Introduction
The Fujifilm X100V is a visually stunning compact camera with an elegant retro design and excellent ergonomics. In this article, we will provide you with a comprehensive review of the Fujifilm X100V, allowing you to gain a deeper understanding of this remarkable camera.
Design
At first glance, it may be hard to distinguish the latest X100 model from its predecessors. However, most of the changes have been made internally, a sensible decision given the X100 series’ timeless design.
The X100V offers a “hybrid” viewfinder, allowing you to choose between an optical or electronic finder depending on your preferences or the subject you’re capturing. Switching between these options is simple with a lever located on the camera’s front. The optical finder is particularly useful for capturing subjects about to enter the frame.
While the concept of a hybrid viewfinder is not new for X100 cameras, the X100V has made significant improvements. The optical finder now boasts greater coverage at 95%, while the electronic viewfinder offers an impressive 3.6-million dot resolution.
Compared to its predecessor, the X100V features a few changes in button layout. The four-way navigation pad has been removed, and the Q button, leading to the quick menu, is now positioned beside the thumb rest. These slight changes are easy to adapt to for users transitioning from older models and make more sense for first-time X100 users.
On the top plate, you’ll find all the dials and controls that appeal to photography enthusiasts. The camera features an ISO dial, exposure compensation dial, and an aperture adjustment ring around the lens. The front and rear dials can be used for shutter speed or other functions and can also be pressed inward to access user-defined settings.
Features
The Fujifilm X100V is the fifth iteration of the X100 series, renowned for its premium compact design, classic aesthetics, and optical viewfinder. The X100V benefits from the latest 26mp APS-C CMOS sensor, the same X-Trans CMOS 4 sensor found in Fujifilm’s popular X-T3, X-T4, X-T30, and X-Pro3 models.
This camera boasts a redesigned body with top and bottom plates crafted from individual pieces of aluminum. Finished with a satin coating, the X100V showcases a more sophisticated look and a premium touch.
Fujifilm has also enhanced the 23mm f/2.0 lens, improving its resolution, reducing distortion, and enhancing close-focus performance. While the close focus distance remains at 10cm, the lens now delivers superior image quality. Additionally, the X100V is compatible with the WCL/TCL adapters, which transform the 35mm equivalent lens into a 28mm or 50mm equivalent lens.
Auto Focus has been significantly upgraded with a new algorithm, allowing the camera to focus in low-light conditions down to -5EV. The camera also benefits from built-in phase-detection, face detection, and eye detection AF. A focus limiter function has been added, enabling you to set the distance when you know the whereabouts of your subject.
The X100V retains its analog controls and external dials, allowing you to directly control aperture, shutter speed, and ISO speed even when the camera is switched off.
In terms of video capabilities, the X100V now supports 4K video recording at 30fps, as well as FullHD video recording at 120fps. Furthermore, the camera offers the option for 10-bit 4:2:2 output through its HDMI output.
Connection and Battery
The Fujifilm X100V boasts a battery rating of 350 shots, although it is likely to last even longer in real-world usage scenarios.
Under normal circumstances, the battery should easily last an entire day of still photography. However, shooting 4K videos or frequently transferring images to a smartphone may cause the battery level to decrease. In such cases, it’s advisable to carry a portable battery pack for USB charging. Additionally, photographers who spend extended periods capturing street shots might consider investing in a second battery.
In addition to the USB-C connector for charging the camera, the X100V includes an HDMI micro connector and a microphone input. These features may appeal to videographers and vloggers, although the camera might not be a top choice for those specific uses.
The camera also offers Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity, facilitating seamless transfer of photos to your smartphone using the free app available for Android and iOS.
We hope this Fujifilm X100V review has provided you with the necessary information to make an informed decision when considering a purchase.
