Fujifilm X100 VI = X100V +X-T5 = Massive Hit. But is It Enough?

The X100 VI is just what you'd expected, and it's worth the wait. But I have some thoughts. Buy here: geni.us/Zk098
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[@edjefferson9175]

I appreciate the audio quality of your voice. Good tone and level with no background noise. Far beyond 99% of youtubers.

[@3BMEP]

Much appreciated, thank you!

[@xuanaraya]

Agreed. Nice boom mic setup I suppose.

[@Abledoggie42]

It’s always refreshing to listen to your challenging way of thinking on any subject. Well done, and thank you.

[@3BMEP]

😊🙏🏻🖖🏻

[@LUITESLIFE]

The best thing about the x100 series imo is the fact that it doesn't look intimidating to the people you take pictures of. People respond to it differently than they do with bigger cameras with bigger lenses.

[@R8135003]

It looks so so pretty but having owned the X100v and sold it, turns out I'm not the target market. Good luck and enjoy it when it arrives to all who have ordered.

[@mr1skali]

I'm thinking of buying the x100vi coming from a nikon z5, and I suspect that I'm not the target audience as well. Can you explain why it was not for you?

[@R8135003]

@@mr1skali Hi, here is the thing. ask yourself which lens do you go to all the time. For me it has always been long glass. 200mm or longer. I love he compression. the long glass gives. I'm sure that if you look at Ansel Adams shot of Half Dome in Yosemite national park it was taken on a long lens. Half Dome appears larger and closer than it really is. I was there last year and shot from the same place with a 100mm and merger four images togetther but didn't get the same affect. If you go for a 24mm lens then as we say "fill yer boots". I loved the X100v but couldn't get the affects I wanted. I have replaced it with a X-T30 mark 2 and a Minolta 250mm RF mirror lens (375 mm FF ish) and it is my daily carry. Is it bigger, yes but I don't care. Have a great day.

[@annarakannan6620]

Thank you John Stewart

[@gregpantelides1355]

Hey Hugh, very well said about the menu system. Regarding the UI, I tend to agree with what appears to be the philosophy at Pixii camera, which I will summarize as: "Let the camera do what it does best and let the smart phone do what it does best". Thank you for being a continuing positive influence and force for good in our wonderful creative community!

[@3BMEP]

I’m happy you enjoy our work, and I thank you for your encouragement! 😊🖖🏻

[@ZachariahConnor]

Hugh, I just want to say I appreciate your thoughtful analysis, giving respect to the people behind the cameras while explaining what is frustrating about them. This is one of those channels that is pleasant to watch free of the usual KZbin photographer tropes.

[@3BMEP]

I appreciate you! 😊🙏🏻🖖🏻

[@TheVFXbyArt]

Also new: 
The x100VI can output 16bit tiffs as RAW conversion files. That’s big for me as I use the fuji x RAW software to output their film sims faithfully, usually with any exposure and WB adjustments or corrections. Then I use LR to mask and create grads. Now I can do that on converted 16 bit Tiffs instead of jpgs! The x100VI also outputs 4:2:2 10bit HEIF's Also new is the film sim nostalgic neg that was introduced with he medium format cameras

[@GrenvilleMelonseedSkiff496]

I made the leap from iPhone to Fuji’s X100V in 2022, paid the MSRP after waiting seven months for delivery and it’s brilliant! I won’t be upgrading to the VI. Did I mention Acros? That’s my default setting, Acros+R and raw although I mostly just use the JPEG’s and file the raw images. Thanks for another excellent review. 📷😄

[@mikelyon5595]

Thank you for an honest assessment and not propaganda!

[@tizianobabbi3218]

Always refreshing to hear your comments. I am not in for the X100 V. I own a X-T5. I agree with simplifying the menu structure, although my smartphone (Android) is only slightly less complicated. But then again I used all those gadgets from the 70s and 80s, too😂 In the end, it is a tool where the camera contributes a not insignificant amount, but it is still the person behind the camera who sees the picture and operates the tool.

