Minolta Dimage X

I can't rate the reliability, as I have just got my Minolta Dimage X digital camera off eBay for £67, refurbished including delivery, and it's an absolute gem. It offers really good quality in a small neat package. I'm not sure how long it will work for, judging by others comments, but it's a decent piece of kit. I was fed up of taking my Canon A60 everywhere and having to keep watch on it, so I wanted something that would fit in my pocket, yet I didn't want to compromise on image quality. The flash on the Canon is slightly brighter, and the image on full zoom a little clearer, but not much in it at all, considering the size difference. This fits my requirements perfectly.

Overall a very easy to operate camera, decent battery life. Not sure about the advanced features, as I don't use them. 3 x optical zoom on a tiny camera is the main reason I bought it.

I had the same problem with shutter cover failure that other users have described. When I sent to camera to Minolta expecting it to be repaired under the warranty, I received a reply stating that impact damage voided the warranty and that the repair would cost $130 plus shipping which equaled one half the cameras cost new. In talking with Minolta, I was told that a scratch to the case would void the warranty, even if it had nothing to do with the failure. No more Minolta for me.

Just a warning to anyone considering a Minolta Dimage X - I fell in love with this camera when it first came out. It was everything I wanted it to be - quick and easy to use, and small enough to slip in a shirt pocket.

Unfortunately my camera has been back to Minolta twice now since buying it in April with shutter faults. A relative who also bought one after seeing mine is also awaiting it being repaired as it refuses to take pictures anymore - be warned my camera has been back with Minolta for longer than it's been with me!

The Minolta Dimage X is a great second camera for the digital enthusiast. This is a great little pocket camera if 1-2 megapixels will please you at printing time. Very easy to use and reasonably priced if you shop around. I am very pleased.