Instax Mini 7 vs 12: Which Instant Camera Reigns?
Ready to jump into the world of instant photography? The charm of a physical print in an instant is undeniable, and Fujifilm’s Instax Mini series has made it incredibly accessible. But with options like the Instax Mini 7 and the newer Mini 12, how do you choose the right camera for your needs?
This comparison dives deep into the features, design, and overall experience of both cameras. We’ll explore their strengths and weaknesses, helping you determine which instant camera best suits your style and budget. Get ready to discover which Instax Mini will become your new favorite companion.
Whether you’re a seasoned photographer or a complete beginner, understanding the differences between the Instax Mini 7 and the Mini 12 is key to capturing those precious moments. Let’s find out which camera will help you create lasting memories, one print at a time.
Specs at a Glance
| Feature | instax mini 7 | 12 |
|---|---|---|
| Film Type | Instax Mini | Instax Mini |
| Lens | Fixed | Fixed |
| Focusing | Fixed | Automatic |
| Flash | Built-in | Built-in |
| Viewfinder | Optical | Optical |
| Exposure Control | Manual Adjustment | Automatic |
| Selfie Mode | Yes | Yes |
| Close-up Capability | No | Yes |
| Power Source | 2 x AA Batteries | 2 x AA Batteries |
| Film Ejection | Automatic | Automatic |
| Dimensions (approx.) | 119.5 x 121.5 x 70.5 mm | 104 x 121 x 66.5 mm |
| Weight (approx.) | 290g (without batteries, strap, and film pack) | 306g (without batteries, strap, and film pack) |
Feature-by-Feature Breakdown
Design & Aesthetics
- Instax Mini 7: Features a more retro and boxy design. It’s generally considered more basic in its appearance. Pros include its simplicity; Cons can include a less modern feel compared to newer models.
- 12: Boasts a more modern, rounded, and playful design. It often comes in a variety of vibrant colors. Pros include a more contemporary aesthetic; Cons can be a matter of personal preference.
- Winner: 12
Lens & Image Quality
- Instax Mini 7: Typically uses a fixed-focus lens. Image quality is decent for casual snapshots but might not be as sharp as the 12. Pros are its simplicity; Cons can include less sharpness.
- 12: Features a slightly improved lens and automatic exposure control. This leads to better image quality, particularly in varied lighting conditions. Pros include sharper images; Cons might not be noticeable to casual users.
- Winner: 12
Brightness Control/Exposure Compensation
- Instax Mini 7: Often includes a manual brightness adjustment (sometimes with a dial). This gives a degree of control over the image. Pros include user control; Cons can include the need to manually adjust.
- 12: Features Automatic Exposure. This simplifies operation and helps produce well-exposed photos consistently. Pros include ease of use; Cons can include less user control in certain situations.
- Winner: 12
Flash Performance
- Instax Mini 7: Has a built-in flash that can sometimes be a bit overpowering in certain situations. Pros are that it provides a flash; Cons can include the flash is overwhelming.
- 12: Features an improved flash system that is generally better at balancing light and preventing overexposure. Pros include better flash performance; Cons are minimal.
- Winner: 12
Close-Up Capability
- Instax Mini 7: Does not typically include a close-up lens or mode. This means it may struggle with detailed close-up shots. Pros are that it takes photos; Cons include a lack of close-up capabilities.
- 12: Includes a “Close-up Mode” activated by twisting the lens, allowing for sharper close-up photos. Pros include close-up shots; Cons are that it needs to be activated.
- Winner: 12
Ease of Use
- Instax Mini 7: Simple to use, but might require some manual adjustments for optimal results. Pros include simplicity; Cons can include manual adjustments needed.
- 12: Designed for ease of use with automatic settings and a simple on/off twist lens. Pros include ease of use; Cons are minimal.
- Winner: 12
Film Compatibility
- Instax Mini 7: Uses instax mini film, which is widely available. Pros include wide film availability; Cons are minimal.
- 12: Uses instax mini film, the same as the mini 7. Pros include wide film availability; Cons are minimal.
- Winner: Tie
Price & Availability
- Instax Mini 7: Often available at a lower price point compared to the 12, especially used. Pros include lower price; Cons can include harder to find.
- 12: Generally has a slightly higher price but is widely available. Pros include availability; Cons include a higher price.
- Winner: Tie
Winner by Category
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| Ease of Use | 12 |
| Features | 12 |
| Design | 12 |
| Value | mini 7 |
| Close-Up Capability | 12 |
| Overall | 12 |
What They Have in Common
- Film Type: Both cameras use Fujifilm Instax Mini film, producing credit card-sized instant photos.
- Ease of Use: Both are designed to be user-friendly, making them great for beginners and casual users.
- Built-in Flash: Both cameras feature a built-in flash for taking photos in low-light conditions.
- Optical Viewfinder: Both cameras utilize an optical viewfinder for framing your shots.
- Battery Type: Both cameras use readily available AA batteries for power.