[@tychomagneticanomaly]

Thank you, Hugh! The X100, the S that I schlepp around 10 years now, is the camera that keeps on giving for me. Back in 2014 I went to London with a pre-release one and could not believe the output. It is the body I take when I leave my bags full of Nikons at home. Some of my best pictures the last decade, like Patti Smith, Haruki Murakami or Stanley Kubricks wife, are shot with it. And just just now I used it for a barock music festival, working noiseless from the front row. So I will put the VI to the streets of Berlin as soon as Fuji sends me one, and will love it for its crisp sharpness. But my heart belongs to the good old S, which never disappointed me. Have fun with Streets of NY, which is just around my birthday ;))

[@chrisjames1924]

The 100S is currently my favourite Fuji. Despite purchasing it over 10 years ago it's only more recently that I've begun to appreciate its brilliance. The images have a real magic to them - especially B&W. They have a unique quality of light fall-off which renders images with a beautiful filmic pop. The old cliche of saying it's like having an 'endless roll of film' has never been more apt. If I want more resolution and IS I can just use the XT5 with the 27mm.

[@tychomagneticanomaly]

Absolutely, there is a magic touch to it!

[@motojc]

I checkout out your channel. good stuff!

[@jimmason8502]

@@chrisjames1924 Agreed, the B&W images from that Xtrans II sensor are just incredible...I still use the X100S as well as my X70 and XT1 quite a lot of the time.

[@3BMEP]

Lovely addition to the conversation, thank you! 😊

[@jeki6035]

They squeezed in IBIS but still couldn't figure out how to weather seal it without the need to buy an extra filter ring.

[@ABAYT51]

Can't think of any time, owing all the X100 cameras where weathersealing came in to play

[@jeki6035]

@ABAYT51 Fujifilm is the one that flags the weather sealing issue and recommends purchasing a filter ring.....which really should be included in the box on day one.

[@albertmeyer8983]

@@jeki6035so true. Neither a charger in the box, a joke!

[@khaledbouya]

It's a compromise to keep the same lens, and be able to use previous accessories. (Lens converters for example...) It's easy to weather seal it, too. :)

[@POVwithRC]

People just can't help but complain ​@@khaledbouya

[@mikecullis8401]

I am a dyed in the wool Canon shooter with a penchant for wildlife photography and a plethora of lenses and gear! In my mature years I have been awaiting for this camera for months! I trialled the Leica Q2 and this got me thinking about the addition of a serious point and shoot camera , introducing the fun element to my photography! The X100vi hits the target - would have preferred a 28mm eqvt lens. My order is in!

[@3BMEP]

Enjoy!

[@Max.Paprika]

I'm an X-H and X-E guy all the way-need that lens variety-but I could listen to you describe a camera I'd never consider buying and still watch all the way to the end.

[@3BMEP]

😉🙏🏻🖖🏻

[@brochg]

Good morning, Hugh! I already have my pre-order in!

[@janihonkala8154]

Congratulations! Made in china quality👍

[@brochg]

@@janihonkala8154 So is the device you typed that on. Congrats.

[@JackieDElia]

Very well said, Hugh. The best review I’ve seen so far on this camera. Completely agree on the menu system. Even trying to find things on the X-T5 is challenging. Thanks!

[@michaelbrian219]

A very interesting video, I do like to hear your thoughts on new equipment. Modern digital cameras are becoming so complex with thick handbooks and confusing menu’s that it is sometimes difficult to make sense of it all, particularly if you are getting on in years. Please keep up the excellent reviews.

[@3BMEP]

😊🖖🏻

[@Skux720]

You're spot on about the interface. The big deal breaker for me is the lack of custom control profiles. If I want to hand the X100V to a friend for a quick group shot, I have to disable back button focus, set my flash mode, set autofocus to face detect tracking, flick the focus switch to continuous, and set all my dials to auto... and then change everything back when I get the camera. Meanwhile on a Canon I just save everything to C3 and turn the dial.

[@T_OneOneSeven]

Wonder if something like this might come via a software upgrade?

[@brownbear100]

I have C1 Set to do many of these things as far as possible with the x-t5 and the down button on the d-pad toggles between C1 and whatever profile I was using. You can't customise the buttons in camera for different custom profiles, but honestly I don't want buttons doing different things depending on the custom setting or recipes, which with the new sensor and processor can be used for so much more than they used to. There is also a quick solution to the Back-Button focus issue. For example, you can use back button focus with manual focus mode, but leaving the shutter button focus in AF-S and AF-C. Or you could also deactivate the shutter button for AF-C and still leave AF-S for giving to friends with the shutter button working how they expect. MF essentially becomes AF-S for people who BBF. So for me when I give to a friend, I flick to AF-S and down press to activate C1 which for me activates face detect, sets DR200 and a basic film recipe, changes af mode to zone, increases focus points, sets photometry to center, selects the iso auto setting, and even turns on the shutter noise so they know when they've taken a shot. Top dials to A and lock. Done. However... For other situations you can save whole camera profiles in the app and switch between them as you need. Maybe not the quickest for passing to a friend. But you could have camera profile set up for street, another for portraits, another for events or whatever. It's just a few seconds to switch between them. What would be nice however, would be to choose different buttons to do different things whether you are in stills or video. But it's not something that's bugged me too much.

