The Nikon TW20 is a snapshot camera. It was introduced in the 80s by the Japanese manufacturer. The compact camera was mainly aimed at beginners. The model was also offered under the name Nikon Tele Touch 300.
The zoom lens of the 35mm photo camera cannot be replaced. The two focal lengths 35 mm and 55 mm are available. The maximum aperture is f/3.8 or f/5.7. With a switch you can switch between the two lenses.
With the Nikon TW20 you do not have to focus by hand. The camera has an autofocus. The closest focusing distance of the lens is 45 cm.
The 35mm camera is equipped with a built-in light meter. The light meter is built for films with a sensitivity of ISO 100 to ISO 1000. The camera determines the correct sensitivity of the film by means of the DX code on the film cartridge. The exposure is set automatically by the camera. Aperture and shutter speed cannot be set.
The camera comes with a built-in flash. The flash comes with the possibility of red-eye reduction. This feature was a big novelty at that time. Also a self-timer and a tripod thread are not missing. The self-timer can also take two consecutive pictures.
The dimensions of the 35 mm camera are 13.6 x 7.2 x 4.3 cm. It weighs 290 grams. The camera requires a DL223 battery (eBay / Amazon*).
Nikon TW20 QD
Besides the normal model, a Quartz Date version was also offered. This model can directly expose the recording time into the image. An additional CR2025 (eBay / Amazon*) battery is required for operation.
Films for the Nikon TW20
The Nikon TW20 uses 35mm films. 35mm films are still in production and are developed without problems in most photo labs. The negatives of the Nikon TW20 have a size of 24 mm x 36 mm. With a normal film (135-36) mostly 36 photos are possible. The film is transported and rewound automatically.
Possible films for snapshots are the Kodak Portra 400* for colour photos and the AgfaPhoto APX 100* for b/w photos.
The colour film is processed in the C-41 process. This development process is offered by most laboratories. The black and white film, on the other hand, must be processed in a real black and white developer. This type of development is offered by most photo labs. However, it is also possible to carry out the development with the appropriate chemistry at home.
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 |
| Focal length | 35 mm, 55 mm |
| Widest aperture | f/3.8 |
| Minimum focus distance | 45 cm / 1.476 ft |
| Focus | Autofocus |
| Light meter | Yes |
| Supported film speeds | ISO 100 to 1000 |
| Auto DX (Film sensitivity) | Yes |
| Exposure modes | Program automatic |
| Manual exposure settings | No |
| Date imprinting | Model variant |
| Flash | Integrated flash |
| Flash modes | Red-eye reduction |
| Tripod mount | Yes |
| Cable release thread | No |
| Self-timer | Yes |
| Power supply | 1x DL223 battery |
| Size | 13,6 x 7,2 x 4,3 cm |
| Dimensions in inches | 5.35 x 2.83 x 1.69 inches |
| Weight | 290 Grams |
| Names in other markets | International: Nikon Tele Touch 300 |
| Estimated value / Used price | 56,92 Euro Estimate based on used prices of 25 offers (possibly with different scope of delivery and/or condition). As of June 15, 2026 |
| Average used price in the year 2023 | 58,03 Euro (62.78 US-Dollar) |
| Average used price in the year 2024 | 58,27 Euro (62.78 US-Dollar) |
| Average used price in the year 2025 | 65,63 Euro (70.36 US-Dollar) |
FAQ about the Nikon TW20
Is the Nikon TW20 a point-and-shoot camera?
Yes, the Nikon TW20 is a simple point-and-shoot camera, designed for beginners. It's easy to use and doesn't require manual adjustments to settings like aperture or shutter speed.
How do I focus the pictures?
You don't need to focus manually. The Nikon TW20 has autofocus, so it adjusts the focus automatically. The closest you can focus is 45cm.
What kind of film does this compact camera use?
The Nikon TW20 uses standard 35mm film. These are readily available and can be developed at most photo labs. Each roll typically holds 36 exposures.
Does the camera have a flash?
Yes, it has a built-in flash with red-eye reduction. This was a pretty innovative feature when the camera was released.
What are the dimensions of this little camera?
The Nikon TW20 measures 13.6 x 7.2 x 4.3 cm and weighs 290 grams. It's a compact and lightweight camera, easy to carry around.