The Fuji Instax Camera is one of the most popular models used all over the world.
The release of the Fujifilm Instax Mini 11 features many similar features to the Instax Mini 9 but has some new and improved upgrades that make it easier to use – and slightly better to look at.
You may be wondering what happened to the Instax Mini 10.
Unfortunately, the name was used on a 1998 model, which is why it skipped straight to 11.
So when comparing the Instax Mini 9 vs 11, which instant camera is better?
This article explores the similarities and differences between the two before coming to a conclusion.
Fujifilm Instax Mini 9 vs 11
First and foremost, the appearance of the Fujifilm Instax Mini 11 looks slightly different from the Instax Mini 9.
At a quick glance, both instant film cameras appear the same.
However, if you take a closer look, you will see that the Fujifilm Instax Mini 11 is slightly smaller and rounded and some of the buttons/features have been moved to different places.
- Slim body size with transparent ring lens
- Automatic exposure - The Mini 11 automatically selects the...
- 1-touch Selfie Mode – The Mini 11 has a built-in macro mode and...
Last update on 2023-05-12 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
The material around the lens barrel has been changed, which adds an element of contrast to the device.
The Instax Mini 11 also comes in five new colors, which sets it apart from the Mini 9.
When taking a selfie with the Mini 9, users must manually attach a selfie lens each time.
Not only was the lens barrel fiddly to attach, but the minimum focus distance was also heavily reduced from 60 cm to between 35 cm and 50 cm.
Thankfully, the Fujifilm Instax Mini 11 has an integrated selfie mode which requires users to pull the front of the lens outwards and click it into place.
This is also useful for getting a close-up of other objects you may want to photograph.
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The manually operated switch on the Instax Mini 9 requires the user to select between five different options.
The settings range from bright light (such as sunshine) to darker exposure indoors.
Users can find the setting on an LED display located on top of the lens barrel before capturing an image.
The Instax Mini 11 has a built-in auto exposure system, so you can capture the image without deciding which setting you may need.
This can be frustrating to some users as they can no longer override the setting the instant camera chooses.
The Fujifilm Instax Mini 9 has a fixed shutter speed of 1/60 sec.
However, the Mini 11 has a variable shutter speed that ranges between 1/ 2 to 1/250 sec.
This allows the instant camera to capture images in a wider selection of lighting conditions, whatever the weather or time of day.
The Fujifilm Instax Mini 11 is also capable of capturing images with bright backgrounds due to slow shutter speeds.
The Mini 9 is sold with a handy strap which is useful when on the go.
The Mini 11 also includes two shutter button accessories that match the color of the instant camera.
As discussed above, the Instax Mini 11 has been released in five new beautiful colors (ice white, charcoal gray, lilac purple, blush pink, sky blue), setting it apart from the Instax Mini 9.
Fujifilm Instax Mini 9 vs Fujifilm Instax Mini 11 Specs
The table below gives the product specifics for each device.
| Model | Instax Mini 9 | Instax Mini 11 |
| Focusing Range | 0.6m | 0.3mm and beyond |
| Power Supply | 2X AA batteries | 2X AA batteries |
| Weight & Dimensions | 307 grams (excluding batteries, instant film pack, and strap) 116 x 118.3 x 68.2mm | 293 grams (excluding batteries, instant film pack, and strap) 107.6mm x 121.2mm x 67.3mm |
| Shutter | 1/60 sec. speed | Variable shutter speed 1/2 to 1/250 sec. |
| Exposure Control | Manual switching system | Automatic |
| Flash | Constant firing flash output | Constant firing flash output |
| Color | Smoky white, lime green, flamingo pink, ice blue, cobalt blue | Ice white, charcoal gray, lilac purple, blush pink, sky blue. |
Is Instax Mini 9 or 11 Better?
“If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it.”
From the outset, the Instax Mini 11 seems to be the better instant camera with its sleeker appearance, auto exposure system, and integrated selfie mode.
However, the automatic exposure may be a hindrance as users cannot override the system to suit their preferences.
The different color camera also means that old accessories purchased for the Mini 9 will not match the Mini 11.
The answer solely lies with the individual on this one.
Yes, the Instax Mini 11 is the new and improved version, but that does not necessarily mean it is better.
