Polaroid Sun 660 vs Impulse AF Showdown - Best Entry-Level Cameras [Instant Review]

[@InAnInstant]

Last week we had a great Patreon podcast with none other than Jamie Swick! It is publicly available to listen for anyone - will eventually go behind the paywall but check it out! And thanks to everyone who has contributed

[@michael_177]

For anyone wondering! - I just learned this today from the original user manual. It says if you want to take a picture through a window on the Sun 660 AF, the square white button under the flash window is the Sonar Autofocus Override button. It says hold that in while pressing the non-flash shutter button. Hope this helps! (Although, like Ben said in one of his other videos regarding sonar autofocus; "Why ya takin pictures through windows, ya creep?" 😂) But yeah - you can override the sonar autofocus on the Sun 660 AF (AKA supercolor 670 AF, etc etc) - So much fun leaning about these awesome cameras 😊

[@randomgrenad346]

The real winner is that awesome jacket.

[@InAnInstant]

Makes me feel immortal!

[@bulbie888]

@@InAnInstant where did you get the jacket?

[@RacerM53]

@@InAnInstant care to share that immortality with a brand name?

[@InAnInstant]

Oh it was a gift I honestly don’t know where it came from. I believe circa Impossible Project

[@DeeSnow97]

I'd like to point out two more things about the Sun 660: - Make sure you get one with the small back bit hanging on the underside of the flash, under the Polaroid logo. It's one of Polaroid's first two cameras on the 600 film, and while they quickly figured out that auto-charging the flash is an important feature, some early models of the Sun 600 and Sun 660 don't have that. It always sucks to lose a moment because your flash wasn't charged. - On the other side of the flash, there's a grey button on the underside, that one can override the autofocus. Super handy if you're shooting out of (or into) windows a lot. Now why would you do that is a different question, but hey, at least the option is there. Awesome video, by the way.

[@vzdutch]

Wow I think I’ve been here since the beginning. Love your channel!

[@InAnInstant]

An OG! Thanks for the support Vivian!!

[@sorintopala4242]

I half pressed the subscribe button but i didn't press it all the way down because i was already subscribed and i'm not trying to miss out on all the quality content. Also BIG DNKR ENERGY on that Impulse

[@devmoonSE]

You convinced me to buy an sx-70 on your livestream so I got a sonar one last week so I guess I am stuck in instant crime territory now, great vid as always

[@DeeSnow97]

is it a model 3 sonar?

[@devmoonSE]

@@DeeSnow97 it is SLR and I think model 1, it says SONAR AutoFocus and some swirly lines after. I am really happy with it and it takes great indoor (with tripod) and outdoor photos

[@DeeSnow97]

@@devmoonSE Yeah, those are awesome. I was just joking, the model 3 sonar is impossible since the sonar unit would block the viewfinder

[@devmoonSE]

@@DeeSnow97 Haha yea I looked it up, it looks quite awful. I actually like the slow film compared to my polaroid now/one step+, you think getting something like slr 680 is worth it? I mostly enjoy shooting portraits indoors and outdoors and love the blurry backgrounds on the sx-70 and have no problems getting good photos.

[@DeeSnow97]

@@devmoonSE If the slow film doesn't get in the way then I'd say nope. Never had an SLR but from what I see the SLR 680 is basically the same camera, just tuned to a different speed and with a built-in flash. Also, just a heads up, Matt (photohop) on the In An Instant discord found a leak for the Polaroid Go suggesting an April 5th release date, which would coincide with the "late March, perhaps early April" prediction I've made a while ago based on weather forecast (Polaroid probably wants it to be reviewed when the weather is in the perfect temperature range for the film). That could be an interesting move if your G.A.S. is itching for a new camera -- it's no SLR, but it's going to be a damn good camera to just bring everywhere.

[@sandrofrias1635]

Just got the 660 today at a thift shop for $25. I'm loving the auto focus!

[@filmhowyalike]

Impulse AF was my first Polaroid! And super props on that OG Impossible jacket. I had one as well! 🙌

[@InAnInstant]

We may grow and evolve into other cameras, but in our hearts we will always be Impulse gang. And brother, that bonds us for life.

