SR44, LR44, or S76 - Compatible 1.5V Minolta X-700 Batteries
The Minolta X-700 needs a SR44, LR44, or S76 battery. (357/303, A76, PX76, AG13)
The differences are based on battery chemistry. SR44 silver oxide batteries will last longer, but cost more. LR44 alkaline batteries are cheap, so it is easy to carry extras.
These batteries are widely available. They can be found in convenience stores and big box chains.
Compatible Batteries for the Minolta X-700
The X-700 is designed to work with the following types of batteries:
| Battery Type | Model | Amazon | eBay |
|---|---|---|---|
| Alkaline | LR44 | Buy | Buy |
| Silver-Oxide | SR44 | Buy | Buy |
| Silver-Oxide | S76 | Buy | Buy |
Also: 357/303, A76, PX76, AG13, and possibly more.
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How to Use the Battery Check Function
It’s recommended to do this every time you start a shooting session. The battery check function provides an early warning to prevent unexpected shutdown.
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Locate the Battery Check Button: The battery check button is situated near the rewind crank, marked as ‘BC’ for easy identification.
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Press the Button: Press and hold the ‘BC’ button. Upon doing so, the camera’s built-in audible beep should sound, and the LED in the viewfinder should light up.
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Check the Response: If the beep is loud and the red LED is bright, your battery is in good health. If the beep is faint and the LED is dim or doesn’t light up at all, it’s time to replace your battery.
Minolta X-700 Lenses
The Minolta X-700 uses an in-built through-the-lens (TTL) metering system for exposure control. This requires compatible lenses which are covered in this list of the best Minolta X-700 lenses.
Important Points
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While both battery types are compatible, the SR44 Silver-Oxide variant is generally recommended due to its consistent voltage supply, which directly translates into more accurate light metering.
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Although the LR44 Alkaline battery is a suitable alternative, its voltage can decrease over time, causing slight inconsistencies in exposure metering.
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The camera’s design does not support rechargeable batteries, primarily due to their lower voltage output, which may affect camera performance.
Technical Nuances
The Minolta X-700’s battery compartment is located on the bottom of the camera body. A simple quarter-turn with a coin will open it, and the battery slides out easily. Once a new battery is inserted, make sure to check the battery check function to ensure everything is working fine.
When storing your Minolta X-700 for extended periods, it’s good practice to remove the battery to prevent potential leakage and subsequent damage to the camera.
The Minolta X-700, despite its age, continues to be a beloved tool for many photographers worldwide. Understanding its power source, the humble battery, ensures that this classic camera continues to breathe life into photographs for years to come.