[@photographybypetercharles9939]

Which is to totally miss the point as to what the X100 series is all about. If you want all of that stuff in a Fujifilm camera, buy one of the X-H2 cameras or the XS-20. The X-H2 has six C settings to play with. Should be enough for most. The X100 is about a different style of photography. You either get it or you don't.

[@Skux720]

@@photographybypetercharles9939 I'm looking through the manuals and it looks like neither the X-S20 or X-H2/X-H2S support custom control profiles. The custom settings only change shooting and image settings. Luckily it looks like there are enough buttons on the bodies to let you quickly adjust the important settings.

[@hooked4lifeca]

@@Skux720 Sorry, seven, not six settings. Brain fart. Cameras like the X-Pro3 and the X100V have their seven custom settings in the Q menu rather than on a dial. They have a fairly broad ability to save custom profiles, but quite a bit of the menu items are not available. The X-H2 has an extremely broad ability to save a custom profile of pretty well most of what's in the menu system. The custom settings can be configured as either movie or still and then you pick 'em from the menu. Everything you mentioned in your post is customizable in the X-H2 and a whole lot more. For example, my C2 setting is configured for bird photography with my 150-600m lens, where I've set up my AF-C tracking to birds and adjusted the tracking sensitivity and stickiness to the way I like it. Lots of capability.

[@knownas6217]

Definitely agree on making the step from smart phone to camera more simple for people to make. Whilst I primarily use cameras I don't upgrade that often knowing I'll be confronted with a more complex features hidden at the end of 7 (I exaggerate) button presses. It doesn't make me feel like an incompetent it makes me angered.

[@yuidfbse]

Great camera, absolutely 100%. Excitement after 12 years of basically the same thing, totally 0%. Thanks for the video 🤗

[@GhiKopera]

Prob the most balanced first-take i have seen so far. As someone who lives in Ottawa, Canada i cannot thank you enough for sharing what the 100vsucks is like to use with gloves!! 🙏

[@3BMEP]

😎🖖🏻

[@normansteinmetz643]

Loved my X100S which I took to Cuba in 2015 and which brought perfect results. Always wanted to have the X100V but never wanted to spend that much money for a used one and now the X100VI is there... maybe Fuji gets me with this. Thank you for the video!

[@3BMEP]

My pleasure!

[@AlGreenLightThroughGlass]

I have the first version and the V - to me it kind of ties in with the philosophy of beautiful imperfection. It's simply the camera system I want to pick up and shoot with, knowing I'll have a great experience shooting that day or night.

[@ccbphoto]

Having owned both the X100F and V, I can attest to the Futzy controls and the basic setups of the cameras. However, the X100V did provide very clear and sharp images....but nothing even close to my Q3.

[@frand6822]

Ditto!

[@GinoDeBlasio]

So, as an x100v user I am now considering what the next camera purchase is. I bought the V as a gateway into photography, it helped me to understand composition, shooting and the all "building an eye" for photography. The VI will do the same and yes, better with the 40mp. However the one thing I never liked about the V was lowlight performance. At night time, forget using it, raise the iso and it's like you have glaucoma. So the point of the VI in my view is that is the gateway for new shooters and a secondary for more pro shooters. The V worked because it was fun - the VI Will do the same. But then the question is, what next for the shooter cutting their skills? And that for me is the leap right now. If you want to stick with Fuji you either go to the XT5 for interchangeable (solving low light) so you have more versatility, an XH2 for video purposes or an XS20 for a budget option. The latter with the tech of the XT5 but with the same 26.1mp of the V. Basically, yes, it will be a storming success and it may even be one I pick up but... It's all about what you want to shoot, how you want to shoot and I'm sure my feed will be filled with "I got rid of my Fuji X100v for the X100vi."

