The Praktica PL electronic is a single lens reflex camera. It was built between 1968 and 1969 by Pentacon.
The Praktica PL electronic offers the possibility of interchangeable lenses. Lenses with a M42-Gewinde can be used with the camera. For the M42 lens mount there are a lot of screw mount lenses available. The first M42 optics was developed by Zeiss. Large producers of M42 lenses were Pentax, Zeiss, Pentacon and KMZ. You have to focus the lens manually.
The camera has a built-in light meter. As with most SLR cameras, exposure is measured trough the lens. The desired aperture and exposure time can be set by the user. The camera has a bulb mode. The PC flash socket allows the use of an external flash with the camera.
Films for the Praktica PL electronic
The Praktica PL electronic requires 35mm films. 35mm films are still produced by different producers. For color shots there is the Kodak Portra 160*. One way to get black-and-white images is the Kodak T-Max 100*.
The color film is designed for development in the C-41 process. This development process is available at almost every photo lab.
The Praktica PL electronic has a cable release and a tripod thread. The power supply is provided by one Varta V 625 (eBay / Amazon*).
The 35mm camera can only be found in used condition. The value of a used Praktica PL electronic depends mainly on the condition and if it works correctly.
Technical datasheet
| Attribute | Specification |
|---|---|
| Type of Camera | Single lens reflex camera |
| Film format | 35mm |
| Picture format | 24 mm x 36 mm |
| Lens mount | M42 lens mount |
| Focus | Manual |
| Viewfinder | Pentaprism finder |
| Exposure times | 1/500 second to 30 seconds, Bulb |
| Bulb mode | Yes |
| Light meter | Yes |
| Built-in flash | No |
| Flash Connection | PC-Flash |
| Tripod mount | Yes |
| Cable release thread | Yes |
| Self-timer | No |
| Power supply | 1x Varta 625 battery |
| Manufacturer | Pentacon |
| Country of production | GDR (German Democratic Republic) |
| End of production | 1989 |
| Production duration | 21 years |
| Estimated value / Used price | 148,67 Euro Estimate based on used prices of 3 offers (possibly with different scope of delivery and/or condition). As of June 15, 2026 |
| Average used price in the year 2024 | 187,00 Euro (202.41 US-Dollar) |
| Average used price in the year 2025 | 181,67 Euro (195.91 US-Dollar) |
FAQ about the Praktica PL electronic
What kind of lenses can I use with the Praktica PL electronic?
The Praktica PL electronic uses M42 lenses. Many manufacturers produced these lenses, so there's a wide variety available. You'll need to focus manually.
How do I control the exposure on this camera?
You manually set both the aperture and shutter speed. It also features a bulb mode for long exposures.
Can I use a flash with this vintage SLR?
Yes, the Praktica PL electronic has a PC flash sync socket for connecting an external flash unit. You'll need a suitable flash, though.
What type of film does the camera take?
This is a 35mm camera, so it uses standard 35mm film rolls. You can use color or black and white film.
Where can I find this camera today?
Since it's an older model, you'll likely find a Praktica PL electronic only on the used market. The price will depend on its condition.