I should hate this camera but I’ve bought it several times — Kodak’s $35 retro keychain camera is so cheap you can’t go wrong

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It's simple — the Kodak Charmera is a great retro gift

Kodak Charmera compact camera in user's hand
(Image credit: Future / Tim Coleman)

In my review of the Kodak Charmera, I described the retro keychain snapper as 'the worst camera I've ever used', so what on earth is possessing me to buy it over and over again?

For one, the price – it costs just $35 / £35 at Amazon (though it started out life at $30 / £30 before going viral). That's such an attractive price for a fully working digital camera with LCD screen.

Or you can buy the whole set to guarantee getting each colorway, but for a full price-per-camera of $210 / £210 for all six varieties. I've actually considered buying that set for the family, so everyone gets a different one.

Buy the Kodak Charmera at Amazon

Sure, it's not discounted in the Amazon Big Spring Sale, plus it has gone up in price since its September 2025 launch, but the Charmera is back in stock for 2026 and available with next-day delivery for Prime members, and it's still an unmatched low-cost retro camera gift.

• View the full Amazon Big Spring Sale

When I first saw the Charmera, I lost count of the number of people I know who would be charmed by it. My petrolhead niece? She can whack it on her car keys. My rough and tumble daughter? She has free rein with hers.

The Kodak Charmera is the camera that keeps on giving as an original idea gift, so long as you embrace its fully retro qualities.

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Kodak Charmera compact camera dangling from its keychain, with shop frontage backdrop
(Image credit: Future / Tim Coleman)

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Timothy Coleman
Timothy Coleman
Cameras editor

Tim is the Cameras editor at TechRadar. He has enjoyed more than 15 years in the photo video industry with most of those in the world of tech journalism. During his time as Deputy Technical Editor with Amateur Photographer, as a freelancer and consequently editor at Tech Radar, Tim has developed a deeply technical knowledge and practical experience with cameras, educating others through news, reviews and features. He’s also worked in video production for Studio 44 with clients including Canon, and volunteers his spare time to consult a non-profit, diverse stories team based in Nairobi. Tim is curious, a keen creative, avid footballer and runner, and moderate flat white drinker who has lived in Kenya and believes we have much to enjoy and learn from each other. 


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