Head-to-head · Best Instant Cameras

Fujifilm Instax Square SQ40 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 4.0). Polaroid Now+ Generation 2 is best for: nostalgic beginners. Read the strengths below before deciding.

Ranked #4 in Best Instant Cameras

Fujifilm Instax Square SQ40

4.0

4 sources$170.15as of Oct 28

The Fujifilm Instax Square SQ40 is a compact instant camera shooting the newer Instax Square format, which yields wider square prints with a vintage Polaroid look. PCMag's Jim Fisher described the analog process, where the image surfaces gradually 90 seconds after the shutter fires. Camera Labs' Gordon found it close to the SQ1 model but dressed up more seriously. A built-in flash and viewfinder are included, and it runs Instax Square film at 10 prints per cartridge. Reviewers pointed to the two limits: Square film only, and a price above the 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)

$170.15 · Check Price on Amazon Full review →

Higher ratedRanked #2 in Best Instant Cameras

Polaroid Now+ Generation 2

4.8

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

$139.99 · Check Price on Amazon Full review →

How they stack up

Fujifilm Instax Square SQ40

The Polaroid I-2 offers LiDAR autofocus and full manual modes, while the SQ40 focuses from 0.5m to infinity. At 453g it weighs about the same as the Polaroid Now+ Generation 2 at 451.5 g without film.

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

Spec	Fujifilm Instax Square SQ40	Polaroid Now+ Generation 2
Film Format	Instax Square	i-Type film
Battery	CR2 lithium	—
Color	Three options	—
Lens	2components, 2elements, f = 65.75mm, 1:12.6	Optical grade PC and Acrylic lens, coated
Flash	Built In Flash	Built-in automatic flash
Focusing	0.5m to infinity	—
Weight	453g	451.5 g (without film)
Dimensions	2.4 x 4.72 x 5.28 inches; 15.98 ounces	150.2mm x 112.2mm x 94mm
Battery Type	—	Built-in rechargeable
Shutter Speed	—	Custom design shutter system, using precision step motor for shutter
Connectivity	—	Bluetooth

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