Kodak's new Kodak Charmera is a tiny, key-sized digital camera that brings the spirit of one-off cameras from the 1980s to the digital world. With vintage filters, USB-C connectivity and collector's edition packaging in blind boxes for just €30 (32 $), it offers a unique spontaneous photography experience that smartphones can't replicate.
Remember the days when every shot was a little adventure? When you were with your old Kodak the camera capture the moment without the hassle of editing or social media filters? In 1987, Kodak made photography accessible to everyone with its unique Fling camera. Now, in 2025, it's back with Kodak Charmera – a tiny digital camera that you can clip to your keys and that brings back the charm of analog photography in the digital age. Is it just another nostalgic gadget, or is it something we really need in our smartphone-obsessed world? Hint: probably both, with a good dose of charm.
Small but surprisingly powerful
Retro chic that fits in the palm of your hand
Kodak's Charmera is a marvel of miniaturization. Weighing just 30 grams and measuring 5.8 cm x 2.4 cm x 2 cm, it's smaller than the average car key. Despite its small size, it hides a 1/4-inch CMOS sensor with a resolution of 1.6 megapixels (1440 x 1080), which allows you to take photos and record videos at 30 frames per second. The 35 mm f/2.4 lens won't wow professional photographers, but that's not the point. The Charmera is designed for those who value character over technical perfection.
The camera comes with seven vintage filters that add a touch of warmth and nostalgia to your shots, as well as four Kodak frames that are reminiscent of classic Polaroid photos. The date stamp function adds a special charm, automatically stamping the date on each photo - as if you were going back to the 90s. The small rear screen allows you to quickly review your shots, which is a nice and practical addition for such a small device.
Collector's magnet with an element of surprise
Kodak knows how to appeal to collectors. The Charmera comes in blind boxes, meaning you don't know which of the seven design variations you'll get until you open it. Among them, a rare transparent version stands out, revealing the internal components and has a 1/48 chance of being won. This lottery-like approach is reminiscent of opening packs of cards or collectible figurines, and it evokes childlike excitement in adults as well. Even the basic designs are attractive enough to justify a purchase, as each one bears the distinctive Kodak stamp.
Practicality for the digital world
The Kodak Charmera is more than just a nostalgic decoration, it’s a practical gadget. USB-C connectivity allows for fast charging and file transfers, while microSD card support (up to 128GB) provides plenty of space for all your spontaneous shots. Its key-shaped design means you always have your camera at hand – especially handy when your smartphone dies due to low battery or you’re inundated with notifications. In a time when every moment seems worth posting on social media, the Charmera offers a refreshing escape from screens and endless filters.
Technical data: Kodak Charmera
- Image sensor: 1/4-inch CMOS, 1.6MP
- Lens: 35mm f/2.4
- Video: 1440 x 1080 at 30 frames per second
- Storage: MicroSD (1GB–128GB)
- Connectivity: USB-C
- Weight: 30g
- Dimensions: 5.8cm x 2.4cm x 2cm
- Filters: 7 vintage styles
- Frames: 4 Kodak frames
- Special features: Date tags, key attachment
Price and availability
The Kodak Charmera is available for €30 (32 $) per blind box or €180 (190 $) for a set of six units via the Reto Project website. Stock is currently out of stock, but Kodak promises new shipments will be available soon. For updated availability information, keep an eye on the official Reto Project website or Kodak's X platform profile.
Why is Charmera so unique?
In a world where smartphones produce photos with a resolution that exceeds most people's needs, Charmera doesn't compete on technical specifications. Instead, it bets on emotions - the joy of spontaneous photography, the charm of imperfect shots, and the thrill of opening a blank box. It's like a time machine that takes you back to the days when photography was an adventure, not just another task on a to-do list.
But the Charmera isn't just a nostalgic gimmick. Its modern features, like USB-C connectivity and microSD support, make it useful even for those who aren't obsessed with the retro aesthetic. It's a bridge between the past and the present, combining analog charm with digital convenience. And let's face it - who wouldn't want a camera that's both a handy gadget and a collector's item?
Conclusion: Kodak Charmera
Kodak's Charmera is more than just a camera – it’s a statement about what photography can mean. For €30 (32 $) you get a small but surprisingly powerful device that combines the nostalgia of one-off cameras with modern features. With vintage filters, collectible designs and a practical key shape, it’s the perfect companion for anyone looking to capture moments in a slightly different, more authentic way. Although it’s currently sold out, keep an eye out for future stock – this little gem is worth the wait.
