Compact cameras with fixed lenses continue to attract enthusiasts who value simplicity and portability. The Fujifilm X100VI is the latest in this iconic series, combining retro aesthetics with modern performance.
Coming to you from Craig Roberts e6 vlogThis great video explores it X100VIFeatures and some oddities. The camera’s 40.2-megapixel APS-C sensor offers exceptional image quality and the ability to crop in-camera to mimic a 50mm focal length without sacrificing too much detail. The fixed 23mm lens (35mm equivalent) is sharp and versatile, although Roberts notes slight softness at wide apertures during close focus. The built-in ND filter and 1/180,000-second electronic shutter are especially useful for shooting in bright conditions.
One of the X100VI’s standout features is its 5-axis in-body image stabilization, which aids handheld shooting at slow shutter speeds. The camera also offers a hybrid viewfinder, a combination of an optical viewfinder and a high-resolution 3.69-million-dot OLED electronic viewfinder. The 1.62 million-dot tilting touchscreen LCD adds flexibility for creative angles. However, the short battery life and lack of a second memory card slot may limit its appeal for extended shoots.
Main Specification
- Sensor: 40.2MP APS-C CMOS
- Lens: Fixed 23mm f/2 (35mm equivalent)
- ISO Range: Photo: 125-12,800 (expandable: 64-51,200); Video: 125-12,800 (Expandable: 25,600)
- shutter speed: Mechanical: 1/4000-15 minutes; Electronic: 1/180,000-15 minutes
- Video: DCI 4K up to 59.94 fps, 1080p up to 240 fps
- image stabilization: 5-axis sensor-shift
- Viewfinder: Optical and 3.69-million-dot OLED EVF
- Display: 3 inch tilting touchscreen (1.62 million dots)
- Construction: Weather resistant, weighs 1.1 pounds (with battery)
Roberts shares that the simplicity of the camera makes it enjoyable to use, but there is also room for improvement. The exposure compensation dial is stiff, while the front and rear dials turn very easily. Focus performance, while reliable, is sometimes noisy due to the lens mechanics. He also mentions preferring a thumb grip for better ergonomics, which is not included by default.
While the X100VI is still excellent, its video capabilities are also impressive, with support for 4:2:2 10-bit external recording via HDMI and slow motion mode in Full HD. However, Roberts sees it as a supplementary video tool rather than the primary choice for filmmakers.
The X100VI feels like a bridge between the compact X100 series and Fujifilm’s interchangeable lens system. Its blend of performance and style makes it ideal for those looking for an everyday camera that doesn’t compromise image quality. Watch the video above for Roberts’ full breakdown.