[@stantonhigham4690]

5:30...pretty sure that’s the best laugh I had all week 😂 keep up the great videos!

[@InAnInstant]

😂😂 glad we can laugh together, streetwear king!

[@stantonhigham4690]

All that sweet street wear drip 😎 that jacket included

[@davidh1819]

Frfr you deserve so many more subs, amazing production value great info great personality great editing, keep up with it you'll definitely get very big in the space

[@InAnInstant]

David I appreciate that more than you know!! ❤️

[@bonnieheadley2187]

Great video and happy about you paying homage to upcycled classics ;). I had purchased a sun660 from him and it’s great ♥️ I love love your videos thanks for always being so cool and full of information ;)

[@InAnInstant]

Thank you so so much Bonnie!! I love the work UC does, truly a gift to the 660 bodies out there!

[@k.s.2392]

I was gifted the 660. I'm impressed. 😁. I was so happy they brought the film back.

[@mistergames360]

i don't even shoot polaroids and I watch every single video! keep it up man, love ur work 🥺🤲💙

[@InAnInstant]

Woh that is amazing, thanks Gabriel!! Join the Polagang!

[@LardDoesItRight]

You seem like a fun dude. Great video

[@awalden]

Hi, Ben! Yes... it was the TIMER that influenced my decision to bid on two (yes 2) of the gray Impulse AF cameras. (I figured I'd win one or the other, but I won both... to my surprise.) --- So... MY QUESTION: Should I buy a new longer frog-tongue replacement? Is this important? Currently, the original black shield will retract immediately after the photo has been fully ejected. In order to compensate for this, I'll quickly place the photo immediately in my shirt pocket or some other dark-ish location for it to completely develop. Am I helping things at all, or is it too late if the black plastic shield has already snapped back too quickly? What are your experiences or comparisons? Okay, that's all for now. Thanks for a great video. It's hard to believe it's been a year... but you (and Lauren, and all your friends) have helped to make our little corner of the world a better one. You rock! 🌟🌠✨⭐Happy anniversary ... and continued success! 🍷🍷

[@InAnInstant]

Why own one Impulse when you can own two!? I would say the longer frog tongues remain important in sunny situations - I am very careful with ensuring the film isn't blasted by light directly out of the camera (and I've seen the damage it can cause/alterations to contrast and saturation). I always flip my SLR upside down immediately after firing the shutter so that the photo doesn't strike light, which might be a good practice on the Impulse too. And thank you again for all the support over the last year Allen! Your positivity has really made my day every time I read one of your comments and it is BEYOND appreciated.

[@eicas_11]

I'm here I'm here!!! Great vid!! Happy 1 year!

[@InAnInstant]

Thank you!!

[@ChristopherVisser]

We're birding. Checking out birds out here. Need that on a t shirt.

[@InAnInstant]

Put a bird on it??

[@leonkrug4841]

That jacket is big for business™

[@AnalogResurgence]

You know I want that MF'ing blue Impulse...or Pink impulse...or green impulse. Even though there's no difference between the grey one that I already own

[@InAnInstant]

Haha my man is about to taste the rainbow!!

[@sonvapritch2]

Two of the best KZbinrs right here. Damn 🤯

[@mereelfalstom9232]

Wow, it really has been a year of IAI hasn't it? Congratulations Ben, keep up the good work! I will DEFINITELY check out Upcycled Classics!

[@InAnInstant]

Thank you so much Evan!! One year - can't believe it, really appreciate the support

[@rileyrocks813]

I've always wanted an impulse AF just because it's a camera that looks great. I love the yellow one

[@inkaststudio]

Love the in-depth videos! A person can watch one of your vids and truly understand everything they need to know about a certain cam 👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾

[@InAnInstant]

Appreciate the kind words I.S.!!

[@ppknr336]

Thank you for making my mind going to sun 660. I using the Polaroid camera for taking pictures of trains. If camera doesn't has the flash-overriding feature, it will be a huge problem for me.

[@InAnInstant]

Most def!! Glad I could help my bruddah!

