Fujifilm X100V Review – Still Worth the Hype?

I remember the day when I first laid my hands on the Fujifilm X100 Series camera. The excitement and anticipation were palpable, and now that I have spent a good amount of time with the latest iteration – the Fujifilm X100V – I am eager to share my insights with you. This article aims to provide a thorough review of the X100V, diving deep into its design, performance, and features. With the X100 Series being highly regarded in the photography community, it’s worth seeing how this latest model holds up compared to its predecessors.

In this Fujifilm X100V review, I will cover everything an amateur or professional photographer needs to know about the camera and its features. From the overview and design to image quality, autofocus, video capabilities, and a comparison with its predecessors, we’ll leave no stone unturned.

As a fellow photographer, I understand the need to stay up-to-date with the latest gear and equipment, and I’m eager to help satisfy your curiosity about the popular Fujifilm X100V. So, sit back, relax, and walk with me as we explore this remarkable camera that has been making waves in the photography world.

Fujifilm X100V Overview and Design

The Fujifilm X100V has garnered much attention and interest within the photography community since its announcement. Fujifilm’s X100 series has always been a favorite among street photographers, and the X100V is no exception, making it absolutely one of the best Fujifilm cameras on the market. In this section, we’ll discuss the camera’s design, build, and ergonomics. With my years of experience as a photographer, I have a keen eye for what works and what doesn’t – so let’s get started.

A Sleek, Retro Classic

One thing that immediately stands out about the Fujifilm X100V is its gorgeous, retro design. A sleek mix of classic and modern, the camera’s body is primarily magnesium alloy, ensuring durability and strength while keeping the weight down. Among the significant improvements from the previous X100 models is the body’s more minimalist design, lending an elegance to the camera that’s hard to match. Its dimensions measure 128 x 75 x 53 mm, and it weighs a manageable 478g, making it an attractive option for those who like to travel light.

The Grip and Button Layout

In terms of ergonomics, the X100V has a subtle yet useful front grip that makes it comfortable to hold for extended periods. The button layout is relaxed and uncluttered, with a touch of customization in the form of a dedicated ISO dial embedded within the shutter speed dial. The exposure compensation dial, aperture ring, and focus selection options are all within easy reach as well. Overall, the layout is intuitive and makes using the camera a breeze.

A Hybrid Viewfinder to Die for

One of the standout features of the X100V (and indeed the entire series) is its hybrid viewfinder. The camera boasts an optical viewfinder (OVF) that can be switched to an electronic viewfinder (EVF) with a simple flick of a lever. The EVF, in particular, has seen significant improvements, boasting a 3.69-million-dot OLED panel with a refresh rate of 100 fps. This enhancement provides better clarity and minimal lag, giving users a more accurate preview of their final image.

The Swiveling LCD Screen

Another fantastic design feature of the X100V is its 3.0-inch, 1.62-million-dot touch-sensitive LCD screen. This tilting and swiveling screen is a godsend for street photographers, as it allows for framing shots from various angles without drawing attention to oneself. I have found this invaluable when capturing candid moments on the streets.

Finally, Weather Resistance!

Last but not least, the X100V now sports weather resistance – a much-requested feature from Fujifilm enthusiasts. While not entirely waterproof, attaching the optional AR-X100 adapter ring and the PRF-49 protection filter to the camera’s lens brings a level of confidence when shooting in less-than-ideal weather conditions.

In conclusion, the Fujifilm X100V’s design, build, and ergonomics put it at the top of its class. The changes and improvements over its predecessors offer a compelling package that any street photographer would be remiss not to consider adding to their collection.

Key Features and Specifications

The Fujifilm X100V is packed with several cutting-edge features and specifications that make it a significant upgrade from its predecessors. This camera is designed to cater to various photography styles and situations, so whether you are a street photographer, a travel enthusiast or a professional, you will find a lot to love about this camera. Let’s take a closer look at the key features and specifications of the X100V:

• 26.1-megapixel X-Trans CMOS 4 sensor
• X-Processor 4 image processor
• Fujinon 23mm f/2 lens
• Hybrid autofocus system with 425 phase-detection points
• ISO range of 160 – 12800 (expandable to 80 – 51200)
• Built-in 4-stop ND filter
• In-body image stabilization
• 4K/30p video capabilities with F-Log
• 3-inch, tilting touchscreen LCD with 1.62M-dot resolution
• Hybrid electronic and optical viewfinder
• Weather-resistant design
• Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity

Sensor and Processor

The Fujifilm X100V is equipped with a 26.1-megapixel X-Trans CMOS 4 sensor, an upgrade from the previous model, which boasted a 24.3-megapixel sensor. This BSI (Back Side Illuminated) sensor provides a higher resolution and improved low light performance. Coupled with the powerful X-Processor 4 image processor, the camera can deliver faster performance, better color rendering, and advanced noise reduction capabilities.