[@dirk.4711]

Buy a Ricoh GR3 or GR3x. That is a true upgrade. Better camera in all aspects except the lack of a VF. I sold my X100V and bought both GRs. Never looked back again. Or wait for an XPro4 and put the XF18/1.4 on it. The XF 18/1.4 and both Ricoh GR3/GR3x lenses blow the lens of the X100V and VI out of the water.

[@GinoDeBlasio]

@@dirk.4711 So yes, I would agree but I used the Ricoh GR3 and couldn't stand it. I love the X100V and like I said, it's a gateway to get you shooting - that's what I got and I'm happy with that. The next step is improving on low light capability for me personally.

[@xiaoabrose]

It would make sense to look outside Fuji, while not my personal choice, by taking a swing at a full frame Sony, even second hand, can show you another aspect to photography with dependable autofocus and lens options including affordable but serious low light performance. You will then progress that way, or recoil, and find either a Fuji or other stylistic camera option for your third step. I recommend expanding outside street photography as it is but one small branch on the tree of visual storytelling.

[@PM-yq8yo]

@@GinoDeBlasio Check out the Nikon Zf

[@benfidar]

I am struggling with the choice between a used (hopefully gently) Q2 and the VI. I also have an OM-1, and the money I have left over would buy me a 90 f2 for portraits. Hmm.

[@jacobh5817]

As always…spot on. I’ve always loved the X100-series as well as the X-Pro for personal work. Yet, 2 years ago I sold my last ones and purchased the Q2 Monochrome Reporter. This X100VI doesn’t convince me. The menu is indeed a nightmare and so are the controls. The 40MP is great, but not for low light street work (as I noticed on the X-T5). IBIS doesn’t help, because you need at least 1/125th for street (also at night). To me, the best thing of the VI is all these Vs coming to the pre-owned market at reasonable prices. Looking forward to that…

[@alexanderdunning6586]

I agree with what I think you were implying at the end. Dedicated cameras need to have the UX of a modern phone, and be able to do all the computational photography stuff. Many reactionary photographers will complain, but it'll be worth it.

[@richardhancock6235]

Thanks Hugh for another great review. I had an X100T which I sold when I brought my XPro3. I also shoot Leica Ms. However the X100T it's the only camera I've ever regretted selling. I brought the new 27mm for the XPro3 to make it pocketable like the X100 but it's just not the same. This just might persuade me to get the X100VI particular as I was toying with the idea of getting a Q2.

[@blakelyle2158]

love your reviews! Or rather, perspectives. Well thought out and well considered. I can’t help but keep thinking about the possibilities for the Leica Q if they did a hybrid finder with a focusing patch….That would be a camera of the decade candidate, well for street photographers

[@jobaci]

Use the X100 V for mainly indoor events. Because of small size and internal flash . Fits in an overcoat pocket or the wife's bag. Not so obtrusive.Everything else Sony A9. What would be a alternative high quality option???

[@michaelmillward8006]

I'm an A9 shooter. Just bought the A7c2 with 40mm g. Perfectly complements the A9. I had a Fuji X100v and sold it for the A7c2. So glad I did.

[@MiltonGeorges]

I sold my x100v for a Nikon Zf last year when the used prices were insane. The Nikon Zf with a pancake lens is exactly what I was looking for with the x100v. Slightly larger, but _much_ better image quality and focusing. I can use my old Nikkor glass as a bonus :)

[@JLeoH]

try the voigtänder 23mm on it!

[@matthewjamesmartin]

I did the same! After seeing this update I’m glad I made the switch

[@MiltonGeorges]

​@@JLeoHWould love to shoot voigtlander glass... though isn't the 23mm an APSC lens?

[@r423sdex]

Top photographers really change gear.

[@SneakyCaleb]

“Much better image quality” lol that’s funny

[@stevenwaldstein2249]

Thank you for the video. Recently sold my last Fuji X-E3 but you peaked my interest. How would you compare to my Sony A7CR with interchangeable lenses? I may stay on that path even though it’s larger and has no built in flash.

[@3BMEP]

Stay with what you have - just ask Claudia!

[@stevenwaldstein2249]

@@3BMEP Thank you. Is there a review of the A7CR from Claudia?

[@UrbanoModa]

nice review within, good points about IBIS stops, probably overlooked by many.

