First Look at the Fujifilm X100VI - the Internet’s NEW “Favorite” Camera
In early October I received an unexpected package in the mail. When I saw the shipping label read “B&H Photo Video,” and having no recollection of ordering any new equipment recently, I was understandably taken aback. Could this must be that Ricoh GR III order I was nearly positive I had canceled ? If so, my wife was about to be justifiably irritated with me.
With a swift boxcutter slice, the box sprung open and I was met with an unexpected sight. A black box with the word “Fujifilm” printed on the top. Instantly, I knew; my long awaited much anticipated black Fujifilm X100VI had arrived - only 6 months after I had preordered it.
Overview
In this blog, my goal is to give you a quick rundown of the Fujifilm X100 series, what’s new with the X100VI (compared to its predecessors), and how it compares to some of the competitors within the same camera niche i.e. premium point-and-shoots. This is not a blog to persuade you toward a camera like this one - especially since they are nigh-impossible to get at a decent price - but if you are in the market for this specific camera and you want to know this photographer’s initial thoughts and experiences with it as an EDC camera, then this post is for you.
Watch my unboxing video using the link or imbedded within this blogpost:
The Fujifilm X100-Series
I am no camera guru or even an aficionado. My knowledge of camera brands, their individual technologies, and how they ultimately differ is limited to what I am able to research, but I am enthusiastic about using cameras in all kinds of situations and scenarios. Most recently, I have really enjoyed smaller, lighter, “quirkier” systems that make the act of capturing images more fun. I have used serious and professional cameras - like the Canon EOS R and the Sony A7RV, so I am familiar with purpose built cameras that simply get the job without much fuss.
Fujifilm has been designing and manufacturing photography gear, accessories, lenses, analog film, etc. since 1934, so they certainly know their way around a camera. And having such a long and rich history and a deep connection with film cameras, they seem to understand the magic and fun of photography for the nerdy photographer and camera enthusiast. We’ve seen time and time again how they incorporate camera design elements that resemble traditional film cameras from decades ago. ISO dials, speed dials, aperture rings on lenses, etc. all keep their cameras feeling more like film camera. Their use film simulations in lieu of “picture profiles” is one of the primary features many photographers choose to join the Fujifilm ecosystems. It’s difficult to quantify why we love Fujifilm cameras so much, but they have earned a cult-like following making them one of the most popular camera brands on the market today which is shocking considering they only offer APS-C or Medium format cameras.
The X100 series takes it a step further by adding an optical viewfinder (yes, optical) with the ability to switch it to a mirrorless EVF (best of both worlds). No other camera company has done something like this, and it is beyond cool (in my opinion). Until you try a Fujifilm X100-series camera, you won’t understand just how much fun you’ll have looking through an optical viewfinder. You will feel more immersed in your scene, and you’ll wonder why more cameras don’t include this feature!
This special series is limited to a fixed lens making it behave like a premium point-and-shoot, but with an same APS-C sensor, and beautifully sharp lenses, the X100-series is just a valid a camera as their X-T line - as long as you only need a 35mm focal length equivalence.
The X100VI vs. the Other X100’s
This being Fujifilm’s newest in the X100 line, you would expect it to have their best features and some new tricks to make it worth an upgrade from one of their older models. I’m sad to say this might not actually be the case. I’m going to list everything new that Fujifilm added to or upgraded with the X100VI compared to the X100V (its direct predecessor).
40 megapixel sensor (vs. 26 mp in the X100V)
X-Processor 5 (vs. X-Processor 4 in the X100V)
Image Stabilization (vs. none in the X100V
125 ISO (vs. 160 ISO in the X100V)
4K 4.2.2 10-bit Video Recording (vs. 4K 4.2.0 8-bit in the X100V)
And that’s pretty much it. In essence, unless you need stabilization or an addition 14 megapixels, you’re likely better of sticking with the X100V if you have it. Even the X100F (one that I used to own and loved) is pretty comparable where image quality is concerned. Realistically, if you don’t already own a Fujifilm X100-series camera, and you’re in the market for the latest and greatest, here are some reasons to snag one if you are lucky enough to get the opportunity.
Optical (and EVF) Viewfinder - nothing makes me more happy than this
35mm equivalent focal length - great for SO much photography
Size/weight - easy to travel with and yet gives you a full camera experience
APS-C sensor - I’m a big fan of the quality of images over my iPhone/older point-and-shoots
Image Stabilization - really helps with handheld shots at slower shutter speeds
40 megapixels means croppable photos for reframing or for tighter shots
On-camera Dials - some hate them, I don’t. Dials means I don’t have to dig through menus or have extra buttons
So what are the negatives of this new X100VI and what are some things I wish were included?
Built-in memory (as a backup) or a second SD-card slot (pros love having a backup)
Better battery life (this actually has worse battery life than the X100V.
Weather-sealing (why would they ignore this crucial aspect of a travel camera??)
No more D-pad (I hate having to use the joystick or the touchscreen. I prefer D-pads)
65x24 built-in aspect ratio (just my own personal wishlist for ALL Fujifilm cameras!)
Stock (?) - maybe that’s not the right word, but basically, they’re really difficult to get as the pre-order was a literal circus. Now, if you want one, you’re options are the generosity of someone who doesn’t like it or purchasing it “new/used” with MAJOR price increase.
Price - at $1599 MSRP, it is in competition with several other (better) camera systems.
Since they are not really weather sealed, and since they are a new/untested camera, if I wanted to purchase a second X100VI as a backup, I’m plumb out of luck. It’s likely anyone who waited to order theirs past the first 12 hours won’t receive it for another 10-12 months - if ever.
The X100VI vs. Other Point-and-Shoots
There’s no denying waiting for an X100VI will test the patience of even the most tenacious. I was lucky enough to order within the first few hours, which is why I actually got mine in a “timely” way. So you might decide to quit the game and look for alternatives. Well, here are a few premium point-and-shoots or other options similar to the X100VI that will either give you a similar shooting experience or a similar image quality.
The Ricoh GR III, IIIx
Leica Q2, Q3
Sony RX100VII
Your Current Smartphone
Fujifilm M5, Fujifilm X-T50, Fujifilm X-Pro 2 (+ 23mm lens)
If you don’t have the patience for the X100VI or you’re not a fan of Fuji’s autofocus or its popularity, don’t stress over it. A camera is just a tool, and there are others out there that might serve you better. One might just be the smartphone that lives in your pocket.
-Jude