Instant cameras have become amazing accessories at weddings, Bar-Mitzvahs, and parties. Being able to instantly print a photo and keep it as a memory is much better than scrolling through thousands of photos on your phone. There is something more intimate about having the physical photo on your fridge, or framed on your wall. Technology has even evolved the instant camera, allowing users to wirelessly print photos from their phone via Bluetooth connection. With our list, you can find a Polaroid and instant photo printer that will make you the most popular person at any party.
What is a Polaroid and Instant Photo Printer?
A Polaroid is a type of camera that instantly prints the photo as soon as you capture it. There is no need to take the roll of film to a print shop, or upload it online. They come in different sizes, colors, and even a more retro look if you want a trip down memory lane. Polaroid also offers an app that allows you to customize and edit the photo on your phone before printing.
Now, some of you might be thinking, “What about the quality and the ISO?” An instant camera is not designed to give you a better quality photo compared to a DSLR. A Polaroid camera brings incredible joy in the use and the instant printing feature. Getting the family together for a group photo, and passing it around, is priceless. I’ve seen friends hang up their photos on lights in their room, and create a mural of memories.
An instant photo printer doesn’t take the photo, instead the user uploads the photo to the device and prints it. You need a Bluetooth device that has your photo on it (typically a phone), connect to the instant photo printer, and then print.
Either option works, it just depends on if you’d rather capture the photo and print on the same device, or capture the photo on your phone then upload it to a photo printer.
Features to Consider in a Polaroid Printer
Polaroid cameras have come a long way since 1948. There are so many new features to consider when choosing the right one for you. Polaroid cameras now offer a 2-lens autofocus system that gives you sharper photos even without a flash. Another feature that brings more creative life to your photos is the built-in double exposure. You can get two frames in one Polaroid photo. There are even Polaroid cameras that come with a self-timer, giving you up to nine seconds to gather your friends and family! Polaroid cameras often have a built-in flash, and a rechargeable battery.
To help you narrow your list down, make sure to look at the type of photo paper the camera or printer needs. Photo paper has a wide range of prices and size. If you use your camera a lot, you’re going to need a lot of photo paper. Definitely make sure that the photo paper your camera uses is within your budget.
Polaroid cameras and instant printers are made to be portable, but some are larger than others. Determine how you’ll be using your printer and the portability you need. An instant printer will be easier to carry than a Polaroid camera.
Lastly, download the apps the cameras and printers use. See if you like the features of each app and the user interface. You might fall in love with a printer but realize the app is hard to use.
Best Polaroid & Instant Photo Printers
Fujifilm Instax Square Link Wireless Smartphone Printer
The Fujifilm Instax Square connects directly to your phone via Bluetooth and is incredibly pocket-friendly. What sets this instant printer apart from the rest is the Instax Connect app. This app allows you to decorate and customize your photos, and send them to your friends within the app. Your friends can send messages back directly on the image! It’s a great way to add more character to your images. The app also features AR printing, allowing you to add AR artwork to share on social media. This printer takes creativity to new heights.
- Small and lightweight
- Connects via Bluetooth
- Instax Connect App
- AR print
- Film size: 3.39” x 2.83”
- Print images from videos
- Designed for creatives
Polaroid Originals Hi-Print 2×3 Pocket Photo Printer
The Polaroid Originals is all about printing it and sticking it. Each photo has a sticky backing that allows you to stick your photos anywhere! I have mine on the side of my fridge. I’ve seen friends stick them in cars, on windows, and even create beautiful collages. The device connects via Bluetooth and the app is compatible via iOS and Android. The size can fit directly in your pocket, giving you the option to bring it with you wherever you go. The Polaroid Hi-Print also utilizes dye-sub cartridge technology resulting in high quality vibrant photos in under 50 seconds.
- Small and lightweight
- Connects via Bluetooth
- Film size: 2” x 3”
- Polaroid Hi-Print App
- Dye-sub technology
- Uses Polaroid Hi-Print Paper
Fujifilm Instax Link Wide Smartphone Printer
The Fujifilm Instax Link Wide is going to be larger than your average portable photo printer. The size of the printer allows for the biggest photo in the Instax product line with a size of 2.44” x 3.89”. Pair the printer to your phone via Bluetooth, download the Instax Link Wide App, and you’re good to go. With the app you’re able to sketch, edit, and customize your photos. You can even add secret messages that can only be seen by scanning the QR code on the photo. This is a fantastic printer for those larger images!
