Head-to-head · Best Instant-film-cameras

Fujifilm Instax Mini 40 vs Polaroid Go

Which is the better buy? Side-by-side on rating, price, strengths, and watch-outs — with the published ratings we averaged to get there.

The short answer

Fujifilm Instax Mini 40 comes out ahead by a clear margin (3.8 vs 3.3). The gap is mostly about aesthetics-focused casual users — read the strengths below before deciding.

Higher ratedRanked #2 in Best Instant-film-cameras

Fujifilm Instax Mini 40

3.8

$109.95as of Jul 5

The Fujifilm Instax Mini 40 is a stylish camera that offers little innovation over previous Instax models, described as a repackage of familiar features in an attractive package. Reviewers noted its ease of use and automatic exposure control, but criticized its lack of advancement and cheap plastic construction. While it's visually appealing and functional for basic instant photography, reviewers suggest looking elsewhere for better value or features, with competitors like Lomography and MiNT being more appealing options. The camera is designed for users who prioritize aesthetics over innovation.

Strengths

— Very nice looking design with a leatherette finish
— Easy to use with simple film loading and operation
— Automatic exposure control that produces well-exposed images

Watch-outs

— No significant innovations compared to previous Instax models
— Plastic build quality that feels cheap and fragile

$109.95 · Check Price on Amazon Full review →

Ranked #6 in Best Instant-film-cameras

Polaroid Go

3.3

$21.19as of Jul 5

The Polaroid Go Generation 2 is the world's smallest instant camera, measuring 105mm × 84mm × 62mm and weighing 273g with film. Reviewed by Analog.Cafe, it features a 51mm fixed-focus lens with f9-f42 aperture range and electronically-controlled shutter. The camera supports double-exposure mode and 9-second delay timer, and includes a built-in flash with 2m range. While it's praised for its portability and fun design, reviewers note the film is more expensive than Instax alternatives and the included USB-C cable is uncomfortably short. It's ideal for casual photographers who want a compact, addictive instant camera but may not suit those seeking budget-friendly film options.

Strengths

— World's smallest instant camera with compact 105mm × 84mm × 62mm dimensions
— Built-in rechargeable battery lasts for approximately 15 packs of film
— Includes wrist strap and comes in attractive cerulean blue color option

Watch-outs

— Film is more expensive than competing Instax brand at 1.4x the cost
— Charging cable is described as uncomfortably short
— Camera is not quite pocketable due to its size

$21.19 · Check Price on Amazon Full review →

How they stack up

Fujifilm Instax Mini 40

The Fujifilm Instax Mini 40 offers a more stylish design than the Mini 12 but lacks innovation, making it less compelling than the Evo which provides digital features and smartphone connectivity. While it's more visually appealing than the SQ6, it doesn't match the SQ6's analog simplicity and better build quality. Compared to the SQ1, it's more expensive and less practical despite its attractive finish.

Polaroid Go

The Polaroid Go is the smallest camera in the lineup, but it's more expensive than the Instax Mini 12 and lacks the automatic exposure system. Compared to the Evo, it's less feature-rich and doesn't offer digital connectivity, though it's more portable. Unlike the SQ1, it's less user-friendly and more expensive for similar functionality.

Specs side-by-side

Spec	Fujifilm Instax Mini 40	Polaroid Go
Film Format	Instax Mini	Polaroid Go Film
Lens	60mm f/12	51mm polycarbonate resin
Shutter Speed	1/250th max	1s to 1/300s
Battery Type	2 AA	Rechargeable, lasts 15 packs
Flash	Constant firing flash (automatic light adjustment)	Built-in automatic flash
Dimensions	104 mm × 121 mm × 65 mm	105mm × 84mm × 62mm
Weight	330 g	251.9 grams
Connectivity	—	USB-C

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