The best disposable cameras are a fun way to enjoy analogue shooting. Low cost and easy to use, these little point-and-shoots are great to pick up at weddings or other social gatherings, whether you're using them yourself or giving one to each of your guests as a party favor (nowadays, they're often sold in multipacks).
The feel of analog photography simply can't be replicated with a phone. In contrast, disposable cameras let you experience the delayed gratification of pressing the shutter and not knowing how the shot came out for weeks on end. Best of all is, you get physical prints that you can hang up or keep in a scrapbook, rather than digital files left to languish on a hard drive.
Contemporary disposable cameras aren't just cheap plastic – manufacturers have stepped up their game, and the little shooters are much more resilient than they used to be. They aren't even as wasteful as you might think: single-use cameras are eminently recyclable, and many of the firms that produce them, like Kodak and Fujifilm, will break them down to reuse the parts in another batch rather than throwing them away.
The Quick List
This brightly colored disposable camera ups the usual 27 exposures to a generous 39 on Kodak Kodacolor film and comes with a built-in flash offering a 4ft to 10ft range.
If you are looking for perhaps the most iconic and popular black and white film ever made in a ready-to-shoot camera – then the Kodak Tri-X 400 Single Use Camera is the one to buy.
For getting shots on vacation you want a camera that can withstand some sand and splashes from the pool – the Kodak Sport is ready to capture all your vacation memories with a vintage film twist.
Thanks to this ready to go point-and-shoot its offers a great way to start your black and white adventure on film. Perfect when you just ant to get shooting right away.
Designed for creatives this fun and funky reusable camera comes with a colored flash to give your film images a fun style, but creativity comes at a slightly higher cost.
With two rolls of Kentmere 400 and being a reusable 35mm camera means this black and white point-and-shoot offers incredible value - and you can also add color film into it later too!
For nearly two decades Sebastian's work has been published internationally. He is familiar with and shows great interest in street, medium, and large format photography with products from Leica, Phase One, Hasselblad, Alpa, and Sinar. He now spends his spare time using his trusted Leica M-E or Leica M2 shooting Street photography or general life as he sees it, usually in Black and White and mostly on film.
Best disposable cameras in 2024
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Best disposable color camera
This vibrant disposable camera not only catches the eye with its bright colors but also elevates the standard 27 exposures to a generous 39, all captured on Kodak Kodacolor film. The built-in flash extends its functionality with a versatile 4ft to 10ft range. Encased in durable plastic, this camera is designed to endure a few bumps and knocks, making it a reliable companion. It's as if the saying "can't go wrong" was tailor-made for cameras of this caliber. While 27-exposure versions are available, opting for the "27+12" (39-exposure) variant often proves to be the more economical choice.
Read our full Kodak Funsaver review
You can also buy Kodak Funsaver cameras in bulk packs and save even more money! The cameras can be found in bulk packs of 5 or 10, which makes them great for weddings or parties. You can find the best deals below.
Best classic disposable B&W camera
Kodak's Tri-X 400 stands as a legendary monochrome film, celebrated for its era-defining dramatic and contrasty aesthetic. Its allure has captured the hearts of countless photographers. Excitingly, Tri-X is now accessible in a single-use camera, presenting a compelling entry point for those eager to explore the realm of analog photography. This convenient package not only includes 27 shots of the iconic Tri-X but also features what Kodak proudly describes as the most potent flash ever incorporated into a disposable camera. This formidable flash seamlessly complements the high-key drama inherent in the Tri-X film stock, elevating your photographic experience to new heights.
Read more: Kodak Tri-X 400 Single-Use Camera review
Best waterproof disposable film camera
This eye-catching device boasts generously sized controls, ensuring that even the younger members of your family can effortlessly navigate its functions. Dive into the depths of creativity with its waterproof capability, allowing you to capture the wonders beneath the waves at depths of up to 50 feet (15m). Armed with Kodak Ultra Max 800 film, this camera promises clear and vivid images underwater. While it skips the flash for aquatic adventures, it's perfect for outdoor and daylight photography. Equipped with a sunscreen and scratch-resistant lens, the film is securely housed within a robust and shock-proof shell, making it the ideal companion for your vacation escapades.
