Instax Mini SE vs Mini 12 – Check Which One Is Best & Why?

Instax Mini 12 & Instax Mini SE share many similarities, but there are also important differences, such as quality, performance, features, design, and connectivity. If you want the best one between them, I Would recommend the Instax Mini 12 rather than the Instax Mini SE. 

Table Of Contents hide
1 Why Do I Recommend The Instax Mini 12?
2 Side By Side Comparison
3 What Common Both Can Do?
4 Common Features

Why Do I Recommend The Instax Mini 12? 

  • The Instax Mini 12 has a twistable lens mechanism that powers the camera on and activates Close-Up mode quickly, compared to the Instax Mini SE’s toggle switch.
  • Instax Mini 12 features an optical viewfinder with parallax correction that helps align subjects more accurately in close-up shots to reduce framing errors compared to the Mini SE’s standard viewfinder.
  • It includes a larger selfie mirror that improves framing accuracy for self-portraits to capture better-composed selfies than with the smaller mirror on the Instax Mini SE.
  • The Instax Mini 12 has a lightweight and rounded design that enhances comfort during long periods of handheld use, making it more suitable for younger or casual users compared to the slightly heavier and boxier Instax Mini SE.
  • Instax Mini 12 uses easily replaceable AA batteries to quickly swap power sources on the go, which is more convenient in remote areas than waiting to recharge the Instax Mini SE’s internal battery.
  • It supports faster activation with its twist-to-start lens that allows users to be photo-ready in seconds & capture spontaneous moments more efficiently than the slower slide-switch on the Instax Mini SE.

Maybe the Instax Mini SE price can make you comfortable because it’s a little bit cheaper than the Instax Mini 12. But you have to compromise all the above-mentioned features. Now the Decision is Yours. I hope it was helpful to choose the right one.

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Check Mini 12 Best Price

Check Mini SE Best Price

Side By Side Comparison

FeatureInstax Mini 12Instax Mini SE
Design ShapeRounded, bubblyBoxy, squared-off
Exterior FinishGlossy plasticFaux leather texture
Color OptionsPastelClassic
Power Source2× AA batteriesBuilt-in rechargeable battery
Battery ChargingNot applicableUSB-C cable
Flash ModeAutomatic onlyAutomatic with manual override
Shutter Button PositionFront-sideTop-side
Viewfinder TypeOptical with parallax correctionOptical standard
Close-Up Mode ActivationTwist lens to second stopToggle switch near lens
Lens OperationTwist to extend/retractSlide switch to extend/retract
Selfie Mirror SizeLarge circular mirrorSmaller rectangular mirror
Lens Barrel MarkingsWhite ring with indicatorsColor-matched or contrast trim
Branding StyleMinimal text, playful logoClassic embossed branding
Weight (without film)Approx. 306gApprox. 330g
Shooting OrientationPortrait orientationLandscape orientation
PackagingYouthful, colorfulVintage-styled, muted tones
Price TierBudgetSlightly premium
Target AudienceTeenagers, casual usersYoung adults, retro enthusiasts
Included AccessoriesNoneStrap and USB-C cable
Special EditionsMultipleLimited variants
PriceCheck Mini 12 PriceCheck Mini SE Price

What Common Both Can Do?

  • Instant Film Format: Both cameras use Fujifilm Instax Mini film, allowing users to print wallet-sized photos instantly with vibrant colors and nostalgic appeal.
  • Built-in Flash: Each model includes an automatic flash, enabling users to capture well-lit photos in low-light settings without adjusting any manual controls.
  • Close-Up Mode: Both cameras feature a Close-Up mode, allowing users to take sharp and focused photos of subjects as close as 30 cm for detailed close-range shots.
  • Selfie Mirror: Each model is equipped with a built-in selfie mirror next to the lens, helping users frame themselves accurately when taking selfies.
  • Fixed Shutter Speed: Both feature a fixed shutter speed of 1/125 sec, ensuring consistent image exposure and reducing motion blur during casual shooting.
  • Auto Exposure System: Each camera has an automatic exposure system, allowing users to take properly balanced photos in various lighting conditions without manual adjustment.
  • Photo Ejection Mechanism: Both cameras automatically eject the film after a shot is taken, allowing users to watch the image develop without needing to press a separate button.
  • Print Development Time: Each model delivers fully developed photos in approximately 90 seconds, providing users with a quick, tangible result moments after capturing an image.
  • Point-and-Shoot Design: Both are designed as simple point-and-shoot cameras, allowing users of all ages to operate them easily without needing photography experience.

