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

FeatureInstax SQ6Instax SQ40
Body FinishMatte plasticFaux leather texture
Design StyleModern retroClassic retro
Available ColorsPearl White, Blush Gold, Graphite Gray, etc.Classic Black
Weight393g453g
Dimensions118.7 × 128.1 × 58.1 mm134.2 × 120.2 × 60.5 mm
Lens ModesAuto, Macro, LandscapeNormal, Selfie
Focus Range Options0.3–0.5m (Macro), 0.5–2m (Auto), 2m–∞Fixed range with 2 zones
Exposure Compensation±⅔ EV (Lighten/Darken)No EV control
Shooting ModesAuto, Selfie, Macro, Landscape, Double ExposureAuto, Selfie
Double Exposure ModeYesNo
Self-TimerYesNo
Flash ControlAuto/On/OffAlways on
Flash Color FiltersIncludedNot included
Tripod MountYesNo
Battery Door BuildStandard latchHinged door with reported issues
Viewfinder FeedbackBasic optical viewfinderBasic optical viewfinder
Grip ErgonomicsSmooth matte gripTextured rubberized feel
Control Dial LayoutMultiple icons with indicatorsMinimal, simplified layout
Target AudienceEnthusiasts, creativesCasual, beginner users
Retail PackagingIncludes filters, strap, batteriesIncludes strap, batteries
PriceCheck Instax SQ6 PriceCheck 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

FeatureInstax SQ6Instax SQ40
Film FormatInstax Square FilmInstax Square Film
Image Size62mm × 62mm62mm × 62mm
Lens65.75mm f/12.665.75mm f/12.6
Shutter Speed1/400 sec to 1.6 sec1/400 sec to 1.6 sec
Viewfinder0.4× Real image optical viewfinder0.4× Real image optical viewfinder
Power Source2× CR2 Lithium Batteries2× CR2 Lithium Batteries
Battery Life~30 packs of film per set of batteries~30 packs of film per set of batteries
Film EjectionMotorized auto-ejectionMotorized auto-ejection
Film Development TimeApprox. 90 secondsApprox. 90 seconds
Built-in FlashYesYes
Flash Range0.3m – 2.7m0.3m – 2.7m
Auto ExposureYesYes
Selfie MirrorYesYes
Film CounterYesYes
Lens CoverAutomaticAutomatic
Usage StyleInstant square-format photographyInstant square-format photography
Price Check Instax SQ6 Price Check Instax SQ40 Price

FAQ

What type of film do the Instax SQ6 and SQ40 use?
Both the Instax SQ6 and SQ40 use Fujifilm Instax Square Instant Film, which produces square prints measuring 62mm × 62mm.

Is there a difference in image quality between the Instax SQ6 and SQ40?
No, both cameras use the same lens and film type, so image quality is essentially identical under similar shooting conditions.

Do both cameras have a selfie mirror?
Yes, both models include a front-mounted selfie mirror to help users frame self-portraits accurately.

Do the SQ6 and SQ40 come with built-in flash?
Yes, both cameras have a built-in flash to illuminate subjects in darker environments.

Can the flash be turned off in both cameras?
No, only the Instax SQ6 allows users to turn the flash off; the SQ40’s flash is always on.

Do both models use the same battery type?
Yes, both the SQ6 and SQ40 operate using two CR2 lithium batteries.

How many shots can I take with a full set of batteries?
Both models can take approximately 30 film packs’ worth of photos per battery set.

Are the cameras automatic or manual in operation?
Both cameras are primarily automatic, with auto exposure and motorized film ejection for easy use.

Do both cameras have a tripod mount?
No, only the Instax SQ6 includes a tripod mount; the SQ40 does not have one.

Do the SQ6 and SQ40 support double exposure mode?
No, only the SQ6 supports double exposure photography; the SQ40 does not include this feature.

Can both cameras be used for close-up or macro shots?
Only the Instax SQ6 has a dedicated macro mode for close-up shots, while the SQ40 lacks this functionality.

Do the cameras include a self-timer?
Only the Instax SQ6 features a 10-second self-timer; the SQ40 does not have a self-timer.

Are colored flash filters included with both models?
No, only the SQ6 includes colored flash filters in the box; the SQ40 does not come with any.

Are both cameras compatible with third-party accessories?
Accessories such as straps and bags are generally compatible with both, but only the SQ6 can use tripod accessories due to its mount.

Which camera is better for creative photography?
The Instax SQ6 is better for creative photography thanks to its multiple modes, flash filters, self-timer, and double exposure feature.

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