Verdict
All guidesResearchMethodologyAboutContact
Head-to-head · Best Instant Cameras

Fujifilm Instax Square SQ40 vs Polaroid Go

Which is the better buy? Side-by-side on rating, price, strengths, and watch-outs — with the published ratings we averaged to get there.

Verdict is reader-supported. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Some links on this page are affiliate links — if you click through and buy, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Our ratings are sourced from independent publications, not sponsors.
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 →
Polaroid Go
Ranked #11 in Best Instant Cameras
Polaroid Go
5 sources2 derived$21.19as of Jul 31

The Polaroid Go Generation 2 is the world's smallest instant camera at 105mm × 84mm × 62mm and 273g with film loaded. Analog.Cafe's review covers the 51mm fixed-focus lens with an f9-f42 aperture range and an electronically-controlled shutter. Double-exposure mode, a 9-second delay timer, and a built-in flash with 2m range round it out. Reviewers like the portability and the fun of using it, but note the film costs more than Instax alternatives and the bundled USB-C cable is uncomfortably short. Casual photographers who want something compact and addictive will enjoy it; anyone watching film costs won't.

Strengths
  • — World's smallest instant camera with compact 105mm × 84mm × 62mm dimensions
  • — Built-in rechargeable battery lasts for approximately 15 packs of film
  • — Includes wrist strap and comes in attractive cerulean blue color option
Watch-outs
  • — Film is more expensive than competing Instax brand at 1.4x the cost
  • — Charging cable is described as uncomfortably short
  • — Camera is not quite pocketable due to its size
$21.19 · 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.

Polaroid Go

The Polaroid Go is the smallest camera in the lineup, but it's more expensive than the Instax Mini 12 and lacks the automatic exposure system. Compared to the Evo, it's less feature-rich and doesn't offer digital connectivity, though it's more portable. Unlike the SQ1, it's less user-friendly and more expensive for similar functionality.

Specs side-by-side

SpecFujifilm Instax Square SQ40Polaroid Go
Film FormatInstax SquarePolaroid Go Film
BatteryCR2 lithium—
ColorThree options—
Lens2components, 2elements, f = 65.75mm, 1:12.651mm polycarbonate resin
FlashBuilt In FlashBuilt-in automatic flash
Focusing0.5m to infinity—
Weight453g251.9 grams
Shutter Speed—1s to 1/300s
Battery Type—Rechargeable, lasts 15 packs
Dimensions—105mm × 84mm × 62mm
← See the full ranking of best instant cameras