Lens

This camera comes with a Fujinon 23mm f/2 lens, equivalent to a 35mm lens in full-frame terms. This fixed focal length lens has been redesigned from its previous iterations, giving it remarkable sharpness, improved edge-to-edge performance, and reduced distortion. The lens also features a built-in 4-stop ND filter, which is exceptionally useful for shooting in bright conditions and achieving creative effects.

Autofocus System

The X100V sports a hybrid autofocus system, offering 425 phase-detection AF points covering nearly the entire sensor area. This allows for quick and accurate focusing, even in challenging lighting conditions. The new autofocus system is also capable of tracking and maintaining focus on moving subjects much more efficiently than previous models.

ISO Range and Image Stabilization

The ISO range of the X100V extends from 160 to 12800, and it can be expanded from 80 to 51200 for even more versatility. This wide range makes it possible to capture beautiful images in various lighting conditions. Although the camera lacks in-body image stabilization (IBIS), the sharpness of the new lens and high ISO performance ensure that you can still capture sharp, noise-free photos in low light.

Video Capabilities

Fujifilm has upped the ante on the X100V’s video capabilities, with the camera now supporting 4K/30p video recording with F-Log, allowing for more flexibility during post-production. This is a significant jump from the 1080p video offered in previous models, and a welcomed addition for content creators and vloggers. The camera’s excellent autofocus system also comes into play during video recording, offering smooth and accurate focus tracking.

LCD Screen and Viewfinder

The X100V features a 3-inch, tilting touchscreen LCD with a 1.62M-dot resolution, giving you more options when it comes to framing and reviewing your shots. The hybrid electronic and optical viewfinder (EVF/OVF) is a unique and beloved feature of the X100 series cameras, and it has been further refined in this model. The EVF now offers a higher resolution and a faster refresh rate, ensuring a clear, real-time preview of your scene.

Weather Resistance and Connectivity

For the first time in the X100 series, the X100V boasts a weather-resistant design, making it a more versatile and reliable companion for your photographic adventures. You will, however, need to attach the optional AR-X100 adapter ring and the PRF-49 protection filter to complete the weather resistance. Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity features are also included, making it easy to transfer your images to your devices and control the camera remotely.

These are just a few of the key features and specifications that make the Fujifilm X100V an exciting and worthwhile investment. As we discuss the camera’s performance, image quality, and more in the following sections, you’ll discover just how impressive and versatile this compact camera truly is.

Image Quality and Performance

The Fujifilm X100V truly shines when it comes to image quality and performance. Whether you’re a professional or an enthusiast, there’s no doubt that this camera offers a versatile and seamless shooting experience. In this section, we’ll delve into the different elements that affect the image quality of the X100V, such as sharpness, color reproduction, dynamic range, high ISO performance, and RAW files, as well as compare its performance to previous models.

Sharpness

The built-in lens of the X100V, a 23mm f/2, offers excellent sharpness across the frame. I found that images captured with the X100V were incredibly crisp and clear, even at lower aperture values. The sharpness extends from corner to corner, meaning you can achieve a consistent level of detail regardless of the shooting conditions. This lens is a significant improvement over the previous models, particularly when shooting at wide apertures.

Color Reproduction

Fujifilm is known for its iconic color science, and the X100V is no exception. The camera’s color rendition is outstanding, with rich, natural tones that expertly capture any scene’s atmosphere. Fujifilm’s Film Simulation modes are another valuable addition, offering a variety of color profiles that emulate classic film stocks, providing a unique and nostalgic look to your images. I particularly enjoyed the Velvia and Classic Chrome simulation modes for their deeply saturated yet cinematic qualities.

Dynamic Range

The dynamic range exhibited by the X100V is impressive for a camera of its size. The sensor provides a broad tonal range, allowing you to work effectively in high-contrast situations without losing details in shadows or highlights. I found this feature particularly useful when shooting landscape or street scenes, where contrasting light situations were often present.

High ISO Performance

One of the X100V’s strong suits is its high ISO performance. Featuring an ISO range of 160-12800 (expandable to 80-51200), the camera captures clear, detailed imagery even in low-light situations. The noise levels remain impressively low throughout the ISO range, retaining the image’s sharpness and color accuracy. Comparing it to its predecessors, there’s a notable improvement in the noise-control department.

RAW Files

Shooting in RAW mode with the X100V offers you incredible flexibility during post-processing. The RAW files retain a significant amount of detail, allowing you to extract more information and fine-tune your images in post-production. The camera’s efficient processing engine ensures that your RAW images look clean and noise-free, even at higher ISO values.

