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Best Film Loaders in 2024

We analyzed top picks from leading reviewers to find the best for every need

By ShopSavvy Team

Published: August 12th, 2024

🎞️Diving into film photography can be an exhilarating experience, especially when venturing into the world of bulk loading your own film. Whether you're a seasoned pro or a newcomer curious about cutting costs and tweaking your film choices, having the right film loader makes a huge difference.

We've done the legwork for you, analyzing loads of data and feedback to pinpoint the top film loaders of 2024. There's something here for every level of expertise.

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Overall Best: Paterson Film Loader

When it comes to reliability and user friendliness, the Paterson Film Loader takes the top spot. This film loader is built to make your job easy, featuring a built-in guide for seamless film threading and compatibility with a variety of film types. Its sturdy construction ensures long-lasting performance, making it a solid investment for both amateurs and pros. Users consistently praise its consistent output and intuitive design, highlighting its status as a favorite among photographers of all skill levels.

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Runner-up: Lloyds LegacyPro Film Loader

Lloyd 35mm Bulk Film Loader, Black (63000)

The Lloyds LegacyPro Film Loader is a robust runner-up, offering solid performance and straightforward operation. While it may not have as many advanced features as some of its competitors, its design earns high marks for simplicity and reliability. This loader is particularly appreciated for its cost-effective approach, providing a hassle-free solution for bulk loading film without any unnecessary frills. If you're looking for a dependable and user-friendly film loader, Lloyds LegacyPro is a strong contender.

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More Answers

Still curious about the LegacyPro Lloyd 35mm Film Loader? Here are some answers you might find interesting:

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How durable is the LegacyPro Lloyd 35mm Bulk Film Loader?

When it comes to the durability of the LegacyPro Lloyd 35mm Bulk Film Loader, there seems to be a recurring issue with the handle or crank breaking. Our research shows that this is a common problem, with some folks mentioning that the handle either arrives damaged or starts to have issues not long after you start using it. The overall feeling is that the handle's construction seems a bit flimsy, possibly due to the manufacturing methods used, which might affect its durability. Although the manufacturer advertises this film loader as reliable and easy to use, it seems these claims can sometimes be overshadowed by mechanical problems, especially with the handle. There are reports of some people receiving their loader with a handle that's almost falling off and needing to do quick repairs, like applying epoxy glue. Others have had to reorder because the handle broke shortly after they started using it. So, with that in mind, it's important to consider this potential downside when thinking about whether this film loader is the right choice for you. While it's a functional design that can help save on film costs, the ongoing issues with the handle suggest repairs or replacements might be needed eventually. If you're looking for something more sturdy, it might be a good idea to explore different models or brands known for their durability. However, if you're okay with these potential hiccups and are drawn by the price, the LegacyPro Lloyd can still be a good fit. Just be prepared for a bit of tinkering here and there. It's all about weighing the pros and cons and figuring out what's important for your needs.

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Does the LegacyPro Lloyd 35mm Bulk Film Loader have a frame counter?

Hey there! So about the LegacyPro Lloyd 35mm Bulk Film Loader—first off, it doesn't have a frame counter. If keeping track of frames is a big deal for you, that's something to keep in mind. Aside from that, this loader is generally pretty straightforward to use and does a good job at keeping your film safe from light exposure—super important for maintaining film quality. According to our research, many folks like how simple and cost-effective this loader is, especially if you're diving into bulk film loading. However, there's one big thing to watch out for: the crank handle. A number of people have run into issues with it breaking or even finding it detached when they first open the box. This seems to be due to a weak spot where the handle attaches. Some have tried fixing it with DIY methods like epoxy, with mixed results. If you decide to get one, be prepared for potential repairs or just handle it gently from the start. Despite this hiccup, it's still appreciated for what it does best—loading film efficiently. Just double-check that crank when you get it, so you won’t have any annoying surprises. In the end, while it lacks a frame counter, it still serves its main purpose pretty well for those who don’t mind navigating around this handle issue.

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Is the LegacyPro Lloyd 35mm Bulk Film Loader easy to use?

Hey there! If you're looking to try out the LegacyPro Lloyd 35mm Bulk Film Loader, here's the scoop. It's designed to help you load 35mm film into cassettes without breaking the bank, which is great if you shoot a lot of film. But let's talk about how user-friendly it really is. According to our research, once you get it going, the loader is pretty straightforward to use, especially for beginners. The standout feature here is that it lets you load the film without any light exposure, which is super important for keeping your photos in top shape. However, it's not all smooth sailing. We've found a bunch of feedback about durability issues, particularly with the handle and winding mechanism. Some folks have had their handles break right out of the box or shortly after, which is a bummer. In some cases, people have had to use epoxy to fix the handle, which isn't ideal after just opening a new product. So, it's a good idea to go into this with an understanding of these potential issues. Unfortunately, it seems like the manufacturer hasn't really fixed these durability concerns, so it's up to you to handle any hiccups. Considering the price, a little more sturdiness would be expected. In short, if you're okay with possibly doing a bit of DIY repair and you're on a budget, this film loader could still work well for you. Just make sure to weigh these factors against your specific needs as you dive into analog photography. Hope this helps!

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Budget Pick: ADOX Film Loader

For those on a budget, the ADOX Film Loader provides an affordable and effective option. Despite its lower price point, this loader doesn't compromise on performance. Its simple design and clear instructions make it accessible for newcomers, while its reliability ensures consistent results for experienced users as well. If you're looking to save money while still getting a dependable film loader, ADOX is the best choice on the market.

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Best for Beginners: Cinestill Film Loader

If you're just starting out with bulk loading, the Cinestill Film Loader is designed with beginners in mind. This model offers clear instructions and an intuitive design that helps minimize errors, making the learning curve less steep. The ease of use and straightforward setup mean you can start bulk loading with confidence. Cinestill’s film loader ensures that your introduction to bulk loading is smooth and hassle-free.

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Most Versatile: Hewes Film Loader

For photographers working with various film formats, the Hewes Film Loader stands out as the most versatile option. This loader is adaptable, capable of handling different roll sizes with ease. Its strong, flexible construction means it can keep up with the diverse demands of versatile photographers. If you need a film loader that can handle multiple film types efficiently, the Hewes Film Loader is the perfect choice.

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🥇 ShopSavvy Best Picks

Expert recommendations for the best overall, budget, and specialized product picks.

Our researchers bring you our top recommendations. Each article usually highlights the best overall choice, a budget-friendly option, and picks for specific needs, helping you shop smarter and with confidence.