Skip to content

6 Best Instant Camera With Printer

·15 min read·by
6 Best Instant Camera With Printer

The best best instant camera with printer is the KODAK Mini Shot 2 Retro 2×3, the only one here that combines a solid 13MP camera, Bluetooth printing from your phone, and a retake feature so you never waste paper. It's the perfect pick for anyone who wants a true hybrid without the guesswork.

Want a bigger print size instead? The KODAK Mini Shot 3 Retro 3×3 gives you a 3×3 inch square photo, as long as you're okay with a slightly higher cost per print.

As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

This guide breaks down exactly what each model does well, who it's actually built for, and who should skip this category entirely and buy a dedicated photo printer instead.

Everything below comes from current Amazon product data, specs, and each product's owner track record, not hands-on lab testing.

Quick Answer: The Best Instant Camera with Printer

The best best instant camera with printer overall is the KODAK Mini Shot 2 Retro 2×3.

Thinking about a dedicated photo printer instead? Jump to Who Should NOT Buy below before you spend anything.

Comparison Table

Here's the lineup at a glance: photo, product, who it's built for, and our /10 score.

PhotoProductBest forScoreBuy
KODAK Mini Shot 2 Retro 2x3KODAK Mini Shot 2 Retro 2×3Bundled Starter Kit for Beginners9.0/10Check price →
KODAK Mini Shot 3 Retro 3x3KODAK Mini Shot 3 Retro 3×3Larger 3×3 Print Size8.0/10Check price →
ESOXOFFORE Instant Print Camera KidsESOXOFFORE Instant Print Camera KidsToddlers & Young Kids8.4/10Check price →
Kodak Smile+ 2-in-1 Digital Instant PrintKodak Smile+ 2-in-1 Digital Instant PrintCreative Filter Effects8.6/10Check price →
Nelko PP01 Photo PrinterNelko PP01 Photo PrinterPhone-First Portable Printing8.2/10Check price →
myFirst Insta Lux Instant Print CameramyFirst Insta Lux Instant Print CameraWiFi & HD Prints for Families8.8/10Check price →

Scroll sideways on small screens to see every column.

KODAK Mini Shot 2 Retro 2×3: Best Overall Hybrid for Casual Snappers

#1KODAK Mini Shot 2 Retro 2x3
KODAK13MP Camera + Bluetooth
9.0OUT OF 10
Print Quality8.5
Camera Features9.5
Portability8.5
Owner Verdict9.0
This is the only true hybrid on the list that nails both the camera and printer sides equally well. With a 13MP sensor and a built-in retake feature, you can preview and re-shoot before committing to a print. The 2×3 inch prints use ZINK Zero Ink technology, which means no messy cartridges, and they’re water, fingerprint, and fade resistant.
Bluetooth connectivity lets you print directly from your iPhone or Android, making it a versatile tool for parties, scrapbooking, or just keeping memories on your fridge. The compact retro design fits easily in a bag, and the included 38-sheet starter pack means you’re ready to go right out of the box.
Flaws but not dealbreakers. The 2×3 print size is small, and some users report that the ZINK paper can feel a bit plasticky compared to traditional prints. Also, the app can occasionally be slow to connect.
If you absolutely need a larger print, the KODAK Mini Shot 3 Retro 3×3 offers a 3×3 inch option, though you lose some of the camera features.
Paper: Make sure you buy genuine KODAK ZINK paper for best results. Third-party paper can jam or produce poor colors.
Pros
  • 13MP camera with retake feature saves paper
  • Bluetooth printing from phone works seamlessly
  • Water and fade resistant prints
  • Includes 38 sheets to get started
Cons
  • 2×3 prints are quite small
  • ZINK paper has a distinct feel
  • App connection can be finicky at times
Resolution
13MP Camera
Print Size
2×3 inches
Connectivity
Bluetooth
Sheet Count
38 incl.
Best for: Anyone who wants a true 2-in-1 camera and printer for everyday memories, party favors, and travel.

