The Minolta X-9 is a 35mm camera from the 1990s. It was built in a factory in Japan. The model was sold mainly in the USA and Canada. In terms of functionality, it is very similar to the “Minolta X-370N“. However, the X-9 comes with a depth of field preview button.
The lens of the 35mm camera is interchangeable. There are a lot of different lenses for the Minolta SR bayonet. Most commonly, this model is found with a 50mm lens. The 35 mm camera does not have an autofocus. Focusing is done manually by hand.
The Minolta X-9 has an exposure meter, which should make shooting a bit easier. The camera technology 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.
Values between 1/1000 second and 1 second can be selected for the shutter speeds. There is also an automatic exposure mode. Here, the aperture is selected by the user and the camera technology selects the appropriate shutter speed, based on the exposure measurement. In this mode, the longest exposure time is four seconds, not just one second.
In addition to the normal exposure times, there is also a Bulb mode. This mode is particularly suitable for long exposures, for example at night. For night shots with little light, you should mount the camera on a tripod. A corresponding thread is located on the underside of the camera housing.
There is also a thread for a cable release on the shutter release. There is also a self-timer with a lead time of ten seconds. A flash can also be connected.
According to the manual, the dimensions of the Minolta X-9 are 14 x 9 x 5.15 cm. It weighs 490 grams without lens and film. The camera requires two LR44 batteries (eBay / Amazon*). These batteries power the light meter, among other things. The batteries are easy to obtain.
Films for the Minolta X-9
Possible films for the Minolta X-9 are the Fujifilm Superia 400* for color photos and the Ilford FP4 Plus* for B&W photos. Both films deliver solid results and perform convincingly in test reports. Both films are well suited for everyday use with the SLR camera and can convince in many situations according to test reports. However, all other 35mm films can of course also be used for the camera.
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 |
| Country of production | Japan |
| Estimated value / Used price | 151,06 Euro Estimate based on used prices of 3 offers (possibly with different scope of delivery and/or condition). As of May 18, 2026 |
| Average used price in the year 2024 | 179,61 Euro (193.75 US-Dollar) |
| Average used price in the year 2025 | 187,69 Euro (202.41 US-Dollar) |
FAQ about the Minolta X-9
What type of lens mount does this 35mm camera utilize?
It uses the Minolta SR bayonet mount, offering a wide variety of compatible lenses. Many examples come with a standard 50mm lens.
Does the Minolta X-9 have autofocus capabilities?
No, the Minolta X-9 relies on manual focus. The photographer must manually adjust the focus ring on the lens.
What is the range of shutter speeds available on this Japanese-made camera?
Shutter speeds range from 1/1000th of a second to 1 second, with a 4-second maximum in automatic mode and a bulb setting for long exposures.
How does the light meter assist in taking photos?
The built-in light meter helps determine the correct exposure settings. It aids in choosing the appropriate aperture and shutter speed combination.
What are the dimensions and weight of the Minolta X-9?
The Minolta X-9 measures 14 x 9 x 5.15 cm and weighs 490 grams without the lens and film.