[@jens-olebrockhoff6523]

Hi Hugh, thanks for your video! Well I own a Q2 and an x100v. I use both - the Q2 more often than the Fuji. Both cameras give me excellent results. However, it's exactly the things you mentioned that annoy me about the x100v. The menu is not intuitive, too many submenus, sometimes menu items are grayed out and I don't know why. The Q2 is different, the menu is simple and easy to understand. What would I have wished for from Fuji for the x100vi? A "less is more" approach. An autofocus that works as it should without me having to study computer science. I would have liked an x100A (Acros monochrome). I would have liked a menu that is so simple and intuitive on one/two pages that the focus is on taking pictures.

[@3BMEP]

Sounds good to me! 😊🖖🏻

[@JustinHEMI05]

I'll find out. Pre-ordered at 1am from B&H to compare to my XT5 for hobbyist travel purposes.

[@karlj.4798]

Took my X100v away on a break... but i missed my XE4 more. Wished i had bought that with me. However, both give excellent images straight out of camera, can't see how £1600 price tag would tempt me to a vi.

[@j16m02]

Hugh, you just nailed it with regards to menus and operational complexity of modern cameras.I already shoot the A7CII and the OM-1 and going between the 2 gives me a headache. The X100V! seemed like an ideal traveling light camera, but after watching this, the idea of trying to cram one more, totally different menu into my poor old brain was just too much tor me to contemplate.. And, what the heck is the design philosophy behind making custom function buttons that are so flat that you can't feel them even without gloves? Thank goodness Sony, and even OM Systems seem to have figured this out.

[@gohumberto]

It's a no-brainer to buy this (if you can get one). If you're going to buy into the X100 concept then why not buy the latest? But should you trade your V? I have the V but the VI isn't enough of a step-up to warrant a change. The new features are irrelevant for me personally. The weather-sealing and new lens was a big enough improvement to make me buy the V (I'd been waiting 10 years to buy an X100 series camera). My personal style doesn't require 40Mp. The simulations I use all have added "grain", to take the edge of that clinical digital perfection. I agree about the Fuji Menu system. It's a disaster. As a Canon shooter for 20 years I just don't know why everyone doesn't copy their Menu system. Anyway, if you don't have an X100 series then just buy one. If you don't like it you'll get your money back because there will be a huge scramble for this VI.

[@TheTuscaloosa]

Still not switching from the Q. Nothing beats the lens and images of Leica. Currently my baby is in Wetzlar for a service. You know if you have the right camera if you miss it daily

[@Tom_YouTube_stole_my_handle]

You know you have a Leica if it's in for service. ;-)

[@BrunoChalifour]

@@phillipbanes5484 Yes but you do not get the experience of a Q, totally different and truly unique just because of how it was conceived and designed. Not the same use as well. A Q cannot replace a Canon, Nikon or Sony DSLR and none of these cameras can replace a Q. It is comparing apples and oranges. [I also disagree about colors, and I have used the three types of cameras we are discussing here, both SONY and Nikon will have to be doctored in an image-processing software to match the Q. ]

[@BrunoChalifour]

@@Tom_KZbin_stole_my_handle Well a close friend of mine just received his brand new latest SONY back from the shop after waiting for 2 months 1/2 ... I guess one also knows one has a Sony ;o)

[@BrunoChalifour]

@@phillipbanes5484 Are doctors supposed to be deceitful? In my mind they are experts that take care of their subjects ;o) This was meant (doctoring=attentive care) in opposition to straight out of the camera. I agree that most color renditions can be modified/improved/even "doctored" in an image-processing software... most of the time (I have experienced a few exceptions but I may not be a doctor at that). By the way it is not so much about "RAW images being whatever you want them to be" (including inaccurate) but about their being as close as possible to reality (modifications can always be performed; accurate colors straight from the camera is or is not). As for "deception" that is also an interesting choice of word? (all the more as the demosaicing software of any camera or application is already a deception as it does not account for what was there accurately (only 25% of the photosites are blue (or red) imagine a red ball on a blue cover... the sensor does not see the colors of half of the image !). Now in my mind, and probably in a few others', good color rendition is part of the qualities of a good image (image quality). Why shouldn't it be?

[@connerfreeman9609]

Hope you get a chanced to use it when its not being serviced.

[@Toms-garden]

Hugh, I love your videos (esp the light and shadow one). I didn’t have a 100V, and am ordering the 100VI - Black or Silver? I think black is less obtrusive while the silver is prettier.

[@3BMEP]

😉🙏🏻🖖🏻

[@babyboy1971]

I’ll hang on to my beloved (and hard to find) X100V, for now…but the X100VI is very tempting. Great review as always! Footnote: I am glad to see Fujifilm continuing their robust firmware updates, I want that Reala in my XT5!