Throughout my experience with the Fujifilm X100V, I was consistently impressed with the camera’s image quality and capabilities. The sharpness, color reproduction, dynamic range, and high ISO performance all demonstrate the outstanding quality that this camera delivers, cementing its position as a formidable tool in the photography community. Next time you find yourself shooting with this device, allow yourself to explore its full potential, and you might just be pleasantly surprised at the results you’ll achieve.

Autofocus and Shooting Experience

As a photographer, I can’t stress enough the importance of a reliable autofocus system. After all, capturing those perfect moments often relies on the speed and accuracy of a camera’s autofocus. In this section, I’ll explore the capabilities of the Fujifilm X100V’s autofocus system and delve into the overall shooting experience one can expect from this camera.

To begin with, the X100V features Fujifilm’s latest autofocus technology, utilizing a hybrid system combining 425 phase-detection points and contrast-detection autofocus. This impressive array of focus points ensures both fast and accurate focusing, making it easier for photographers to capture sharp images even in challenging situations.

I was particularly impressed with the low-light performance of the X100V’s autofocus. In my personal experience, I found that the camera was able to focus quickly and accurately in dimly-lit environments, which is a significant improvement over its predecessors. This makes the X100V an excellent choice for photographers who frequently shoot in low-light scenarios, such as wedding and event photography.

For those fast-paced, high-action moments, the X100V also excels in continuous tracking and fast-moving subject autofocus. I tested the camera’s tracking capabilities by photographing fast-moving subjects such as birds in flight and athletes in motion, and was pleasantly surprised with the results. The camera managed to keep up with the subjects and maintain focus most of the time, which is an essential feature for photographers who need to capture split-second moments.

Regarding the overall shooting experience, the X100V boasts a decent buffer capacity, capable of handling up to 17 continuous RAW images or up to 38 continuous JPEGs when shooting at its maximum speed of 11 frames per second (with the electronic shutter). While perhaps not the most impressive in the market, this capacity felt adequate for most situations, ensuring that you can capture a series of images without any substantial performance drop-off.

One area where the X100V does falter slightly is its shutter lag. While this isn’t a detrimental issue, I felt that it was still worth mentioning. There is a slight delay between pressing the shutter button and the camera taking the shot, which can sometimes cause you to miss a crucial moment. That being said, with some practice and anticipation, this minor limitation can be overcome.

In conclusion, the autofocus performance and shooting experience of the Fujifilm X100V are generally excellent. The camera’s hybrid autofocus system ensures accurate and fast focusing in a variety of situations, and its buffer capacity allows for a smooth and enjoyable shooting experience. However, slight shutter lag could potentially hinder some photographers, especially when timing is crucial. Overall, though, these drawbacks shouldn’t deter you from considering the X100V as a solid option for your photography endeavors.

Video Capabilities

As a photographer, I’ll be honest – I usually focus more on the still-image aspect of a camera. But we can’t ignore the increasing demand for capable video features in modern cameras today. Whether you’re a vlogger, a content creator, or simply want to capture your favorite moments on film, the Fujifilm X100V doesn’t disappoint.

The X100V brings a much-needed upgrade to the video department compared to its predecessors. Fujifilm has equipped the camera with 4K video recording at up to 30fps, which definitely puts it on the map for those seeking a versatile camera for both photography and videography. If you prefer higher frame rates for slow-motion recording, you can opt for 1080p at up to 120fps.

One distinct advantage that stands out in the X100V’s video capabilities is its autofocus performance. Thanks to the hybrid phase-detection autofocus system, you can expect fast and accurate focusing during video recording.

For those who are serious about color grading and post-processing, the X100V offers the F-Log gamma profile, providing flat footage with more dynamic range to work with in post. This feature alone puts the camera a step ahead of its predecessors.

Now, it’s worth mentioning that due to its compact size and fixed-lens design, some may find the X100V a bit limited for more demanding video work. It lacks essential features like a headphone jack or a full articulating screen for easier monitoring, and there is no built-in image stabilization. Nevertheless, with a quality tripod or gimbal, most casual users will find the X100V more than capable of delivering excellent video results.

Of course, not everything can be perfect, and there’s a downside to the X100V’s video capabilities – the camera can get quite hot during extended video recording sessions, especially when shooting in 4K. However, as a backup video camera or for short clips, this shouldn’t be a deal-breaker for most users.

In conclusion, the Fujifilm X100V has made significant strides in its video performance, adding 4K recording, impressive autofocus, and the F-Log gamma profile. While certainly not a dedicated video camera, it packs enough versatility to make it a worthy consideration for photographers who occasionally dabble in videography or for vloggers and content creators who appreciate the stylish design and unmatched image quality that the X100 series has consistently delivered.

