The Minolta X-700 is an SLR camera from the 80s. It was the last high-end manual focus SLR from Minolta before autofocus was introduced with the Minolta Maxxum 7000. The X-700 was produced until the 90s.
The Minolta X 700 comes with program automatic and shutter speed automatic, selecting either aperture and shutter speed automatically or the photographer sets the aperture and the camera sets the shutter speed. The body of the SLR has a Minolta SR bayonet. A lot of interchangeable lenses were produced for this bayonet. You can often find them with the standard 50mm MD 1.7, but also with the 35-70mm zoom. If you want to use program automatic, you should look for the “MD” designation on the lenses.
In addition to the wide range of lenses, there are also a variety of accessories, such as the Multi-Function Back, which enables time-lapse photography, the Quartz Data Back, which exposes the current date on the image, the Motor Drive Autowinder, which automatically advances the film and enables an FPS of 2 or 3.5, and various flashes.
Of course, flashes from other manufacturers can also be used on the Hot Shoe or the PC Flash socket. The maximum flash sync speed is 1/60 second. In addition, the 35mm camera has a self-timer and a connection for a tripod.
Films for the Minolta X-700
The SLR camera is designed for the 35mm format. It is the most common film format and there is still a very large selection of films. Developing these films is also still very easy, for example in the local drugstore or a corresponding specialized laboratory.
A good color film for beginners and to test the camera is the Kodak Gold 200*.
Price of the Minolta X-700
What did an X 700 cost today? For a Minolta X-700 you pay today on the well-known auction platforms, such as Ebay, usually between 40 and 80 euros. Of course, the price depends on the condition and accessories (lenses, bag…).
Batteries for the Minolta X-700
What kind of batteries does the Minolta X-700 need? The 35mm camera uses two 1.5v batteries as its power source. The LR44 (eBay / Amazon*) or the SR44 (eBay / Amazon*) can be used. To test whether the batteries still have enough juice and are inserted correctly, you only have to press the shutter release. If the LEDs in the viewfinder light up, then the batteries are functional.
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 |
| Viewfinder | Pentaprism finder |
| Exposure times | 1/1000 second to 4 seconds, Bulb |
| Bulb mode | Yes |
| Light meter | CdS light meter |
| Supported film speeds | ISO 25 to 1600 |
| Exposure modes | Program automatic, Aperture priority, Manual mode |
| Exposure compensation | ± 2EV (0,5EV to) |
| Auto DX (Film sensitivity) | No |
| Date imprinting | Through accessory |
| Built-in flash | No |
| Flash Connection | Hot Shoe, PC-Flash |
| Flash sync speed | 1/60 s |
| Tripod mount | Yes |
| Cable release thread | Yes |
| Self-timer | Yes |
| Power supply | 2x SR44 batteries |
| Size | 13,7 x 8,9 x 5,1 cm |
| Dimensions in inches | 5.39 x 3.50 x 2.01 inches |
| Weight | 505 Grams |
| Country of production | Japan |
| Estimated value / Used price | 136,45 Euro Estimate based on used prices of 99 offers (possibly with different scope of delivery and/or condition). As of May 18, 2026 |
| Average used price in the year 2023 | 162,92 Euro (175.35 US-Dollar) |
| Average used price in the year 2024 | 160,29 Euro (173.18 US-Dollar) |
| Average used price in the year 2025 | 159,29 Euro (172.10 US-Dollar) |
FAQ about the Minolta X-700
What type of film does this 80s Minolta SLR use?
The Minolta X-700 is designed for 35mm film, the most common format, readily available and easily developed.
Does the camera offer automatic exposure modes?
Yes, it features program and aperture-priority automatic modes. You can let the camera choose both aperture and shutter speed, or set the aperture manually and let the camera choose the shutter speed.
What kind of lens mount does the Minolta X-700 have?
The camera uses the Minolta SR bayonet mount, offering a wide variety of compatible lenses, including popular choices like the 50mm MD 1.7 and 35-70mm zoom lenses.
What accessories are available for the Minolta X-700?
Numerous accessories are available, such as motor drives for faster shooting, backs for data imprinting and time-lapse photography, and various flash units.
What is the approximate current market value of a used Minolta X-700?
Prices for a used Minolta X-700 typically range from 40 to 80 euros on online auction sites, depending on its condition and included accessories.