After Escura's InstantSnap series became popular in Japan, inquiries from Hong Kong have also increased. Currently, Cha Oh! offers three models: the original InstantSnap, the ShowaSnap, and the second-generation InstantSnap.novo. All three are priced at HKD 399, but their photographic effects and usage methods differ significantly. This article will explain the differences clearly and help you decide which one is right for you.
Conclusion First
Comparison of Specifications
| Item | InstantSnap Original |
ShowaSnap Showa Edition |
InstantSnap.novo Second Generation |
|---|---|---|---|
| Photo Resolution | 1200 × 1440 | 1200 × 1440 | 2560 × 1920 (5 Megapixels) |
| Video Resolution | 400 × 480 / 30fps | 400 × 480 / 30fps | 1440 × 1080 HD / 30fps |
| Screen | None | None | 1.3-inch LED, instant playback |
| Filters | None | Showa retro color filter (fixed) | 5 era filters, switchable |
| Film Frame | None | None | Classic 35mm film frame |
| Viewfinder | Fixed | Large optical viewfinder | Replaceable, with 3 composition cards |
| Selfie Mirror | None | None | Included randomly |
| Body | 28g, vertical | 28g, vertical | 38g, horizontal |
| Dimensions | 59.2 × 85 × 13mm | 59.2 × 85 × 13mm | 106 × 16 × 60mm |
| Memory Card | 4–32GB | 4–32GB | 4–64GB |
| Lens | Same for all three: 3.2mm F2.8, focus 0.3m to infinity, shutter 1/125s, USB Type-C | ||
Table can be scrolled horizontally to view full content
InstantSnap (Original): Lightest, Purest
The original InstantSnap weighs only 28 grams and is about the size of an instant photo, making it the easiest of the three models to forget you're carrying a camera. No screen, no filters, no options - just press the shutter and it's done. This feeling of anticipation, "not knowing how the photo will turn out until you see it," is what makes it most like film.
Suitable for: Those who prefer low intervention, want the lightest and most portable camera, and enjoy the anticipation of seeing photos at home.
View Escura InstantSnap Digital Camera →
ShowaSnap Showa Edition: The Tone is Everything
ShowaSnap has the same hardware as the original, but with a built-in Japan Showa Style retro color filter. It's not a switchable option, but a fixed characteristic of this camera – every shot has a warm, yellowish, slightly faded feel reminiscent of the Showa era, without any post-processing. Coupled with a large optical viewfinder and screen-less design, the operation logic is consistent with the original.
Suitable for: Those who already know they want a Japanese retro color aesthetic and don't want to edit photos after shooting.
View Escura ShowaSnap Showa Edition Digital Camera →
InstantSnap.novo: Second Generation's Complete Redesign
The novo is the most extensively modified model in the series. With the addition of a 1.3-inch LED screen, composition is no longer a guessing game, and instant playback is possible after shooting, addressing a common pain point of the original. Image quality has been boosted to 5 megapixels, video upgraded to HD 1440 × 1080, and 5 era filters (from the 1960s to Y2K) can be switched with a single button, along with a 35mm film frame effect.
The most unique feature is the replaceable composition viewfinder: a set of cards that fit directly into the camera's viewfinder slot, including classic composition, golden spiral, and rule-of-thirds cards. Framing becomes a composition exercise, which is very useful for beginners who want to learn photography but aren't ready for a DSLR. The body is redesigned horizontally, weighs 38 grams, and comes with a selfie mirror and camera strap.
Suitable for: Those who want to see the screen, care about image quality, or want to practice composition.
View Escura InstantSnap.novo Digital Camera →
Frequently Asked Questions
Do all three models require a separate memory card?
Yes. None of the three models come with a memory card; you'll need to prepare your own MicroSD (Class 4–10). The original and Showa versions support 4–32GB, while the novo supports 4–64GB. You can refer to SanDisk Ultra microSD Memory Card.
How do I transfer photos to my phone?
The simplest method is to use a card reader to directly access the memory card. For detailed steps, please refer to our tutorial: How to read image files from a camera using a mobile phone. For accessories, you can refer to Mobile TF Card Reader.
Can the date and time stamp on photos be changed?
Yes, for setting instructions, see Retro Mini Camera — Changing Date and Time Stamp.
Since all three models are the same price, should I just buy the novo?
Not necessarily. The novo has the highest specifications, but the screen and filters also mean more options and operations. If you're looking for a "point-and-shoot, no-fuss" screen-less experience, the original or Showa version might be more aligned with your desired shooting rhythm.
Summary
All three models are priced at HKD 399. The key to choosing isn't about higher specifications, but about the photography experience you desire: choose the original for simplicity, the Showa version for pre-set tones, or the novo if you want to see the screen and learn composition.
All three models are available for purchase at Cha Oh!, with studio pickup also an option.
