Head-to-head · Best Instant Cameras

Fujifilm Instax Square SQ6 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.

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

Polaroid Now+ Generation 2 comes out ahead by a narrow margin (3.8 vs 4.0). The gap is mostly about nostalgic beginners — read the strengths below before deciding.

Ranked #7 in Best Instant Cameras

Fujifilm Instax Square SQ6

3.8

6 sources2 derived$19.99as of Jul 31

The Fujifilm Instax Square SQ6 is a fully analog instant camera built for the newer Instax Square format, which prints at 2.4 x 2.4 inches. Dan Finnen of Dan Finnen Writing found the frame roomier than Instax Mini but said the camera doesn't do much to work around the format's limits for artistic use. Gordon from Camera Labs liked the simplicity and compact body while stressing that autofocus and flash settings often give inconsistent results. In print size and ergonomics the SQ6 lands between Instax Mini and Wide, without the advanced features digital competitors carry.

Strengths

— Simple analog design with no internal memory or screen, appealing to purists
— Compact size similar to Instax Mini 9, easy to handle
— Prints measure 2.4 x 2.4 inches (62 x 62 mm), wider than Instax Mini but smaller than Instax Wide

Watch-outs

— Small and awkward viewfinder, not much better than cheap rangefinder cameras
— Auto mode focuses between macro and landscape, resulting in soft images for close or distant subjects
— Flash off mode falls back on long shutter speeds, negating much of its value

$19.99 · Check Price on Amazon Full review →

Higher ratedRanked #4 in Best Instant Cameras

Polaroid Now+ Generation 2

4.0

3 sources2 derived$139.99as of Jul 31

The Polaroid Now Generation 2 hands you a nostalgic instant camera with a few modern conveniences. Reviewers praised the double exposure mode and retro styling, calling it a good starting point for anyone new to instant film. 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, but reviewers agree the Polaroid character comes through with better functionality behind it. Beginners looking for an accessible way in will do well; serious photographers who want advanced controls won't.

Strengths

— Double exposure mode feature for creative photography
— Built-in battery with USB charging capability
— Retro aesthetic with colorful design and vintage-inspired look

Watch-outs

— Plastic feel and heavy build may not appeal to all users
— Requires charging unlike older models with battery-pack film

$139.99 · Check Price on Amazon Full 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 SQ6

The Fujifilm Instax Square SQ6 is more analog and traditional than the Evo, lacking digital features but offering better build quality and simpler operation. Compared to the SQ1, it's more practical and less prone to cheap construction issues, though it's less user-friendly due to its auto-focus limitations. Unlike the Mini 12, it's more consistent in its analog approach and lacks the modern convenience features.

Polaroid Now+ Generation 2

The Polaroid Now+ Generation 2 offers a retro aesthetic and double exposure mode that the Mini 12 lacks, but it's more expensive and less reliable than the SQ6. Compared to the Evo, it's more analog and lacks digital connectivity, though it's more affordable than the LiPlay Hybrid. Unlike the SQ1, it's less compact and more expensive for similar functionality.

Specs side-by-side

Spec	Fujifilm Instax Square SQ6	Polaroid Now+ Generation 2
Film Format	Instax Square	i-Type film
Shutter Speed	Mechanical	Custom design shutter system, using precision step motor for shutter
Battery Type	2 x AA batteries	Built-in rechargeable
Weight	Approximately 150g	0.78 kg
Lens	Retractable lens, 2 components, 2 elements	Optical grade PC and Acrylic lens, coated
Flash	Built-in automatic electronic flash	Built-in automatic flash
Dimensions	118.7 mm × 128.1 mm × 58.1 mm	150.2mm x 112.2mm x 94mm
Connectivity	—	Bluetooth

← See the full ranking of best instant cameras