When Instax was first introduced by Fujifilm in 1998, it was an instant hit. The company’s entry to the instant camera and film market has been a global success. It allows users to shoot and print photos in real-time. Even with the advent of smartphones, there is something nostalgic and joyful about seeing pictures in print, and hence, having an Instax is a good idea.
With several models available, which one is the right choice? To help you decide, this short post will give you a quick look at Instax Mini 9 vs 11. These are two of their best models to date, and hence, you can expect that both instant cameras will demonstrate exceptional performance and incredible features.
Overview
Both the Instax Mini 9 and 11 rely on the same printing method. They print a maximum paper size of 2.44 x 1.181 inches, and they can both hold up to 10 papers. Plus, they are both using two AA batteries as the source of power.
From the outside, they look almost the same cosmetically, except that the Instax Mini 9 is a bit chunkier. The Mini 11 is an improved version, not only in terms of size and shape but also features. As you will learn later on, the Mini 11 packs several improvements that make it a lot better than the Mini 9. The best thing is that it is as affordable, so you don’t have to spend a lot if you want to get started in the instant camera trend.
Design
When comparing the two instant cameras, a good starting point to talk about is their design. The two do not look much different from each other. The easiest way to tell them apart when they are side by side is their size.
The Mini 9 has dimensions of 116 x 118.3 x 68.2 mm and weighs 307 grams. Meanwhile, the Instax 11 is a slimmer and lighter version with dimensions of 107.6 x 121.2 x 673 mm and weighs 293 grams.
In terms of aesthetics, the Mini 11 has a rounder and softer appearance. Another notable difference is that they used a different material around the lens. It is a good contrast, adding more character to the instant camera. You can also change the shutter button stickers. There are two stickers that are already provided in the box.
The color options are also different. For Instax Mini 9, you can choose from cobalt blue, flamingo pink, smoky white, lime green, and ice blue. Meanwhile, for the Instax Mini 11, the available colors are ice white, bluish pink, lilac purple, sky blue, and charcoal gray.
Exposure Settings
One of the most important considerations when choosing an instant camera is the exposure setting. This will affect the quality of the photos and the versatility of the camera. The more varied the setting is, the more adjustments it will allow to suit various environments. It makes sure that the images are not too bright or too dark.
With the Mini 9, there is a manual exposure setting. This means that you can customize the exposure depending on the environment. You need to set-it up yourself. There are five brightness settings for you to choose from – High, Indoors, Cloudy, Sunny, and Very Sunny. To choose the desired exposure, turn the adjustment ring and click the shutter button.
On the other hand, with the improved Mini 11, the exposure settings are automatic. This means that you do not have to choose the setting manually. The camera works as if it has a mind of its own, allowing it to detect the right exposure depending on the environment where you are shooting.
Shutter Speed
Another technical specification worth checking in an instant camera is the shutter speed. It will change the brightness of the photo and can also create a dramatic effect. It can blur motion or freeze action, allowing you to be more creative in your shots.
Instax Mini 9 has a fixed shutter speed at 1/60. In contrast, Instax Mini 11 has an adjustable shutter speed from ½ to 1/250. This will vary depending on the light that the sensor captures. As a result, you can get better photos with Instax Mini 11 compared to its predecessor.
Selfie Mode
A lot of users of instant cameras use it for taking selfies. So, it is important that you look at the selfie mode offered. In the Mini 9, taking a selfie is possible by attaching a personal selfie lens. This is already included as a part of the package. This will reduce the minimum focus distance of the camera, allowing it to take a closer shot. However, there are some complaints about how fiddly the attachment is. It is also quite a hassle that you still need to always bring the attachment and connect it to the camera every time you will be taking a selfie.
The company heard the complaints of the users of the Mini 9, so they introduced a new selfie mode in Instax 11. The selfie lens is already integrated in the camera, so you don’t need to attach it manually. All that you have to do is pull out the front lens. Return the lens to its original position once you are done taking a photo in selfie mode.
Final Verdict
Now, it’s time to make a decision! Which of the two instant cameras should you choose? There is no right or wrong answer to this question. Regardless of what you pick, you can be guaranteed of exceptional performance. However, if we have to pick one, we’d say that the Instax Mini 11 is the better option. It has upgraded features. Naturally, since it is the newer version, it has improved performance compared to its predecessor. From the automatic exposure settings to the built-in selfie mode, it has tons of advantages over the Instax Mini 9. It is packed with advanced features that make it deliver the best bang for the buck.
