Head-to-head · Best Instant Cameras

Fujifilm Instax Square SQ40 vs Lomo Instant Square

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

Lomo Instant Square comes out ahead by a narrow margin (4.0 vs 4.1). The gap is mostly about versatile creative photographers — read the strengths below before deciding.

Ranked #2 in Best Instant Cameras

Fujifilm Instax Square SQ40

4.0

$249.9as of Jul 9

The Fujifilm Instax Square SQ40 is a compact instant camera that uses the newer Instax Square film format to produce wider square prints with a vintage Polaroid aesthetic. PCMag's Jim Fisher noted its analog process where images gradually appear 90 seconds after shooting, while Camera Labs' Gordon highlighted its similarity to the SQ1 model but with a more serious appearance. The camera comes with a built-in flash and viewfinder, and supports the popular Instax Square film with 10 prints per cartridge. However, reviewers pointed out the limitation of only working with Square film and its higher price point compared to alternatives.

Strengths

— Uses fully analog process with prints emerging 90 seconds after shooting
— Produces wider square prints reminiscent of vintage Polaroids
— Includes built-in flash and viewfinder for easy framing

Watch-outs

— Limited to single print shape (cannot use Mini film)
— Relatively expensive compared to other instant cameras

$249.9 · Check Price on Amazon Full review →

Higher ratedRanked #1 in Best Instant Cameras

Lomo Instant Square

4.1

$79as of Jul 9

The Lomo Instant Square is a dual-format analog camera that accepts both Instax Square and Instax Mini film, making it unique in the instant camera market. Reviewers praised its creative features including multiple exposure modes, bulb (long-exposure) capability, and various focusing options. The camera comes with a range of accessories including a splitzer for double exposures and a front filter for close-up shots. However, some reviewers noted the bulky design and the challenge of finding CR2 batteries. It's ideal for photographers seeking versatility and creative control in instant film photography.

Strengths

— Dual-format capability allowing use of both Instax Square and Instax Mini film
— Includes multiple focusing options (0.8m, 1-2.5m, infinity) and portrait lens for close-up shots
— Features multiple exposure and bulb (long-exposure) modes for creative photography

Watch-outs

— Bulky design that's not pocket-friendly despite flat form factor
— Uses non-standard CR2 lithium batteries that may be hard to find

$79 · Check Price on Amazon Full review →

How they stack up

Fujifilm Instax Square SQ40

While the Fujifilm Instax Mini Film Twin Pack offers broader compatibility, the SQ40 camera uniquely produces wider square prints with a vintage aesthetic. Compared to the Polaroid I-2, it lacks advanced manual controls but provides a simpler, more analog experience. Unlike the Lomo Instant Square, it doesn't support dual formats or creative exposure modes, making it more straightforward for casual users.

Lomo Instant Square

The Lomo Instant Square's dual-format capability and creative exposure modes distinguish it from the Fujifilm Instax Mini Film Twin Pack which lacks creative features. Unlike the Polaroid I-2, it doesn't offer advanced manual controls but provides more creative flexibility. Compared to the Fujifilm Instax Square SQ40, it supports both Instax Square and Instax Mini film, making it more versatile for different film types.

Specs side-by-side

Spec	Fujifilm Instax Square SQ40	Lomo Instant Square
Film Format	Instax Square	Instax Square & Mini
Lens	2components, 2elements, f = 65.75mm, 1:12.6	95mm f/10 (45mm equiv)
Flash	Built In Flash	Built In Flash
Battery	CR2 lithium	2x CR2 lithium
Focusing	0.5m to infinity	0.8m, 1-2.5m, infinity
Weight	453g	—

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