The Porst reflex CX4 is a single reflex camera. The 35mm camera was produced by VEB Pentacon in East Germany and sold by Photo Porst under their own brand in West Germany. The 35mm camera was offered by Pentacon under the name “Praktica LB 2“.
The Porst reflex CX4 lens is interchangeable. She comes with an M42 thread. The lens is focused by hand. The Porst reflex CX4 does not have an autofocus function.
The Porst reflex CX4 has a built-in light meter. The desired shutter speed can be determined manually. The aperture is also freely selectable. The camera has a bulb setting. The shutter can remain open for a variable time and expose the film. An external flash can be used with the 35 mm camera via hot shoe.
Films for the Porst reflex CX4
The Porst reflex CX4 requires 35mm films. These are still easy to get today and development services are still around. Possible films for this model are the Fujifilm Superia 200* for color pictures and the Kodak T-Max 100* for black and white photos.
The 35mm camera has a thread for a tripod. In addition, there is a connector for a cable release and a self-timer.
The Porst reflex CX4 is no longer produced. The condition of the camera and whether it still works is today the main factor on the value of a used copy of the camera.
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 | M42 lens mount |
| Focus | Manual |
| Exposure times | 1/1000 second to 1 second, Bulb |
| Bulb mode | Yes |
| Light meter | Yes |
| Exposure modes | Manual mode |
| Auto DX (Film sensitivity) | No |
| Date imprinting | No |
| Built-in flash | No |
| Flash Connection | Hot Shoe |
| Tripod mount | Yes |
| Cable release thread | Yes |
| Self-timer | Yes |
| Power supply | ? |
| Company name of the brand | Photo Porst |
| Manufacturer | VEB Pentacon |
| Country of production | GDR (German Democratic Republic) |
| Estimated value / Used price | 44,55 Euro Estimate based on used prices of 21 offers (possibly with different scope of delivery and/or condition). As of June 15, 2026 |
| Average used price in the year 2023 | 46,31 Euro (49.79 US-Dollar) |
| Average used price in the year 2024 | 46,19 Euro (49.79 US-Dollar) |
| Average used price in the year 2025 | 48,06 Euro (51.96 US-Dollar) |
FAQ about the Porst reflex CX4
Is the Porst reflex CX4 a 35mm camera?
Yes, it is a 35mm single-lens reflex (SLR) camera. It uses 35mm film and is a classic example of a film camera from the era of manual focus.
How do I focus the lens on this camera?
The Porst reflex CX4 has manual focus. You adjust the focus ring on the lens by hand. There is no autofocus feature.
Does this camera have a light meter?
Yes, it has a built-in light meter to help you determine the correct exposure settings. You'll still need to manually set the aperture and shutter speed.
What kind of film does the camera use?
It uses standard 35mm film. Both color and black and white films are compatible and widely available.
Can I use a flash with this camera?
Yes, it has a hot shoe for connecting external flash units. This allows you to use a flash for better lighting in low light conditions.