AGO Film Processor review: home film development made easy

The Ago film processor makes home development of color and B&W films easy in 35mm, 120 or 4x5

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AGO Film Processor on a kitchen worktop
(Image: © Sebastian Oakley)

Digital Camera World Verdict

The Ago film processor is a game-changer for analog photographers, combining automation, efficiency, and durability. Whether you're a beginner or a pro, it offers a reliable, hassle-free solution for home film development.

Pros

  • +

    Easy to use

  • +

    All-in-one package

  • +

    Custom settings

  • +

    Suggestion for new users

Cons

  • -

    Pricey for some

  • -

    All-plastic construction

  • -

    LCD isn't the best

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The AGO Film Processor is a compact, automated device designed to simplify the film development process for both amateur and professional photographers.

Developed by Vintage Visual, this processor aims to bring the convenience of minilab development into the home darkroom, accommodating various film types including black and white, C-41 color negatives, E-6 slides, and ECN-2 processes.

AGO Film Processor: Specifications

Compatibility: Paterson Super System 4
Connectivity: 1 x USB-C Female Input/Output, Wi-Fi
Power source: 2x 18650 Lithium-Ion
Size: 6.7 x 5.4 x 3.5" / 170 x 136 x 88 mm
Weight: 1.2 lb / 556g

AGO Film Processor: Design & Handling

(Image credit: Future)

The AGO Film Processor is compatible with Paterson Super System 4 developing tanks, supporting formats from 35mm up to large format films.

Its automated agitation system ensures consistent development by rotating the film reels within the tank, effectively reducing the manual labor typically associated with film processing. A standout feature is its clever temperature compensation system, which adjusts development times based on real-time chemical temperature readings, mitigating the need for constant temperature monitoring.

(Image credit: Future)

Additionally, the processor offers Wi-Fi connectivity, allowing users to create or modify development programs and update the software as new processes become available.

Constructed with durability in mind, the AGO Film Processor provides users with confidence in their investment. Its sturdy build ensures longevity, making it a reliable addition to any darkroom setup. The user interface is intuitive, featuring pre-programmed settings for popular film stocks, which simplifies the development process. For those who prefer customization, the processor allows easy adjustments to development times, agitation speeds, and intervals, catering to both novices and seasoned professionals.

(Image credit: Future)

AGO Film Processor: Performance

In practice, the AGO Film Processor excels in delivering consistent and high-quality results. The automated agitation and temperature compensation features work harmoniously to ensure that variables affecting film development are kept in check. Users have reported that the processor makes film developing straightforward, allowing them to engage in other activities during the process.

The processor's ability to handle various film stocks with ease, including Ilford HP5 and FP4, offers flexibility to photographers experimenting with different emulsions.

One of the notable advantages of the AGO Film Processor is its efficient use of chemicals. By employing horizontal rotational agitation, the processor can save up to 60% on chemical consumption, depending on the tank size and use case. This not only reduces the environmental footprint but also translates to cost savings over time.

(Image credit: Future)

AGO Film Processor: Developed film images

Image 1 of 5
Samples of Fomapan 400 developed with the Ago film processor
(Image credit: Future / Sebastian Oakley)

While the initial investment in the Ago film processor may seem substantial to some, it's essential to consider the long-term benefits. By bringing film development in-house, photographers can significantly reduce the costs associated with outsourcing to external labs.

The machine has the potential to pay for itself after developing approximately 20 rolls of film, making it a cost-effective solution for regular film shooters.

(Image credit: Future)

AGO Film Processor: Final Verdict

The Ago film processor stands out as a valuable tool for photographers seeking to streamline their film development process.

Its combination of automated features, chemical efficiency, and sturdy construction makes it a worthwhile investment for those passionate about analog photography.

Whether you're new to film or a seasoned professional, the Ago film processor offers a convenient and reliable solution to home-based film development.

✅ Buy this if...

  • You want easy film development
  • Want custom agitation times and full control
  • Need a all-in-one solution

🚫 Don't buy this if...

  • You're on a budget
  • You want a mental construction
  • You don't use Paterson tanks

(Image credit: Future)

Check out the best darkroom equipment for alternatives to the AGO Film Processor, and see our guide to the best 35mm film

Sebastian Oakley
Sebastian Oakley
Ecommerce Editor

For nearly two decades Sebastian's work has been published internationally. Originally specializing in Equestrianism, his visuals have been used by the leading names in the equestrian industry such as The Fédération Equestre Internationale (FEI), The Jockey Club, Horse & Hound, and many more for various advertising campaigns, books, and pre/post-event highlights.

He is a Fellow of the Royal Society of Arts, holds a Foundation Degree in Equitation Science, and holds a Master of Arts in Publishing. He is a member of Nikon NPS and has been a Nikon user since his film days using a Nikon F5. He saw the digital transition with Nikon's D series cameras and is still, to this day, the youngest member to be elected into BEWA, the British Equestrian Writers' Association.

He is familiar with and shows great interest in 35mm, medium, and large-format photography, using products by Leica, Phase One, Hasselblad, Alpa, and Sinar. Sebastian has also used many cinema cameras from Sony, RED, ARRI, and everything in between. He now spends his spare time using his trusted Leica M-E or Leica M2, shooting Street/Documentary photography as he sees it, usually in Black and White.

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