10 Best Instant Cameras 2025 in the UK

The Instax mini EVO 2-in-1 instant camera and printer offers a versatile and fun way to capture and print photos. It's designed for those who enjoy instant gratification, producing credit card-sized prints with the Instax Mini film format. One of its standout features is the 2.7-inch LCD screen, which allows users to review and edit images before printing, a feature not commonly found in basic instant cameras. This, combined with its 10 lens and 10 film effects, provides a creative edge for photography enthusiasts.

The camera is user-friendly with automatic exposure and flash controls, making it accessible for beginners. It also boasts a built-in selfie mirror, dual shutter buttons for different orientations, and a macro mode for close-up shots, enhancing its versatility. The fast 12-second print speed is a plus for those who value quick results. On the downside, the camera's reliance on Instax Mini film, which must be purchased separately, could be a recurring cost to consider.

The ability to print from smartphones via Bluetooth and the inclusion of a micro SD slot for extra memory provide additional convenience. The USB charging and remote shooting capability via the mini EVO app add modern functionality to this retro-style camera. Weighing 285 grams, the Instax mini EVO is compact and portable, making it easy to carry around for everyday photography. The inclusion of a lithium-ion battery ensures it's ready for action, though it's worth noting that the battery life may vary depending on usage. This camera is suited for casual photographers who appreciate instant prints and enjoy experimenting with a variety of image effects.

The INSTAX WIDE EVO 2-in-1 instant film camera and printer offers a unique blend of instant photography and digital convenience. Its ability to review and edit images before printing is a major strength, allowing users to ensure they capture the perfect shot. The camera supports INSTAX Wide film, which is known for its larger format, making it great for capturing more detailed and expansive photos.

The inclusion of 10 lens effects and 10 film filters provides users with creative flexibility to enhance their images. Additionally, features like the wide-angle lens mode, built-in selfie lens, tripod mount, and the micro SD card slot cater to diverse shooting needs and preferences. The camera’s Bluetooth connectivity for smartphone integration and remote shooting adds modern functionality that enhances user experience.

The compact size and relatively lightweight design make it fairly portable, though it's not the smallest option available. The automatic exposure control is user-friendly, ensuring well-balanced photos without complex manual adjustments. The built-in flash is beneficial for low-light conditions, although some might find the flash intensity to be either too bright or not sufficient. A downside could be the need for INSTAX Wide film, which is sold separately and can be more expensive than other film formats. Additionally, while the camera includes a USB-C charging cable and a shoulder strap, a dedicated carrying case is not included, which could be inconvenient for some users. The INSTAX WIDE EVO is ideal for those who seek both instant photo gratification and a degree of control over their images, making it suitable for creative individuals and casual photographers alike.

The KODAK Mini Shot 2 Retro stands out as a versatile instant camera and photo printer combo. One major advantage is its dual functionality: users can take photos and print them instantly or connect to mobile devices via Bluetooth to print stored images. This feature offers flexibility not commonly found in other polaroid cameras. The 4Pass Technology ensures high-quality prints that are fingerprint proof and water-resistant, promising durability of the photos. Additionally, the ability to choose between border and borderless prints adds a creative touch to the photo printing experience.

The camera is portable, weighing 700 grams and measuring 16.3 x 15.4 x 11.6 centimeters, making it convenient to carry around. The automatic exposure control simplifies the shooting process, catering to users who may not be tech-savvy. However, it lacks image stabilization, which could affect photo quality if there's any camera shake. The included Lithium Metal battery is practical, ensuring the camera is ready for use straight out of the box.

On the downside, the camera's maximum shutter speed is limited to 1 second, which might not be suitable for capturing fast-moving subjects. The retro style adds aesthetic value but it might not appeal to everyone. The KODAK Mini Shot 2 Retro is ideal for those looking for an affordable, high-quality instant camera with the added benefit of being able to print photos from a mobile device, although it may lack some advanced features like image stabilization and high-speed shutter capabilities.