Instax Mini 13 vs Polaroid Go Gen 3: Which Instant Camera?

Quick answer

Choose the Fujifilm Instax Mini 13 if you want the smallest instant prints and a camera that makes selfies easy with a built-in mirror and self-timer. Pick the Polaroid Go Gen 3 if you prefer a pocket-sized camera with a redesigned selfie mirror and a more powerful flash for sharper, more zoomed-in selfies in any light.

Film size and camera size: the practical difference

The Instax Mini 13 uses Instax Mini film, which produces credit-card-sized prints. The Polaroid Go Gen 3 uses Polaroid Go film, which is also small but has a different aspect ratio and overall footprint. The Go Gen 3 is described as the smallest analog instant camera around, so it slips into a pocket more easily than most instant cameras.

If you plan to carry the camera every day, the Go Gen 3's smaller body may be more comfortable. If you want prints that fit standard Instax Mini albums and frames, the Mini 13 is the more common choice.

Selfie features: mirror, timer, and flash

Both cameras include a selfie mirror, but they work differently. The Instax Mini 13 has a built-in selfie mirror that helps you frame yourself, plus a self-timer so you can step back and include more people or scenery. The Polaroid Go Gen 3 has a redesigned selfie mirror and a more powerful flash, which the catalog says helps produce sharper, more zoomed-in selfies in any lighting.

If you often hand the camera to someone else or want to be in the shot without holding the camera, the Mini 13's self-timer is a clear advantage. If you mostly take close-up selfies at arm's length and shoot in dim light, the Go Gen 3's stronger flash may give you more consistent results.

Creative controls and ease of use

The Instax Mini 13 is described as bright, easy-going, and packed with creative features. That suggests it offers more ways to play with your shots beyond point-and-shoot. The Polaroid Go Gen 3 focuses on simplicity and portability, with its main upgrades being the selfie mirror and flash.

If you enjoy experimenting with settings or creative modes, the Mini 13 likely gives you more to explore. If you want a straightforward camera that you can pull out and shoot without thinking about settings, the Go Gen 3 is the simpler tool.

Decision rules: pick your camera in three questions

• How do you take selfies?: If you often want to be in the photo with others and need a timer to step back, choose the Instax Mini 13. If you mostly shoot close-up selfies at arm's length and want a stronger flash for dim light, choose the Polaroid Go Gen 3.
• How important is pocketability?: If the camera must fit in a small pocket or bag without bulk, the Polaroid Go Gen 3 is the smaller option. If you don't mind a slightly larger camera and want the most common instant film size, go with the Instax Mini 13.
• Do you want creative modes?: If you like experimenting with creative features, the Instax Mini 13 is described as packed with them. If you prefer a simple point-and-shoot experience, the Polaroid Go Gen 3 keeps things straightforward.

Product facts

• Fujifilm Instax Mini 13 Camera - Clay White: Built-in selfie mirror and self-timer. You can frame yourself and set a timer to join group shots without holding the camera.

  

• Polaroid Go Instant Camera - Gen 3 - Teal: Redesigned selfie mirror and more powerful flash for sharper, more zoomed-in selfies. Close-up selfies in low light are more likely to come out bright and clear.

  

Who should buy which

Best for

• Beginners who want easy group selfies with a self-timer
• Shooters who prefer the widely available Instax Mini film format
• Anyone who wants a camera with creative features to grow into

Not for

• People who prioritize the smallest possible camera body
• Close-up selfie fans who often shoot in low light and need a stronger flash