Kentmere 400 and Ilford HP5 Plus are both ISO 400 black and white negative films from the same family of makers, so they handle similar light and share the same development process. HP5 Plus is the more established all-rounder known for flexibility, while Kentmere 400 is a straightforward everyday film that suits practice and general shooting. Choose HP5 Plus when you want a proven film for demanding situations; choose Kentmere 400 for casual rolls and learning.
What They Have in Common
- Both are black and white negative films with a nominal speed of ISO 400.
- Both are developed in standard black and white chemistry, so the same home or lab process works.
- Both are well suited to street, documentary, travel and low-light handheld work.
- Both are sold in 35mm, and availability in other formats varies, so check the current listings.
Where They Differ
HP5 Plus has a long reputation for forgiving exposure and for responding well when pushed to a higher speed in development. Many shooters treat it as the default fast black and white film. Kentmere 400 is generally positioned as an accessible, no-fuss option with a classic grain look. The differences are real but subtle, and they show up most in contrast, grain structure and how far you can stretch the film.
| Trait | Kentmere 400 | Ilford HP5 Plus |
|---|---|---|
| Speed | ISO 400 | ISO 400 |
| Typical role | Everyday and practice rolls | All-round workhorse |
| Pushing in development | Possible, results vary | Widely used for pushing |
| Development | Standard black and white | Standard black and white |
How to Compare Them Yourself
- Load one roll of each and shoot the same scenes, such as a bright street, a shaded doorway and an indoor room.
- Meter at ISO 400 as a first guess and keep your settings consistent.
- Develop both rolls together with the same developer, time and temperature from the data sheet.
- Scan or print them the same way and compare shadows, highlights and grain.
For low-light work, a shutter speed of roughly 1/60 with a fast lens at f/2 is a common first guess, then adjust to the scene. We have not used either film ourselves, so confirm details on the maker’s data sheets.
FAQ
Can I push either film to ISO 1600?
Many photographers push ISO 400 black and white film one or two stops, using longer development. HP5 Plus has the stronger track record for this. If you try it with Kentmere, run a test roll first and follow the developer’s chart.
Which is better for a beginner?
Either works. Kentmere 400 is a relaxed choice for learning exposure, and HP5 Plus gives you a versatile film you can keep using as your skills grow.
The Short Version
Both films give you ISO 400 black and white with the same development routine. Choose HP5 Plus for flexibility and pushing, and choose Kentmere 400 for easygoing everyday shooting. Shoot a roll of each and let your own scans decide.