- Larger than most portable printers
- Connects via Bluetooth
- Film size: 2.44” x 3.89”
- Instax Link Wide App
- Secret messages via QR code scan
- Over 30 editable templates
- Uses Instax Wide film
Fujifilm Instax Mini Link 2 Wireless Smartphone Printer
The Fujifilm Instax Mini takes everything from the Link Wide and makes it more portable. Your photos will be a little smaller at 2” x 3”. The Mini Link 2 offers InstaxAiR, which allows you to create artwork within your image with the LED light on the side of the printer. It’s an incredible way to add more flair to your photos. Photos print at a high speed at 15 seconds, and you can print stills from a video.
- Small and portable
- Connects via Bluetooth
- Film size: 2” x 3”
- Instax Link App
- InstaxAiR offers LED creativity
- Secret messages via QR code scan
- Different color printers
- Uses Instax Mini film
iHome PocketPrint3 Smartphone Photo Printer
The iHome PocketPrint 3 gives you waterproof prints that will last a lifetime. The printer can hold ten sheets, and even comes with a ten-sheet cartridge as well. You are able to print 20 stunning photos on a single charge. The iHome PocketPrint3 uses 4pass dye sublimation for real ink color photos. The photo size is larger than most portable printers at 3” x 3”. Your waterproof prints will have a protective laminate overcoating for vivid, durable and smudge free prints.
- Small and portable
- Film size: 3” x 3”
- iHome Print App
- Waterproof prints
- Comes with a ten sheet cartridge
- Uses iHome printer cartridges
Polaroid Originals Polaroid Lab Instant Film Printer
The Polaroid Lab has one of the most eccentric designs in the portable printer world. The shape takes me to a futuristic world, like something straight out of 2001: A Space Odyssey. You simply place your phone on the top of the printer to scan, and then print! You can create collages up to nine frames and bring your photos to life with their augmented reality tool. Within the Polaroid Originals App you can take a still image and embed a short film inside and watch them come to life.
- Unique shape and size
- Scans your phone
- 3-lens system
- Up to 9 frame collage
- AR short films embedded in the still image
- Polaroid App
- Uses i-Type and 600 film
Canon SELPHY Square QX10 Compact Photo Printer
The Canon SELPHY is a compact printer that prints 2.7” x 2.7” square photos. The Canon SELPHY uses dye-sub technology which gives you fast-drying prints that can last up to 100 years. With the Canon SELPHY app, you can add templates, stickers, and filters. Each photo also has an adhesive backing that you can stick anywhere. Keep in mind, this compact printer will need ink replacements. The maximum printing speed is 43 seconds, and the print resolution is 287 x 287 dpi.
- Compact and lightweight
- Film size: 2.7” x 2.7”
- Dye-sub technology
- Canon App
- Sample ink included: Label set XS-20L-20
- Sample sticker paper included
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I use an instant photo printer?
In order to use an instant photo printer, you will need a compatible device. Printers typically connect via Bluetooth and offer a compatible app as well. Once you connect your printer to your phone, download the associated app. You’ll be able to choose which photos you want to print directly from the app.
Does the Polaroid printer need ink?
The great thing about a Polaroid printer is that it won’t need an ink replacement. The only thing you’ll be replacing is the printing paper. Everything prints directly onto the paper.
How can I print my own Polaroid pictures?
As soon as you download the Polaroid app, you’ll be able to upload and choose the photos you want to print. What’s amazing about the app is that it also allows you to get creative with your photos. You can add text, shapes, images, and customize it how you like it!
Is a photo scanner better than a regular scanner?
A photo scanner will prioritize color and clarity. You might lose the sharpness of a photo with a regular scanner. A photo scanner is designed specifically for photos, so they are able to scan at a better quality than a regular scanner.
Conclusion
A Polaroid camera and an instant photo printer brings so much unhappiness that you can’t get with a phone or camera. During the holidays, I am always looking for gifts to bring family and friends closer together. Some of the best holiday parties have an instant camera and printer on the table. That way, anyone can just pick it up and start making memories. With a phone and Bluetooth support, it’s even easier to print your favorite photos. Whether you want to grab one for yourself — or for a friend — an instant camera and portable photo printer will create a lifetime of memories.
