Polaroid SX-70 vs SLR 680 Showdown [Instant Review]

What happens when the GOATs square up in the yard? Find out here in our big ole' comparison of the Polaroid SX-70 and Polaroid SLR 680.

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[noahlantor]

I cannot express in words how much I wish an SLR680 SE was $250 on eBay in 2023 (modifying in December 2023 up to close to $500)

[SinitskyVlad]

No autofocus module on early SX-70's is a pro factor for me. Makes it more portable and the camera just looks better to me.

[tresto]

Last week, I got the original SX-70 from Polaroid. Cameras just love dying on me, so a warranty is a must. Shot my first pack of film with it and the results were truly amazing. Even in situations where I thought I wasn't going to get a good picture, I got a spectacular ones.

[AnchorTH]

Also, I'd always recommend just getting a 680 over the SX-70 if you want to take indoor flash photography, even though the MiNT flashbar is an option. SX-70 photos really shine in the bright sunlight during a beautiful clear day, and I've found through my dozens of packs that 600 film just can't capture the beautiful blue sky and light of day like the slower SX-70 can, but 600 shines more for low light and flash photography... I'm going on a tangent now. I LOVE POLAROIDS

[geogeo]

I believe that both cameras, even though expensive can give you a pretty amazing photo because of the glass lense and the film qualify by itself

[francisrizzo]

Man for a channel of your size you make absolutely amazing content. Keep it up and this channel will for sure grow

[bardofhighrenown]

Update from the future; even on eBay the SLR 680 is now like $600. Personally I picked up a Sun 600 AF. I have a very nice mirrorless camera so if I want that high-fidelity shot I'll use that. For me instant film is more about that lo-fi, home-shot, aesthetic and because the 600 series is more identifiable as 'a polaroid'. I've had strangers stop me and ask me to take their picture or just start a conversation because I'm carrying the camera. I highly recommend photographers pick up an instant camera, it changes the way you think about how to shoot and it's a ton of fun.

[TheLeiPol]

Thanks Ben for another a very good (comparison) professional made video. In 1978 I bought an SX70 model 2 (without autofocus) and some accessories, including the 1.5 telephoto lens. It still works. Even owns original flash bars and also the MiNT flash bar. The plastic covering is ready to be replaced. I am currently using the SLR680 a lot. Bought second hand from eBay with 1 test displayed photo and the remaining 7 photos still in the camera for approx. 200$ (converted from €). Extra 20 $ to replace the covering yourself. The SLR680 is an all in 1: flash that adjusts the angle according to the distance, flash can be turned off, autofocus that can also be turned off and the same excellent f8 lens from the SX70. The device is larger, but with a good bag this is not a real problem. Too bad that the telephoto lens of the SX70 does not fit, but that is not a dealbreaker. I consider purchasing the MiNT lens and filter set that includes a wide angle lens . Look forward to your next review (Instax Wide 500AF?).

[virgilplays]

This channel got me into instant film and looking back almost a year later is so incredible

[ralphhoskins]

These are two Polaroids I want and don’t have.... and now I want them more, , they are true works of art.... great vid Ben!!!!

[Coco-ctix]

I love your enthusiasm for Polaroid! This video lead me to dig into my dad’s camera collection where I found his SX-70. I ended up purchasing the SLR 680 SE from Retrospekt Camera and I never looked back! Your video reignited my love for Polaroid! Each camera is special and has its niche and both are charming cameras! Thank you for your informative, entertaining and fantastic videos! Looking forward to the next video and learning more!

[galacticellars]

Just found my first 680, what a beautiful camera. I have a lot to learn, but I love shooting it. Love your vids man, learning a lot.

[theretrogeek]

I bought a Sonar Sx-70 for €80 last week and works like charm, and am obsessed with it!

[rajvo]

Honestly, I'd buy SX-70 just for the brown/silver color scheme, that's the finest instant camera design I've ever seen

[knghtcmdr]

Slr 680s are going for $500-$800+ dollars on eBay now😢

[Knc]

680 gang!! What was the difference with 680 and 690? Edit: didn't watch to the end!

[robertknight]

I recently got a manual focus sx-70 off eBay for $40. Seller said it was tested with an empty film pack and the motor works fine which it does. Slight cosmetic damage to the leather. It also had a number etched into the side of it. Pictures are very sharp.

[johnsreviewsandmore]

I just got a sonar sx-70 from ebay for $75, it was listed as untested and potentially not working, I put a pack of 600 film in it because sx-70 isn't sold in stores, and it turned on right away. And its in great condition.

[theGoldWolf]

I found a Slr 680, seems to have film stuck in it, red light comes on up the top when opened, still cool though!

[mitchellhughes]

I went to my local record store down the strip mall from my local camera store with an instax mini in hand. The guy behind the counter noticed and said he had an old SX-70. I came back the next day and he gave it to me. I got a working Polaroid SX-70 Alpha 1 for free. Sorry.😊