Is the Paper Shoot Camera Worth Nearly $200?
Published · UpdatedThis article contains affiliate links. If you buy through one of these links, I may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. My recommendations are based on my actual testing and opinions.
The quick verdict
The Paper Shoot camera lands in D tier for one reason: value. I do not think it is a terrible camera, and I understand the appeal of its thin, screen-free design.
But the configuration I tested was close to $200. At that price, the design has to matter more to you than image quality, features, or performance per dollar.
See it in the full viral-camera video
Watch for my real photo or video examples, then continue through the full video for more thoughts and similar cameras.
What the Paper Shoot gets right
The camera is intentionally simple. There is no rear screen pulling you into constant review, and the interchangeable shell concept makes the object feel more personal than a normal plastic compact.
That different shooting experience is real value for some people. I just do not think it justifies every configuration price.
The price changes the verdict
Near $200 in my test, the Paper Shoot was one of the most expensive novelty-focused cameras in the group. That puts it against capable new compacts, strong used digicams, and even entry-level used interchangeable-lens cameras.
If it cost substantially less, I could see ranking it higher. My D tier is not a claim that nobody can enjoy it; it is a warning that the experience carries a large premium.
What I would buy instead
For a simple new point-and-shoot, I prefer the KODAK PIXPRO FZ55. For authentic early-digital character, I would look for a cheap branded used digicam. For learning photography, I would choose a used DSLR.
Buy the Paper Shoot only after deciding that the physical design and screen-free process are the main products you want.
Pros and cons
Pros
- Distinctive thin design.
- Screen-free shooting can be refreshing.
- Current system offers interchangeable shells and add-ons.
- Not a misleading specification product.
Cons
- The tested configuration was close to $200.
- Weak performance-per-dollar.
- Exact tested generation was not identified.
- Better conventional cameras exist near the price.
Where to buy
Prices, condition, and stock change. Compare the live listing with the value limits in this review before buying.
Check current Paper Shoot configurations
Compare the KODAK PIXPRO FZ55 before deciding.
Final verdict
The Paper Shoot is an interesting object and a hard value recommendation. I would reconsider it at a lower price, but the nearly $200 configuration I tested belongs in D tier.
Buy it for the experience, not because it beats ordinary cameras on capability.