The Instax Mini 9 is more colorful and selfie-friendly than the Instax Mini 8.
Launched in March 2017, the easiest way to describe the Instax Mini 9 is an enhanced version of the ever-popular Instax Mini 8 which is, arguably, the best-selling instant camera of all time.

While the look and feel of the Instax Mini 9 are comparable to its predecessor there are a few noteworthy upgrades:
- The addition of a selfie mirror allows you to check the framing of your shot before taking the picture
- The Instax Mini 9 comes is available in 5 unique and stylish colors (more on this later), namely cobalt blue, ice blue, flamingo pink, lime green, and smoky white
- It comes with a close-up lens attachment which makes shooting up to 35 cm away possible
To be honest, the enhancements to the Instax Mini 9 are probably not enough to justify upgrading from the Instax Mini 8.
READ NEXT: HOW TO RESET INSTAX MINI 9 CAMERAS
However, if you are a die-hard Instax fan or new to the market and looking to buy a fantastic instant camera then read on and find out more of the strengths and weaknesses of the Instax Mini 9 and then you can decide if this is the right camera for you.
To find out more about the Mini 9 please take a look at this video review:
[embedyt] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X4QMviAwfmo[/embedyt]
PROS & CONS OF THE INSTAX MINI 9

Pros
- Simple and easy to use, making it perfect for weddings and other special occasions
- Suitable for children and can be a great introduction to photography
- Available in a unique and stylish range of colors
- Great value for money (retailing under $70 at the time of writing)
- Has a 4.6 star Amazon rating based on customer reviews!
Cons
- Minor enhancements over the Instax Mini 8 (somewhat understandable given the huge success of the Mini 8)
- As with all instant cameras, the cost of a film can be expensive
- Not ideal for taking photos some distance away
INSTAX MINI 9 KEY FEATURES
KEY FEATURE 1: AUTOMATIC SETTING SELECTION
The Instax Mini 9 is a very easy-to-use camera and after a short while of using the camera, you will be able to take good pictures.
One key feature of the Instax Mini 9 key is an automatic setting selection which informs you of the best setting for the current light conditions – all you have to do is simply turn the dial to the illuminated setting
There are four different exposure levels:
- Indoors, Night (F12.7)
- Cloudy, Shade (F16)
- Sunny, Slightly cloudy (F22)
- Sunny and bright (F32)

KEY FEATURE 2: HI-KEY MODE
Selecting the fifth option on the dial, known as “hi-key” mode, will allow you to take photos with a softer impression.
INSTAX MINI 9 DESIGN
As we mentioned earlier in this article, the Instax Mini 9 has a matte plastic finish and comes in five unique colors (which we love!) as you can see below:





The Mini 9 weighs in at 307g making it light and compact enough to carry around in a small bag or rucksack.
CONCLUSION
The Instax Mini 9 is essentially an upgraded version of the Instax Mini 8 making it a great buy for anyone seeking a new instant camera.
If you already own a Mini 8 then the upgrades offered by the Mini 9 probably don’t justify the need to purchase the Mini 9 – unless of course, you are a selfie addict haha.
In summary, the Instax Mini 9 is a fun, easy-to-use camera that is very competitively priced all of which reflects in the 4.6-star rating it received based on customer reviews.
I hope you have found this Instax Mini 9 review helpful and would love to hear your thoughts so please comment below.
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Emma Johnson
I have loved photography from a young age and more recently started experimenting with Instant Cameras from Polaroid and Instax. I also love dancing and hanging out with my friends :)
This free cheat sheet will improve your instant camera photography skills by providing quick information on using instant cameras, lighting, taking selfies, and more!