The Minolta Zoom 70 is a photo camera. The model was built in China and introduced in the late 90s. It belongs to the group of point-and-shoot cameras and was an entry-level model. The body of the camera is made of plastic and is not particularly high quality. An almost identical model was also available as the Minolta Riva Zoom 70.
The camera comes with a lens that cannot be changed. The manufacturer’s name for the lens is “Minolta Aspherical Lens Zoom 35-70mm”. The lens has a zoom range of 38mm to 70mm. The maximum aperture varies depending on the focal length and ranges from f/5.3 to f/9.8. The lens is autofocused. The closest focusing distance is specified as 130cm for this lens.
The 35mm photo camera has a built-in light meter. The light meter is designed for films with a sensitivity of ISO 100, ISO 200 and ISO 400. The film speed is read out via the DX code on the film cartridge. If there is no code on the cartridge, ISO 100 is set. The aperture and exposure time are set automatically by the Minolta Zoom 70. It is not possible to change the exposure settings.
There is a built-in flash for shooting in low light conditions. The flash range is up to 3 meters at ISO 100 in the wide-angle range. The flash can be turned off if desired.
The 35mm camera has a thread for a tripod and a self-timer. Of course, there is also an eyelet for a wrist strap. The camera weighs 235 grams. The dimensions are 12.8 x 7.3 x 5.2 cm. The camera requires one CR123A battery (eBay / Amazon*). One battery lasts for about 360 photos, half of them with the use of the flash.
Films for the Minolta Zoom 70
What kind of films does the Minolta Zoom 70 need? 35mm format films are used. The film transport is automatic. A display on the top shows the number of frames taken. Spooling into the cassette is also done by the built-in motor.
35mm films are still manufactured today. They can be developed in most laboratories. Good choices for color and black and white are the Kodak Gold 200* and the Ilford HP5*. Both films produce decent images and are good for everyday use according to reviews.
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 |
| Lens name | Minolta Aspherical Lens Zoom 35-70mm |
| Focal length | 38 mm - 70 mm |
| Widest aperture | f/5.3 |
| Minimum focus distance | 130 cm / 4.264 ft |
| Zoom function | Yes |
| Focus | Autofocus |
| Exposure times | 1/200 second, 1/70 second, 1/40 second, 1/15 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 | 1,3 to 3 Meter / 4.27 to 9.84 Feet |
| Flash modes | Fill-in flash, Red-eye reduction |
| Tripod mount | Yes |
| Cable release thread | No |
| Self-timer | Yes |
| Power supply | 1x CR123A battery |
| Size | 12,8 x 7,3 x 4,9 cm |
| Dimensions in inches | 5.04 x 2.87 x 1.93 inches |
| Weight | 235 Grams |
| Country of production | China |
| Estimated value / Used price | 58,64 Euro Estimate based on used prices of 99 offers (possibly with different scope of delivery and/or condition). As of June 15, 2026 |
| Average used price in the year 2023 | 70,03 Euro (75.77 US-Dollar) |
| Average used price in the year 2024 | 73,67 Euro (79.02 US-Dollar) |
| Average used price in the year 2025 | 67,65 Euro (72.52 US-Dollar) |
FAQ about the Minolta Zoom 70
Is the Minolta Zoom 70 a good camera for beginners?
Yes, it's considered an entry-level point-and-shoot camera, designed for simplicity. Its automatic settings make it easy to use, even for those new to photography. However, it lacks manual controls.
What kind of lens does this camera have?
The Minolta Zoom 70 comes with a built-in 35-70mm zoom lens. It's a fixed lens, meaning you can't change it. The lens is also autofocus, so you don't have to manually adjust the focus.
How many pictures can I take with one battery?
A single CR123A battery powers the camera. You can expect to take approximately 360 shots on one battery; however, using the flash will reduce the number of photos you can take.
Can I control the settings on the camera?
No, the Minolta Zoom 70 is fully automatic. You cannot manually adjust settings like aperture or shutter speed. It automatically sets the exposure based on the scene and film type.
What size of film does the camera use?
This point-and-shoot uses standard 35mm film. The camera automatically advances the film after each shot and rewinds the film into the canister.