Instax SQ6 & Instax SQ1 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 SQ1.

Why Do I Recommend The Instax SQ6?

  • The Instax SQ6 features multiple shooting modes to capture double exposures, close-ups, and landscape shots with more creative control, compared to the Instax SQ1’s fully automatic shooting.
  • 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 SQ1’s auto-exposure.
  • It includes a built-in self-timer to take timed group shots or self-portraits without holding the camera, whereas the Instax SQ1 lacks this functionality.
  • The Instax SQ6 supports flash color filters that add creative tones to images for artistic effects, while the Instax SQ1 does not include any flash filter accessories.
  • Instax SQ6 has a tripod mount that provides stable framing for long-exposure or group shots, while to the Instax SQ1 lacks tripod mount.
  • It includes a dedicated macro mode to take detailed close-up photos from 0.3 to 0.5 meters, whereas the Instax SQ1 lacks a specific macro mode.
  • The Instax SQ6 features a separate landscape mode that optimizes focus for distant subjects, which the Instax SQ1 cannot control manually.
  • Instax SQ6 comes with a physical mode switch and tactile controls to select precise settings for each scene, compared to the SQ1’s minimalist twist-only interface.

Maybe the Instax SQ1 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.

.

Side By Side Comparison

FeatureInstax SQ6Instax SQ1
Exposure ControlAuto + manual lighten/darkenFully automatic
Shooting ModesAuto, Selfie, Macro, Landscape, Double ExposureAuto, Selfie
Flash ControlOn/Off + 3 color filtersAuto only, no filters
Selfie Mode ActivationDedicated selfie buttonLens twist
Self-TimerYesNo
Tripod MountYesNo
Lens Focus Zones3 zones2 zones
Color OptionsMetallic tonesBold pastel tones
Flash FiltersIncludedNot included
Power ButtonPhysical buttonTwist lens mechanism
Body StyleRectangular, vintage camera lookRounded, minimalist design
Build QualitySlightly more ruggedSlightly lighter and simpler
Double Exposure ModeYesNo
Macro ModeDedicatedNo dedicated mode
Landscape ModeDedicatedNo dedicated mode
PriceCheck Instax SQ6 PriceCheck Instax SQ1 Price

What Common Both Can Do?

  • Instax Square Film Format: Both cameras use Instax Square instant film, producing 62 × 62 mm prints that deliver a balanced 1:1 aspect ratio for creative and symmetrical compositions.
  • Fixed Lens Design: Each model features a 65.75 mm f/12.6 fixed lens, ensuring consistent image framing and sharpness for standard shooting situations.
  • Minimum Focus Distance: Both cameras support a minimum focus distance of 0.3 meters, allowing users to take close-up selfies and near-subject shots with clarity.
  • Automatic Exposure Control: Each model includes automatic exposure detection, adjusting brightness based on ambient light for properly exposed photos without manual input.
  • Built-in Automatic Flash: Both cameras come with an integrated flash that automatically fires in low light conditions, helping to illuminate subjects indoors or in darker environments.
  • Selfie Mode with Mirror: Each camera features a dedicated selfie mode and a built-in front mirror, making it easy to frame and capture well-centered self-portraits.
  • Battery Type: Both use two CR2 lithium batteries, providing reliable power and similar battery life for extended use without frequent replacements.
  • Film Capacity: Each model loads Instax Square film packs containing 10 exposures, giving users the same number of prints per reload.
  • Optical Viewfinder: Both include a basic optical viewfinder that allows users to compose their shots before pressing the shutter button.
  • Film Development Time: Both cameras take approximately 90 seconds for the image to fully develop after printing, ensuring a fast and satisfying instant photo experience.

Common Features

FeatureInstax SQ6Instax SQ1
Film FormatInstax Square FilmInstax Square Film
Print Size62 × 62 mm62 × 62 mm
Lens Type2-element, f/12.6, 65.75 mm2-element, f/12.6, 65.75 mm
Focus Range0.3 m and beyond0.3 m and beyond
Built-in FlashYesYes
Selfie ModeYesYes
Battery Type2× CR2 Lithium2× CR2 Lithium
Auto ExposureYesYes
Film Pack Capacity10 exposures per pack10 exposures per pack
ViewfinderOptical viewfinderOptical viewfinder
Film Development TimeApprox. 90 secondsApprox. 90 seconds
Price Check Instax SQ6 Price Check Instax SQ1 Price

FAQ

What film do the Instax SQ6 and SQ1 use?
Both cameras use Fujifilm’s Instax Square instant film, which produces 62×62 mm square-format prints designed for vibrant, retro-style photos.

Is there a difference in photo quality between the SQ6 and SQ1?
The image quality is quite similar since both use the same lens and film, but the SQ6 may give slightly more controlled results due to its added exposure and shooting modes.

Can I use the same batteries in both cameras?
Yes, both the Instax SQ6 and SQ1 run on two CR2 lithium batteries, making battery management identical for either model.

Does the Instax SQ1 have a self-timer like the SQ6?
No, the SQ1 does not have a self-timer feature, whereas the SQ6 includes a self-timer for hands-free shots and group photos.

Do both cameras have a selfie mirror?
Yes, both models have a built-in selfie mirror next to the lens, helping users frame selfies accurately.

Which camera is better for beginners?
The Instax SQ1 is better suited for beginners due to its fully automatic operation and simplified controls, ideal for point-and-shoot use.

Which camera has more creative shooting options?
The Instax SQ6 has more creative features, including modes like Double Exposure, Landscape, and Macro, giving advanced users more versatility.

Can I turn off the flash on both cameras?
No, you can only turn off the flash manually on the Instax SQ6. The SQ1 has an automatic flash that cannot be disabled.

Do either of the cameras come with flash color filters?
Only the Instax SQ6 includes three clip-on flash color filters (orange, purple, green) to add stylistic effects to photos.

Are both cameras compatible with a tripod?
No, only the Instax SQ6 has a built-in tripod mount. The SQ1 does not support tripod use.

How do I activate selfie mode on each camera?
On the SQ6, selfie mode is activated via a button on the back. On the SQ1, you twist the lens a second time to enter selfie mode.

Which one is more compact or portable?
Both cameras are nearly the same in size and weight, but the SQ1 has a slightly more compact feel due to its rounded and modern design.

Can I do double exposure shots with both models?
No, only the Instax SQ6 has a Double Exposure mode that allows two images to be layered onto a single film sheet.

Is there any difference in film ejection or development time?
No, both cameras automatically eject the film after taking a picture, and the development time is approximately 90 seconds.

Which model is more affordable?
The Instax SQ1 is generally more affordable than the SQ6, as it is designed with fewer manual features and is aimed at casual users.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *