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Head-to-head · Best Instant Cameras

Fujifilm Instax Square SQ40 vs Fujifilm Instax Wide 400

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

Fujifilm Instax Square SQ40 comes out ahead by a clear margin (4.0 vs 3.3). The gap is mostly about casual users wanting vintage-style square prints — read the strengths below before deciding.

Fujifilm Instax Square SQ40
Higher ratedRanked #3 in Best Instant Cameras
Fujifilm Instax Square SQ40
6 sources$249as of Jul 31

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)
  • — Relatively expensive compared to other instant cameras
$249 · Check Price on AmazonFull review →
Fujifilm Instax Wide 400
Ranked #10 in Best Instant Cameras
Fujifilm Instax Wide 400
5 sources1 derived$164as of Jul 31

The Fujifilm Instax Wide 400 is a basic, low-cost camera and the only current option for anyone shooting Instax Wide film. Controls take a step back from the 300, though the selfie timer picks up more range. Reviewers call the design bulky and awkward and point out there's no autofocus assistance, but they praise the image quality coming out of the 2:3 format. Simple operation and a low price make it a fit for casual users; anyone wanting advanced features or a camera that travels light should skip it.

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
$164 · Check Price on AmazonFull review →

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 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.

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.

Specs side-by-side

SpecFujifilm Instax Square SQ40Fujifilm Instax Wide 400
Film FormatInstax SquareInstax Wide
BatteryCR2 lithium4 AA
ColorThree optionsMint
Lens2components, 2elements, f = 65.75mm, 1:12.6—
FlashBuilt In FlashBuilt In Flash
Focusing0.5m to infinity0.9-3m, 3m-infinity
Weight453g600g
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