[@billinga]

Very good review of the X100VI (106). The latest version shows improvements in desirable areas but tradeoffs make those changes less useful. I was a fairly early adopter of the Fuji X100 series (2012) as my EDC. Also, former Minolta film(X7, XGM), longtime Nikon digital shooter (D100, D300, D700, Z6II, Z9, and now Z8) as the workhorse/duty camera yet my everyday camera was the X100S then X100F then X100V until moving to Nikon mirrorless 2021. Tried several EDC options using the Nikon Z6II to make it the EDC, short primes, pancake lens, small telescopes but no option worked as well as the X100V for my style of shooting. Bear in mind, the X100V had some annoying limitations, which is why I moved to Nikon mirrorless to address (auto focus and manual controls were chief among these). Since 2019, I have watched both the Leica M and Q series reviews and experiences. The reason that I have followed Leica is a dear friend and fellow professional photographer is a life long Leica shooter(mainly film) and has encouraged me to join team Leica for decades. So after the Q3 was announced, I pre-ordered and recently received the Q3. The 60MP allows good flexibility to crop/compose even with the wide 28MM lens (which, by all accounts, is excellent). The ergonomics are not as preferred (the wireless hand grip helps with my larger hands) but the manual controls allow fast changes and feel great. The Q3 experience, design tradeoffs and workflow fit my desired use case and invite everyday use. Like the 100 series and love the Q3 (and supporting software).

[@alexanderjamesl4868]

The ricoh griii has a leaf shutter! just as quiet as the Fuji one. Besides the viewfinder im not sure if argue the V is more functional, i think the built in emergency storage, smaller size, snal focus and real control dial for me makrs the ricoh more usable. The fujifilm removes many rear controls and while it has a manual focus ring its electronic, and its slow and feels delayed in practice.

[@mirrorlessthesis3599]

It's incredible that many under estimate the video capabilities of the X100. It's a nice small camera that can do so many things great.

[@Zobeid]

It's very enticing. However, I follow a different chain of logic when comparing with other camera models. To me the Ricoh GR III is not a helpful comparison, because that camera lives and dies by its pocketability, and I don't consider the Fujifilm X100 VI a pocket camera at all. I live in Texas. It's the end of February and the high temperature today was 93°F. That's far from typical, but it shows that most often I don't have a big jacket pocket to stuff an X100-series camera into. Meanwhile, my old GR II slips in and out of my range-vest pocket with ease, and I can forget it's there until I need it. So, if I'm going to walk about with an X100 VI, that's going to be on a strap. But… If I'm carrying a camera on a strap, then an entire world of possibilities opens up. I mean, there's a panoply of system cameras with compact prime lenses that are possible competitors for that. The negative comments about the EVF were interesting to me, as I haven't heard others talk about that. To be fair, EVFs rarely get much discussion from reviewers, but I've gradually matured into a bit of a viewfinder snob. EVF or OVF, I want one, and I want it to be really good, not just "good enough".

[@markaustin614]

Always great to hear your thoughts Hugh! I've come back and listened to this video for a 3rd time. I was wondering how to comment on one issue you touched on near the end ...you didn't need to comment on the video to any great degree, as there are far superior options out there for you or anyone else that needs video. I don't use video now on my X-T5, nor will I on my pre-ordered 100vi(6!), but that got me thinking, if they had stripped it out, some would have complained, many may not have pre-ordered it! To think, I could have the camera I need, I would have been cheaper, and perhaps available - I would already have it in my hands!!

[@3BMEP]

If they’d stripped it out, it might have cost MORE: it would require more work, and they’d quite likely sell fewer of them, leading them to raise the price. Then again, perhaps not. 😊🖖🏻

[@markaustin614]

All good points Hugh! My "macro" view, opposed to your wide(r) angle view. Still waiting in the pre-order line...(sigh)... 📷😎

[@Eivissaa]

Beyond the hype; the first realistic review. Totally right about the complex menus. Panasonic makes the most simple menus imo. Thanks for this review.

[@_NoDrinkTheBleach]

The X100V was a huge camera for me for the first couple of years after I bought it in 2020. I brought it everywhere I went. I would say that it helped renew my love of photography. But at some point last year, I found myself picking my equally old full frame camera instead. I sold the V this January, as I noticed it was not used since last August. The VI is an attractive camera, but I don't know if it's necessary for me at this time to jump back into the system. Maybe if I hit another shooting funk in the future, I'll come crawling back.

