Which Polaroid Camera to Choose? A Comparison of 5 Polaroid Camera Types
por Dmytro Shyian en Feb 11, 2025
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Everyone's needs are different, but understanding the key differences between Polaroid models will help you find the perfect match. Let’s compare some of the most popular Polaroid cameras.
1. Polaroid Now
A user-friendly camera that stays true to the iconic OneStep design while offering modern features. The dual-lens autofocus system ensures sharp images, and built-in double exposure and a self-timer add creative possibilities.
- Compatible with i-Type & 600 film
- Simple, intuitive design
- Autofocus with automatic lens switching (standard & portrait)
- Double exposure mode for artistic shots
- Brighter low-light photos thanks to an improved flash algorithm
- More accurate distance measurement & exposure control
- USB rechargeable battery (lasts up to 60 days)
- Built-in self-timer
- Available in fun colors
2. Polaroid OneStep+
Possibly the best modern Polaroid camera, the OneStep+ is easy to use, features a powerful flash, long battery life, and dual lenses (portrait & landscape). Its standout feature is Bluetooth connectivity, which unlocks 7 creative shooting modes via the Polaroid app.
- Compatible with i-Type & 600 film
- Simple & user-friendly design
- Bluetooth connectivity for 7 creative shooting modes
- Powerful built-in flash
- Exposure control for better lighting balance
- USB rechargeable battery (lasts up to 60 days)
- Two lenses (standard & portrait) for versatility
3. Polaroid OneStep 2
Released in September 2017 for Polaroid’s 80th anniversary, the OneStep 2 continues the legacy of the original OneStep, but with modern upgrades like a built-in flash and rechargeable battery.
- Compatible with i-Type & 600 film
- Simple & user-friendly design
- Powerful built-in flash
- Exposure control for better lighting balance
- USB rechargeable battery (lasts up to 60 days)
- Built-in self-timer
4. Polaroid 600
First released in 1981, the 600 series is the camera most people picture when they hear the word "Polaroid." Known for its reliability, built-in flash, and affordability, it's still a popular choice today, especially on the secondhand market.
- Simple “point-and-shoot” design – easy to use
- Built-in automatic flash & fixed-focus lens
- Adjustable exposure slider for brightness control
- No internal battery (powered by the battery inside each 600 film pack)
- Equipped with a Polaroid film shield to protect photos from light during ejection
- Affordable & perfect for beginners
5. Polaroid SX-70
Released in 1972, the SX-70 was the world's first foldable SLR instant camera. It shoots at a lower ISO than other Polaroids, requiring more light but delivering greater depth and detail. Its iconic design and manual controls have made it a favorite among photographers and professionals.
- Compact, foldable design for easy carrying
- Glass lens with a minimum focus distance of 10.4 inches (26.4 cm)
- No built-in battery (powered by the SX-70 film pack)
- Available in manual-focus and autofocus models
- No built-in flash (sold separately)
- Shutter speeds from 1/175s (for action shots) to 10s (for long exposures)
- Works with SX-70 film (can use 600 film with an ND filter)
💡 Best for: Those who want a more technical camera and professional photographers looking to experiment with instant photography.