As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.
- Best overall: Polaroid Now Gen 2
- Best budget: Polaroid Now
- Best premium: Polaroid I-2
- Best for travel: Polaroid Go Gen 2
- Polaroid Now Gen 2 is the straightforward pick for shoppers who want USB-C charging, a self-timer and double-exposure controls.
- Polaroid Now keeps the core 2-lens autofocus experience while Polaroid Now+ Gen 2 adds app-based creative controls.
- Polaroid Go Gen 2 uses smaller Go film, while the Now cameras use i-Type or 600 film.
- Polaroid Color i-Type Film Double Pack provides 16 exposures for compatible i-Type cameras.
Polaroid Now and Polaroid Now Gen 2 share the instant-film look, familiar 2-lens autofocus system and simple point-and-shoot approach, but their generation features make a real difference for Black Friday 2026 shoppers. Polaroid Now Gen 2 adds USB-C charging, double-exposure mode and a self-timer, while the original Polaroid Now remains a sensible option for shoppers who want the essentials.
I researched and compared specs, reviews and owner feedback to make this guide useful whether you are buying your first instant camera, choosing a gift or stocking up on film. The Best bet for most people is Polaroid Now Gen 2; the other picks cover app controls, portability, advanced photography and film. Check the film format before buying: Polaroid Now cameras use i-Type or 600 film, while Polaroid Go Gen 2 needs Go film.
How We Picked
- Compared official feature lists, including autofocus, controls, charging and compatibility.
- Reviewed owner feedback for recurring comments about setup, everyday use and creative flexibility.
- Separated cameras by film format so shoppers can match a camera with the right film.
- Included options for entry-level use, creative control, portability and advanced photography.
- Prioritized products with a clear use case for gifts, travel or keeping an instant-camera kit supplied.
Comparison Table
| Product | Best for | Lens system or exposures | Self-timer or creative feature | Film format |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Polaroid Now Gen 2 | Most shoppers | 2-lens autofocus | 9 seconds | i-Type and 600 |
| Polaroid Now | Simple snapshots | 2-lens autofocus | 9 seconds | i-Type and 600 |
| Polaroid Now+ Gen 2 | Creative hobbyists | 2-lens autofocus | 5 app lens filters | i-Type and 600 |
| Polaroid Go Gen 2 | Travel | 2-lens autofocus | Double exposure | Polaroid Go |
| Polaroid I-2 | Advanced controls | 3-lens autofocus | f/8 to f/64 aperture | i-Type, 600 and SX-70 |
| Polaroid Flip | Assisted focus | 4-lens autofocus | 4 focus zones | i-Type and 600 |
| Polaroid Color i-Type Film Double Pack | Color film refills | 16 total exposures | 2 packs | i-Type |
Best Picks Reviewed
#1 · Top pick
Polaroid Now Gen 2
The Polaroid Now Gen 2 is the best instant camera for most first-time buyers, with a 2-lens autofocus system and USB-C charging for convenient everyday use.
Best for: Most shoppers and gift buyers
- Lens system
- 2-lens autofocus
- Self-timer
- 9 seconds
- Film
- i-Type and 600
- Charging
- USB-C
- Double-exposure mode expands creative options.
- Self-timer helps with group portraits.
- USB-C charging and i-Type compatibility.
- Uses full-size film that is less compact than Go film.
Is the Polaroid Now Gen 2 worth buying on Black Friday 2026?
The Polaroid Now Gen 2 is worth considering for shoppers who want a simple instant camera with current convenience features. The Polaroid Now Gen 2's 2-lens autofocus, USB-C charging, 9-second self-timer and double-exposure mode cover everyday photos and creative snapshots.
See today’s Black Friday price on Amazon
#2
Polaroid Now
The Polaroid Now is the best straightforward instant camera for shoppers who value simple operation, with a 2-lens autofocus system for near and far subjects.
Best for: Simple point-and-shoot photography
- Lens system
- 2-lens autofocus
- Self-timer
- 9 seconds
- Film
- i-Type and 600
- Exposure modes
- 2, including double exposure
- Simple controls suit casual picture-taking.
