Fujifilm X100VI review: A stellar photography camera with limited video capability

The Fujifilm X100 series has long been a favorite among enthusiast photographers, blending classic design with cutting-edge technology. With the release of the Fujifilm X100VI, anticipation was high, and expectations were even higher. As someone who has used every iteration of this camera since the X100F, my anticipation for this latest model was particularly personal. While the X100VI might not cater to videographers looking to it as their primary video camera, for photography lovers, it stands out as a top-tier choice. This review dives into why, despite a burgeoning collection of cameras, the X100 series continues to hold a special place in the hearts of so many enthusiasts and why the X100VI is perhaps the most compelling iteration yet.

Design and ergonomics

The Fujifilm X100VI continues the tradition of combining a vintage aesthetic with modern functionality. This model features the iconic rangefinder design, a signature of the X100 series, which not only adds to its visual appeal but also offers a distinct photographic experience reminiscent of shooting with classic film cameras.

The tactile dials and manual controls are thoughtfully placed, offering quick adjustments of shutter speed, aperture and exposure compensation without diving into menu systems. It’s especially beneficial for photographers who value making rapid changes while interacting with their subjects.

Moreover, the X100VI’s compactness remains one of its most alluring traits. Fujifilm likes to tout the fact that the camera can fit in your pocket. While technically true, we never felt the desire to do this. It’s too big to be comfortable in a pocket. That said, it easily fits into a bag or purse, and it’s lightweight enough to be worn around the neck for hours at a time.

The camera’s lightweight design does not compromise its handling. Its grip and texture are optimized for secure, one-handed operation, which is perfect for street and documentary photography, where discretion and speed are paramount.

Due to its retro look, the X100VI gets lots of comments. We were frequently asked what camera we were using and whether it shot film. A surprising benefit of the X100VI is that you find yourself unexpectedly making friends with retro-photography enthusiasts. Our camera is the black and silver model, and we suspect the all-black model wouldn’t elicit the same response.

Build quality

The body of the X100VI is constructed with a mixture of magnesium alloy and durable plastics. This build provides a solid, high-quality feel without increasing the overall weight. However, the X100VI is heavier than it looks. It feels substantial in the hand, despite its diminutive size.

The X100VI is not weather-resistant right out of the box, so we didn’t dare expose it to rain or sand. Fujifilm does sell a couple of accessories — the PRF-49 protector filter and AR-X100 adapter ring — which, when combined with the X100VI, supposedly make the camera fully weather-resistant. We had neither and, therefore, couldn’t test Fujfilm’s claims.

The electronic viewfinder (EVF) provides a bright, clear view under various lighting conditions. Plus, the hybrid viewfinder system allows users to switch between an optical viewfinder (OVF) and an EVF. This flexibility is particularly valuable in street photography, where environmental conditions can change rapidly. Notably, the overlays in the OVF are sometimes difficult to see when used in combination with polarized sunglasses — they nearly vanish when looking through the viewfinder with the camera rotated 90 degrees to portrait orientation. However, while worth noting, this isn’t a knock against the camera since all cameras with polarized lenses experience this.

Key features

Sensor and processor

The Fujifilm X100VI is equipped with the APS-C X-Trans CMOS 5HR sensor, paired with the X-Processor 4. This sensor and processor duo is known for its rapid processing speed and ability to handle complex color and light scenarios, which is particularly beneficial for capturing street scenes and landscapes.

Lens

Central to the X100VI’s appeal and occasional consternation is its fixed 23 mm f/2 lens, offering a 35 mm equivalent focal length on a full-frame sensor. This lens is great for general street and travel photography. However, we occasionally wished for a wider angle. The high resolution of the sensor allows for cropping without significant loss of detail, so the digital teleconverter can effectively adjust the framing when needed. However, for those looking to expand their view, investing in a wide-angle converter would be worthwhile. The lens’s f/2 aperture excels in low-light conditions and achieves a beautiful bokeh that enhances subject isolation.

Viewfinder

The Fujifilm X100VI’s hybrid viewfinder is arguably one of its most interesting features. It offers the best of both worlds with its integrated optical and electronic viewfinders. The OVF offers a direct view, which many purists prefer for a more immediate and immersive connection with the subject.

Unlike a DSLR, the OVF in the X100VI is offset, providing a unique perspective that includes a preview box showing where the camera will capture the image. This box adjusts its position within the viewfinder based on the focus distance, a feature that aids in composing shots with precision, especially at closer ranges.

On the upside, it’s nice to see the action that’s happening just outside the captured frame. On the downside, you may find yourself framing a shot, focusing and then having to reframe to compensate for the new focal plane.

In either mode, the viewfinder can be difficult to use with glasses, as many viewfinders are. Thankfully, the LCD offers a high-resolution display that ensures all details are crisp and clearly visible. This helps to overcome the limitations some might experience with the OVF. For example, eye tracking unfortunately doesn’t work with the OVF but works normally with both the LCD and EVF.

