The Minolta Maxxum SPxi is an SLR camera from the Japanese manufacturer from the 1990s. An identical model was sold to photographers in Europe as the Minolta Dynax SPxi. There was also a model variant with the possibility to imprint the shooting date into the photos.
There is a wide range of lenses for this model. The Minolta A bayonet is used here. The 35 mm camera has an autofocus system. However, the focus can also be adjusted manually.
There are also several automatic settings for the exposure values. The sensitivity of the inserted film can be set via the DX coding on the cartridge. The automatic setting is designed for ISO 25 to ISO 5000. If there is no coding, ISO 100 is automatically set.
Aperture and shutter speed can be selected completely manually. For the shutter speed, you can choose between values from 1/2000 second to 30 seconds. For long exposures there is the variable bulb mode. The possible aperture values depend on the lens used.
In addition to manual mode, there are three automatic modes: aperture priority, shutter speed priority and programme automatic. Either you set the aperture and shutter speed yourself and the camera technology selects the other value, or the camera selects both values to match the available light.
The Minolta Maxxum SPxi has a connection for an external flash. Here you can use the corresponding flash units of the Japanese manufacturer. There is also a self-timer with a lead time of ten seconds and a thread for a tripod. So group pictures and selfies are no problem.
The camera body without lens and films weighs 385 grams. The dimensions are 14.6 x 9.1 x 6 cm. The camera requires a 2CR5 battery (eBay / Amazon*). This battery supplies power to the display on the top of the housing, among other things. They are also necessary for the motor to transport the film.
Films for the Minolta Maxxum SPxi
What types of photographic film are needed for the Minolta Maxxum SPxi? The camera is designed for 35mm film. Available photo films for the SLR, which are easy to obtain from online retailers, are the Ilford Delta 100* for charming black and white photos and the Kodak Gold 200* for brilliant colour images. When the film is full, the films can be developed in a developing lab. Of course, there are also suitable films from other manufacturers that can be used with the Japanese camera.
Technical datasheet
| Attribute | Specification |
|---|---|
| Type of Camera | Single lens reflex camera |
| Film format | 35mm |
| Film transport | Automatic |
| Film transport mechanism | Motor |
| Picture format | 24 mm x 36 mm |
| Lens mount | Minolta A mount |
| Focus | Autofocus |
| Exposure times | 1/2000 second to 30 seconds, Bulb |
| Bulb mode | Yes |
| Light meter | Yes |
| Supported film speeds | ISO 25 to 5000 |
| Auto DX (Film sensitivity) | Yes |
| Exposure modes | Program automatic, Aperture priority, Shutter priority, Manual mode |
| Date imprinting | Model variant |
| Built-in flash | No |
| Flash Connection | Connection for Minolta flash units |
| Tripod mount | Yes |
| Cable release thread | No |
| Self-timer | Yes, Self-timer function with 10 seconds lead time |
| Power supply | 1x 2CR5 battery |
| Size | 14,6 x 9,1 x 6 cm |
| Dimensions in inches | 5.75 x 3.58 x 2.36 inches |
| Weight | 385 Grams |
| Names in other markets | Europe: Minolta Dynax SPxi |
| Estimated value / Used price | 31,50 Euro Estimate based on used prices of 5 offers (possibly with different scope of delivery and/or condition). As of June 15, 2026 |
| Average used price in the year 2023 | 38,67 Euro (41.13 US-Dollar) |
| Average used price in the year 2025 | 44,38 Euro (47.63 US-Dollar) |
FAQ about the Minolta Maxxum SPxi
What type of film does the Minolta Maxxum SPxi use?
The Minolta Maxxum SPxi uses 35mm film. Both color and black and white films are compatible.
Does this SLR camera offer manual control over aperture and shutter speed?
Yes, it allows full manual control, letting you select both aperture and shutter speed. This includes a bulb mode for long exposures.
What kind of focusing system does the Dynax SPxi employ?
The camera features an autofocus system, but also allows for manual focus adjustment, giving users flexibility.
What is the weight of the camera body without lens and film?
The Minolta Maxxum SPxi body weighs 385 grams without a lens or film.
Can I use external flashes with the Minolta SPxi?
Yes, the camera has a hot shoe for connecting external flash units, especially those made by the same manufacturer.