a high-quality glass lens for flawless image quality. With manual exposure settings available through the built-in display or the Polaroid app, the I-2 is perfect for those who want full control over their shots.
- Compatible with all i-Type, 600, and SX-70 cartridges;
- Glass three-lens system for maximum detail;
- Autofocus with laser measurement;
- Manual control options via the display or app;
- Powerful flash with adjustable settings;
- Precise distance measurement for sharp focus;
- Bluetooth connectivity;
- Built-in timer for selfies or group shots;
- Stylish, modern design.
Comparison Table
| Feature | Now / OneStep 2 | Now+ / OneStep+ | Polaroid i-2 | Polaroid 600 | Polaroid SX-70 |
| Design | Classic retro style | Classic retro style with enhanced features | Modern, stylish, with premium materials | Classic retro design | Iconic folding design from the 1970s |
| Cartridges | i-Type, 600 | i-Type, 600 | i-Type, 600, SX-70 | 600 | SX-70, 600 (with ND filter) |
| Focus | Automatic | Automatic | Automatic | Depends on the model: automatic (no manual control); sonar (in some models) | Depends on the model: manual focus (precise control); sonar; automatic (no manual control) |
| Mobile App | No | Yes (for exposure, timer, mode selection) | Yes (for exposure, timer, mode selection) | No | No (but manual control is available) |
| Exposure Settings | Automatic | Automatic / Manual via app | Automatic / Manual via app | Automatic (no manual control) | Manual adjustment (requires experience) |
| Technical Features | Easy to use, minimal settings | Enhanced features, including adjustments | Professional features: autofocus, light meter, manual focus | Simple to use (no additional settings) | More control over exposure and focus |
| Price | Medium (i-Type film cheaper than 600) | Higher (due to additional features and capabilities) | Higher (premium class, more features) | Higher (600 film more expensive than i-Type) | Higher (SX-70 film and camera more expensive) |
| Target Users | Beginners, retro enthusiasts | Creators, enthusiasts of settings and creative effects | Experienced photographers, professionals | Beginners, retro lovers | Photographers seeking creative control |
Conclusion:
- Now/OneStep 2 — simple to use cameras for beginners and classic lovers.
- Now+/OneStep+— suitable for more creative individuals who want more control over the shooting process via the mobile app.
- Polaroid 600 — a classic choice for those who love retro and don't need complex settings.
- Polaroid SX-70 — a great option for experienced users who want more control over exposure and focus.
- Polaroid i-2 — a premium-class camera that’s perfect for those wanting professional-level shooting with autofocus and manual settings via the app.