The X100VI allows for an innovative feature where a small electronic rangefinder (ERF) can be displayed within the OVF. This ERF pops up in the corner to aid in manual focusing or when using single-point autofocus, offering a digital zoom of the focus area, which is a boon for ensuring sharp focus. This is particularly useful in photography where manual focus control can offer greater creative freedom. However, it unfortunately only works when the camera is either in full-manual focus or single-point autofocus.

Autofocus system

The X100VI’s autofocus system generally performs well, delivering speedy and accurate focusing in most situations. However, in continuous mode, there can be occasional hunting, particularly with static subjects where continuous AF may not be necessary. In low-light conditions, the X100VI is supported by the lens’s f/2 aperture and the camera’s effective in-body image stabilization, allowing for the use of slower shutter speeds down to 1/20 second without sacrificing image sharpness.

Film simulation modes

Fujifilm’s film simulation modes are not just basic color profiles; they are crafted to replicate the look and feel of traditional film stocks. They add a layer of artistic expression to the photographs taken with the X100VI. The camera offers a variety of simulations, each suited to different styles and lighting conditions. My personal favorite, Nostalgic Negative, produces images with a soft, warm tone that enhances the emotional quality of casual photographs.

For photographers looking to share their work directly from the camera, these simulations provide a way to bypass the often time-consuming post-processing stage. Shooting in RAW+JPEG mode allows for flexibility. JPEGs can be used for immediate sharing, while RAW files are kept for potential detailed editing later. If you’re the type of photographer who intends to post-process your photos more than you really do, the film simulations are a big plus.

Psychological benefits

The film simulations also influence the shooting experience by simplifying the decision-making process during capture. By selecting a preferred simulation, photographers can focus more on composition and timing rather than on post-shot adjustments. Shooting photos this way feels like the discipline of shooting with film. Choices about contrast color and grain are made in advance, committing the photographer to capturing the moment as it unfolds.

A particularly fun way of shooting with the X100VI is to choose your favorite film simulation, disable the LCD completely, and only use the OVF. If you’re disciplined enough not to look at your photos until you get to a computer, the experience feels remarkably analog. The feeling is enhanced even more with Fujfilm’s tactile controls.

In our case, we set the film simulations to the focus ring so we could quickly switch between simulation modes. We were able to adapt swiftly to changing conditions or experiment with various aesthetic outcomes without interrupting the flow of shooting.

Photography performance

Image quality

When evaluating the image quality of the Fujifilm X100VI, it delivers mixed results. While the color reproduction and dynamic range are commendable, the lens sharpness was disappointing. Images don’t appear as crisp as we’d expect, given the camera’s 40 MP sensor. This slight softness isn’t noticeable in all types of photography but is apparent in shots featuring fine detail. (Note: Fujifilm says that initial production versions of the camera with early firmware could show image quality issues and some operational quirks we’ve mentioned. The company claims newer firmware should improve these issues. However, we couldn’t test Fujifilm’s claims for this review.)

The camera performs well in diverse lighting conditions. It has a good dynamic range that preserves details in both shadows and highlights. However, while the X100VI handles moderate ISO levels well, its performance at high sensitivities, such as ISO 12,500 and above, is less impressive. Images at these high ISO settings tend to display considerable noise, which could be a limiting factor for those needing to shoot frequently in low-light conditions.

Shooting experience

The Fujifilm X100VI excels in its handling and user experience. The camera retains the beloved build quality of its predecessors, essentially unchanged in size and weight. The addition of an articulating screen in the previous generation was a significant improvement, enhancing its versatility. However, we would have loved to see a fully reversible side screen that could further optimize its usability for vlogging or complex shots.

During practical use, especially in dynamic environments like street photography, the camera’s compact size and the added confidence from in-body image stabilization (IBIS) allow for great flexibility and ease of shooting handheld. We found the X100VI to be an ideal companion for street photographers who need to move quickly and discreetly.

However, there are some operational quirks that could impact the shooting process. For instance, the joystick used to adjust the autofocus point is sensitive. That means it can be inadvertently nudged, causing the focus point to shift unexpectedly. The intended solution of locking the focus area is ineffective. The focus point would still suddenly jump to the corner of the frame and lock there. We hope this recurring annoyance is resolved in a future firmware update.

Customizability and settings

Like most modern cameras, the X100VI offers extensive customization options. This can significantly influence a photographer’s shooting style and efficiency. The ability to assign frequently used functions to various physical controls and buttons allows you to adapt the camera to fit their specific needs, making it quicker and easier to change settings on the fly.

Video capabilities

While the Fujifilm X100VI shines as a photography tool, its video capabilities present a mixed bag. The camera primarily caters to photographers who might occasionally delve into videography rather than dedicated videographers.

Who will use this for video?

The Fujifilm X100VI is primarily a photographer’s camera, excelling in capturing high-quality images thanks to its lens and APS-C sensor. This combination not only surpasses the performance of typical smartphone cameras in terms of detail and low-light capabilities but also enriches the overall color and dynamic range of the photographs. However, when it comes to video, the X100VI positions it more as a supplementary rather than a dedicated function.

