minolta-xg-a-35mm-slr-camera

Copyright photos: Jason Morrison

Minolta XG-A

The Minolta XG-A is a camera from Minolta. It was built in Japan and sold internationally. The model is very similar to the Minolta X-7 in terms of functions, but it lacks some features. For example, only a limited range of shutter speeds are displayed in the viewfinder, the PC flash port is removed, and the ability to remove the back cover.

The XG-A was introduced in the early 1980s. It is the last model in the XG series.

As with the other models in the XG series, the lens can be changed- There are a variety of options for the Minolta SR bayonet. However, this model does not yet have the possibility to adjust the focus automatically.

Instead, the 35mm camera with a built-in light meter can automatically adjust the exposure settings. Films with a sensitivity of ISO 25 to ISO 1600 can be used. The aperture is selected and the camera automatically sets the appropriate shutter speed.

There is not really a manual mode, as with other SLRs. For shutter speeds, the only choices are Auto, Bulb, the shutter speed for a flash, and +- 2 stops of exposure compensation.

A flash can be connected via the hot shoe. A cable release can also be connected. The camera can also be mounted on a tripod via a thread on the bottom. There is a self-timer with a ten-second lead time for group pictures.

According to the manual, the housing without lens and films weighs 485 grams and measures 13.8 x 8.8 x 5.2 cm. The camera requires two S76 batteries (eBay / Amazon*).

Films for the Minolta XG-A

The Minolta XG-A was built for the 35mm format. These are still easy to get today and are still being developed. Two great films for the 35mm camera are the Kodak Gold 200* and the Ilford FP4 Plus*. Both can be used to take beautiful color and black and white pictures, respectively. The two can convince in test reports and are well suited for everyday use. Of course, there is a wide range of additional suitable films for this camera.

Technical Specifications

camera_spec
Property Specification
Film format 35mm
Picture Format 36 mm x 24 mm
Lens type Interchangeable lens
Shutter Speeds 1/1000 to 1 second
Bulb Mode Yes
Adjustable aperture Yes
Adjustable shutter speed No
Auto exposure No
Light Meter CdS light meter
Supported Film Speeds ISO 25 to ISO 1600
Exposure Modes Shutter Priority
Exposure Compensation ± 2 LW
Flash Connector Hot Shoe
Flash Sync Speed 1/60 second
Tripod Mount Yes
Cable Release Thread Yes
Self-timer Yes, Self-timer function with 10 seconds delay
Power Supply 2x S76 batteries
Size 13.8 x 8.8 x 5.2 cm
Dimensions in Inches 5.43 x 3.46 x 2.05 inches
Weight 485 grams
Release Date 1982
Age Up to 44 years
Production start 1982
Manufacturer Minolta

Used Prices

The current average price for this camera is 83,13 € based on 3 offers, as of 6.7.2026.

Average Price per Year

  • 2026: 69,04 €
  • 2025: 80,00 €
  • 2024: 63,66 €
  • 2023: 55,10 €

Frequently Asked Questions

FAQ about the Minolta XG-A

What is the Minolta XG-A's main automatic feature?

Does this 35mm camera offer manual control over shutter speed?

What type of lens mount does the Minolta XG-A use?

What are the camera's dimensions and weight (without lens and film)?

Can external flashes be used with the device?

REF. PATTERN 04 SCALE 1:100
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