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Head-to-head · Best Instant Cameras

Fujifilm Instax Wide 400 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.

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The short answer

Polaroid Now+ Generation 2 comes out ahead by a clear margin (3.3 vs 4.0). The gap is mostly about nostalgic beginners — 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
$164 · Check Price on AmazonFull review →
Polaroid Now+ Generation 2
Higher ratedRanked #4 in Best Instant Cameras
Polaroid Now+ Generation 2
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 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 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.

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

SpecFujifilm Instax Wide 400Polaroid Now+ Generation 2
Film FormatInstax Widei-Type film
Battery4 AA—
Weight600g0.78 kg
ColorMint—
FlashBuilt In FlashBuilt-in automatic flash
Focusing0.9-3m, 3m-infinity—
Battery Type—Built-in rechargeable
Lens—Optical grade PC and Acrylic lens, coated
Shutter Speed—Custom design shutter system, using precision step motor for shutter
Dimensions—150.2mm x 112.2mm x 94mm
Connectivity—Bluetooth
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