We compare the Fujifilm Instax Mini 9 to its predecessor: Is it worth it?
- feb
- 20
We've been playing with instant cameras since before they were trendy. We know what makes them fun and what makes them worth our hard-earned dollars, even when it comes to comparing two different versions of the same instant camera.
Fujifilm Instax Mini 9
Functional and fresh
Pros
- Affordable
- Easy to use
Cons
- Not the most durable
- Film is expensive
The Fujifilm Instax Mini 9 is a practical and affordable instant camera that allows you to express yourself through a variety of colors and fast-printing photography. The downside? The film is pretty pricey, and the camera isn't very sturdy.
Fujifilm Instax Mini 8
Old but bold
Pros
- Portable
- Easy-to-use
Cons
- More expensive
- Discontinued
While a lot of people think that the older version of a product may be more cost-efficient, that's not the case with the Fujifilm Instax Mini 8. Plus, it doesn't have all the features of the newer model.
The Instax Mini 9 is newly designed, has more features, and is more cost-efficient than its older counterpart.
Breaking it down
The Instax Mini 9 has many features that the Instax Mini 8 doesn't, like the selfie mirror and macro lens for a variety of different shots that you couldn't get with older models.
Many think that buying an older version of something might save you some cash in the long run. It's the opposite with the Mini 9 and Mini 8: the Mini 9 often goes on sale for well under what it's worth, while the dated Mini 8 stays at its original price even though it's been discontinued by the manufacturer.
| Fujifilm Instax Mini 9 | Fujifilm Instax Mini 8 | |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | $55 | $62 |
| Customer Rating | ⅘ Stars | 4.5/5 Stars |
| Product Dimensions | 3 x 5 x 5.5 inches | 3 x 5 x 5.5 inches |
| Item Weight | 13.6 ounces | 10.9 ounces |
| Batteries | 2 AA batteries required. (included) | 2 AA batteries required. (included) |
| Film | Fujifilm Instant Film "instax mini" | Fujifilm Instant Film "instax mini" |
| Picture Size | 62 x 46mm | 62 x 46mm |
| Lens | 2 components, 2 elements, f = 60 mm, 1:12.7 | N/A |
| Viewfinder | Real image finder, 0.37x, with target spot | N/A |
| Focusing | 0.6m - ∞ | 0.6m - ∞ |
| Shutter | Shutter speed: 1/60 sec. | Shutter speed: 1/60 sec. |
| Exposure Control | Manual switching system (LED indicator in exposure meter) | Manual switching system (LED indicator in exposure meter) |
| Film Feeding out | Automatic | N/A |
| Flash | Constant firing flash (automatic light adjustment) | Constant firing flash (automatic light adjustment) |
| Auto power off time | 5 min | N/A |
| Others | Exposure counter (number of unexposed films), film pack confirmation window | Exposure counter (number of unexposed films), film pack confirmation window |
While both cameras can shoot, print, and develop film instantaneously, it's clear that the newer model of the Fujifilm Instax Mini has more features, a better price tag, and it isn't discontinued by the manufacturer, either, which may affect how easy it will be to get parts in the future, should you need them.
The only thing that the Instax Mini 8 has on the Instax Mini 9 is the color selection and the super, super bizarre character/shape options. Seriously, you can get an Instax Mini 8 camera in the shape of a Minion. Or Hello Kitty. Or with a Minnie Mouse theme. I can't make this stuff up, people. It also uses the same film as the Mini 9.
Fujifilm Instax Mini 9
Bright, bold, and ready to shoot
A colorful little camera
If you're looking for an instant camera that's easy to use and allows for a decent amount of shooting options at a reasonable budget (minus that pricey film…), then we recommend taking a peek at the Fujifilm Instax Mini 9 camera. It has four brightness settings, a selfie mirror, and a macro lens so that you can get more creative with your instant shots, and it comes in five striking colors.
Fujifilm Instax Mini 8
Dated but still shootin'
Fun and fantastic
Even though this instant camera can take a mean picture and has a super high rating, it's not necessarily the best option to consider. It's discontinued, and pricier than the newer model, but comes in a wider variety of colors and shapes, making it a fun and reasonably practical photography tool at a similar price.