Fujifilm Instax Mini 9 vs Mini 8: Which should you buy?

The Instax Mini 9 is newly designed, has more features, and is more cost-efficient than its older counterpart.

Breaking it down

The Instax Mini 9 has many features that the Instax Mini 8 doesn't, like the selfie mirror and macro lens for a variety of different shots that you couldn't get with older models.

Many think that buying an older version of something might save you some cash in the long run. It's the opposite with the Mini 9 and Mini 8: the Mini 9 often goes on sale for well under what it's worth, while the dated Mini 8 stays at its original price even though it's been discontinued by the manufacturer.

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Header Cell - Column 0 Fujifilm Instax Mini 9Fujifilm Instax Mini 8
Cost$55$62
Customer Rating⅘ Stars4.5/5 Stars
Product Dimensions3 x 5 x 5.5 inches3 x 5 x 5.5 inches
Item Weight13.6 ounces10.9 ounces
Batteries2 AA batteries required. (included)2 AA batteries required. (included)
FilmFujifilm Instant Film "instax mini"Fujifilm Instant Film "instax mini"
Picture Size62 x 46mm62 x 46mm
Lens2 components, 2 elements, f = 60 mm, 1:12.7N/A
ViewfinderReal image finder, 0.37x, with target spotN/A
Focusing0.6m - ∞0.6m - ∞
ShutterShutter speed: 1/60 sec.Shutter speed: 1/60 sec.
Exposure ControlManual switching system (LED indicator in exposure meter)Manual switching system (LED indicator in exposure meter)
Film Feeding outAutomaticN/A
FlashConstant firing flash (automatic light adjustment)Constant firing flash (automatic light adjustment)
Auto power off time5 minN/A
OthersExposure counter (number of unexposed films), film pack confirmation windowExposure counter (number of unexposed films), film pack confirmation window

While both cameras can shoot, print, and develop film instantaneously, it's clear that the newer model of the Fujifilm Instax Mini has more features, a better price tag, and it isn't discontinued by the manufacturer, either, which may affect how easy it will be to get parts in the future, should you need them.

The only thing that the Instax Mini 8 has on the Instax Mini 9 is the color selection and the super, super bizarre character/shape options. Seriously, you can get an Instax Mini 8 camera in the shape of a Minion. Or Hello Kitty. Or with a Minnie Mouse theme. I can't make this stuff up, people. It also uses the same film as the Mini 9.

Bryan M Wolfe
Staff Writer

Bryan M. Wolfe has written about technology for over a decade on various websites, including TechRadar, AppAdvice, and many more. Before this, he worked in the technology field across different industries, including healthcare and education. He’s currently iMore’s lead on all things Mac and macOS, although he also loves covering iPhone, iPad, and Apple Watch. Bryan enjoys watching his favorite sports teams, traveling, and driving around his teenage daughter to her latest stage show, audition, or school event in his spare time. He also keeps busy walking his black and white cocker spaniel, Izzy, and trying new coffees and liquid grapes.