[@dustysprockets1505]

As always Ben, some B.F.B energy and vibes that makes these videos great

[@InAnInstant]

All about those vibes, thank you Dusty!!

[@elvisfan961]

Killing it with that Impossible factory jacket!!! Love everytime I have the opportunity to rock mine! I even have the rare white version!!!

[@InAnInstant]

Oh damn! Sometimes you just gotta flex it!

[@yvonnegeerts7485]

Fantastic - also love the colour for your new glasses

[@InAnInstant]

Thank you Yvonne! The glasses GOTTA match the camera!

[@mockermartin8725]

I think we've all been there... few too many whiskys... a nostalgic song comes on.... Great company... where are those hankies! Great video that will hopefully clear up a lot of the common queries. Owning both the only point I'll add, as that when I do feel like a no thought required to use 600 camera, the self timer, imo best viewfinder of all the box beauties and the simplistic, commonly available easy to use lens filters keep me reaching for the impulse over the 660 (although mine is actually a 670). But as you said it ultimately comes down to personal preference and the world would be a boring place if we were all the same!

[@InAnInstant]

Yeah that's super true about the Impulse! It's so hard to miss with it! And shoutout to 670 gang. I'm all about personal preference here on IAI - we are an open dialogue and a family, everyone can do what they wish, all I can do is share the love! Thanks Mock!!

[@DJSekuHusky]

I never understood why people took such offense to "ball's to the wall". You might find it interesting that the phrase originates from aviation. A coordinated turn is one where the aircraft uses the ailerons on the wing in conjunction with the rudder on the tail. An uncoordinated turn is one where only one input or the other is used with a different control surface like the elevator at the base of the empennage (in dogfighting this is also referred to as a "yank and bank"). To assist pilots with making coordinated turns, a u-shaped gauge with a ball in the center acts as a coordinated turn-indicator. In a coordinated turn, the ball will stay dead center, but if you're yanking and banking, the ball will travel to the outer portion of the U shape until hitting the "wall", hence where the phrase flying "ball's to the wall" originates from. Anyway, awesome vid. I just got a 660 for $12.99 in mint condition; I had no idea they were still this popular ( I had a bit of a collection when I was a kid).

[@InAnInstant]

This is one of the best comments ever on one of my videos FOR SURE

[@mistermars1479]

Living the SX70-Crime-Life! And sooo, Ben... take off that jacket and giiiive it to me, slow and carefull! Or tell me where to get it ;)

[@InAnInstant]

We love this life of SLR crime! And lmao the jacket is floating around online somewhere, it was a gift tho!

[@GibsonTM]

UpcycledClassics is the best, got my blue reskinned SLR 680 from him. Awesome person to do business with

[@InAnInstant]

I'm thinking of reaching out to him for a total SLR 680 overhaul!

[@plestj]

I prefer the binocular ergonomics of the Impulse line as it’s the easiest Polaroid camera to handle, in my humble opinion! I love the design of the One 600 (I call it the Silver Bullet) but it’s very awkward to hold. I have yet to get a Sonar Polaroid camera, Ben. It’s on my list! Waiting for my first original One Step, just purchased on eBay ! 👍

[@utterlybrandsky14]

Love your videos. They inspired me to purchase a polaroid camera.

[@InAnInstant]

Awesome!! Love to hear that, welcome to the squad ❤️

[@57Stratmann]

Awesome video as usual !! I love my Impulse AF, it’s my go to when I’m not bringing my SX-70’s into unfriendly situations. So I guess I’m a doinker whom owns doinkers. Cheers....

[@InAnInstant]

We are doinkers and frankly, we're proud of it!!

[@galacticellars]

I just spent an hour looking for that jacket. Possibly the quickest money I’ve ever spent. 😂

[@InAnInstant]

Haha that jacket is undefeated

[@PaulWon]

I own the Polaroid Impulse got it for the price of dirt cheap at a goodwill. they told me it was broken, but it looked mint. I put in a new pack and everything worked.

[@InAnInstant]

That’s awesome!

[@Beardsleythebeard]

I do have a Supercolor 670 AF but I am definitely getting an Impulse AF as well. ❤ Both. I want both.