KODAK Mini Shot 3 Retro 3×3: Best for Larger Prints

#2KODAK Mini Shot 3 Retro 3x3
KODAK3×3 inch prints
8.0OUT OF 10
Print Quality8.5
Camera Features8.0
Portability8.0
Owner Verdict7.5
This is the pick if you want a bigger square print than the Mini Shot 2. The 3×3 inch format gives you more room for details, and it still uses KODAK’s ZINK technology for smudge-proof, water-resistant photos. The 13MP camera and retake feature are identical to the Mini Shot 2, so you get the same quality.
Bluetooth printing from your phone works the same way, and the retro design is just as charming. It comes with 38 sheets of paper, enough for a few sessions of fun.
Flaws but not dealbreakers. The larger print size means a slightly higher cost per print, and the camera itself is identical to the cheaper Mini Shot 2. Some owners also mention that the prints can be a bit dark in low-light conditions.
If you want to save money per print and don’t need the larger size, the KODAK Mini Shot 2 Retro 2×3 is a better value.
Paper: This model uses 3×3 ZINK paper, which is less common than 2×3. Stock up on the correct size to avoid compatibility issues.
Pros
  • Larger 3×3 print size for more detail
  • Same 13MP camera and retake feature
  • Water and fade resistant prints
  • Bluetooth printing from phone
See also  How To Connect A Drone To Your Phone: Easy Guide
Cons
  • Higher cost per print than 2×3
  • Identical camera to cheaper model
  • Low-light prints can be dark
Resolution
13MP Camera
Print Size
3×3 inches
Connectivity
Bluetooth
Sheet Count
38 incl.
Best for: Users who want a bigger print without sacrificing the camera-printer combo, and don’t mind the higher per-print cost.

ESOXOFFORE Instant Print Camera Kids: Best Budget for Toddlers

#3ESOXOFFORE Instant Print Camera Kids
ESOXOFFOREDurable & simple
8.4OUT OF 10
Print Quality7.5
Camera Features7.0
Portability9.0
Owner Verdict9.0
This is the only camera on the list designed specifically for young children ages 3 to 12. It’s built to survive drops, with a chunky, easy-to-grip body and simple controls. The print quality is lower than the KODAK models, but for kids, it’s perfectly adequate. It uses thermal paper, so there are no ink cartridges to worry about.
The camera includes fun built-in filters and frames, and it prints in black and white or color. It’s a great way to get kids excited about photography without the risk of breaking an expensive device.
Flaws but not dealbreakers. The print quality is noticeably grainier than ZINK-based cameras, and the paper is a bit more expensive. It’s also not a true hybrid for phone printing.
If you want a kids camera that also prints from your phone, the myFirst Insta Lux offers WiFi printing for the whole family.
Durability: While it’s built for kids, it’s not waterproof. Keep it away from pools and puddles.
Pros
  • Very durable and kid-friendly design
  • Simple controls for ages 3-12
  • No ink cartridges to replace
  • Fun filters and frames built in
Cons
  • Print quality is grainy
  • No phone printing capability
  • Thermal paper is costly
Resolution
5MP Camera
Print Size
2×3 inches
Connectivity
None
Age Range
3-12 years
Best for: Parents who want a tough, affordable camera that lets their kids print memories without worry.