Read our full Kodak Sport Single-Use Camera review
Best budget B&W disposable camera
The Harman single-use black & white film camera boasts a surprisingly vibrant finish, adding a touch of color to its simplicity. The convenience of being pre-loaded with film and a battery means you can start capturing moments right out of the box, making it a fun and accessible choice for casual snapshots. However, it falls behind in image quality compared to even budget-friendly mobile phones available today. Despite this, the camera finds its niche for those aiming to recreate an authentic snapshot reminiscent of bygone decades.
Read our full Ilford HP5 Plus B&W Single Use Camera review
Best single use camera for creativity
Lomography takes pride in its commitment to crafting unique films that infuse a distinctive retro aesthetic into your photographic endeavors. The camera in question is equipped with a roll of LomoChrome Metropolis, a film intentionally designed to yield moody, subdued shots. The resulting effect mirrors the captivating visuals often associated with Eastern European films from the Cold War era – where colors may appear slightly askew, yet contribute to endowing your photography with a distinctive artistic flair.
Unlocking even more creative possibilities, this camera comes with three filter gels that can be seamlessly placed over the flash, enabling you to impart an even more unconventional color palette to your portraits. What sets this camera apart is its versatility; not only can you replace the film at your discretion, but you also have the flexibility to swap out the battery, rendering it a reusable tool for your photographic endeavors. Imagine the possibilities – each time you load a fresh 35mm film, you have the freedom to explore and experiment with a wide array of visual styles.
Read our full Lomography Simple Use Color Negative review
Best reloadable B&W camera
To capture the nostalgic essence of black & white photographs from a bygone era, the Harman Reusable 35mm Film Camera proves to be an excellent choice. What sets it apart is its inclusion of two rolls of 36-exposure Kentmere Pan ISO 400 black & white film, perfectly complementing the camera's performance. Delving into the realm of the lo-fi aesthetic, this camera boasts a multitude of features that make it a compelling option for enthusiasts seeking to recreate the timeless charm of vintage snapshots.
Read our full Harman Reusable 35mm Film Camera review
Best reloadable camera for any film
I appreciate the extensive range of color options that Kodak provides for this camera, catering to a diverse array of tastes and moods. The versatility in color choices adds a personal touch to the photography experience. Additionally, opting for a reloadable camera over a single-use one seems like a prudent choice in terms of value for money, despite the initial need to purchase film separately. The camera exhibits commendable build quality and handling, offering a satisfying user experience.
However, it's worth noting that, akin to other budget-friendly disposable or reloadable film cameras, the outright image quality may resemble something deemed 'passable' from an era long past. This characteristic may evoke a sense of nostalgia for those who appreciate the vintage aesthetic, but it's essential to manage expectations regarding contemporary image standards.
Read our full Kodak M35 Reloadable Film Camera review
How to choose the best disposable camera
When selecting a disposable camera, the main thing to consider is the film type included inside – check the ISO speed of the film suits where you will be shooting. Medium-high ISO (400+) is good for inside and outside, but lower ISOs should only be used in good light. If you want to shoot a lot indoors then choose a camera with an in-built flash.
Compactness and ease of use are also essential, as well as style – especially if you intent to use these cameras at a wedding or event. It is important to look for trusted brands with a reliable track record like Kodak and Fujifilm, film is often very hard to work with, and these brands should ensure the best quality with long histories in the film industry that continue today.
Finally evaluate cost of the camera initially, but also the number of exposures provided. 36 exposures is usually better value, but might take longer to fill the camera, so if you are in a hurry, a 24 exposure roll might be a better option. Also think about the cost of development and printing in your final calculation.
Are disposable cameras worth it?
The best disposable cameras are a fun way to enjoy analogue shooting at a low cost and easy to use, these little point-and-shoots are great to pick up at weddings or other social gatherings, whether you're using them yourself or giving one to each of your guests as a party favor (nowadays, they're often sold in multipacks).
How we test disposable cameras
To recommed the best disposable cameras , we put them through a comprehensive testing process to ensure their functionality and image quality. We aim to thoroughly test the build quality of the cameras, the image quality form the lens, and the style of the film included in the camera.
Mechanical testing is conducted to assess components like the winding mechanism, shutter, and flash, checking for build quality, durability and reliablity. We also test the electrical components of a disposable camera including the battery and flash to ensure proper firing and synchronization with the shutter.
Exposure and image quality are also evaluated in various lighting conditions, to asses the accuracy of exposure settings and overall image sharpness. Flash output is examined to ensure it provides adequate illumination, with tests for range and consistency. We also check for any light leaking in the camera that could ruin images.