[@InAnInstant]

They're a cute set 🎵so happy together 🎵

[@vaiagile]

You gave us the facts: you’re the man, Ben. 🤜

[@InAnInstant]

Facts only!! Andddd some opinions 😂 cheers Alessandro!

[@madscienti11]

6:07 - you sneaking in some Pentax 645NII shots of our boy?

[@InAnInstant]

Lmao those were actually Portrait mode 🤭😂technology will end us all

[@madscienti11]

@@InAnInstant woof, RIP me

[@francescocardellini8180]

I have both.. impulse AF green

[@mamapapalong]

As I was packing, I found my AF impulse I bought like 30 some years ago... and still working... LOL

[@AlecInstant]

I got a sun 660 at goodwill for like $5. But I’m gonna use the now for now

[@paulrippcord506]

You could always cover the flash on the Impulse to disable it, which is as simple as a piece of cardboard to block it completely or white paper if you want a little light.

[@michael_177]

Just don't do what I did and use a plastic card, DO NOT USE any kind of debit card for example... I am NOT joking when i say - the flash actually melted the surface of my card and imprinted the ink onto the flash window lol. I couldn't believe it

[@michael_177]

Ugh I just want them ALL... I've only really just gotten into instant photography (like, literally), and I've suddenly got anxiety that all these cameras will only become more rare and pricey as time goes on and I gotta 'buy them all NOW, lest they be lost to time and junkyards' - but it's tricky to find good deals and and availability and the prices of some of them and urgh... don't even get me started on the incredible glass lens SLRs like the sx-70s and slr680s etc that are available... Am I being impatient? I mean, I've got a polaroid Now (not the plus), a polaroid Go, an old family 636, and an Impulse AF on the way. I guess what my question is; Am I overthinking the fact I've not immediately got a fancy, SLR, glass lens, vintage Polaroid camera yet? Or should I pace myself more, be more patient, and not worry so much about the immediate ability to buy and use these incredible, old slr Polaroids. I mean, it's not like I'm going to miss out on good quality shots by using these other polaroid cameras, right? Maybe I am overthinking it 🤯

[@jeremyholden72]

Knocked it out of the park Benny Britches (new nick name, hope it sticks) I hope Polaroid is supporting these verbal and video appreciation and analysis!

[@InAnInstant]

Haha thanks my man, Benny Bag of Bones is just doin his best out here.

[@legostarwarsrc]

Absolutely love the Impulse AFs (have three green and a blue 💚💚💚💙) 😍 great ep once again 🔥🔥🔥

[@InAnInstant]

Thank you RT!!

[@MrCaptainRoscoe]

I have the Impulse AF & the Sun 670 AF, the Impulse is the better one IMO, only downside is I can't turn off the flash, where as the Sun 670 I can but no self timer.

[@tilotheimaginator]

I think the Impulse AF is easily the winner because "turning off" the flash cant easily be achieved with some DIY methods on the Impulse whereas DIY-ing a self-timer is much trickier on the Sun

[@osakalps4018]

Could you please make a video of the overall 600 cameras? I need to know the focus distance etc

[@lmlmlmlmlm745]

Holy fuck, where were you last week? I was trying to decide between both of these cameras and couldn’t, so bought both instead 😅. Ah well, more options I guess.

[@InAnInstant]

Haha I see no problem there! Everyone always seems to be debating these two cameras so hopefully this video helps all the James Hearts out there.

[@BlakeSosa]

What is the name of that mini camera next to the sun camera

[@3Gee]

Doinkers unite!

[@cadencehashira]

Can the flash on the impulse Af be manually held down and prevented?

[@snacksy7754]

8:03 Just bought a SX-70. Started watching polaroid videos a week ago. Gotta start my life of crime i guess!

[@ZizouOmar]

Greatest Polaroid presenter ever

[@mattlucier6493]

I want my 50th Icey Anniversary taken only on my Sun 660 50th Anniversary Edition. ALWAYS HAVE TO HAVE GOD WITH MY ICE🥶🥶🥶

[@InAnInstant]

When we reach the 50th Matty Ice video (sure to come soon) THIS WILL HAPPEN. #BLESSTHISICE

[@AeromaticXD]

The Impulse is one beautiful doinker!

