Instax Mini Link Printer: a great stocking filler for the budding photographer

The Instax Mini Link smartphone printer is a new device from Fujifilm that allows users to print photos directly from their phones via Bluetooth.

Launched in South Africa this November, the device features a range of customisable options for users to make the most out of their memories.

With the festive season already upon us, here’s my breakdown of why the Mini Link belongs on your wishlist.

The Looks

In terms of aesthetic, the Instax Mini Link features a simple, smart design that allows the device to sit neatly on a table, in your bag or even a reasonably sized pocket.

In fact, the Mini Link could be easily mistaken for a wireless speaker or smart home device, making it a great addition to any space.

I particularly enjoyed the moody aesthetic of my “Dark Denim” unit, which had an edgy yet professional feel to it. If you’re into calmer tones, however, the device comes in “Ash White” and “Dusky Pink” colour variants too.

Weighing just over 200g, the Mini Link is also lightweight and easy to travel with, making it a great holiday companion.

The App

The smartphone printer works via the Mini Link app, which users can download via Google Play or the App Store.

After a fairly simple Bluetooth pairing, you can use the app to select, edit and print photos from your phone seamlessly.

You might hit one or two wrong buttons when first navigating the app as you figure out which options prompt a standard print and launch further editing, filters and framing features.

All in all, however, the app is relatively simple to use and will take up under 100MB of space on your phone.

The Prints

The Mini Link’s prints are pretty on-brand for Fujifilm, and this is nothing to complain about. Though you won’t get the clarity or colour one can expect from high-end printing, the device still shoots out quality memories that are sure to look retro and classic pinned up against a wall of fairy lights.

The Price

When the Instax Mini Link launched in South Africa, its recommended retail price stood at R2499. Since then, I’ve seen the device on sale for considerably less. It’s no surprise then, that on local online stores like Takealot and Superbalist, the smartphone printer is currently sold out.

Still, with a price tag lingering around the R2000 mark, the device isn’t cheap. If you’re sentimental about your picture walls or scrapbooks and have a phone that shoots good pictures, the investment is probably worth it.

Final Verdict

Whether you’re a seasoned or budding smartphone photographer, or even just love to have your memories printed on paper, Fujifilm’s new Instax Mini Link printer allows you to save your favourite, most candid moments on paper forever, making it the perfect companion for this festive season.

I, for one, wouldn’t mind finding one in my Christmas stocking.

Feature image: Shereesa Moodley/Memeburn