Kodak Smile+ 2-in-1 Digital Instant Print: Best for Creative Filters

#4Kodak Smile+ 2-in-1 Digital Instant Print
KodakRotating lens effects
8.6OUT OF 10
Print Quality8.5
Camera Features9.0
Portability8.5
Owner Verdict8.5
This is the pick for anyone who loves creative effects and filters right in the camera. The Kodak Smile+ features a unique rotating lens that lets you switch between four special effects, including fisheye, panorama, and macro. The 10MP camera captures decent quality, and the 2×3 inch prints use ZINK technology for durability.
It also doubles as a Bluetooth printer for your phone, so you can print any photo from your gallery. The built-in fun app offers additional editing tools, making it a versatile choice for scrapbookers and party hosts.
Flaws but not dealbreakers. The rotating lens mechanism can feel a bit plastic, and the 10MP camera is slightly lower resolution than the Mini Shot 2. Some users also report that the app can be a bit slow to load.
If you want a higher resolution camera, the KODAK Mini Shot 2 offers a 13MP sensor and a simpler, more reliable design.
Battery: The Smile+ has a built-in rechargeable battery. Charge it fully before your first use for best results.
Pros
  • Unique rotating lens with 4 effects
  • Bluetooth printing from phone
  • ZINK prints are water and fade resistant
  • Fun app for editing
Cons
  • 10MP camera is lower than Mini Shot 2
  • Rotating lens feels a bit plasticky
  • App can be slow
Resolution
10MP Camera
Print Size
2×3 inches
Connectivity
Bluetooth
Lens Effects
4 special effects
Best for: Creative users who want fun effects without needing a smartphone, and also want to print from their phone.

Nelko PP01 Photo Printer: Best Pocket Printer for Phone Users

#5Nelko PP01 Photo Printer
NelkoUltra-compact printer
8.2OUT OF 10
Print Quality8.5
Camera FeaturesN/A
Portability9.5
Owner Verdict8.0
This is the pure printer on the list, no camera built in. The Nelko PP01 is a tiny, portable printer that connects to your phone via Bluetooth. It uses ZINK technology to produce 2×3 inch sticky-back photos. It’s incredibly lightweight and fits in a pocket, making it perfect for on-the-go printing.
The companion app offers AI editing tools, including filters, frames, and text overlays. It works with both iOS and Android, and the prints are ready in about 60 seconds.
Flaws but not dealbreakers. It’s a printer only, so you can’t use it as a standalone camera. The print quality is good but not as sharp as dedicated photo printers, and the paper can be a bit pricey.
If you want a device that also takes photos, the KODAK Mini Shot 2 combines both functions in one package.
Compatibility: The app requires iOS 12+ or Android 6+. Check your phone’s OS version before buying.
Pros
  • Extremely portable and lightweight
  • Bluetooth printing from any phone
  • AI editing tools in the app
  • Sticky-back prints for scrapbooking
See also  6 Best Mirrorless Camera for Photography
Cons
  • No built-in camera
  • Print quality is good but not pro-level
  • ZINK paper can be expensive
Type
Printer only
Print Size
2×3 inches
Connectivity
Bluetooth
App Features
AI editing
Best for: Smartphone users who want a tiny, portable printer for their phone photos without the bulk of a camera.

myFirst Insta Lux Instant Print Camera: Best WiFi for Families

#6myFirst Insta Lux Instant Print Camera
myFirstWiFi + HD prints
8.8OUT OF 10
Print Quality9.0
Camera Features8.5
Portability8.5
Owner Verdict9.0
This is the best choice for families who want high-definition prints and WiFi connectivity. The myFirst Insta Lux features a 5MP dual lens camera that produces sharper, more vibrant prints than most competitors. It also supports WiFi printing from your phone, so everyone in the family can print their photos.
It includes built-in filters and frames, and the app lets you add more creative touches. The camera is designed for kids but works well for adults too, making it a versatile family device.
Flaws but not dealbreakers. The 5MP camera is lower resolution than the KODAK models, but the print quality is still excellent. The WiFi setup can be a bit tricky for some users, and the paper is proprietary.
If you want a higher resolution camera for standalone use, the KODAK Mini Shot 2 offers a 13MP sensor and a more straightforward Bluetooth connection.
Setup: The initial WiFi pairing can be confusing. Follow the manual carefully, or watch the official setup video on the manufacturer’s website.
Pros
  • High-definition print quality
  • WiFi printing from phone
  • Built-in filters and frames
  • Great for family use
Cons
  • 5MP camera is lower resolution
  • WiFi setup can be tricky
  • Proprietary paper costs more
Resolution
5MP Dual Lens
Print Size
2×3 inches
Connectivity
WiFi + Bluetooth
Target
Family / Kids
Best for: Families who want high-quality prints and the convenience of WiFi printing from everyone’s phone.

