Fujifilm releases X100VI

Get the first look at the new Fujifilm X100VI camera

Photography News is in Japan to see the 40.2-megapixel X100VI unveiled

Fujifilm has released the latest iteration of its X100 camera – the X100VI – and based on first impressions it looks to be the best yet.

Subscribing to the ‘if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it’ school of thought, Fujifilm’s designers have stayed true to the styling of the original model that started the X Series dynasty in 2010, while at the same time bringing the new model bang up to date from a tech perspective.

What’s new on the X100VI?

Let’s start with the sensor and processor. The X100VI uses the X-Trans CMOS 5 HR and X Processor 5 sensor/imaging engine combo from the X-T5 and X-H2. This makes for a hefty leap in both resolution and speed over the X100V it replaces, with 40.2-megapixel stills and up to 6.2K/30p video on tap. Native ISO also now goes down to 125, which was previously only an extended option.

While body size and shape will be familiar to any X100 aficionado, an in-body image stabilisation (IBIS) system has been squeezed in. The system – seen for the first time in an X100 series model – uses internal gyro sensors to offer a benefit of up to six stops. This reduces slightly if you use the camera’s optical viewfinder. The IBIS has increased weight compared to the previous model, but only slightly.

Autofocus performance has also been boosted by virtue of an improved AF algorithm and subject detection that’s enhanced by deep learning AI. Alongside people, the camera can now successfully acquire and track a broader range of subjects, including animals, birds, and different modes of transport (cars, bikes, planes etc).

Film Simulation modes have always a key USP for Fujifilm and the X100VI gains the latest Reala Ace simulation first seen in the range-topping GFX100 II launched last year. This means 20 modes are now at your fingertips.

Ergonomically, the body design has been tweaked to enhance user experience. The grip has been subtly redesigned and the buttons on the rear re-positioned to make them more accessible with the right hand.

Finally, the X100VI offers native camera to cloud functionality with Frame.io. Fujifilm has been spearheading this technology in stills cameras for almost a year, with the X100VI the fourth camera to offer the functionality. It allows you to connect to the internet and wirelessly transfer stills or video to the Frame.io platform in real time, speeding up workflow.

What hasn’t changed on the X100VI?

The core values of the X100 series remain steadfastly intact with the X100VI, which is broadly very good news. The dial-based design is key to the camera’s appeal and remains the same, bar the aforementioned handling tweaks, as does the tilting LCD which sits neatly flush to the body when stowed away.

There’s the same fixed 23mm f/2 lens, of course, but the increase in resolution makes the 1.4x and 2x digital teleconverters more usable as there are more pixels to work with. There’s also still the 4-stop internal ND, which adds useful extra versatility and helps make the most of the f/2 maximum aperture.

Like the X100V, the VI can be made fully weather resistant with addition of the optional 49mm protector filter and AR-X100 adapter ring. This makes it resistant to dust, moisture, and temperatures down to -10°C.

In terms of battery, the W126S cell remains, but despite the IBIS system being added there’s a modest gain in battery life. There’s still just one SD card slot, too, which is UHS-I compatible.

What’s the X100VI like to use?

As it’s the sixth version of the camera, Fujifilm has had a long time to perfect the user experience and there’s little to grumble about on the new model. It remains a camera that won’t appeal to everyone – some will see the fixed lens as a barrier rather than a creative opportunity. But if you like the idea of a high-spec’d fixed lens model that delivers great results, the X100VI won’t disappoint.

How much does the X100VI cost?

Available in black or silver, the X100VI will cost £1599 when it goes on sale on February 28.

A limited-edition version of the camera has also been produced to celebrate the company’s 90^th anniversary. Costing £1934, just 1934 units will be available worldwide with each one featuring the original company logo engraved on top-plate and lens cap, unique serial number, special strap, soft shutter release button and coming in a commemorative box with history cards. In the UK, the camera will only be available from the FUJFIILM House of Photography from early April.

fujifilm-x.com