[@InAnInstant]

THAT IT IS!

[@robcicca]

With the Impulse, you can probably just cover the flash with something to block the light if you don't want flash for a specific shot. Keep in mind that if you keep the flash up for too long, it may deplete the battery in the film pack.

[@InAnInstant]

This strategy is discussed in the solo Impulse video I made!

[@michael_177]

Just dont have whatever it is too close to the flash though, it melted my debit card- im not joking

[@onetwoIMBAAAAAAACK]

@@michael_177 🤣

[@cartamonir]

I love this channel thank you Ben

[@InAnInstant]

This channel loves you and it's in love with you!

[@cartamonir]

I think it's worth noting that the Impulse AF also came standard with a prism filter that created a triple image... giant value add as far as I'm concerned

[@InAnInstant]

Absolutely!!

[@ChEiPs]

Impulse AF all the way baby! Your blue is sick!

[@DeeSnow97]

Impulse gang represent! I got a black one, it looks friggin mint with the golden accents, and the spectra remote port is a welcome addition.

[@gman917]

What do you think of the Polaroid One 600 ????????

[@jacobsaldana343]

Where can I get one customized?

[@dexmardan4240]

what about supercolor 670af?

[@aidantanny7230]

I have a Supercolor 670AF a n d an Impulse AF, looking to get an SX-70 at some point

[@InAnInstant]

I am rooting for you in all endeavors

[@DonLorenzo723]

I really gotta snag a yellow Impulse someday. Totally RAD, baby!

[@InAnInstant]

Look out for that "Caution: Camera Not Waterproof" sticker!! 😂

[@DonLorenzo723]

@@InAnInstant Most definitely lol

[@drparham]

Love my sun660

[@therestorationofdrwho1865]

Black tape over the impulse flash and bam, you have control over the flash AND the 10 sec timer.

[@ivyaleeza_]

just bought my polaroid impulse, may i ask cant i use the camera without the flash cause the lens is (i think) covered?

[@kaeptnkrunch9212]

Nice Video. What's the difference between the 660 Af and the 670 Af?

[@InAnInstant]

Nothing of note!

[@Massiron76]

Hi, thanx for Your videdo on the polaroid, I have one IMPULSE AF, but it has got a sort of strange behaviour... everytime I power it on by pressing the flash, it start automaticalli with the 10sec trigger, and If I don't press it in time it will shot. Is it a normal behaviour or something is faulty ?

[@InAnInstant]

If the 10 second timer is starting every time you turn the camera on it is definitely broken. I’m sorry mate!!

[@jvf6183]

Come posso smontare un impulse,? Grazie

[@randomname9709]

Do you ever have trouble with getting the focus right ( on the subject and not like the background or something) on your impulse af? If so is there any tricks you use to get it right the next time?

[@InAnInstant]

The f-stop on the lens elements is so narrow that should rarely be a problem! Also, the trick is really just to know the sonar works by focusing on whatever is directly in the center of frame. So as long as your intended subject is centered, you’re all good!

[@rayliu7762]

PS is that a lego (or a Lego like) Polaroid camera and where did you get it from? Trying to build my own at the moment.

[@InAnInstant]

It is! Made by @MaxDoes on IG, hit him up as he has very intricate plans and was previously selling kits

[@Peppermint1]

The Impulse without AF takes the same pictures from 1m away, just not from close-up

[@yotruu]

Okay so I’m going to buy a 660 but what’s the difference between the 660 and the 660 SE ? Does SE stand for special edition? Did it come out later ? Thank you!

[@InAnInstant]

No difference! Just cosmetic stuff.

[@mjstege6881]

does anybody know a good place to find polaroid cameras like this without spending >$100 for a refurbished one?

[@InAnInstant]

Ebay, Goodwill, Facebook Marketplace, Craigs List, and local thrift/antique stores are all places to look - you can easily acquire either camera for $10-$30.

