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Polaroid i-Type Film Review
An honest look at Polaroid i-Type film: who it's for, how it performs, and how it compares to 600 and Go film. Includes specs, pros, cons, and buyer FAQs.
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Polaroid i-Type film is the modern standard for Polaroid's current instant cameras. It delivers that classic, slightly soft, nostalgic look with rich colors and a wide exposure latitude. It is easy to use, but it lacks the battery that 600 film includes, so it only works in i-Type and Now cameras. For most users who own a Polaroid Now or similar, i-Type is the best value. However, if you have an older 600-series camera, you need 600 film. Overall, i-Type is a reliable, fun film that offers a genuine instant photography experience at a reasonable cost.
How it scores
The good and the annoying
- Classic Polaroid look with warm, saturated colors
- Works with all i-Type and Polaroid Now cameras
- No battery inside, which lowers the cost
- Easy to load and use, even for beginners
- Wide exposure latitude handles different lighting well
- Comes in a variety of colorful frame options
- Not compatible with vintage 600-series cameras
- Photos develop slowly (up to 15 minutes)
- Image quality is not as sharp as digital or Instax
- Film is pricey per shot
- Can be affected by extreme temperatures
Polaroid i-Type film is the go-to choice for anyone using a modern Polaroid instant camera like the Polaroid Now. It is the film that keeps the instant photography dream alive, offering that unmistakable retro charm with every click. But is it right for you? Our editorial team compared specifications, buyer feedback and key decision factors to give you an honest review.
Design and Build
Polaroid i-Type film comes in a slim, light package. Each pack holds 8 sheets of film. The film itself is the classic square format, with a white border that you can write on. The cartridge is designed to slide easily into i-Type cameras. Because there is no battery inside, the cartridge is lighter than 600 film, but the build quality feels sturdy. The film is protected from light until it is ejected, and the packaging is straightforward to open.
Performance and Image Quality
The magic of i-Type film lies in its unique look. Colors are warm and slightly saturated, with a soft focus that many find nostalgic. The ISO is 640, which works well in bright daylight or with flash. In low light, results can be grainy and dark, but that is part of the charm. Development takes up to 15 minutes, and you must shield the photo from light during that time. The image appears gradually, like a ghost appearing. Sharpness is not comparable to digital or even Instax, but that is not the point. Buyers love the unpredictable nature, where every shot is a one-of-a-kind.
Ease of Use
Using i-Type film is incredibly simple. Load the pack into the camera, close the door, and you are ready. The camera automatically ejects a protective dark slide on the first shot. After that, just press the shutter. The film works with all i-Type and Polaroid Now cameras, which have built-in batteries. There is no need to worry about film batteries. However, you must remember to keep the developing photo away from light and place it face down to avoid smudging.
Battery and Storage
Since i-Type film has no battery, the camera provides all power. This is a cost-saving feature, but it limits compatibility. For storage, keep unopened packs in a cool, dry place. The production date is printed on the package, and for best results, use the film within a year. Once opened, use the pack within a few months. Extreme heat or cold can affect development, so avoid leaving film in a hot car.
Common Buyer Complaints
Some users report that photos come out too dark or too light. This is often due to lighting conditions or not adjusting the exposure dial. Others complain about the price per shot, which is higher than Instax. A few buyers have received damaged film, but Polaroid has a warranty. The biggest complaint is the lack of compatibility with 600 cameras, which can be confusing for new buyers.
Value and Verdict
Polaroid i-Type film offers a genuine instant photography experience. It is not cheap, but the joy of holding a physical photo in seconds is priceless. For owners of modern Polaroid cameras, it is the only sensible choice. If you value nostalgia and fun over perfection, i-Type is a winner. If you want sharper, cheaper instant photos, consider Fujifilm Instax. But for the classic Polaroid look, i-Type is unmatched.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use i-Type film in a Polaroid OneStep 2?
Yes, the OneStep 2 is an i-Type camera, so it works perfectly with i-Type film.
How many photos are in a pack?
Each pack contains 8 photos. You can buy multi-packs for better value.
Does i-Type film come in different colors?
Yes, Polaroid offers limited edition frames, such as black and white or colorful borders, but the classic white frame is standard.
Why do my photos have a green tint?
This can happen if the film is exposed to light during development or if it is too cold. Always shield the photo and keep it warm.
Specs that matter
| Format | Instant film, 4.2 x 3.5 inches (image area 3.1 x 3.1 inches) |
| ISO | 640 |
| Shots per pack | 8 |
| Development time | Up to 15 minutes |
| Compatibility | Polaroid i-Type and Polaroid Now cameras |
| Battery | None (camera provides power) |
You own a Polaroid Now, Now+, or any i-Type compatible camera and want the best balance of price and performance. You love the nostalgic, imperfect look of instant photos and enjoy the tactile experience of watching a photo develop.
You have an older Polaroid 600 series camera (like the OneStep 600 or Sun 600) because i-Type film will not work. You also might skip if you prefer sharper, more consistent images, as Fujifilm Instax offers that at a lower cost per shot.
Questions before you buy
Can I use Polaroid i-Type film in a 600 camera?
No. i-Type film does not have a battery, and 600 cameras rely on the film's battery to power the flash and motor. Using i-Type in a 600 camera will not work. You need 600 film for those cameras.
How long does Polaroid i-Type film last?
Unopened film packs have a production date and should be used within 12 months of that date. Once opened, use the pack within a few months to avoid color shifts. Store film in a cool, dry place.
Why are my Polaroid i-Type photos coming out dark or blurry?
Dark photos often mean the exposure is off. Adjust the exposure dial on your camera if it has one. Blurry photos usually result from camera shake or moving the photo too soon. Keep the camera steady and let the photo develop face down for the full time.
Is Polaroid i-Type film the same as 600 film?
The chemical formula is similar, but 600 film includes a battery to power older cameras. i-Type film has no battery, so it is lighter and slightly cheaper. Image quality is essentially the same.