Buying Guide: Print Size, Camera Quality, Connectivity and Budget

Before you buy any instant camera with a printer, there are four key factors to consider. These will determine whether you end up with a device you love or oneor one that ends up in a drawer after a month.

The most visible difference between these models is the print size. The KODAK Mini Shot 2, the Kodak Smile+, the Nelko PP01, and the myFirst Insta Lux all print 2×3 inch photos. The KODAK Mini Shot 3 prints 3×3 inch square photos.

A 2×3 print is about the size of a credit card. It's perfect for sticking in a scrapbook, on a fridge, or handing out at a party. A 3×3 print gives you about 50% more surface area, which means more detail and a better view of group shots.

The trade-off is that the paper costs more per print, and the camera itself is usually priced higher.

For most people, 2×3 is the sweet spot. It's cheap, portable, and perfectly adequate for memories. If you really value the extra space, the 3×3 option is worth the premium.

Camera Quality: Megapixels and Features

The camera sensor is the heart of any hybrid device. The KODAK Mini Shot 2 and Mini Shot 3 both use a 13MP sensor, which is the highest resolution on this list. The Kodak Smile+ uses a 10MP sensor, and the ESOXOFFORE and myFirst Insta Lux use 5MP sensors.

Higher megapixels mean sharper prints, especially when you crop or enlarge. The 13MP cameras produce noticeably better detail than the 5MP ones. However, the 5MP cameras are perfectly fine for small 2×3 prints, and the myFirst Insta Lux compensates with better color processing.

Also consider the retake feature, which lets you preview and re-shoot before printing. The KODAK models and the myFirst Insta Lux have this. The ESOXOFFORE does not, so kids might waste paper on blurry shots.

The retake feature alone can save you a lot of money on paper over time.

Connectivity: Bluetooth vs WiFi vs None

Connectivity determines how you can print photos from your phone. All the KODAK models and the Nelko PP01 use Bluetooth, which is simple and works anywhere. The myFirst Insta Lux uses WiFi, which can be faster for transferring large files but requires a network setup.

The ESOXOFFORE has no phone connectivity, so it's purely a standalone camera. That's fine for kids, but limiting for adults who want to print from their phone.

Bluetooth is the most reliable and easiest to use. WiFi offers faster speeds but can be frustrating to set up. If you plan to print from your phone regularly, pick a Bluetooth model.

If you want the fastest possible transfer, go with WiFi.

Budget: Initial Cost and Ongoing Paper Costs

The purchase price is just the beginning. The ongoing cost of paper can quickly exceed the camera's price. ZINK paper for 2×3 prints typically costs around $0.30 to $0.50 per print.

The 3×3 ZINK paper is about $0.60 to $0.80 per print. The thermal paper for the ESOXOFFORE is roughly $0.20 to $0.40 per print.

The KODAK Mini Shot 2 offers the best balance of low initial cost and reasonable per-print expenses. The KODAK Mini Shot 3 has higher ongoing costs due to the larger paper. The ESOXOFFORE is the cheapest to run but has the lowest quality.

See also  6 Best Underwater Camera for Diving

Factor in how many prints you expect to make per month. If you print a lot, a model with cheaper paper (like the Mini Shot 2) will save you money in the long run. If you only print occasionally, the initial cost matters more.

To see how these factors play out on real picks, compare the KODAK Mini Shot 2 Retro 2×3, KODAK Mini Shot 3 Retro 3×3 and the ESOXOFFORE Instant Print Camera Kids reviewed above.

Who Should NOT Buy Best Instant Camera with Printer

This category is the wrong purchase for two kinds of buyers. Here's who they are, and what to look at instead.

You Need High-Quality, Large Prints

If you want prints that look like they came from a professional lab, or you need sizes larger than 4×6 inches, an instant camera with printer will disappoint you. These devices use ZINK or thermal technology, which produces images that are often described as "vintage" or "retro" in quality. They are not sharp, and the colors can be inconsistent.

