Which Instax Mini instant camera to choose in 2024?

Instant cameras are increasingly trendy, especially in recent years where they have made a strong comeback in the world of photography.

This popularity of instant photos is primarily explained by the nostalgia they evoke, offering a tangible and quick memory: you take the photo, and it prints directly. Their ability to photograph and print precious moments instantly, without the need for digital processing, makes them appealing.

One of the most popular instant camera brands is Instax. The range of instant cameras by Fujifilm, Instax, is constantly refreshed year after year to allow its users to capture increasingly high-quality instant photos easily.

Instax Mini 99, Instax Mini 12, Instax Mini Evo Type C, or Instax Mini 40? With all these different and varied models of Instax Mini instant cameras, it’s not always easy to choose which one to buy. Let us help you choose the ideal Instax Mini for you based on the photos you want to take and your budget.

1. Instax Mini 12: The easy-to-use, budget-friendly instant camera

The Instax Mini 12 instant camera, the entry-level model from Instax, is a compact and lightweight instant camera, perfect for capturing spontaneous moments. It is available in five colors: lilac, pink, white, green, and blue.

Key features of the Instax Mini 12:

• Built-in selfie mode
• Built-in flash
• Compact size
• Mini film format (86mm x 54mm)

Advantages of the Instax Mini 12:

The Instax Mini 12 has an ergonomic design that makes it easy to use every day. Whether it’s for a birthday, a family gathering, or a trip, just slip it into your bag, and you’re ready to go. This instant camera has simple features accessible to all skill levels. It’s the ideal choice in the Instax Mini lineup for those looking for a practical and affordable instant camera.

Disadvantages:

Although the selfie mode of the Instax Mini 12 can be convenient for successful portraits, it’s unfortunate to note the complete absence of adjustment options to modify exposure.

2. Instax Mini 99: The new Instax instant camera

This new Instax model is arguably one of the best instant cameras for those seeking high image quality. The Instax Mini 99 offers advanced features compared to other Instax models, giving it a more professional look. Available only in black, it ditches the vibrant colors of the Mini 12 for the old-school and more subdued style of the Mini Evo.

Key features of the Instax Mini 99:

• Dual shutter buttons
• Ready for tripod use
• 6 color effects
• 5 brightness levels
• Manual vignetting
• Flash control
• Various shooting modes
• Timer
• Mini film format (86mm x 54mm)

Advantages of the Instax Mini 99:

The Instax Mini 99 is the ideal choice for photography enthusiasts and hobbyists. Its features and characteristics make it an advanced instant camera that allows for the creation of high-quality instant memories.

Disadvantages:

The advanced features of the Instax Mini 99 and its professional aspect make this instant camera less affordable, with a higher price.

3. Instax Mini Evo Type C: Take a photo, view it on your screen, and print it!

The Instax Mini Evo Type C camera is a hybrid digital camera. In addition to taking photos with its built-in lens, it prints them instantly. You can print the photos taken directly with your Mini Evo, but also those taken on your phone via Bluetooth.

The Mini Evo is the ideal choice of Instax instant camera for those who want to preview their photo before printing it and have multiple shooting opportunities. Thanks to its built-in screen, you can preview your image before capturing it. The elegant and modern Instax Mini Evo Type C is available in brown and black.

Features of the Instax Mini Evo Type C:

• 10 lens effects
• 10 film effects
• Printing lever
• Exposure and white balance adjustment
• Flash and timer
• Mini film format (86mm x 54mm)

Advantages of the Instax Mini Evo Type C:

The Mini Evo Type C camera is a 3-in-1 camera: shoot, view, and print. It has an elegant and compact design; take it with you everywhere and capture your memories instantly. This Instax can be charged via USB and has a microSD port.

Disadvantages:

Although it is a hybrid camera, the sensor quality remains low compared to other digital cameras. Additionally, if you choose this Instax instant camera, the price will be higher than that of an entry-level Instax such as the Instax Mini 12 or the Mini 40.

4. Instax Mini 40: The retro and efficient instant camera

The Instax Mini 40 offered by Instax draws heavily from the features of the Instax Mini 11 model; it differs in its retro style. So, why choose the Instax Mini 40 camera over the Instax Mini 11? It’s simply a matter of the style you’re looking for.

While the Instax Mini 11 instant camera has a playful design with its pastel shades, the Instax Mini 40 stands out with its classic and faux-vintage aesthetic. This model caters to a more mature and discreet audience.

Features of the Instax Mini 40:

• Built-in selfie mode
• Built-in flash
• Retro style
• Mini film format (86mm x 54mm)

Advantages of the Instax Mini 40:

The Instax Mini 40 instant camera allows you to obtain instant photos in the size of a credit card, ideal for slipping behind your phone case or into your wallet. Choosing the Instax Mini 40 means choosing all the features of the Instax Mini 11 with a retro, mature, and discreet style.

Disadvantages:

The Instax Mini 40 offers fewer features compared to models like the Instax Mini 99 or the Mini Evo Type C, which somewhat limits your creativity when taking your instant photos.

So, which Instax Mini should you choose?

The Instax Mini lineup offers a wide range of models. Between the Instax Mini 99, the Mini 40, the Mini Evo Type C, and the Mini 12, the choice is vast and there’s something for everyone.

Your choice of instant camera will mainly depend on the aesthetic style you desire (a sleek model? Instax Mini 40, a trendy and colorful style? Instax Mini 12), the number of features you want (many? Instax Mini 99), and the price you’re willing to pay. If you’re looking for a 3-in-1 instant camera offering more flexibility when taking photos, then choose the Instax Mini Evo Type C.