Pros, Cons, and Comparisons

Every camera comes with its unique blend of strengths and weaknesses, and the Fujifilm X100V is no exception. In this section, we’ll explore the camera’s pros and cons and compare it to other cameras in its category, including its predecessors.

Pros

• New lens design: The X100V features a redesigned, higher-quality lens that delivers superior image quality with edge-to-edge sharpness. This is a significant upgrade from its predecessors and a key selling point for photographers who value top-notch image quality.
• Improved autofocus system: The autofocus performance of the X100V has been enhanced from previous models, providing faster and more accurate focusing in various scenarios, including low light and tracking fast-moving subjects.
• Weather resistance: Unlike earlier models, the X100V has improved weather sealing, making the camera more versatile and usable in a broader range of environmental conditions (although weather sealing is not complete without a separately sold UV protection filter).
• 4K video capabilities: The addition of 4K video recording at 30fps gives the X100V a competitive edge over its predecessors and makes it an attractive option for content creators or hybrid shooters who need both high-quality stills and video.
• Advanced hybrid viewfinder: Offering both optical and electronic viewfinders, the X100V caters to different styles of photography, allowing you to switch between the two for the best shooting experience.

Cons

• Fixed lens limitation: The X100V comes with a fixed 23mm f/2 lens, which may seem limiting for photographers who prefer interchangeable lenses or require a wider range of focal lengths for their work.
• No in-body image stabilization: While the image quality is excellent, the lack of in-body image stabilization can make low-light and handheld shooting more challenging. However, the X100V’s relatively high ISO performance and fast f/2 lens help to compensate for this limitation.
• Pricey for a fixed-lens camera: The X100V may be perceived as expensive for a camera with a fixed lens, especially considering that photographers could potentially choose an interchangeable lens system with a similar budget.

Comparisons

The most direct comparison for the Fujifilm X100V is with its predecessor, the X100F. The X100V clearly comes out ahead with its improved lens design, enhanced autofocus system, better weather resistance, advanced hybrid viewfinder, and 4K video capabilities. While these upgrades come at a higher price, they significantly enhance the overall usability and performance of the camera.

When comparing the X100V to other compact mirrorless systems, it stands out for its unique combination of a high-quality fixed lens, excellent image quality, and hybrid viewfinder. However, its fixed-lens design may be a deal-breaker for some photographers who value the flexibility of interchangeable lenses.

On the other hand, the X100V’s main rival in its category would be the Ricoh GR IIIX, which also features a fixed-lens design and high-quality image output. While both cameras have their respective strengths, the X100V stands out for its hybrid viewfinder, tilting screen, and 4K video capabilities, whereas the GR IIIX has a slightly more compact design and in-body image stabilization.

In conclusion, the Fujifilm X100V is an excellent choice for photographers who appreciate the advantages of a high-quality fixed lens and a versatile, compact camera. It is best suited for street and travel photographers, documentary shooters, and those who value the combination of advanced features in a relatively small package. However, if you demand the flexibility of an interchangeable lens system or prioritize in-body image stabilization, then the X100V may not be the best fit for your needs. My top recommendation for a Fujifilm alternative meeting these demands would be the X-S10—the best Fujifilm camera for vlogging.

Conclusion

As we reach the end of our deep dive into the Fujifilm X100V, it’s clear that this camera has made significant strides since its predecessors. From its refined design, improved ergonomics, and weather resistance to the advancements in image quality, autofocus, and video capabilities, the X100V proudly embraces its role as the flagship model in the beloved X100 series.

While the increased price point of the Fujifilm X100V may give some enthusiasts pause, it’s essential to consider the value that it brings to the table. Its combination of exceptional image quality, a fast and accurate autofocus system, and the addition of professional-grade video capabilities make this camera a versatile and reliable option for an array of shooting scenarios.

The X100V is not a camera for everyone, but it shines in the hands of street and travel photographers, documentary makers, and even vloggers or content creators who demand a compact, sturdy, and fashionable camera with remarkable performance. The fixed 23mm f/2 lens may limit its utility for some, but for those who appreciate the joy of a fixed prime lens and the challenge it brings, the X100V serves as an inspiring creative tool.

In comparison to its predecessors and other cameras in the same category, the Fujifilm X100V stands tall, proving that the sum of its refinements and enhancements result in a camera that’s truly greater than its parts. If you’re contemplating an upgrade from a previous X100 model, or if you’re new to the series and curious about what this camera offers, I wholeheartedly encourage you to test the X100V and experience its charm firsthand.

In conclusion, the Fujifilm X100V is an impressive camera that offers a unique blend of quality, performance, and style, making it a worthy investment in your photographic journey. It may not be the right choice for everyone, but for those it appeals to, the X100V is sure to provide an enjoyable and rewarding photographic experience.

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