Verdict
Head-to-head · Best Instant Cameras

Fujifilm Instax Wide 400 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 clear margin (3.4 vs 4.1). The gap is mostly about versatile creative photographers — read the strengths below before deciding.

Fujifilm Instax Wide 400
Ranked #6 in Best Instant Cameras
Fujifilm Instax Wide 400
$168as of Jul 9

The Fujifilm Instax Wide 400 is a basic, low-cost camera that serves as the only current option for Instax Wide film users. While it's a step back from the 300 in terms of controls, it does offer expanded selfie timer functionality. Reviewers note its bulky, awkward design and lack of autofocus assistance, though the image quality from the 2:3 format is praised. The camera's simple operation and low price make it suitable for casual users, but it's not ideal for those seeking more advanced features or portability.

Strengths
  • Simple point-and-shoot design suitable for casual users
  • Includes expanded selfie timer functionality with flick-to-trigger and foot timer
  • Beautiful 2:3 aspect ratio image quality from the Instax Wide format
Watch-outs
  • Lacks controls like flash on/off and exposure compensation
  • Manual focus with no indicators or sensors to assist
  • Bulk and awkward build that is difficult to hold and transport
Lomo Instant Square
Higher ratedRanked #1 in Best Instant Cameras
Lomo Instant Square
$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

How they stack up

Fujifilm Instax Wide 400

The Fujifilm Instax Wide 400's affordable price point and 2:3 aspect ratio make it a budget-friendly alternative to the Polaroid I-2's advanced features and the Lomo Instant Square's creative modes. Unlike the Fujifilm Instax Square SQ40, it doesn't produce square prints but offers a more basic, low-cost option. Compared to the Polaroid Snap 2, it lacks digital capture but provides a more traditional instant camera experience.

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

SpecFujifilm Instax Wide 400Lomo Instant Square
Film FormatInstax WideInstax Square & Mini
LensRetractable lens, 2 components, 2 elements95mm f/10 (45mm equiv)
FlashBuilt In FlashBuilt In Flash
Battery4 AA2x CR2 lithium
Focusing0.9-3m, 3m-infinity0.8m, 1-2.5m, infinity
Weight600g
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