Polaroid Flip Evaluation: Traditional Design, Traditional Photographs, Traditional Weighty Feel
Rowdy Review: Polaroid Flip Instant Camera
The Polaroid Flip might've been a blast from the past if it wasn't so darn heavy and chunky. For $200, you get a full-size instant camera reminiscent of your dad's old retro Polaroid camera from the 70s. So, if you're all about that vintage, cracked, and sun-damaged beach photo aesthetic, this could be your jam. But why lug around this brick of a camera when you can snap some fun pics on your phone?
The main attraction of the Polaroid Flip is its "hyperfocal" lens system, with four rotating lenses that automatically switch depending on the distance between you and the subject. Trust me; I didn't encounter any out-of-focus shots. With the flash toned down, my friends and coworkers were cool with the snaps I printed off the Flip.
lon the flip side, the Polaroid Flip ain't exactly a lightweight champ. It tips the scales at 1.4 pounds and is a bulky beast that'll make your backpack or purse feel overstuffed. And did I mention it's as heavy as a small brick? Yeah, that's not fun to carry around, no matter how much you love nostalgic Polaroids.
The Flip's design leans heavily on the iconic Polaroid Sun 660 from 1981. Both cameras share a similar rotating lens system, a sloped body, and a flip-up flash section to protect those sensitive parts. But the Flip lacks the premium build quality of the $600 Polaroid I-2 and isn't as skilled at creating depth of field in the photos.
The Polaroid Flip is ideal for family gatherings or to take along on adventures with friends. What could be better than grabbing a drink and gifting a printed photo souvenir—assuming you're okay with waiting several minutes for the film to develop.
In comparison, the Flip performs better than the Polaroid Go and Now models in terms of focus and overall image quality. However, at a larger size and increased price, it may not be the most practical choice for those seeking a portable instant camera.
Pros:
- Sharp, in-focus shots from varying distances
- Easy to use
- Delivers classic Polaroid-size photos with a nostalgic twist
Cons:
- Heavy and hard to hold
- Exposure can be off, even in bright sunlight
- Developing the film can be costly over time
For those who appreciate the charm of traditional Polaroid blemishes like white spots and sun flare, the photos produced by the Flip are a keeper. However, the bulky design may deter some from bringing it out and about. If you're looking for a more compact and budget-friendly instant camera, consider a Fujifilm Instax camera that can still provide the fun of instant photos without breaking the bank or taking up too much space in your bag.
Bottom Line:
The Polaroid Flip is a nostalgic camera with a stylish design and strong focus capabilities, but it's a heavy beast that isn't the most practical for everyday use.
The Polaroid Flip's design is reminiscent of the Polaroid Sun 660, sharing a similar rotating lens system and sloped body. Gizmodo reviewers found the price of $200 reasonable, considering it produces sharp, in-focus shots and delivers classic Polaroid-size photos with a nostalgic twist. Despite its pros, the Flip is quite heavy, tipping the scales at 1.4 pounds, making it less practical for day-to-day use compared to more compact and budget-friendly instant cameras like a Fujifilm Instax model.
