Quick answer

Choose Ilford XP2 Super 400 when you want fine grain and forgiving exposure latitude with standard C41 processing. Pick DragonFilm No IV 400 if you prefer bold contrast, pronounced grain, and the ability to push to ISO 1600.

Processing and convenience

Both films use C41 chemistry, so any lab that processes colour negative film can handle them. Ilford XP2 Super is designed specifically for C41, while DragonFilm No IV was originally made for aerial surveillance and adapted to C41. Both deliver black and white negatives on standard black and white paper.

Look and feel

Ilford XP2 Super produces a classic black and white look with fine grain and good sharpness, especially in high-contrast scenes. DragonFilm No IV offers a more vintage aesthetic—bold contrast and visible grain reminiscent of Kodak Tri-X. Your choice depends on whether you want modern smoothness or retro character.

Trade-offs at a glance

  • Grain and sharpness: Ilford XP2 Super offers fine grain and sharpness across a wide brightness range. DragonFilm No IV has pronounced grain and bold contrast.
  • Exposure flexibility: Ilford XP2 Super is best at box speed (ISO 400) but handles overexposure well. DragonFilm No IV can be used from ISO 100 to ISO 1600, giving you creative latitude. If you need to push film regularly, DragonFilm No IV is the better choice.
  • Processing convenience: Both use C41 chemistry, so any colour lab can develop them. No need for special black and white chemicals.

Product facts

  • Ilford XP2 Super 400 - 35mm 24Exp: Ilford XP2 SUPER is a sharp, fast, fine grain black and white film that ensures excellent results, especially when there is a wide subject brightness range. It is processed in C41 type processing chemicals. This means you get consistent fine-grained negatives in mixed lighting, with the convenience of drop-off processing at any colour lab.

    Ilford XP2 Super 400 - 35mm 24Exp

    Ilford XP2 Super 400 - 35mm 24Exp

  • DragonFilm No IV 400 - 35mm 24Exp: DragonFilm No. IV is a high-speed black and white 35mm film originally manufactured in Ukraine for aerial surveillance work, with a usable range from ISO 100 to ISO 1600, bold contrast and pronounced grain. You can push or pull this film creatively while maintaining a strong, grainy look that suits documentary or street photography.

    DragonFilm No IV 400 - 35mm 24Exp

    DragonFilm No IV 400 - 35mm 24Exp

Which one fits you?

Best for

  • Shooters who want fine grain and clean scans for portraits or commercial work
  • Photographers who rely on consistent results in high-contrast lighting

Not for

  • Those seeking a classic grainy, high-contrast black and white look—choose DragonFilm No IV instead