The Cosina CX5F is a simple snapshot camera from the 1980s. This 35mm camera was also available under the name “Petri PX5F.” Both models are similar in terms of functionality.
Previously, there was the Cosina CX5 camera. This model offers several more features, such as changing the focus and more ISO settings.
The lens on this 35mm camera is permanently fixed and cannot be replaced. The manufacturer’s name for the lens is “COSINON 1:3.8 33mm.” The lens has a focal length of 33 mm and a maximum aperture of f/3.8.
The focus of the lens is fixed, so you cannot focus yourself. To achieve clear focus, you should maintain a distance of at least 90 cm from the subject with this lens.
The correct exposure settings can be determined by the camera’s electronics using metering cells. It is designed for films with a sensitivity of ISO 100 or ISO 400. The value is set using a slider on the front.
The aperture and exposure time cannot be changed. There is also no exposure compensation.
The built-in flash can be used in poor lighting. The flash range is 0.9 – 3 meters at ISO 100. This corresponds to a guide number of 12.
The camera is powered by two AAA batteries (eBay / Amazon*). These batteries are still very easy to find.
There is no tripod thread on this model. There is also no self-timer.
Films for the Cosina CX5F
Films are also still very easy to find for this camera.
The Cosina CX5F uses 35mm film. There is still an extensive selection of film materials for color and black-and-white images available for this film format.
One option for color photos is the Fujifilm Superia 400* and the Ilford Delta 100* for black and white photos. There are numerous other films compatible with this camera.
The color film must be developed using the C-41 process. This development process is used by all photo labs that offer 35mm film development.
The negatives for the Cosina CX5F are 24 mm x 36 mm in size. A standard 35mm film holds approximately 36 images. The camera requires the photographer to manually advance the film to the next frame, as there is no automatic option. A thumbwheel is located on the back for this. A frame counter is located on the top.
Technical datasheet
| Attribute | Specification |
|---|---|
| Type of Camera | Viewfinder camera |
| Film format | 35mm |
| Film transport | Manual |
| Film transport mechanism | Thumbwheel |
| Picture format | 24 mm x 36 mm |
| Lens name | COSINON 1:3.8 33mm |
| Focal length | 33 mm |
| Widest aperture | f/3.8 |
| Minimum focus distance | 90 cm / 2.952 ft |
| Focus | Fixed |
| Type of focus | Zone focus |
| Focus zones | 1,1 m, 2,7 m, Infinite |
| Lens design | 4 elements in 3 groups |
| Viewfinder | Illuminated frame finder with parallax compensation marks |
| Exposure times | 1/500 second to 1/30 second |
| Light meter | Yes |
| Supported film speeds | ISO 100 to 400 |
| Exposure modes | Program automatic |
| Manual exposure settings | No |
| Auto DX (Film sensitivity) | No |
| Date imprinting | No |
| Double and/or multiple exposure function | No |
| Flash | Integrated flash |
| Flash range | 0,9 to 3 Meter / 2.95 to 9.84 Feet |
| Flash recycle time | circa 7 seconds |
| Flash sync speed | 1/125 s |
| Tripod mount | No |
| Cable release thread | No |
| Self-timer | No |
| Connection for camera strap | Yes |
| Power supply | 2x AAA batteries |
| Country of production | Japan |
| Estimated value / Used price | 35,07 Euro 62573328831645937941 Estimate based on used prices of 3 offers (possibly with different scope of delivery and/or condition). As of January 5, 2026 |