The Minolta X-300s is a 35mm camera from the 1990s. It belongs to the group of SLR cameras and was built in a factory in Japan. Under the model name Minolta X-370N, the camera was sold in the USA and Canada.
The lens of the 35mm camera is interchangeable. There are a variety of different lenses for the Minolta SR bayonet. Mostly you can find this model with a 50 mm lens. The 35mm camera does not have an autofocus. Focusing is done manually by hand.
The Minolta X-300s has a built-in light meter. It is designed for films in a range from ISO 12 to ISO 3200. The film speed can be set freely. Aperture and shutter speed can also be freely selected. For shutter speeds, you can choose between values from 1/1000 second to 1 second. There is also an automatic exposure mode. Here, the aperture is selected by the user and the camera technology selects the appropriate shutter speed. In this mode, the slowest shutter speed is four seconds.
In addition to the normal exposure times, there is also a Bulb mode. This mode is particularly suitable for long exposures, such as at night. For shooting at night with little light, you should mount the camera on a tripod. A corresponding thread is found on the camera’s underside.
There is also a thread for a cable release. Just like a self-timer with a lead time of ten seconds. In addition, a flash can be connected.
The dimensions of the Minolta X-300s are 14 x 9 x 5.15 cm according to the manual. It weighs 490 grams without lens and film. The camera requires two LR44 batteries (eBay / Amazon*). These batteries power the exposure meter, among other things. The batteries are easy to get.
Films for the Minolta X-300s
Nothing works for the Minolta X-300s without 35mm film. Films of this format are still being manufactured. A recommendation for color shots is about the Kodak Ultramax 400*. If you want to stay monochrome, the Kodak T-Max 100* is not bad. Of course, there are many more films you can use with the SLR.
The film transport is manual. After each shot, the film has to be transported further with a lever. An electric motor was offered as an accessory.
Technical datasheet
| Attribute | Specification |
|---|---|
| Type of Camera | Single lens reflex camera |
| Film format | 35mm |
| Film transport | Manual |
| Picture format | 24 mm x 36 mm |
| Lens mount | Minolta SR mount |
| Focus | Manual |
| Exposure times | 1/1000 second to 4 seconds, Bulb |
| Bulb mode | Yes |
| Light meter | Yes |
| Supported film speeds | ISO 12 to 3200 |
| Exposure modes | Aperture priority, Manual mode |
| Auto DX (Film sensitivity) | No |
| Built-in flash | No |
| Flash Connection | Hot Shoe |
| Flash sync speed | 1/60 s |
| Tripod mount | Yes |
| Cable release thread | Yes |
| Self-timer | Yes, Self-timer function with 10 seconds lead time |
| Power supply | 2x LR44 batteries |
| Size | 14 x 9 x 5,15 cm |
| Dimensions in inches | 5.51 x 3.54 x 2.03 inches |
| Weight | 490 Grams |
| Names in other markets | USA: Minolta X-370N |
| Country of production | Japan |
| Estimated value / Used price | 87,32 Euro Estimate based on used prices of 94 offers (possibly with different scope of delivery and/or condition). As of June 15, 2026 |
| Average used price in the year 2023 | 100,19 Euro (108.24 US-Dollar) |
| Average used price in the year 2024 | 97,96 Euro (104.99 US-Dollar) |
| Average used price in the year 2025 | 106,96 Euro (114.73 US-Dollar) |
FAQ about the Minolta X-300s
What type of camera is the Minolta X-300s, and where was it manufactured?
The Minolta X-300s is a 35mm single-lens reflex (SLR) camera. It was manufactured in Japan, but sold as the Minolta X-370N in the USA and Canada.
Does this 35mm film camera have autofocus, and how is focusing achieved?
No, the Minolta X-300s does not have autofocus. Focusing is done manually by the user, adjusting the lens until the subject is sharp.
What is the range of shutter speeds available on the Minolta X-300s, and are there any special modes?
The shutter speed range is 1/1000th of a second to 1 second, plus a Bulb mode for long exposures. An automatic exposure mode is also available, where the user sets the aperture and the camera selects the shutter speed.
What kind of lens mount does this camera use, and what are its dimensions and weight?
The Minolta X-300s uses a Minolta SR bayonet mount, allowing for interchangeable lenses. It measures 14 x 9 x 5.15 cm and weighs 490 grams without lens and film.
What accessories are compatible with the Minolta X-300s?
The camera is compatible with a variety of Minolta SR mount lenses, a cable release, and flash units. An optional motor drive was also available for automated film advance.