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Instax Mini 11 vs. 12: What's the Difference?
Annika Jansen
What is the difference between the Instax Mini 11 and Mini 12?
Looking for a fun instant camera to capture tangible memories on the spot? Then the Fujifilm Instax Mini 11 and the Instax Mini 12 are two models that will certainly be on your list. Both cameras are hugely popular with everyone who loves spontaneous photos, cheerful colours and the joy of instant printing.
Below we compare the design, operation and features of the Instax Mini 11 and Mini 12, so you can see at a glance which camera best suits your style, use and photo moments.
What are the key differences between the Instax Mini 11 and Instax Mini 12?
| Specification | Instax Mini 11 | Instax Mini 12 |
|---|---|---|
| Model | Instax Mini 11 | Instax Mini 12 |
| Lens operation | Manual pop-out | Twist-lens (turn to switch on) |
| Close-up mode | Manual switch | Integrated in twist-lens |
| Parallax correction | Not present | Present (viewfinder shifts in close-up mode) |
| Flash | Automatic flash | Improved automatic flash control |
| Print time | Approx. 7 seconds | Approx. 5 seconds |
| Dimensions | 121.2 × 107.6 × 67.3 mm | 122 × 104 × 66.6 mm |
| Weight | 293 g (without film/batteries) | 306 g (without film/batteries) |
| Power | 2× AA batteries | 2× AA batteries |
| Colour options | Lilac Purple, Sky Blue, Charcoal Grey, Blush Pink, Ice White | Mint Green, Clay White, Blossom Pink, Lilac Purple, Pastel Green |
| Recommended price | approx. €79 | approx. €89 |
| Year introduced | 2020 | 2023 |
What are the advantages and disadvantages of the Instax Mini 11?
Advantages
- Simple operation: pop out the lens and start shooting straight away
- Automatic exposure for consistent results, even in low light
- Compact and lightweight, easy to take anywhere
- Ideal for beginners: no complicated settings needed
- Affordable entry-level model within the Instax range
- Available in a range of trendy pastel colours
Disadvantages
- No parallax correction: what you see through the viewfinder does not always exactly match your photo
- Close-up mode must be switched on manually, which is less intuitive
- Print time slightly slower than the Mini 12
- Design feels a little simpler compared to its successor
What are the advantages and disadvantages of the Instax Mini 12?
Advantages
- New twist-lens system makes switching on and switching to close-up mode easier
- Parallax correction for close-ups: what you see through the viewfinder is more accurate
- Faster print time than the Mini 11 (approx. 5 seconds)
- Improved automatic flash control for more even exposure
- Fresher, more modern design with rounded edges
- Ideal for selfies and detail shots thanks to intuitive operation
Disadvantages
- Slightly heavier than the Mini 11
- No dramatic improvement in image quality over the Mini 11
- Slightly higher purchase price compared to the Mini 11
- Still no option to adjust settings manually
What are the specification differences between the Instax Mini 11 and the Instax Mini 12?
| Specification | Instax Mini 11 | Instax Mini 12 |
|---|---|---|
| Model | Instax Mini 11 | Instax Mini 12 |
| Year introduced | 2020 | 2023 |
| Print format | 62 × 46 mm | 62 × 46 mm |
| Film type | Fujifilm Instax Mini | Fujifilm Instax Mini |
| Lens operation | Manual pop-out | Twist-lens (turn to switch on/off) |
| Close-up mode | Manual switch | Integrated in twist-lens |
| Parallax correction | Not present | Present (viewfinder shift in close-up) |
| Flash | Automatic flash (fixed intensity) | Automatic flash with improved exposure |
| Exposure | Automatic | Automatic |
| Print time | Approx. 7 seconds | Approx. 5 seconds |
| Power | 2× AA batteries | 2× AA batteries |
| Dimensions (W×H×D) | 107.6 × 121.2 × 67.3 mm | 104 × 122 × 66.6 mm |
| Weight | 293 g (without batteries/film) | 306 g (without batteries/film) |
| Colour options | Blush Pink, Sky Blue, Charcoal Grey, Ice White, Lilac Purple | Pastel Green, Blossom Pink, Lilac Purple, Clay White, Mint Green |
| Recommended price | approx. €79 | approx. €89 |
Which Instax camera suits you best?
Both the Instax Mini 11 and the Instax Mini 12 are compact, user-friendly instant cameras with which you can create tangible memories in no time. If you are looking for a straightforward camera without any fuss, with a familiar design and a sharp price, the Instax Mini 11 is an excellent choice. This camera is ideal for children, beginners or anyone who just wants to point, shoot and print.
If you want a little more convenience, more modern operation and greater accuracy when framing close-ups or selfies, the Instax Mini 12 is a better fit for you. Thanks to the twist-lens, parallax correction and improved flash control, this camera is a little smarter and more intuitive to use — without losing any of the cheerful character of instant photography.