Does Instax Mini 9 and 11 Use the Same Film?
The Fujifilm Instax Mini 9 and 11 use the same film, which is good to know if you have tons of unused film from your Mini 9. Both instant film cameras use the same 62×46 mm Instax instant camera film as well as the same lens barrel (60mm f12.7).
Each film pack includes 10 shots of high-quality photos that you can fit into your wallet, purse, or mini photo frame.
This high-speed ISO 800 film is specially made for Instax cameras allowing users to get the most out of their captured images.
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Instax Mini 9 vs 11 Photo Quality
The Instax Mini 11 aims to produce brighter, better photos with a high-performance flash.
The automatic exposure settings capture bright backgrounds and subjects even in dark settings.
The light of the flash on an Instax Mini 9 does fail to pick up anything in a dark background which renders the image dark-looking.
- Takes 2 AA batteries
- New selfie mirror; Picture size: 62 x 46 millimeter and shutter...
- New macro lens adapter for close ups 35 centimeters to 50...
Last update on 2023-05-12 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Close-up shots and selfies have never looked better as the lens barrel allows users to capture a subject from 30cm to 50cm away, creating clear-cut images.
The minimum focus distance on a Mini 9 is 60 cm, and the detachable selfie lens would reduce this to between 35 cm and 50 cm.
This reduces the clarity, and pictures may appear slightly blurry.
Pros
Easy to Use
Both the Mini 9 and the Mini 11 are simple to use, from taking cool pics to loading the film.
The Fujifilm Instax Mini 11 works the same as the Mini 9, so users will not have any difficulty even though it is a different product.
Endless Fun
Both instant cameras provide endless fun for users, whether taking photos for a project or with friends.
The selfie mode on the Mini 11 produces better photos than the Instax Mini 9 as it is integrated into the instant camera, unlike the Mini 9 where you have to fiddle around with the attachment.
Worth the Price
The Fujifilm Instax Mini 11 retails at a slightly higher price than the Instax Mini 9.
The price of both seems reasonable based on the technology of the devices and how durable they are.
Cons
Not Much Difference Between Instax Mini 9 And 11
There doesn’t seem to be a big difference between the two Instax mini cameras apart from the automatic exposure settings and the color range on the Mini 11.
The big question, therefore, is the Mini 11 worth the extra price tag?
Film Can Be Costly
While we can agree that both of these two instant cameras are some of the least expensive on the market, the film runs out quite quickly, which can be costly.
Exposure Settings
The exposure settings are most definitely the biggest change between the two models.
Although automatic exposure is a huge help when it comes to lighting conditions, it may be frustrating for users that they can no longer override the software to alter the exposure.
However, the Mini 9 can sometimes overexpose pics, particularly when the light is too bright.
Accessories
The accessories that come with the Mini 9 do not match any of the Mini 11 colors.
Therefore, users may need to purchase more accessories to match.
The embellishments that come with the Mini 11 do not stick to the flash shutter button well and often fall off.
While this is not a major issue, it is slightly annoying.
Quality
The picture quality is not the best for either instant camera.
The selfie mode on the ice blue Mini 9 takes the minimum distance out of range, so images can sometimes be slightly blurry.
However, it must be noted that the Fujifilm Instax Mini Camera does not claim to be a professional and is best used on the go to create fun memories with friends and family.
It is unlikely the Fujifilm Instax Camera would even be a choice for a professional photographer.
Instax 9 vs 11: The Bottom Line
Overall, the Fujifilm Instax Mini 11 is better if an upgrade is what you are looking for.
- Slim body size with transparent ring lens
- Automatic exposure - The Mini 11 automatically selects the...
- 1-touch Selfie Mode – The Mini 11 has a built-in macro mode and...
Last update on 2023-05-12 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
The new Instax Mini features, cosmetic adjustments, and improved technology are hard to compare to the Mini 9.
However, if none of the above appeals to you, then you might want to stick with the instant camera you currently have.
The improved features help users capture photos more clearly, and upgrading to the Fujifilm Instax Mini 11 may be ideal if you are interested in photography and want to use the device to practice taking pictures.
However, the answer depends on how and what you plan to use your Instax for.
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 :)
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