Instax Mini 90 vs Mini 40: Which Is Best For You?
One of the most daunting tasks every photographer has to go through is choosing the right camera for their needs. This extends to instant cameras as well, and two popular options for many are Fujifilm’s Instax mini 90 and mini 40. These cameras look similar in many aspects, but if you get down to it, you realize they have a ton of differences as well.
Coming from the same brand, these cameras share some specifications such as the lens, the style, ease of use, and styling. Still, there are some dissimilarities. For one, they have differing appearances. The mini 40 has a sleek appearance, while the mini 90 sports a more vintage look. Also, the mini 90 has more control options and can be seen to be more complicated while the mini 40 is easy to use. There is a selfie mode in the mini 40 camera that is not present in its counterpart.
Below is a comparative article that reviews both cameras so that you can make an easy decision.
Instax Mini 90 vs Mini 40
If you are looking for an instant camera, you will encounter many options to choose from. There are so many brands in the market that manufacture the same. Let’s narrow it down to Fujifilm.
This brand is well-known for high-quality instant cameras. It has a very wide and diverse product line, which means you cannot miss what you are looking for. But it also means that you could have a hard time settling on one. For instance, we have the Instax mini 90 and min 40—two top-selling instant cameras from the same brand.
These cameras are designed with specifics and features to suit different preferences and experience levels. Below is a comparison chart for a more visual side-by-side comparison of some key specifications.
Comparison Chart
| Instax mini 90 | Instax mini 40 | |
| Size | 91 x 114 x 58 mm | 104 x 121 x 65mm |
| Weight | 10.4 oz | 11.6 oz |
| Lens | 60mm f/1.27 | 60mm f/1.27 |
| Batteries | Rechargeable NP-455 battery | 2 AA batteries |
| Price | Check Price | Check Price |
Instax Mini 90 Overview
The mini 90 camera offers more features that are advanced enough for professionals. It also gives creative control for those who are looking to fine-tune their shots. This camera has a very attractive look with a 2-tone finish. It is available in three different colors; red, Neo Classic, and brown.
This camera is designed to be a point-and-shoot camera that is very easy to use. It can shoot it a variety of modes depending on the setting and your preferences. However, it comes at a much higher price range.
Pros
- It comes with more advanced features
- It has plenty of shooting modes
- There is more manual control
- It uses a rechargeable battery
Cons
- This camera is on the expensive side
Instax Mini 40 Overview
The mini 40 camera has a more vintage aesthetic, but still maintains a professional and premium look. It is best suited for beginners since it is very easy to use. Moreover, it comes with a framing mirror for selfie mode, unlike its counterpart.
If you prefer simple cameras and do not want to deal with plenty of features, then this camera is for you. The body is more plastic, with a textured finish and silver detailing.
The textured leather finish makes it comfortable to hold. Its flash is located beside the viewfinder, and the shutter button is just below. The flash is fully automatic and fires every time the shutter button is pressed, regardless of the lighting conditions.
Pros
- It is very affordable
- It comes with a framing mirror for selfies
- It is easy to use and hence ideal for beginners
- It makes an ideal basic point-and-shoot camera
Cons
- It lacks much manual control
What Are the Similarities Between the Instax Mini 90 and Mini 40?
There are some similar features on these cameras. For one, you can use either of them to take the same pictures—you can count on both of them to deliver high-quality photos.
Also, they sport retro styling in a plastic body. Moreover, they are both fitted with the same type of lens and use Instax mini film. They are also easy to use.
What Are the Differences Between the Instax Mini 90 and Mini 40?
Now, onto their dissimilarities.
Color and appearance
The mini 40 camera has a more sleek appearance and looks more stylish. It is only available in a black color that adds to its timeless and modern look. The mini 90 is a more vintage camera with its two-tone design. It has more color options as well.
Control Options
The instax mini 40 is known for its simplicity, in that it does not have many controls and buttons. There are countable dials and buttons—nothing complicated. The mini 90, on the other hand, is a bit more advanced—and this means more control options.
For starters, it has a wide range of shooting options from the macro, and landscape, to double exposure mode. This gives you more control and the freedom to fine-tune your photographs. It also features an LCD screen to make it easy to change settings.
Long exposures
If you would like to experiment with long exposures, the mini 90 comes with a bulb mode. This allows the shutter to remain open for up to 10 seconds. The mini 40 does not have such manual controls which in turn limit your ability to take long exposures.
Battery
These cameras also differ in battery type and battery life. The mini 40 uses a pair of AA batteries that are to be replaced when they run out. Meanwhile, the mini 90 camera has a rechargeable lithium-ion battery pack. This is a more environment-friendly option and cost-effective in the long run.
Final Verdict
Choose the Instax mini 90 or mini 40 all comes down to your level of experience and your needs. If you want to have more control over your shots and explore different features, then the Mini 90 is ideal. However, if you just want something simple and easy to use, the Mini 40 is a great start.
Conclusion
We all agree that Fujifilm’s Instax range cameras are one of the best. Both the mini 90 and mini 40 cameras are ideal for those who like experimenting with their photography. Hopefully, this article comes in handy when you want to decide between them.
You Can Also Read:
- Instax Mini 90 vs Mini 11
- Instax Mini 40 vs Mini 11
- Instax Mini 11 Orange Light Flashing
- Instax Mini 11 Photos Coming Out White
- Instax Mini 11 Not Working With New Batteries
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