Ilford Delta films use a modern tabular grain for fine detail and a crisp look, while HP5 Plus is a traditional all-round film known for flexibility and forgiving exposure. Choose Delta for sharp, clean results and HP5 Plus for an easy-going workhorse that handles a wide range of light.
What Each Is For
The Delta line includes several speeds, such as 100, 400, and 3200, all built on tabular grain technology. HP5 Plus is a single ISO 400 film that has long been a standard choice for street work, reportage, and general shooting. It is sold in 35mm, 120, and sheet sizes, and Delta 100 and 400 are offered in several formats too. Check the maker’s page for the current list.
Key Differences
| Trait | Ilford Delta | HP5 Plus |
|---|---|---|
| Grain type | Modern tabular grain | Traditional cubic grain |
| Look | Crisp, clean, fine detail | Classic, with more visible grain |
| Speed choices | Several speeds in the family | One speed, ISO 400 |
| Handling of errors | Good, with less room for sloppy exposure | Known for wide latitude |
| Pushing in development | Possible, with results that vary | A long-time favorite for pushing |
How They Differ in the Field
- Detail: Delta tends to give finer grain and sharper-looking edges at the same size of print or scan.
- Character: HP5 Plus shows a bit more grain and a more classic texture, which many reportage photographers like.
- Push processing: HP5 Plus is widely used when light drops and you need an extra stop or two. Delta can be pushed as well, though the look changes more.
- Mixed light: In scenes with strong contrast, HP5 Plus is often described as easier to print because of its soft highlight roll-off.
How to Decide
- Think about your usual light. If it varies a lot and you want one film for everything, HP5 Plus is a natural fit.
- Think about output. For big prints or high-resolution scans where grain should stay quiet, try Delta.
- Match the Delta speed to your needs: a slower one for tripods and daylight, a faster one for handheld work.
- Shoot a test roll of each in the same scene and develop them the same way before committing to a larger batch.
FAQ
Is Delta 400 the same as HP5 Plus?
No. They share a similar box speed, but Delta 400 uses a tabular grain with a finer, crisper look, while HP5 Plus uses a traditional grain with more texture and more latitude.
Which is easier for beginners?
HP5 Plus is often suggested to newcomers because it forgives exposure errors and works in many conditions. Delta is still a good option for careful shooters.
The Short Version
Choose Ilford Delta if you value fine grain and sharp detail and you meter carefully. Choose HP5 Plus if you want a flexible, forgiving film that works in almost any light. Confirm formats and development notes on the maker’s page.