[@chairunnisaanindita]

notification squad!

[@Jagged_Animal]

Well, I pulled the trigger and got a 660 I’m going to make it a Manhunt themed custom Some stickers, some blood splatter. Rockstar, when releasing manhunt They made 100 Polaroids with the logos on them and a black bag. So I’m going to make a custom all out version

[@lubowrc]

What's with the "Sun" in the name? Are 660 cameras without "Sun" different? Also 660SE?

[@InAnInstant]

It's just branding! Polaroid loved the idea that you could use the SUN as light - definitely ideal! Anything with "SE" is just a special edition, nothing different about them.

[@robinsievers2756]

on mac so I can just tap the trackpad in order to click... did a little light tap to subscribe...

[@InAnInstant]

Thank you so much for your tap sir

[@RipVanXer]

There is something more to be said about the impulse flash. Although, I don't have quantified metrics, the flash illuminates for a bold picture in the extreme low light, pitch blackness even. It out performs the sun 660, in this regard. Also, some impulse AF (SE) have a remote port for the spectra remote. ALSO. You didn't mention the IMPULSE filters! that are hard to find. IMPULSE ALL THE F - ING way! (but I love me some SUN660)

[@InAnInstant]

It def can absolutely blast off there’s no doubt! Good shouts about the filters - went into more about the remote port/variants of the Impulse in its solo episode

[@cesarbecher8842]

I keep dreaming with the Impulse AF 24/7

[@InAnInstant]

This is the way

[@funbichons5215]

I found the blue Impulse AF @retrospeckt, so I guess you can call me a certified Doiker 😂

[@InAnInstant]

CERTIFIED DOINKER CONFIRMED

[@Localtraveler2376]

Buy them both.

[@rajvo1]

Guys, what does "doinker" mean?

[@InAnInstant]

This is my fav comment

[@melissahogan1790]

hi Ben, i just got both of them, end of story!

[@InAnInstant]

Haha hard to go wrong there!

[@brineb58]

As a moron who has done selfies since the 70s, the self timer was the deciding factor for me when I bout the Impulse 30 or do years ago!!!

[@InAnInstant]

It’s def a feature every cam should have!!

[@brineb58]

@@InAnInstant I have no idea why an instant camera wouldn't have one!!!

[@milkyway6080]

660AF 💪

[@rayliu7762]

Just buy both :) I did, and so did you and many a people :p

[@josephschwartz1883]

That jacket would be big for dads!

[@InAnInstant]

Huge for B!!

[@ralphhoskins2115]

Sadly out of the shitload of Polaroid cameras I own,,,,I don’t have either of these....I do have a pronto sx70 sonar... which takes gorgeous pics!! But with my endless lust for the spectra,,, so sexy.....I’m off to eBay to find me a impulse af!!!!

[@InAnInstant]

Wow, wild these two eluded the collection! Be careful out there on eBay and have a blast Ralph 🙌🏻

[@feni_1553]

CRIES IN THE CLUB tho

[@MichaWha]

As a French guy I have to address this: I'm truly sorry but "Balls to the wall" is not a French expression. It sure would be cool though :D

[@InAnInstant]

Lololol I meant to say Pardon My English!

[@lysolboss]

How do you not even have 10k subs???

[@InAnInstant]

Doing my best over here 😂😂

[@bobsears4762]

Buy both

[@InAnInstant]

Also valid

[@instant_obsessed]

What am I thinking? I'm thinking about when Fuzz Aldrin and Neil Armstrong Jr. are gonna take these blue bad boys to the stars?! 😉😂

[@InAnInstant]

Strapped these to our Falcon Heavy right now!

[@francescosimionato3647]

Flash trigger forever over timer

[@aidantanny7230]

Give me that jacket. Now.

[@InAnInstant]

working on this

[@Adamyup32]

If your lucky enough to find an impulse af in anything other then grey you are definitely going to pay for it. My gosh I’m ashamed to say what I just spent for a blue impulse AF in box.

[@djmoon8373]

Ok, I'll dive on the grenade. What the heck's a doinker??

[@Gavinho4567]

Impulse af is the Best one