Instead, look at a dedicated photo printer like a Canon Selphy or a HP Sprocket. These use dye-sublimation technology and produce much better quality. You can also consider a photo printing service online, which gives you the best quality at a lower cost per print.

You Want Professional-Grade Photos

If you're a serious photographer or someone who cares deeply about image quality, skip these entirely. The cameras in these devices are toy-grade, with small sensors and limited controls. They are designed for fun, not for art.

Instead, invest in a proper digital camera, whether a DSLR, a mirrorless camera, or even a high-end smartphone. You can learn more about the differences in our guide to DSLR vs mirrorless cameras. Then print your photos through a professional service.

Final Verdict

The best overall best instant camera with printer is the KODAK Mini Shot 2 Retro 2×3. It offers the best balance of camera quality, print size, features, and ongoing cost. The 13MP sensor, retake feature, and Bluetooth printing make it the most versatile and user-friendly option for most people.

Want a bigger print? The KODAK Mini Shot 3 Retro 3×3 gives you a larger square photo, but expect higher per-print costs.

Need something for young kids? The ESOXOFFORE Instant Print Camera Kids is tough, simple, and affordable, though the print quality is lower.

Want creative filters? The Kodak Smile+ 2-in-1 Digital Instant Print offers a unique rotating lens with built-in effects.

Prefer a pure printer for your phone? The Nelko PP01 Photo Printer is ultra-portable and easy to use.

Looking for WiFi and high-definition prints? The myFirst Insta Lux Instant Print Camera delivers excellent quality for the whole family.

If you're still unsure, ask yourself one question: do you actually need a camera, or just a printer? If you always have your phone with you, the Nelko PP01 might be all you need. If you want a standalone device for parties and kids, the KODAK Mini Shot 2 is the safest bet.

And if you think you might be better off with a proper camera, check out our guide to choosing the right mirrorless camera for your needs before you spend anything.

FAQ

What's the best Instant Camera with Printer overall?

The KODAK Mini Shot 2 Retro 2×3 is the best overall. It has a 13MP camera, a retake feature to save paper, Bluetooth printing from your phone, and water-resistant ZINK prints. It's the most balanced and affordable option for most people.

Do instant cameras with printer use ink?

No, they use ZINK (Zero Ink) technology. The paper contains dye crystals that are activated by heat, so there are no ink cartridges to replace. You just buy the special paper, and the printer does the rest.

How long do the prints last?

ZINK prints are water, fingerprint, and fade resistant. They can last for several years if kept in an album or frame. However, they are not archival quality, and direct sunlight will eventually cause fading.

Can I print from my phone with these cameras?

Yes, most models support Bluetooth or WiFi printing. The KODAK Mini Shot 2, Mini Shot 3, Kodak Smile+, Nelko PP01, and myFirst Insta Lux all allow you to print photos from your phone. The ESOXOFFORE does not have phone connectivity.

What's the best option for kids?

The ESOXOFFORE Instant Print Camera Kids is the best choice for young children. It's durable, simple to use, and affordable. For older kids, the myFirst Insta Lux offers better quality and WiFi printing.

How much does the paper cost per print?

ZINK paper for 2×3 prints typically costs between $0.30 and $0.50 per print. The 3×3 paper is more expensive at around $0.60 to $0.80 per print. Thermal paper for kids cameras is roughly $0.20 to $0.40 per print.

Prices vary by brand and pack size.

Is the print quality good enough for scrapbooking?

Yes, the prints are perfect for scrapbooking, journals, and decorating. They are small, sticky-backed, and have a fun, vintage feel. However, if you need sharp, high-quality prints for archival purposes, consider a dedicated photo printer or a professional service.

Latest posts by Arian (see all)

Share.

Similar Posts

Leave a comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked with an asterisk.

×Beats Studio Pro Premium Wireless Over-Ear Headphones
29% off Beats Studio Pro Premium Wireless Over-Ear Headphones15.6 Inch FHD 1080P • A+ IPS screen • 178° Full viewing angle
Check Amazon →
Share