Ilford HP5 Plus and Delta 400 are both ISO 400 black and white films, but they are built differently. HP5 Plus uses a traditional grain with a classic, forgiving look, while Delta 400 uses a tabular grain for finer, crisper results. Choose by the texture you want and how much exposure margin you need.
Same Speed, Different Character
Because the box speeds match, you can swap one for the other without changing your camera settings. The difference shows up in the negative. HP5 Plus shows a more visible grain with soft, gradual tones. Delta 400 shows tighter grain and sharper-looking edges, which can look cleaner and more modern. Both are sold in 35mm and 120, and formats can change, so check the maker’s page.
Side-by-Side Traits
| Trait | HP5 Plus | Delta 400 |
|---|---|---|
| Grain type | Traditional cubic grain | Modern tabular grain |
| Grain appearance | More visible, classic | Finer, tighter |
| Sharpness feel | Soft and natural | Crisp and defined |
| Exposure latitude | Very forgiving | Good, a little less relaxed |
| Push processing | Widely used | Possible, with a different look |
Workflow Considerations
- Scanning: Finer grain from Delta 400 can look smoother in high-resolution scans. HP5 Plus grain can add texture that many people enjoy.
- Darkroom printing: HP5 Plus has a long history in the darkroom and prints easily on many papers. Delta 400 also prints well and gives strong detail.
- Development: Both work with common developers. Use the maker’s data sheet for times, and adjust slightly to your own contrast preference.
- Mixed shooting: If you bring one film to cover bright and dim scenes, HP5 Plus is the more forgiving partner.
How to Choose
- Decide what you want from the image. For texture and character, begin with HP5 Plus.
- For clean detail and a modern look, begin with Delta 400.
- Shoot one roll of each in the same lighting and with the same lens.
- Develop both together, scan at the same settings, and compare the files at 100 percent.
Tips for Better Results
Meter for the shadows and keep the highlights in check. If you plan to push either film, pick one pushing amount and stick to it for a few rolls so you can learn how it behaves. Keep notes about exposure, developer, and time, and read back through the notes after each batch. Over time, your own records become the best guide for your specific camera, meter, and developer.
FAQ
Which film is better for beginners?
HP5 Plus is often suggested because it forgives small exposure and development errors. Delta 400 is also approachable if you meter carefully.
Can I mix them in the same project?
You can, but their grain and tonal feel differ. If you want a consistent set of images, stick to one film per series.
The Short Version
Choose HP5 Plus for a classic look, extra latitude, and long-standing push-processing habits. Choose Delta 400 for finer grain and crisp detail. Confirm formats and data on the maker’s page.
