The Leica Sofort 2 Burton Edition is a special version of Leica’s hybrid instant camera, created in collaboration with Burton Snowboards. Inspired by Jake Burton Carpenter, the founder of Burton, this edition brings a unique design and premium build quality to the instant camera market.
But how does it stack up against other hybrid instant cameras? And is it worth the price? Let’s compare it to its main competitors.
Leica Sofort 2 Burton Edition: What Makes It Special?
The Sofort 2 is a hybrid instant camera, meaning it captures digital photos first and lets you decide which ones to print. Unlike traditional instant cameras (which print every shot), this hybrid approach eliminates wasted film and gives more control over your final images.
Key Features of the Burton Edition:
- Exclusive “Jake Blue” Design with Burton branding
- Hybrid functionality (digital + print)
- Leica-quality lens for sharper instant photos
- Uses Fujifilm Instax Mini film, making refills easy to find
- Bluetooth connectivity for smartphone transfers via Leica FOTOS app
- 10 Film styles & 10 Lens styles for creative shooting
- Bundled with a Burton-branded camera pouch
Leica’s Signature Hybrid System:
Unlike traditional instant cameras, you can review, edit, and select which photos to print. If you change your mind later, you can print the same shot again. It even allows printing images from your phone via the Leica FOTOS app.
How It Compares to Other Instant Cameras
Feature & Price Comparison
| Camera | Price | Hybrid (Digital + Print) | Film Type | Lens Quality | Build & Design |
| Leica Sofort 2 (Standard) | $389 | ✅ | Instax Mini | ✅ Leica lens | Premium, sleek |
| Leica Sofort 2 Burton Edition | ~$450–$500 | ✅ | Instax Mini | ✅ Leica lens | Limited edition, Burton branding |
| Fujifilm Instax Mini Evo | $199 | ✅ | Instax Mini | ❌ (Fujinon lens) | Retro, plastic build |
| Polaroid Now+ | $149 | ❌ (Full Analog) | Polaroid i-Type | ❌ | Classic Polaroid, bulkier |
| Kodak Mini Shot 3 Retro | $159 | ✅ | Kodak 3×3 film | ❌ | Budget plastic build |
What You Get for the Price
1. Leica Sofort 2 Burton Edition ($450–$500, Est.)
✅ Premium Leica build, better lens quality
✅ Hybrid shooting, pick which photos to print
✅ Limited edition design (collectible)
❌ Expensive compared to competitors
2. Fujifilm Instax Mini Evo ($199)
✅ Best budget-friendly hybrid instant camera
✅ Good digital preview & printing options
❌ Lacks premium materials
❌ Fujinon lens (not Leica-quality)
3. Polaroid Now+ ($149)
✅ Full analog instant photography experience
✅ Classic Polaroid film & look
❌ No digital preview, prints everything (film waste)
❌ Uses larger Polaroid i-Type film (not Instax Mini)
4. Kodak Mini Shot 3 Retro ($159)
✅ Uses Zink-style film, cheaper per print
✅ Hybrid shooting at a low price
❌ Lower quality lens, plasticky feel
Leica Sofort 2 Burton Edition: Full Specs
| FEATURE | LEICA SOFORT 2 BURTON EDITION |
| Sensor | 1/5-inch CMOS |
| Lens | 28mm (35mm equivalent), f/2.0 |
| Screen | 3-inch LCD |
| Image Storage | Internal memory (45 images), microSD (up to 850 images per 1GB) |
| Film Type | Fujifilm Instax Mini |
| Print Time | ~15 seconds per print |
| Battery Life | Up to 100 prints per charge |
| Connectivity | Bluetooth 4.2, Leica FOTOS app |
| Tripod Mount | Yes, 1/4″ thread |
| File Format | JPG (2560×1920 pixels) |
| Shutter Speed | 1/4–1/8000 sec |
| ISO Sensitivity | Auto (ISO 100–1600) |
| Focus Range | 10 cm – ∞ |
| Flash | Auto / On / Off |
| Creative Modes | 10 Lens Effects, 10 Film Styles |
| Weight | 320g (without film pack) |
| Body Material | Polycarbonate frame with acrylic front/back |
The “Burton Edition” Design
This edition isn’t just a rebranded camera—it’s a tribute to Jake Burton Carpenter, who loved using Leica cameras to capture snowboarding history.
Exclusive Burton Edition Details:
- “Jake Blue” color scheme (inspired by Burton Snowboards)
- Mountain logo on top (homage to Jake Burton Carpenter)
- Glossy black details for a premium look
- Burton-branded high-quality camera pouch
Jake Burton’s Leica Legacy:
Jake Burton documented his snowboarding journey with a Leica camera, capturing friends, family, and epic moments. The Burton Edition honors his passion for both photography and adventure sports.
Who Should Buy the Leica Sofort 2 Burton Edition?
Buy the Leica Sofort 2 Burton Edition If:
- You want the best build quality & lens in a hybrid instant camera.
- You appreciate Leica’s legacy and want a collectible special edition.
- You like Burton’s snowboarding-inspired design.
- You prefer digital preview + selective printing (less film waste).
Consider Other Options If:
- You want a budget-friendly hybrid camera → Get the Fujifilm Instax Mini Evo ($199).
- You prefer classic instant film experience → Get the Polaroid Now+ ($149).
- You need the cheapest hybrid option → Get the Kodak Mini Shot 3 Retro ($159).
Final Thoughts
The Leica Sofort 2 Burton Edition combines premium build quality, hybrid shooting, and exclusive Burton branding. While it’s more expensive than its competitors, it offers superior lens quality, a unique design, and the ability to print only the best shots.Would you spend extra for a Leica hybrid instant camera or stick with a cheaper alternative? Let us know your thoughts!
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