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Polaroid Go Gen 2 Review
The Polaroid Go Gen 2 is a compact instant camera that fits in your pocket and delivers classic square prints. It is fun for casual snapshots, but it has limitations in low light and film costs. This review covers who it suits, real specs, performance, handling, battery, value, pros and cons, and how it stacks up against rivals.
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The Polaroid Go Gen 2 is a charming, ultra-portable instant camera that delivers authentic Polaroid-style prints with a vintage feel. It is best for casual users who value pocketability and the classic square format over image sharpness. The camera is easy to use, has a selfie mirror, and offers double exposure and self-timer modes. However, film is pricey, low-light shots are hit or miss, and the small viewfinder requires careful framing. If you want instant prints on the go and accept its quirks, the Go Gen 2 is a delightful choice. If you need sharper images or more control, consider the Instax Mini 12 or Polaroid Now+.
How it scores
The good and the annoying
- Extremely compact and lightweight, fits in a pocket
- Simple point-and-shoot operation, ideal for beginners
- Built-in selfie mirror and timer for self-portraits
- Double exposure mode for creative shots
- Rechargeable battery via USB-C, convenient
- Classic Polaroid aesthetic with a modern twist
- Film is expensive per shot, around $2 per print
- Image quality is soft, especially in low light
- Small viewfinder leads to framing inaccuracies
- Limited manual controls, no flash override
- Battery life is decent but not exceptional, about 15 packs
The Polaroid Go Gen 2 is the smallest instant camera from Polaroid, designed for those who want to capture memories on the go without lugging a bulky device. It is a second-generation version of the original Go, with improvements in battery and user experience. Our editorial team compared specifications, buyer feedback and key decision factors to bring you an honest review. This camera is not for everyone, but for the right user, it is a delightful creative tool.
Design and Build Quality
The Polaroid Go Gen 2 is remarkably small, measuring about 4.1 x 3.3 x 2.4 inches and weighing just 0.5 pounds. It fits easily in a jacket pocket or a small purse. The body is made of durable plastic with a textured grip on the front and back, making it comfortable to hold. The shutter button is large and responsive, and the mode button is clearly labeled.
The camera features a built-in flash, a selfie mirror, and a small viewfinder. The viewfinder is offset from the lens, which can cause framing issues, especially for close-up shots. The overall build feels solid, though not premium. It is available in several colors, including black, white, and pastel tones.
Performance and Image Quality
The Go Gen 2 uses Polaroid Go film, which produces 2.1 x 3.4 inch prints with a classic white frame. The image quality is typical of instant film: soft, with muted colors and a vintage vibe. In bright outdoor light, photos are decent, with acceptable sharpness for social media sharing. However, in low light, images can be dark and grainy, even with the flash. The flash has a limited range of about 1.5 to 2 meters, so subjects farther away will be underexposed.
The camera has automatic exposure and a fixed focus lens. There is no manual focus, but the lens is set for sharp focus from about 0.5 meters to infinity. This works fine for most casual shots, but macro enthusiasts will be disappointed. The double exposure mode allows you to overlay two images, which can be fun for creative experiments.
Ease of Use
Using the Go Gen 2 is straightforward. You load the film pack, close the door, and the camera ejects a protective dark slide. Then you point and shoot. The flash fires automatically when needed, and you can turn it off if you prefer. The self-timer is activated by pressing the mode button twice, and the selfie mirror helps you compose.
One drawback is the viewfinder: it is small and not accurate for parallax. Many users report that their shots are off-center. To compensate, you can use the selfie mirror or simply aim slightly up and to the left. The camera also lacks a display to show remaining shots, but the film pack has a counter window on the back.
Battery and Storage
The Go Gen 2 has a built-in rechargeable battery that charges via USB-C. A full charge lasts for approximately 15 packs of film, which is about 150 shots. This is decent for casual use, but if you shoot a lot, you will need to recharge frequently. Charging takes about 1.5 hours. There is no memory card; the camera uses instant film, so storage is not an issue. You get physical prints immediately.
Common Buyer Complaints
From analyzing thousands of user reviews, several complaints recur. The most common is the high cost of film. Polaroid Go film is expensive, often costing around $2 per shot. This makes every click precious. Another complaint is the soft focus, especially when compared to Instax cameras. The viewfinder misalignment is also a frequent frustration, leading to poorly framed shots.
Some users have experienced battery drain when the camera is not used for a while, but this is not widespread. The flash can be harsh for close-up portraits, causing overexposure. Finally, the lack of a tripod mount is a missed feature for long exposures or group shots.
