Best Manual Film Cameras of 2025
* We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation.
Manual film cameras are a popular choice among photography enthusiasts who enjoy the tactile experience of taking photographs. These cameras require the user to manually adjust settings such as aperture, shutter speed, and focus, allowing for greater control over the final image. They also use traditional film rolls, which can produce a unique and nostalgic aesthetic. While digital cameras have largely replaced film cameras in the mainstream market, manual film cameras remain a beloved tool for those seeking a more hands-on approach to photography.
At a Glance: Our Top Picks
#TOP 1
9.8
#TOP 2
9.7
#TOP 3
9.5
Top 5 Manual Film Cameras
Ilford Sprite 35-II
The Ilford Sprite 35-II is a reusable 35mm analog film camera that offers a 'no frills' simple design. It is perfect for those who want to experiment with film photography without creating extra waste. With its fixed-focus wide-angle lens and fixed shutter speed, it allows you to capture well-focused daylight scenes effortlessly. The built-in flash with a short recycle time makes it convenient for night time shooting. Moreover, the camera is compatible with both color negative and black and white films, giving you the freedom to capture quick snapshots or moody monochrome scenes. The manual film advance winding lever simplifies film handling, enabling you to move through each exposure and rewind the roll when needed. With the Ilford Sprite 35-II, you can easily explore the world of analog photography.
Canon EOS Rebel GII 35mm Film SLR Camera Kit
The Canon EOS Rebel GII 35mm Film SLR Camera Kit is an affordable option for beginning photographers with automatic features and 11 exposure modes. The built-in flash includes red-eye reduction and the shutter speeds range from 30 to 1/2000 seconds. The 35-80mm zoom lens provides versatility in capturing various subjects.
Olympus Trip 35
The Olympus Trip 35, also known as the Olympus Trip Vintage Camera, is a classic film camera that was first introduced in 1967. With its fixed 40mm f/2.8 lens, this camera is known for producing sharp and vivid images with natural colors. The fully automatic exposure system allows for easy point-and-shoot operation, while the manual focus ring provides greater control over composition. The sturdy metal body and minimalist design make it a durable and stylish option for photography enthusiasts. Additionally, the camera uses 35mm film, which is widely available and can be easily processed by most photo labs. Capture timeless moments with the Olympus Trip 35 and enjoy the convenience and beauty it brings to your photography.
XINBAI 35mm Waterproof Film Camera
The XINBAI Waterproof Film Camera is a perfect companion for your adventures. With its impressive waterproof capability, you can confidently take photos while snorkeling or swimming up to 10 feet deep. Its compact design makes it easy to carry, and since it doesn’t require batteries, it’s always ready for action. The camera offers a focusing range from 1 meter to infinity, making it great for outdoor sunlight photography. Plus, with a simple shooting mechanism, you can effortlessly capture memories of sunsets or street scenes, making it an enjoyable experience for any user.
ANGGREK Vintage Dual Lens TLR Camera
The ANGGREK Dual Lens Camera offers a delightful blend of vintage charm and modern usability. With its precise lens and 1/125 second shutter speed, you can capture clear, sharp images effortlessly. The adjustable aperture settings give you the creative freedom to experiment with different lighting conditions. Changing 35mm film is simple, allowing you to reuse the camera multiple times without hassle. Plus, the manual knob and waist-level framing make it easy to compose your shots, ensuring a fun and engaging photography experience. Dive into classic photography with this unique DIY camera!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Do they still make 35mm film cameras?
Yes, they still make 35mm film cameras. Big film brands like Kodak and Ilford continue to produce 35mm film, and there are also independent brands like Film Washi, Dubblefilm, and Candido that offer 35mm film options.
2. What is the lightest manual film camera?
The Revue 35 XE, also known as Voigtländer Vito C or Blada CA35, is the lightest 35mm film camera. It weighs only 147g (5.2oz) and measures 103×62×32mm (204,352mm³).
3. How does a manual film camera work?
In a manual film camera, a roll of light-sensitive film is loaded into the camera. When the camera's shutter is open, the film is exposed to light, capturing the image. After each exposure, the film is advanced manually to position a fresh section of unexposed film for the next photo.
4. What are the disadvantages of manual camera?
Using manual exposure on a camera has a few drawbacks. It requires more time and attention to adjust settings for each shot, which can cause you to miss some fleeting moments. Manual mode also requires a good understanding of the exposure triangle, which includes aperture, shutter speed, and ISO, to achieve the desired exposure.
5. Is manual camera better than automatic?
Using a manual camera mode provides more control and customization options. It allows you to independently adjust aperture, shutter speed, and ISO, which collectively determine the exposure of the image. This level of control is especially useful for photographers who want precise control over their images' brightness and other settings.
During our manual film camera research, we found 16 manual film camera products and shortlisted 5 quality products. We collected and analyzed 3,526 customer reviews through our big data system to write the manual film cameras list. We found that most customers choose manual film cameras with an average price of $30.10.
The manual film cameras are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of manual film cameras, including Ilford, Canon, Olympus, XINBAI, ANGGREK. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 188 consumers with an average rating of 4.9.
Alan Eaton is a seasoned writer whose expertise is in anything related to electronics, such as headphones, monitoring equipment, computer, and so on, built over a 15-year career in the technology industry. Working in the trade during his youth, he accumulated a great deal of knowledge about machinery.