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.

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

Lomo Instant Square comes out ahead by a clear margin (3.3 vs 4.1). The gap is mostly about versatile creative photographers — read the strengths below before deciding.

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
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

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 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
Battery4 AA2x CR2 lithium
Weight600g
ColorMintWhite, red, black and blue
FlashBuilt In FlashBuilt In Flash
Focusing0.9-3m, 3m-infinity0.8m, 1-2.5m, infinity
Lens95mm f/10 (45mm equiv)
← See the full ranking of best instant cameras