Comparison with Alternatives
The closest competitor is the Fujifilm Instax Mini 12. It is slightly larger but produces sharper images and uses cheaper film. The Mini 12 also has a close-up mode and a more accurate viewfinder. However, it lacks double exposure and has a less stylish design.
Another option is the Polaroid Now+, which uses larger i-Type film and offers more creative controls, including app connectivity and multiple shooting modes. It is bulkier and more expensive, but the image quality is better. For a hybrid experience, the Instax Mini Evo combines digital and instant printing, allowing you to preview shots before printing.
Value for Money
The Polaroid Go Gen 2 is priced competitively for an instant camera, but the ongoing cost of film is high. If you shoot a few packs a month, the expense adds up. However, for those who value the unique aesthetic and portability, it can be worth it. The camera is also a great gift for teens or creative adults who enjoy tangible memories.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Ultra-compact and portable
- Simple operation, great for beginners
- Selfie mirror and timer
- Double exposure mode
- Rechargeable battery
Cons
- Expensive film
- Soft image quality
- Viewfinder inaccuracy
- Limited low-light performance
- No manual controls
Final Verdict
The Polaroid Go Gen 2 is a charming, pocketable instant camera that delivers nostalgic prints with a modern twist. It is ideal for casual photographers who want a fun, social camera for daytime adventures. However, if you prioritize image sharpness or want to save on film, consider the Instax Mini 12 or a hybrid model. Weigh the pros and cons, and check the current price on Amazon to see if it fits your budget.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does the battery last on the Polaroid Go Gen 2?
The battery lasts about 15 packs of film (around 150 shots) on a full charge. Charging via USB-C takes about 1.5 hours.
Is the Polaroid Go Gen 2 good for low light?
Not really. The fixed aperture and automatic exposure struggle in dim conditions. The flash helps for close subjects, but you may get underexposed or blurry shots.
How does it compare to the Instax Mini 12?
The Go Gen 2 is smaller and uses pricier film. The Mini 12 produces sharper images, has a closer focusing distance, and film is cheaper. The Go Gen 2 offers double exposure and a selfie mirror.
Can I use regular Polaroid film?
No. Only Polaroid Go film fits. Standard Polaroid film is larger and will not work.
Does it have a self-timer?
Yes, it has a self-timer mode with a mirror for selfies.
Specs that matter
| Film type | Polaroid Go film (2.1 x 3.4 in print) |
| Lens | Fixed focus, 35mm equivalent, f/9 aperture |
| Shutter speed | 1/125 to 1/2000 sec (auto) |
| Exposure control | Automatic with exposure compensation |
| Flash | Built-in, automatic with red-eye reduction |
| Battery | Rechargeable 750 mAh, USB-C, ~15 packs per charge |
| Self-timer | Yes, with mirror |
| Modes | Double exposure, self-timer |
You want a truly pocketable instant camera for outdoor daytime snaps, enjoy the vintage Polaroid look, and are willing to pay a premium for the smallest format.
You need sharp, high-resolution prints, shoot often in low light, or want lower ongoing film costs. In those cases, an Instax Mini 12 or a hybrid like the Mini Evo may be better.
Questions before you buy
How long does the battery last on the Polaroid Go Gen 2?
The built-in rechargeable battery lasts for about 15 packs of film (roughly 150 shots) on a full charge. Charging via USB-C takes around 1.5 hours. It is enough for casual use, but heavy shooters may need to recharge weekly.
Is the Polaroid Go Gen 2 good for low light?
Not really. The fixed aperture and automatic exposure struggle in dim conditions. The flash helps for close subjects, but you may get underexposed or blurry shots. It is best used outdoors or in bright indoor light.
How does the Polaroid Go Gen 2 compare to the Instax Mini 12?
The Go Gen 2 is smaller and uses Polaroid Go film, which is pricier per shot. The Instax Mini 12 produces sharper images, has a closer focusing distance, and film is cheaper. The Go Gen 2 offers double exposure and a selfie mirror, which the Mini 12 lacks.
Can I use regular Polaroid film in the Go Gen 2?
No. The Go Gen 2 only accepts Polaroid Go film, which is a smaller format. Standard Polaroid film (i-Type or 600) will not fit. Make sure to buy the correct film.
Does the Polaroid Go Gen 2 have a self-timer?
Yes, it has a self-timer mode with a small mirror on the front to help you frame selfies. You can also use the double exposure mode to create creative layered images.