- Works with i-Type and 600 film.
- Includes a self-timer and double exposure.
- Lacks the USB-C charging update found on Polaroid Now Gen 2.
Is the Polaroid Now worth buying on Black Friday 2026?
The Polaroid Now is worth considering for shoppers who want the core instant-camera experience without extra creative controls. The 2-lens autofocus system, 9-second self-timer and compatibility with i-Type and 600 film make it a practical pick for everyday snapshots.
See today’s Black Friday price on Amazon
#3
Polaroid Now+ Gen 2
The Polaroid Now+ Gen 2 is the best instant camera for creative hobbyists, with 5 app-based lens filters and additional controls for shaping photographs.
Best for: Creative camera users
- Lens system
- 2-lens autofocus
- App filters
- 5 lens filters
- Film
- i-Type and 600
- Charging
- USB-C
- App connection adds creative settings.
- Includes a tripod mount for steadier shots.
- Uses widely available i-Type and 600 film.
- App controls add complexity for shoppers seeking a basic camera.
Is the Polaroid Now+ Gen 2 worth buying on Black Friday 2026?
The Polaroid Now+ Gen 2 is worth considering if app controls and creative adjustments matter more than a basic point-and-shoot experience. The Polaroid Now+ Gen 2's 5 lens filters, tripod mount and i-Type film compatibility give photography enthusiasts more ways to personalize pictures.
See today’s Black Friday price on Amazon
#4
Polaroid Go Gen 2
The Polaroid Go Gen 2 is the best compact instant camera for travelers, with a pocket-friendly Go film format and a 2-lens autofocus system.
Best for: Travel and compact kits
- Lens system
- 2-lens autofocus
- Film format
- Polaroid Go
- Charging
- USB-C
- Creative features
- Self-timer and double exposure
- Compact body is easy to pack.
- Selfie mirror helps with portraits.
- USB-C charging and double exposure.
- Requires Go film rather than i-Type or 600 film.
Is the Polaroid Go Gen 2 worth buying on Black Friday 2026?
The Polaroid Go Gen 2 is worth considering for travel, small bags and shoppers who prefer a compact camera. The smaller Go film format, 2-lens autofocus, selfie mirror and USB-C charging make it a portable alternative to full-size Polaroid cameras.
See today’s Black Friday price on Amazon
#5
Polaroid I-2
The Polaroid I-2 is the best premium instant camera for photography enthusiasts, with a 3-lens continuous autofocus system and manual exposure controls.
Best for: Advanced creative control
- Lens system
- 3-lens continuous autofocus
- Aperture range
- f/8 to f/64
- Film
- i-Type, 600 and SX-70
- Controls
- Manual exposure settings
- Manual controls support deliberate exposure choices.
- Works with 3 Polaroid film formats.
- Continuous autofocus supports varied subjects.
- Advanced controls are more than casual users need.
Is the Polaroid I-2 worth buying on Black Friday 2026?
The Polaroid I-2 is worth considering for experienced photographers who want direct control over instant photos. The Polaroid I-2's 3-lens continuous autofocus, f/8 to f/64 aperture range and support for i-Type, 600 and SX-70 film offer more flexibility than a basic camera.
See today’s Black Friday price on Amazon
#6
Polaroid Flip
The Polaroid Flip is the best instant camera for shoppers who want assisted focusing, with a 4-lens autofocus system that covers multiple focus zones.
Best for: Assisted focus and everyday portraits
- Lens system
- 4-lens autofocus
- Focus zones
- 4
- Film
- i-Type and 600
- Charging
- USB-C
- Four focus zones help adapt to subject distance.
- Uses i-Type and 600 film.
- USB-C charging supports easy recharging.
- The larger feature set is less minimal than Polaroid Now.
Is the Polaroid Flip worth buying on Black Friday 2026?
