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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.

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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.

Fujifilm Instax Square SQ40
Ranked #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 →
Lomo Instant Square
Higher ratedRanked #1 in Best Instant Cameras
Lomo Instant Square
4 sources2 derived$219as of Aug 1

The Lomo Instant Square is a dual-format analog camera that takes both Instax Square and Instax Mini film, which nothing else on the instant market does. Reviewers praised the creative options: multiple exposure modes, bulb (long-exposure) capability, and several focusing choices. Accessories in the box include a splitzer for double exposures and a front filter for close-ups. Some reviewers called out the bulky body and the hassle of tracking down CR2 batteries. Photographers who want creative control over instant film are the audience.

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
$219 · Buy at shop.8storeytree.comFull 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.

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 Square SQ40Lomo Instant Square
Film FormatInstax SquareInstax Square & Mini
BatteryCR2 lithium2x CR2 lithium
ColorThree optionsWhite, red, black and blue
Lens2components, 2elements, f = 65.75mm, 1:12.695mm f/10 (45mm equiv)
FlashBuilt In FlashBuilt In Flash
Focusing0.5m to infinity0.8m, 1-2.5m, infinity
Weight453g—
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