Fujifilm has recently unveiled the latest addition to its instant camera range, with the aptly named Instax Mini 13.
As the Fujifilm Instax Mini 12 has a spot on our best instant cameras list, are there enough improvements with the Mini 13 to warrant an upgrade? Or, is the Mini 12 still a great choice for many.
We’ve compared the specs of the Fujifilm Instax Mini 13 to the Mini 12 and noted all the noteworthy differences between the instant cameras below. Keep reading to see what’s new with the Mini 13 and to decide whether or not you should upgrade.
For more of an overview, we’ve also rounded up a list of the best cameras we’ve reviewed recently.
Price and Availability
At the time of writing, Fujifilm is yet to provide an exact launch date for the Instax Mini 13, and instead has promised the instant camera will be available “in or around late June 2026”. Its current MSRP is £79/€89.99/$93.95.
In comparison, the Fujifilm Instax Mini 12 is readily available to purchase now and has an RRP of around £79.99/$94. Having said that, it is possible to nab the instant camera with a decent price drop.
Instax Mini 13 includes a self-timer
One of the main new additions to the Instax Mini 13 is the inclusion of a self-timer. The timer is fitted with an LED lever that allows you to switch between either a two-second or ten-second countdown. The shorter two-second timer is designed for capturing hands-free selfies with reduced blur, while the ten-second alternative enables easier group shots and different angles.
As mentioned, this is a brand new addition to the Mini 13 so the Mini 12 unfortunately lacks this tool. Even so, it’s still worth noting that we found the Mini 12 to be easy to use, thanks to the few buttons or features on offer.
Both feature a selfie mirror and close-up mode
If you’re coming from an older Instax Mini, then you’ll be pleased to know that both the Mini 13 and Mini 12 are fitted with built-in selfie mirrors at their respective fronts. It’s a great addition that allows you to check whether everyone is in the frame before potentially wasting a precious print.
Not only that, but both cameras also benefit from Close-Up Mode which is enabled by twisting the lens twice. Essentially, Close-Up Mode could also be classed as “selfie” mode, and ensures the main subject is captured right in the centre.
Speaking of similarities, it’s also worth noting that both the Mini 13 and Mini 12 have automatic lighting adjustment and promise to print a photo in just five seconds and have it develop within 90.
Instax Mini 13 has new film
Alongside the launch of the Instax Mini 13, Fujifilm has also revealed a couple of new additions and updates to its existing line-up. Firstly, the Instax Up! Smartphone apps will now integrate AI to increase image scanning precision, which is thanks to an update to its “overall learning capability”. This, according to Fujifilm, is promised to recognise images over backgrounds for “more precise scans” overall.
In addition, Fujifilm is also introducing a new Pastel Galaxy-themed film roll which includes sparkly, gloss embellishments and more colours too. This will be available by “late June 2026” with an MSRP of €9.99.
Although both of these new additions are introduced with the Instax Mini 13, the film and smartphone app updates will be supported by the Instax Mini 12.
Instax Mini 13 includes a camera angle adjustment accessory
Designed to work with the self-timer, the Instax Mini 13 comes equipped with a camera angle adjustment tool. Made up as part of the wrist strap, the tool can be used to position the camera with a slight upward tilt – negating the need for a tripod or any additional equipment.
Instax Mini 13 has more of a square design
Although at first glance you’d be forgiven for not noticing a huge design difference between the two, there are a few things to consider. Firstly, although both are undoubtedly portable, it’s fair to say that neither are quite pocket-friendly cameras to whip out in a flash. If that’s something you’d prefer, then we’d recommend the Instax Mini Evo instead.
Otherwise, alongside the addition of the timer lever at its side, the Mini 13 also has more of a uniform rounded shape compared to the Mini 12. Either way, both cameras are compact and come in a choice of five pastel colours too.
Early Verdict
With the addition of a self-timer, a rounder and more uniform design and the inclusion of the camera angle adjustment accessory on its wrist strap, the Instax Mini 13 looks set to be a brilliant instant camera – especially if you’re coming from an older model.
However, whether you really need to upgrade from the Instax Mini 12 is still up for debate as, although the Mini 12 may lack the self-timer, it still sports Close-Up Mode, automatic light and flash control and speedy photo printing too. We’ll be sure to update this versus once we do review the Instax Mini 13.