The Polaroid Flip is worth considering for shoppers who want autofocus assistance and a modern Polaroid camera design. The Polaroid Flip's 4-lens, 4-zone autofocus system, USB-C charging and compatibility with i-Type and 600 film make it a versatile everyday option.
See today’s Black Friday price on Amazon
#7
Polaroid Color i-Type Film Double Pack
The Polaroid Color i-Type Film Double Pack is the best film refill for i-Type camera owners, with 16 total color exposures across 2 packs.
Best for: Color film refills
- Exposures per pack
- 8 photos
- Packs included
- 2
- Total exposures
- 16 photos
- Compatibility
- Polaroid i-Type cameras
- Provides 16 total color exposures.
- Designed for i-Type cameras.
- Useful add-on for a camera gift.
- Not compatible with Polaroid Go cameras.
Is the Polaroid Color i-Type Film Double Pack worth buying on Black Friday 2026?
The Polaroid Color i-Type Film Double Pack is worth considering for owners of compatible i-Type cameras who want color film ready for everyday photos. Each pack contains 8 exposures, for 16 total images across the 2-pack.
See today’s Black Friday price on Amazon
What is the difference between Polaroid Now and Polaroid Now Gen 2?
Polaroid Now and Polaroid Now Gen 2 both use a 2-lens autofocus system and work with i-Type and 600 film, but Polaroid Now Gen 2 adds USB-C charging. The newer generation also includes double exposure and a 9-second self-timer, keeping creative extras accessible without an app.
Polaroid Now remains a simple choice for shoppers who prioritize the central instant-camera experience. The key buying question is whether the added conveniences on Polaroid Now Gen 2 suit your routine. USB-C charging is useful when you want a common charging connection, while the self-timer helps when the photographer needs to join a group picture.
For a gift or a first camera, Polaroid Now Gen 2 is the easier recommendation because its feature set covers casual snapshots and simple creative effects. Choose Polaroid Now when straightforward operation matters most and the generation-specific updates are not a priority.
Which Polaroid camera is best for Black Friday 2026?
Polaroid Now Gen 2 is the best all-around choice for most shoppers, with 2-lens autofocus, a 9-second timer and USB-C charging. Polaroid Now+ Gen 2 suits people who want app-based creative controls, while Polaroid I-2 targets photography enthusiasts who want manual settings.
Polaroid Go Gen 2 is the compact choice for trips and small bags, but it uses Polaroid Go film rather than the i-Type or 600 film used by Polaroid Now models. Polaroid Flip offers 4 focus zones for shoppers interested in autofocus assistance and a different camera design.
Match the camera to the way it will be used, not just to its feature list. A simple camera is easier for a casual gift recipient, while creative controls reward someone who enjoys adjusting settings. Film compatibility deserves a place in the decision because each format limits which refills fit.
Which film works with Polaroid Now cameras?
Polaroid Now and Polaroid Now Gen 2 work with i-Type and 600 film, giving owners 2 compatible instant-film formats. Polaroid Color i-Type Film Double Pack is an easy refill match for i-Type cameras and contains 16 color exposures across 2 packs.
Polaroid Go Gen 2 uses its own Polaroid Go format, so i-Type film does not fit that camera. Check the camera name and film label before placing an order, particularly when buying film as a gift or adding it to a camera bundle.
Film choice changes the size and look of the finished instant photo, and every exposure is a physical print. Keeping the camera’s format in mind makes it easier to buy the right refill and helps avoid a pack that does not fit the camera in your household.
Is Polaroid Now+ Gen 2 better than Polaroid Now Gen 2?
Polaroid Now+ Gen 2 is better for app-based creative control, with 5 lens filters, while Polaroid Now Gen 2 is the simpler everyday camera. Both use 2-lens autofocus and accept i-Type and 600 film, so the main distinction is how much control a buyer wants.
Polaroid Now+ Gen 2 also has a tripod mount and app features that suit planned portraits or creative experiments. Polaroid Now Gen 2 keeps the experience more direct, with a self-timer and double exposure available without making app controls central to the purchase.