Check Mini 12 Best Price

Check Mini SE Best Price

Common Features

FeatureInstax Mini 12Instax Mini SE
Film TypeInstax Mini FilmInstax Mini Film
Print Size62 mm × 46 mm62 mm × 46 mm
Print SpeedApprox. 90 secondsApprox. 90 seconds
Lens Focal Length60 mm60 mm
Shooting Range0.3 m – ∞0.3 m – ∞
Close-Up ModeYesYes
Built-in Selfie MirrorYesYes
Auto ExposureYesYes
Built-in FlashYesYes
Flash Range0.3 m to 2.7 m0.3 m to 2.7 m
Shutter Speed1/125 sec1/125 sec
Viewfinder Magnification0.37×0.37×
Manual Film EjectNoNo
Photo Development TypeInstantInstant
Usage TypePoint-and-shootPoint-and-shoot
Price Check Mini 12 Price Check Mini SE Price

FAQ

What film do the Instax Mini 12 and Instax Mini SE use?
Both the Instax Mini 12 and Instax Mini SE use Fujifilm Instax Mini instant film, which produces credit card-sized prints measuring 62 x 46 mm.

Can I use the same film pack for both models?
Yes, the film packs are fully compatible across both models, so you can use the same pack interchangeably in either camera.

Is there a difference in photo quality between the Mini 12 and Mini SE?
No, both cameras produce the same photo quality since they share the same lens specs, exposure system, and film type.

Do both cameras have a built-in selfie mirror?
Yes, both models include a built-in selfie mirror near the lens to help frame self-portraits accurately.

Do the cameras automatically eject film after taking a photo?
Yes, both the Mini 12 and Mini SE automatically eject the film after pressing the shutter button—no manual steps required.

Is there a difference in flash performance between the two?
Both cameras use a built-in automatic flash with a similar effective range, although the SE has an override feature, the core flash strength remains consistent.

Can both cameras be used for close-up shots?
Yes, each camera includes a Close-Up mode for capturing sharp photos of subjects as close as 30 cm away.

Are the shutter speeds the same?
Yes, both the Mini 12 and Mini SE use a fixed shutter speed of 1/125 second, which helps prevent motion blur in typical lighting conditions.

Do both cameras have automatic exposure control?
Yes, they both feature an auto exposure system that adjusts brightness based on ambient lighting for well-balanced images.

Can I turn off the flash on either camera?
The Instax Mini 12 has automatic flash only, while the Instax Mini SE includes a flash override feature, though both flash units operate similarly when active.

Are both cameras beginner-friendly?
Yes, both are designed for point-and-shoot simplicity, making them ideal for children, teens, and casual users with no photography experience.

Do they come with accessories in the box?
The Instax Mini SE usually includes a wrist strap and USB-C charging cable, while the Mini 12 typically comes without accessories.

Do both cameras need batteries to operate?
Yes, both require power. The Mini 12 runs on two AA batteries, while the Mini SE uses a built-in rechargeable battery charged via USB-C.

Can I preview the photo before printing?
No, both cameras are analog instant film cameras, so there is no digital preview. Once the photo is taken, it is printed immediately.

How long does it take for the photo to develop?
Both models produce a visible image within 90 seconds after ejection, with full color development typically completed in under 2 minutes.

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