Unboxing the Kodak Blind Box Camera: A Close Look at the Charmera Keychain Camera

Unboxing the Kodak Blind Box Camera: A Close Look at the Charmera Keychain Camera

Kodak has released a new compact gadget that quickly became a sensation: the Kodak Blind Box Camera, also known as the Charmera Keychain Digital Camera. Despite its tiny size, this little device has sold out in most stores within weeks of launch. Inspired by Kodak’s 1980s disposable cameras, the new version combines nostalgia with modern digital features. Let’s explore the design, features, and performance to see if this keychain camera deserves a spot in your collection.

What Is the Kodak Blind Box Camera?

The name “Blind Box” comes from the way it’s sold: each box costs around $30 and contains one of seven different camera colors, chosen at random. Buyers can also get a full set with six boxes. The surprise element has made the camera extremely popular, and stocks are already empty in many places until late 2025.

Although tiny, this is not just a toy. It’s a fully functional digital camera that copies the feeling of a single-use film camera while adding modern touches. Social media buzz pushed its sales far beyond expectations, proving its appeal as a mix of analogue charm and digital convenience.

Design and Build: Retro in Your Pocket

Unboxing the camera is part of the fun. The package comes in Kodak’s iconic yellow, while the camera itself is colorful and playful.

Highlights:

• Size & Portability: Very small and light, easy to keep on a keychain, but still a real working camera.
• Build Quality: Sturdy plastic body, though the lens needs care to avoid scratches.
• Variants: Seven color versions, from the classic Kodak yellow to pastel shades.
• Note: It is not waterproof, so it should be kept away from water.

Features and Specifications

Despite its size, the Charmera packs useful features:

• Sensor: 1.6MP CMOS
• Lens: 35mm equivalent, f/2.4
• Photo Resolution: 1440×1080 (JPEG)
• Video: 1440×1080 at 30fps
• Storage: Supports microSD up to 128GB (internal space for 2 photos)
• Filters & Effects: 7 vintage filters, 4 frames, date stamp option
• Battery: Rechargeable via USB-C, ~30 minutes per charge
• Display: Small rear LCD
• Modes: Photo, video, and playback

It also allows adding retro filters, frames, and even timestamps. Files transfer easily through USB without apps or software.

Performance in Real Use

With 1.6MP resolution, this camera isn’t meant to replace smartphones. Instead, it embraces imperfections. Photos have a grainy, dreamy effect, especially indoors, while outdoor shots show bright vintage colors similar to Kodak Gold Film 200.

Video is simple but smooth at 30fps, with basic audio recording. The battery supports about 50–100 photos per charge and recharges in about an hour.

Pros:

• Affordable and collectible
• Retro filters and creative frames
• Ultra-portable keychain size
• Easy to use, no learning curve

Cons:

• Low resolution, best for digital sharing only
• Needs microSD for storage
• Decorative viewfinder
• Limited availability

Final Verdict

The Kodak Blind Box Camera is more about nostalgia and fun than technical power. It delivers a playful 35mm-style experience in digital form, perfect for collectors and casual users who enjoy retro vibes. If you want a unique pocket-sized camera that adds a splash of creativity to your photography, this little gadget is worth trying.