Fujifilm Instax Wide 400 Review: Bigger Prints, Simple Fun

Double the print size of a standard Instax Mini photo, the new $175 Instax Wide 400 from Fujifilm aims to capture group shots and landscapes without sacrificing the brand's trademark simplicity. The camera produces 62 × 99 mm prints, offering significantly more space in every frame compared to its smaller siblings.

Designed as a straightforward point-and-shoot, the Wide 400 requires no prior photography experience. A single-button interface automatically manages flash, focus, and other settings, leaving the user to simply frame and shoot. In good lighting, the resulting images show accurate colors, good detail, and some extra saturation. However, the lack of manual controls means there is little recourse in dim conditions or scenes with strong contrast, where details can blur together.

Powering the camera on is done by rotating the lens counterclockwise. The first click activates close-up mode for subjects 0.9 to three meters away, while a further turn switches to landscape mode for distant subjects. Rotating the lens clockwise turns the camera off. A close-up lens attachment snaps onto the front to help with focus and blur issues at short distances.

Loading film cartridges is guided by alignment lines, and a twist lock secures the door. A small indicator on the back shows remaining film. The camera itself is bulky at 162 mm x 98 mm x 123 mm and 1.4 pounds, noticeably larger than Instax Mini and Square models. While the included shoulder strap helps, the size makes it impractical to carry without a bag, and the reviewer noted being cautious in crowded spaces. The bulk also attracted attention; a worker at a gelato shop complimented it as a "cool looking camera."

A self-timer lever on the side offers four durations from two to 10 seconds, accompanied by a ticking sound and red lights for a visual countdown. For tripod-free use, the camera's strap includes two angle adjustment accessories that slide into an indented space on the underside to prop the camera on a flat surface. Film options include standard white, black, metallic borders, and monochrome. Each 20-sheet box costs between $25 and $28. The Instax Wide 400 is available in green and jet black.