Instax Mini 7 vs 12 Buying Guide
Design and Aesthetics
The Instax Mini 7 offers a more retro and compact design, making it pocket-friendly and easy to carry. Its rounded edges and simpler button layout contribute to its classic appeal. The Mini 12, on the other hand, boasts a more modern and playful aesthetic with a bulbous lens and a twist-to-on/off mechanism. This design gives it a more contemporary look. The choice largely depends on your personal style preference; do you favor vintage charm or a sleek, updated look?
Ease of Use and Features
Both cameras are incredibly easy to use, making them perfect for beginners. The Mini 7 features automatic exposure control, simplifying the shooting process. The Mini 12 takes ease of use a step further with its automatic exposure and parallax correction. The Mini 12 also includes a close-up mode, which allows for sharper images from a closer distance. Both cameras are user-friendly, but the Mini 12 offers a slightly more streamlined experience with its advanced features and automatic settings.
Image Quality and Performance
The image quality is comparable between the two, with both cameras producing the iconic Instax prints. However, the Mini 12 often performs better in low-light conditions due to its improved automatic exposure. The Mini 12’s close-up mode also helps to produce sharper and clearer images for macro shots. Both cameras deliver the characteristic soft focus and vibrant colors associated with Instax cameras. The Mini 12 generally provides slightly better results in terms of exposure and clarity.
Price and Value
The Instax Mini 7 is typically more affordable than the Mini 12, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious buyers. However, the Mini 12’s additional features and improved performance justify its slightly higher price point for some users. Consider your budget and desired features when making your decision. If you prioritize value and are happy with basic functionality, the Mini 7 is a great choice. If you want a few more features, the Mini 12 is a good choice.
Battery Life and Maintenance
Both cameras use AA batteries, which are readily available and easy to replace. Battery life is similar, allowing for a decent number of prints before needing to swap them out. There’s not a lot to maintain with either camera. Both cameras are pretty durable, but you should take care not to drop or subject them to extreme temperatures. Keep your lens clean for optimal image quality with both models.
Accessories and Customization
Both the Mini 7 and Mini 12 have a range of available accessories, including film packs with different border designs, camera cases, and photo albums to store your prints. While both cameras offer similar accessory options, the Mini 12 may have a wider selection of cases due to its newer release. Consider what accessories you might want to personalize your experience. The availability of accessories should not be a major factor in the decision.
Who Should Buy What?
Buy instax mini 7 If…
- You prefer a more basic and affordable instant camera.
- You want a camera with a slightly retro aesthetic.
- You don’t need advanced features like automatic exposure or close-up capabilities.
- You are on a budget.
Buy 12 If…
- You want a camera with automatic exposure for easier shooting.
- You want a camera with a built-in close-up lens for selfies and detailed shots.
- You prefer a more modern design and color options.
- You value simplicity and ease of use in taking photos.
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the main difference between the Instax Mini 7 and 12?
The Instax Mini 12 offers several improvements over the Mini 7, including a more modern design, automatic exposure control, and a close-up mode for sharper close-up shots. The Mini 12 also has a twist-to-on/off lens, which is a significant change. The Mini 7 is more affordable but lacks some of the advanced features of the newer model. It is more compact also.
Which camera is better for beginners?
Both cameras are very user-friendly and suitable for beginners. However, the Instax Mini 12’s automatic exposure and close-up mode make it slightly easier to use and achieve good results, even in tricky lighting conditions. The Mini 7 is still very easy to use, but the 12’s features provide a slightly better experience. Both are great options.
Does the Mini 12 take better pictures than the Mini 7?
Generally, yes. The Instax Mini 12 tends to produce slightly better image quality, especially in low-light situations, due to its improved automatic exposure. The close-up mode also allows for sharper images at closer distances. The Mini 7 can produce great images, but the Mini 12 offers a small edge in terms of overall image quality and ease of use.
Are the film packs interchangeable?
Yes, both the Instax Mini 7 and Mini 12 use the same Instax Mini film packs. This means you can use any Instax Mini film with either camera, providing you with a wide variety of border styles and designs to choose from. This is a very convenient feature, as it means you’re not restricted in your film selection.
What kind of batteries do they use?
Both the Instax Mini 7 and Mini 12 use two AA batteries. This makes it easy to find replacements when the batteries run out. AA batteries are widely available and relatively inexpensive. This is a convenient feature, as you can easily swap them out when needed, ensuring your camera is always ready to go.
Is the close-up mode on the Mini 12 a significant improvement?
Yes, the close-up mode on the Instax Mini 12 allows you to take sharper photos from a closer distance (30-50cm). This is a significant improvement over the Mini 7, which does not have a dedicated close-up mode. This feature is particularly useful for selfies and capturing details.
Which camera is more stylish?
This is subjective, but the Instax Mini 12 has a more modern and playful design, with its bulbous lens and twist-to-on/off mechanism. The Mini 7 has a more retro, classic look. Ultimately, the choice depends on your personal preference. The Mini 12 is often considered more stylish by many people because of its contemporary design.
Final Verdict
The Instax Mini 12 edges out the Mini 7 due to its improved features, particularly the close-up mode and better automatic exposure. While the Mini 7 is a solid and affordable option, the Mini 12 offers a more refined user experience and slightly better image quality. The design upgrade and ease of use make the Mini 12 the preferred choice.
Winner: Instax Mini 12