The Polaroid 500 is an instant camera. It is designed for the SX-70 format. It is practically the same as the Polaroid OneStep, differing only slightly in design.
The design of the camera, which is mostly plastic, is black and brown. The shutter button is red. The Polaroid 500 was produced for the international market, outside the US.
SX-70 films, such as the Polaroid Color Film for SX-70* or the Polaroid B&W Film for SX-70*, go into the camera. Power for the camera comes from a battery in the film cassette.
The exposure is set by the camera itself, but it can be influenced somewhat with a wheel. The focus cannot be changed either. The subject is aimed through the viewfinder. The Polaroid 500 has a connection for a flash bar or an electronic flash.
Technical datasheet
| Attribute | Specification |
|---|---|
| Type of Camera | Instant camera |
| Film format | SX-70 |
| Film transport | Automatic |
| Film transport mechanism | Motor |
| Picture format | 79 mm x 79 mm |
| Focal length | 103 mm |
| Widest aperture | f/14.6 |
| Minimum focus distance | 120 cm / 3.936 ft |
| Focus | Fixed |
| Light meter | Yes |
| Exposure modes | Program automatic |
| Manual exposure settings | No |
| Date imprinting | No |
| Built-in flash | No |
| Flash Connection | Flashbar connector |
| Tripod mount | No |
| Cable release thread | No |
| Self-timer | No |
| Power supply | 1x battery in filmpack |
| Estimated value / Used price | 229,79 Euro Estimate based on used prices of 13 offers (possibly with different scope of delivery and/or condition). As of May 18, 2026 |
| Average used price in the year 2023 | 224,36 Euro (242.46 US-Dollar) |
| Average used price in the year 2024 | 285,54 Euro (308.48 US-Dollar) |
| Average used price in the year 2025 | 256,77 Euro (277.09 US-Dollar) |
FAQ about the Polaroid 500
Is this camera easy to use for someone who's never used an instant camera before?
Yes, the Polaroid 500 is quite user-friendly. It automatically adjusts the exposure, and focusing is fixed, simplifying the process. Even beginners can quickly learn to take photos with it.
What kind of film does the Polaroid 500 take?
It uses SX-70 film, which is readily available from many retailers. You can find both color and black and white options to suit your preference. The battery for the camera is actually in the film cassette itself.
How does the snapshot device focus on the subject?
The Polaroid 500 has a fixed focus, meaning you don't need to adjust it. You simply point and shoot using the viewfinder to compose your shot. This makes it simple to use.
Does this instant camera have a flash?
Yes, it has a connection for an external flash bar or electronic flash. This allows you to take better pictures in low-light conditions.
What is the main difference between the Polaroid 500 and the Polaroid OneStep?
The Polaroid 500 and OneStep are very similar; they both use SX-70 film. The primary difference lies in their design; the 500 has a slightly different aesthetic, primarily in its color scheme.