35mm Film vs Medium Format (120)

Compare the two most popular film formats and their characteristics

35mm Film

The most popular film format with 24x36mm frames and characteristic sprocket holes

Price: $8-15 per roll

Pros

  • +Compact cameras
  • +24-36 shots per roll
  • +Lower cost per shot
  • +Wide camera selection

Cons

  • -More visible grain at large prints
  • -Smaller negative size

Medium Format (120)

Larger film format producing frames from 6x4.5cm to 6x9cm with superior quality

Price: $10-20 per roll

Pros

  • +Much finer apparent grain
  • +Exceptional detail
  • +Beautiful shallow DOF
  • +Professional quality

Cons

  • -8-16 shots per roll
  • -Larger cameras
  • -Higher cost per shot

Our Verdict

35mm offers convenience, affordability, and sufficient quality for most uses. Medium format provides superior detail and smoother grain for large prints and professional work. Choose based on your priorities.

Side-by-Side Comparison

Feature35mm FilmMedium Format (120)
Price$8-15 per roll$10-20 per roll
Pros
  • Compact cameras
  • 24-36 shots per roll
  • Lower cost per shot
  • Wide camera selection
  • Much finer apparent grain
  • Exceptional detail
  • Beautiful shallow DOF
  • Professional quality
Cons
  • More visible grain at large prints
  • Smaller negative size
  • 8-16 shots per roll
  • Larger cameras
  • Higher cost per shot

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