The camera’s design and control layout reflect a serious approach to image-making, which could extend to video recording. It suggests a capability for a more thoughtful and controlled video shooting experience than would a smartphone. It shoots in F-LOG, F-LOG 2 and HLG. These give shooters sufficient room to play in post-production. This might appeal to photographers who occasionally need to capture video and prefer a tool that offers more control over exposure and composition than a typical smartphone.

However, the fixed lens and non-reversible LCD screen limit its flexibility.

Not a video workhorse

For casual video tasks — such as creating quick content for social media or capturing everyday moments with more depth and clarity than a phone might offer — the X100VI is more than capable. Its video quality benefits significantly from the optical characteristics of the lens and sensor. These ensure that even these more spontaneous video recordings have a touch of cinematic quality.

Unfortunately, the X100VI isn’t the workhorse most video shooters would require. For example, the camera overheats after shooting about 20 continuous minutes of 4K 60fps video, even in an air-conditioned room.

In essence, the X100VI’s video capabilities are not the main attraction. However, they provide a valuable addition for photographers who appreciate having the ability to shoot occasional video clips without an additional device. This dual functionality makes the X100VI a capable, if limited, companion to photographers who see its video capabilities as a nice addition rather than a main attraction.

Video specs

The video specifications of the X100VI include the ability to shoot in 6K and 4K. However, both modes introduce a crop factor that tightens the field of view, which can already feel somewhat restrictive due to the fixed 23 mm lens. Additionally, experienced video shooters will notice significant rolling shutter effects. This could detract from the overall video quality and be a dealbreaker for dynamic shooting scenarios.

In comparison to other cameras within the same price range, the X100VI might not hold up as well for dedicated video work. For example, at close to the same price, one could get the Sony a6700. That camera has better stabilization and autofocus, and supports interchangeable lenses.

Video quality

The video quality of the X100VI benefits from Fujifilm’s excellent color science. This ensures vibrant and accurate color reproduction. The dynamic range in video, while good, does not necessarily surpass what other similar cameras offer. In low-light conditions, the X100VI is saved by its f/2.0 lens. At smaller apertures, ISO noise becomes problematic above 12,800.

Autofocus in video

As for the autofocus performance during video recording, the camera performs adequately but does not compare favorably with more video-focused cameras. The system can struggle with tracking moving subjects and maintaining focus in complex scenes, which might be frustrating for users expecting the same level of autofocus performance as seen in modern hybrid cameras. Furthermore, with autofocus enabled in video mode, we found the LCD’s touch AF to be unresponsive, despite being enabled. This prevented us from overriding the camera’s selected focus point without switching it back into manual focus mode.

Usability for videographers

From a videographer’s perspective, the handling and ergonomics of the X100VI are geared more towards photography. Though, this is hardly unique to the X100VI. The lack of a fully articulating screen and more nuanced manual controls limit its effectiveness in professional video settings. While the camera does include in-body stabilization, which aids in reducing camera shake, the overall design and feature set do not support more demanding video production needs, such as vlogging, wedding videography or corporate video production.

Limitations and drawbacks

The primary limitations for videography include the fixed lens with a tight field of view when cropped, the noticeable rolling shutter and the lack of certain video-centric features such as a headphone jack for audio monitoring. Additionally, combined with the tight lens and image cropping in higher resolutions, the lack of a fully articulating screen makes shooting selfie videos nearly impossible.

Additional features and connectivity

Wi-Fi and Bluetooth

Like most modern cameras, the Fujifilm X100VI supports both Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, allowing a connection to smartphones and other devices. This connectivity enables image sharing and remote shooting capabilities — features that are particularly useful for capturing group photos or shooting in hard-to-reach locations. The integration with smartphones via the Fujifilm app allows for quick transfers of images and remote control of camera settings. Additionally, the X100VI can connect to Frame.io for camera-to-cloud photo and video shooting.

Battery life

Thanks to the X100VI’s optical viewfinder, the camera’s battery life can be quite good. We found it easy to get in a full day of photography before needing to recharge. When shooting video, the battery life was less impressive. While shooting video at 4K 60 fps, we were able to get an hour and 14 minutes of recording time before depleting the battery.

Summary

The Fujifilm X100VI excels in providing high-quality images with its superb sensor, intuitive controls and solid build quality. It stands out as a reliable tool for street and travel photographers and is a joy to shoot with. However, it falls short in video performance and flexibility due to the fixed lens, lack of a headphone jack and non-reversible LCD, making it less ideal for those primarily focused on videography.

For photographers looking for a camera that maximizes the joy of photography and that offers occasional video capabilities, the X100VI is an excellent choice. However, videographers might consider other options that are more focused on video production with enhanced features.

Reflecting on our overall experience with the Fujifilm X100VI, it’s clear that this camera is designed with photography enthusiasts in mind. It encourages creativity and engagement with the subject matter through its thoughtful design that puts the experience of photography at the forefront. The X100VI offers a compelling blend of technology and nostalgia, ideal for those who appreciate the art of photography and the joy of documenting the world.

Tech specs