Verdict
Head-to-head · Best Instant Cameras

Fujifilm Instax Mini Evo vs Polaroid Now+ Generation 2

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

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The short answer

Polaroid Now+ Generation 2 comes out ahead by a clear margin (4.8 vs 4.4). Polaroid Now+ Generation 2 is best for: nostalgic beginners. Read the strengths below before deciding.

Fujifilm Instax Mini Evo
Ranked #1 in Best Instant Cameras
Fujifilm Instax Mini Evo
2 sourcesall derived$219.99as of Oct 28

The Fujifilm Instax Mini Evo is a hybrid digital instant camera, bringing traditional instant photography together with digital convenience. Reviewer Mark G Adams traces how it went from a fun, experimental device to a practical tool for printing family memories across three years of use. It carries a 28mm f/2.0 lens with dial controls for lens and film effects, a selfie mirror, and smartphone connectivity for remote control and social sharing. Purists who want a fully analog instant camera may not warm to it, but as a printer for digital images it does the job well, with a nostalgic feel attached. Casual users and families who want digital flexibility plus instant prints are the audience.

Strengths
  • — Combines digital camera functionality with instant film printing capabilities
  • — Features 10 lens effects and 10 film effects that can be combined for 100 different looks
  • — Includes built-in selfie mirror and dual shutter buttons for versatile shooting
Watch-outs
  • — Limited 5MP resolution when capturing images digitally
Polaroid Now+ Generation 2
Higher ratedRanked #2 in Best Instant Cameras
Polaroid Now+ Generation 2
1 source$139.99as of Oct 17

The Polaroid Now Generation 2 hands you a nostalgic instant camera with a few modern conveniences. It has a built-in battery, charges over USB, and ships with a picture frame and lanyard. The build reads plasticky and heavy to some. Beginners looking for an accessible way in will do well; serious photographers who want advanced controls won't.

Strengths
  • — Built-in battery with USB charging capability
  • — Retro aesthetic with colorful design and vintage-inspired look
  • — Includes picture frame and lanyard for easy handling
Watch-outs
  • — Requires charging unlike older models with battery-pack film, per Myles Katherine Photography

Derived means the reviewer published no score, so one was inferred from their written verdict. Everything else is a number the publisher printed. How we rank.

How they stack up

Fujifilm Instax Mini Evo

The Fujifilm Instax Mini Evo and the Fujifilm Instax Mini LiPlay Hybrid are both digital hybrids that print on Instax Mini film. The Mini Evo offers 10 lens effects and 10 film effects, while the LiPlay records sound and prints it as a QR code. The Mini Evo costs more than the LiPlay and weighs 285g against about 255 g.

Polaroid Now+ Generation 2

The Polaroid Now+ Generation 2 shoots i-Type film and has a double exposure mode, where the Fujifilm Instax Mini Evo is a hybrid that captures digitally and prints on Instax Mini film. It costs less than the Mini Evo.

Specs side-by-side

SpecFujifilm Instax Mini EvoPolaroid Now+ Generation 2
Film FormatInstax Mini Filmi-Type film
Lens28mm f/2.0Optical grade PC and Acrylic lens, coated
Shutter Speed1/8000th to 1/4 secondCustom design shutter system, using precision step motor for shutter
Battery TypeBuilt-in lithium-ionBuilt-in rechargeable
FlashBuilt-in flash with automatic mode, and forced ON modeBuilt-in automatic flash
Dimensions4.8 x 3.4 x 1.4 (123 x 87 x 36mm)150.2mm x 112.2mm x 94mm
Weight10.1 oz (285g)451.5 g (without film)
ConnectivitySmartphone app supportBluetooth
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