Instax SQ6 & Instax SQ40 share many similarities, but there are also important differences, such as quality, performance, features, design, and connectivity. If you want the best one between them, I Would recommend the Instax SQ6 rather than the Instax SQ40.
Why Do I Recommend The Instax SQ6?
- The Instax SQ6 has an exposure compensation function for manually brightening or darkening photos to suit different lighting conditions, which enhances flexibility compared to the Instax SQ40’s auto-exposure.
- Instax SQ6 includes multiple shooting modes such as Macro, Landscape, and Double Exposure for various photography scenarios, while the Instax SQ40 only includes standard and selfie modes.
- It has a 10-second self-timer to take group photos or self-portraits without without holding the camera, whereas the Instax SQ40 lacks this functionality.
- The Instax SQ6 supports a flash-off function to avoid overexposure in bright settings or unwanted reflections, whereas the Instax SQ40’s flash is always active.
- Instax SQ6 comes with colored flash filters that add artistic color effects to photos for a fun and customized shooting experience, which the Instax SQ40 does not include.
- It features a dedicated macro mode to take close-up shots with improved focus and sharpness, while the SQ40 lacks fine focus control.
- The Instax SQ6 includes a tripod mount to stabilize the camera for long exposures, group photos, or self-portraits, which the Instax SQ40 does not support.
- Instax SQ6 has a clearer shooting mode dial with visible icons for quickly select and confirm the mode in use, while the SQ40 has a more minimal layout without visual clarity.
Maybe the Instax SQ40 price can make you comfortable because it’s a little bit cheaper than the Instax SQ6. But you have to compromise all the above-mentioned features. Now the Decision is Yours. I hope it was helpful to choose the right one.
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Side By Side Comparison
| Feature | Instax SQ6 | Instax SQ40 |
| Body Finish | Matte plastic | Faux leather texture |
| Design Style | Modern retro | Classic retro |
| Available Colors | Pearl White, Blush Gold, Graphite Gray, etc. | Classic Black |
| Weight | 393g | 453g |
| Dimensions | 118.7 × 128.1 × 58.1 mm | 134.2 × 120.2 × 60.5 mm |
| Lens Modes | Auto, Macro, Landscape | Normal, Selfie |
| Focus Range Options | 0.3–0.5m (Macro), 0.5–2m (Auto), 2m–∞ | Fixed range with 2 zones |
| Exposure Compensation | ±⅔ EV (Lighten/Darken) | No EV control |
| Shooting Modes | Auto, Selfie, Macro, Landscape, Double Exposure | Auto, Selfie |
| Double Exposure Mode | Yes | No |
| Self-Timer | Yes | No |
| Flash Control | Auto/On/Off | Always on |
| Flash Color Filters | Included | Not included |
| Tripod Mount | Yes | No |
| Battery Door Build | Standard latch | Hinged door with reported issues |
| Viewfinder Feedback | Basic optical viewfinder | Basic optical viewfinder |
| Grip Ergonomics | Smooth matte grip | Textured rubberized feel |
| Control Dial Layout | Multiple icons with indicators | Minimal, simplified layout |
| Target Audience | Enthusiasts, creatives | Casual, beginner users |
| Retail Packaging | Includes filters, strap, batteries | Includes strap, batteries |
| Price | Check Instax SQ6 Price | Check Instax SQ40 Price |
What Common Both Can Do?
- Film Format Compatibility: Both cameras use Instax Square film, allowing users to capture square-format instant photos that develop in approximately 90 seconds.
- Lens Specifications: Both models feature a 65.75mm f/12.6 lens, ensuring consistent framing, image sharpness, and field of view across both devices.
- Auto Exposure Control: Each camera includes automatic exposure adjustment, enabling users to shoot in varying lighting conditions without manually setting exposure.
- Built-in Flash: Both cameras are equipped with a built-in flash that helps illuminate subjects in low-light situations for balanced exposure.
- Shutter Speed Range: Each model uses an automatic shutter speed system ranging from 1/400 to 1.6 seconds, adapting to different lighting environments automatically.
- Selfie Mirror: Both have a front-mounted selfie mirror beside the lens, allowing users to accurately frame self-portraits before taking the shot.
- Battery Type and Life: Both the Instax SQ6 and SQ40 use two CR2 lithium batteries, supporting approximately 30 film packs per charge for extended shooting sessions.
- Optical Viewfinder: Each camera features a 0.4× real image optical viewfinder, helping users compose shots easily with basic accuracy.
- Motorized Film Ejection: Both models automatically eject exposed film, enabling users to get instant prints without needing to manually pull out the film.
- Film Counter Display: Each camera includes a film counter that shows the number of shots remaining, allowing users to monitor their film usage.
- Automatic Lens Cover: Both have an automatic lens cover that closes when the camera is turned off, protecting the lens from dust and scratches.
- Flash Range: Each flash operates effectively within 0.3 to 2.7 meters, ensuring subjects are properly lit within standard shooting distances.
- Photo Output Style: Both cameras produce square-format instant prints with a nostalgic aesthetic, suitable for scrapbooking, sharing, or display.
- User Experience Design: Both are designed for ease of use, catering to casual users who want a straightforward instant photo experience without technical complexity.
- Instant Photography Purpose: Both models serve the same purpose of fun, tangible, instant photography, perfect for parties, travel, and creative expression.
Common Features
| Feature | Instax SQ6 | Instax SQ40 |
| Film Format | Instax Square Film | Instax Square Film |
| Image Size | 62mm × 62mm | 62mm × 62mm |
| Lens | 65.75mm f/12.6 | 65.75mm f/12.6 |
| Shutter Speed | 1/400 sec to 1.6 sec | 1/400 sec to 1.6 sec |
| Viewfinder | 0.4× Real image optical viewfinder | 0.4× Real image optical viewfinder |
| Power Source | 2× CR2 Lithium Batteries | 2× CR2 Lithium Batteries |
| Battery Life | ~30 packs of film per set of batteries | ~30 packs of film per set of batteries |
| Film Ejection | Motorized auto-ejection | Motorized auto-ejection |
| Film Development Time | Approx. 90 seconds | Approx. 90 seconds |
| Built-in Flash | Yes | Yes |
| Flash Range | 0.3m – 2.7m | 0.3m – 2.7m |
| Auto Exposure | Yes | Yes |
| Selfie Mirror | Yes | Yes |
| Film Counter | Yes | Yes |
| Lens Cover | Automatic | Automatic |
| Usage Style | Instant square-format photography | Instant square-format photography |
| Price | Check Instax SQ6 Price | Check Instax SQ40 Price |
FAQ
What type of film do the Instax SQ6 and SQ40 use? Is there a difference in image quality between the Instax SQ6 and SQ40? Do both cameras have a selfie mirror? Do the SQ6 and SQ40 come with built-in flash? Can the flash be turned off in both cameras? Do both models use the same battery type? How many shots can I take with a full set of batteries? Are the cameras automatic or manual in operation? Do both cameras have a tripod mount? Do the SQ6 and SQ40 support double exposure mode? Can both cameras be used for close-up or macro shots? Do the cameras include a self-timer? Are colored flash filters included with both models? Are both cameras compatible with third-party accessories? Which camera is better for creative photography? |