The Minolta F20R is a camera from Minolta. It was introduced in the 1990s. The camera was produced in a factory in China. It has a rather simple design and was primarily aimed at beginners and amateurs.
The photo camera comes with a fixed focal length lens. The focal length of the lens is 28 mm. The maximum aperture is f/5.6. The 35mm photo camera is equipped with an infrared autofocus. The close focus distance of the lens is 150 cm. This is the minimum distance you should keep to your subject.
The Minolta F20R has a built-in light meter. It was designed for films with a sensitivity of ISO 100 to ISO 400. The film speed is read via the DX code on the film cartridge. Exposure settings are automatically controlled and adjusted by the electronics. There is no manual mode or exposure compensation.
Of course, the camera does not lack a built-in flash. With a film sensitivity of ISO 100, it reaches up to 2.7 meters. An automatic mode prevents red-eye on the pictures. In addition, there is the possibility that the film triggers with each shot, for example, to brighten the images in backlight.
The dimensions of the 35mm camera are 11.8 x 6.3 x 4.2 cm. It weighs 160 grams. There is no tripod thread.
Power is supplied by two AA batteries (eBay / Amazon*). One battery charge is enough for about 500 photos with the camera.
Films for the Minolta F20R
According to the instruction manual, 35mm films are exposed in the Minolta F20R. 35mm films are still manufactured today. They can be developed in most laboratories. A good choice for the camera of the Japanese manufacturer are the Fujifilm Superia 400* (color film) and the Ilford XP2 Super* (black and white film). Other film materials are available from Kodak, Rollei, Foma and Lomography, among others.
A motor is built into the camera to advance the film. After each exposure, it rewinds the film. The return transport to the cartridge is also automatic.
Date version
In addition to the normal version, there was a QD variant. This model can expose the recording time into the images. For this function, an additional CR2025 battery (eBay / Amazon*) is needed.
Technical datasheet
| Attribute | Specification |
|---|---|
| Type of Camera | Snapshot camera |
| Film format | 35mm |
| Film transport | Automatic |
| Film transport mechanism | Motor |
| Picture format | 24 mm x 36 mm |
| Focal length | 28 mm |
| Widest aperture | f/5.6 |
| Minimum focus distance | 150 cm / 4.92 ft |
| Focus | Autofocus |
| Exposure times | 1/125 second |
| Light meter | Yes |
| Supported film speeds | ISO 100 to 400 |
| Auto DX (Film sensitivity) | Yes |
| Exposure modes | Program automatic |
| Manual exposure settings | No |
| Date imprinting | Model variant |
| Flash | Integrated flash |
| Flash range | 1,5 to 2,7 Meter / 4.92 to 8.86 Feet |
| Flash modes | Fill-in flash, Red-eye reduction |
| Tripod mount | No |
| Cable release thread | No |
| Self-timer | No |
| Power supply | 2x AA batteries |
| Size | 11,8 x 6,3 x 4,2 cm |
| Dimensions in inches | 4.65 x 2.48 x 1.65 inches |
| Weight | 160 Grams |
| Country of production | China |
| Estimated value / Used price | 75,46 Euro Estimate based on used prices of 6 offers (possibly with different scope of delivery and/or condition). As of June 15, 2026 |
| Average used price in the year 2023 | 43,53 Euro (46.54 US-Dollar) |
| Average used price in the year 2024 | 55,78 Euro (59.53 US-Dollar) |
| Average used price in the year 2025 | 48,11 Euro (51.96 US-Dollar) |
FAQ about the Minolta F20R
What type of film does this compact camera use?
The Minolta F20R uses standard 35mm film, readily available from various manufacturers like Fujifilm, Ilford, Kodak, and others. These can be developed at most photo labs.
Does the camera offer manual exposure control?
No, the Minolta F20R doesn't have manual controls. Exposure is fully automatic, relying on the built-in light meter and adjusting settings accordingly.
What's the focal length of the integrated lens?
The fixed lens has a 28mm focal length, which is ideal for capturing wider shots, like landscapes or group photos.
How is the film advanced in the device?
Film advancement is automatic using a built-in motor. After each shot, the camera automatically advances the film to the next frame.
What is the power source for this 35mm camera?
The Minolta F20R runs on two standard AA batteries, providing power for approximately 500 shots on a single charge.