Neither camera is the universal winner. Choose Polaroid Now+ Gen 2 when creative adjustments are part of the fun; choose Polaroid Now Gen 2 for a more approachable camera to hand to a family member, friend or first-time instant-film user.
Should you buy a Polaroid camera or film as a gift?
Polaroid Now Gen 2 makes a strong camera gift because it combines 2-lens autofocus, USB-C charging and film compatibility in a beginner-friendly package. Pairing a camera with compatible film gives the recipient supplies to start taking pictures straight away.
Polaroid Color i-Type Film Double Pack is a practical add-on for owners of i-Type cameras, with 16 exposures in 2 packs. For a traveler, Polaroid Go Gen 2 offers a compact body, but the gift buyer needs to choose Go film rather than i-Type film.
A little planning helps the present feel complete. Check whether the recipient already owns a camera, confirm the film format, and consider whether they prefer simple snapshots or app-based controls. Polaroid Now+ Gen 2 is aimed at creative users, while Polaroid Now Gen 2 suits a wider range of casual photographers.
Buying Guide
Choose the right film format
Polaroid Now, Polaroid Now Gen 2, Polaroid Now+ Gen 2 and Polaroid Flip use i-Type or 600 film. Polaroid Go Gen 2 uses Polaroid Go film. Confirm the camera format before buying any refill.
Decide how much control you want
Polaroid Now Gen 2 offers accessible point-and-shoot operation with a self-timer and double exposure. Polaroid Now+ Gen 2 adds app controls, and Polaroid I-2 includes manual exposure settings for more deliberate photography.
Think about where the camera will go
Polaroid Go Gen 2 is designed around a smaller camera and film format for portability. Full-size cameras such as Polaroid Now Gen 2 suit shoppers who prefer larger instant prints and do not need the smallest travel setup.
Check the practical features
USB-C charging is included on Polaroid Now Gen 2, Polaroid Now+ Gen 2, Polaroid Go Gen 2 and Polaroid Flip. A self-timer is handy for group portraits, while a tripod mount and app controls help with planned creative shots.
Plan for film after the first pack
Instant cameras need compatible film for every new set of pictures. Consider adding Polaroid Color i-Type Film Double Pack to an i-Type camera purchase, or select Polaroid Go film for a Polaroid Go Gen 2.
FAQ
What is the main difference between Polaroid Now and Polaroid Now Gen 2?
Polaroid Now Gen 2 adds USB-C charging while keeping the 2-lens autofocus experience. Both cameras offer a 9-second self-timer, double-exposure features and compatibility with i-Type and 600 film, making charging and generation features the key comparison points.
Does Polaroid Now Gen 2 use i-Type film?
Yes. Polaroid Now Gen 2 works with i-Type and 600 film. Polaroid Color i-Type Film Double Pack is a compatible refill, with 8 exposures in each pack and 16 total exposures across the double pack.
Is Polaroid Now+ Gen 2 better for beginners?
Polaroid Now+ Gen 2 suits beginners who want to explore app-based controls, but Polaroid Now Gen 2 is simpler for straightforward snapshots. Both cameras use i-Type and 600 film, so choose based on desired creative control rather than film compatibility.
What film does Polaroid Go Gen 2 use?
Polaroid Go Gen 2 uses Polaroid Go film, a different format from i-Type and 600 film. Check the package label before buying refills, since Polaroid Color i-Type Film Double Pack does not fit the Polaroid Go Gen 2.
Which Polaroid camera is best for travel?
Polaroid Go Gen 2 is the travel pick for shoppers who want a compact camera and smaller Go film format. Polaroid Now Gen 2 is a good alternative for travelers who prioritize full-size instant photos and USB-C charging over a smaller kit.
Is Polaroid I-2 worth choosing over Polaroid Now Gen 2?
Polaroid I-2 is the stronger fit for photography enthusiasts who want manual exposure controls and a 3-lens continuous autofocus system. Polaroid Now Gen 2 is the simpler choice for casual photos, a first instant camera or an easy-to-use gift.