Quick Answer

Choose Polaroid film based on your camera model: use 600 film for vintage 600 cameras, i-Type for modern i-Type cameras, and SX-70 film for SX-70 cameras. Check your camera's battery and film compatibility before buying.

Why Film Type Matters

Polaroid instant film is not one-size-fits-all. Each film type is designed for a specific camera system, and using the wrong pack can lead to overexposed or blank photos. The main differences are the battery and the ISO sensitivity.

600 film and SX-70 film include a battery in the pack, which powers the camera's exposure and flash systems. i-Type film, on the other hand, has no battery because i-Type cameras have built-in rechargeable batteries. This makes i-Type packs slightly more affordable.

Your camera's lens and light meter are calibrated for a specific film speed. For example, SX-70 film is less sensitive to light than 600 film, so it requires more light or a longer exposure. Using the wrong film can result in poorly exposed images.

Compatibility and Camera Models

The easiest way to know which film you need is to check your camera model. Vintage Polaroid 600 cameras use 600 film. Modern i-Type cameras, like the Polaroid I-2 and Polaroid Flip, use i-Type film. SX-70 cameras use SX-70 film.

Some cameras, like the Polaroid OneStep+, can use both i-Type and 600 film, but this is an exception. Always check your camera's manual or look for the film type printed near the film compartment.

Decision Rules for Choosing Polaroid Film

  • Identify your camera model: Check the front of your camera or the manual for the model name. If it says '600', you need 600 film. If it says 'i-Type' or 'I-2', you need i-Type film. If it's an SX-70, you need SX-70 film. Write down your camera model before buying film.
  • Check the battery: If your camera has a built-in rechargeable battery (like i-Type cameras), use i-Type film to save money. If your camera relies on the film pack for power (like 600 and SX-70 cameras), choose 600 or SX-70 film accordingly. Using i-Type film in a camera that needs a battery pack won't work.
  • Consider light sensitivity: SX-70 film is less sensitive to light than 600 film. If you shoot in bright conditions and want more creative control, SX-70 might be your choice. For general use in varied lighting, 600 film is more versatile. Think about your typical shooting environment when selecting a film type.

Polaroid Film Options

  • Polaroid 600 Colour Film - 3 Film Pack (24 Photos): Polaroid 600 Colour Film is the original format for vintage Polaroid 600 cameras and also works with i-Type cameras. If you own a classic 600 camera, this is the film you need; it includes a battery to power the camera.

    Polaroid 600 Colour Film - 3 Film Pack (24 Photos)

    Polaroid 600 Colour Film - 3 Film Pack (24 Photos)

  • Polaroid SX-70 Colour Film: Polaroid SX-70 Colour Film features an innovative colour protection formula that improves the opacification process. This means you don't have to shield your photos from light immediately after they eject, making shooting easier.

    Polaroid SX-70 Colour Film

    Polaroid SX-70 Colour Film

  • Polaroid i-Type Colour Film – 4 Film Pack (32 Photos): i-Type film is optimized for i-Type cameras and has no battery in the pack, saving you money on every pack. If you have a modern i-Type camera, this is the most cost-effective choice without sacrificing image quality.

Who Should Choose Which Film

Best for

  • Owners of vintage Polaroid 600 cameras who want the classic look and reliable performance
  • Photographers with modern i-Type cameras looking for the most affordable film option
  • SX-70 users who want the latest colour protection technology for easier shooting

Not for

  • i-Type film is not for cameras that require a battery in the pack, such as vintage 600 or SX-70 models
  • 600 film is not the best choice for SX-70 cameras due to different ISO sensitivity