[@icogicog8287]

Hi Hugh. Well thought out as usual. As a staunch and long term Fuji user, I am quite torn about this one. Having the XH2 I know all about the sensor and its attributes. The advantage of this camera is the ability to put it in your coat pocket and always carry it around. But I am not sure that realistically I would do that. On the other hand I would have jumped on it if it had a monochrome sensor (with all the due respect for Across that I love and use all the to look at my photography world). But that with Fuji seems just a dream. But as I think of it, a great advantage of this camera is that I could come to one of Street Photography Workshop around the world very light….!!!!!

[@W00dy_NL]

A lot of X100VI videos have been released in a short time. Watching a lot of them because I'm eying it as an replacement for my trusty X100T that I've spend years enjoying as an easy to carry camera. But since a year or so is begining to feel slow. Thank you Hugh for your non fanboy thougts and valid points. Seeying the menu is still not much better than on my older camera is something that is a downside but easy enough to step over. I do think the battery upgrade that didn't happen will not be an negative point for me. As the battery upgrade when they went from my T to the F iteration was already a lot better from what I hear. I'm not ready to put my order in. But saving up for it starts today.

[@dangill8991]

Great review, got my preorder in.

[@Daniel-rj6rx]

What are some of the hybrid cameras you thought of when you mentioned video? I really like the small/tourist look of the X100VI, and I actually got excited about using it as a hybrid for KZbin work. I must mention I'm a complete beginner and belong in the target audience :D

[@3BMEP]

Our go-to for KZbin (including three camera shoots) is Panasonic’s LUMIX S5 II.

[@bukursglass6990]

If I have the option to get this x100 IV or the q3 what would you recommend I take ?

[@andreas_trnka_photography]

This is very hard now ... I sold my Q-P because I need weather sealing and a tilt screen, but somehow I don't like the Q3 ... I had the first 100v and I really liked it back than ... I m going to India in July and I think I will buy the Fuji if I can get one in time ... The Qp is a fantastic cam, even today and IQ is outstanding if you know how to operate it 😊

[@rogerbayerlee2347]

Many great points ......but how does the X100VI LENS compare to the Q3 lens ?

[@TheVFXbyArt]

9:12 I wish the x100VI ws called the x100R with R to stand for Roku which is Six in Japanese...

[@IFrancyISantosI]

Then they would have to problem with the 7th edition, where Seven in japanese starts with S, which is already the second.. so better start the new naming convention now

[@turnipbeybladespinner7836]

5:00 this is what i've been waiting for, used prices going down for hobbyists like me who doesnt have deep pockets lol. now i'm waiting for CP+ if Ricoh will release any new GR model.

[@edgerat]

We have an x100F and there is still no need to upgrade based on the use case we have it in. The BEST part of every video is the dulcet tones of Mr. Brownstone.

[@threplogle]

lol....watching your video instead of the summit....

[@bighairywheel]

The summit couldn’t be any more dull if they tried 🤣

[@Turtlesarecoolok]

After watching the video in its entirety, I’ve got to agree with everything said. Had I not already spent years on the Fujifilm same and familiarized myself with the menus, I’d be put off by the complexity of navigating it. With that said, on the more positive side, I am deeply in love with the XT5 package in a 100v body. More often than not, I’ve found myself reaching towards my XT5 and a 33mm Prime lens than my x100v due to IBIS. I was beyond thrilled I could purchase it at MSRP - should scalper prices be any indication of what’s to come… but let’s hope their supply line from China breaks this issue wide open. And as well, break a long tradition of buying primarily black camera, as I’ve opted for the silver and black. I was able to dedicate my x100v to an aspiring photographer at a far more affordable and second hand price. Nothing but good vibes. Thanks for the video, Hugh!

[@ChuckAbles]

Love Fujifilm. However, this year is my personal goal of photographing all monochrome. Hence, Leica Q2M, Leica M246, which I love both, and all my film cameras. Besides, I'm hopeful for the X Pro 4.

[@stayuntilforever]

You got too much money😅

[@kbstabs5982]

I was really tempted to upgrade from the V but have decided not to. I will instead upgrade my trusty and excellent X-T20 to an X-T5 for serious work where 40 MP and IBIS might be/will be beneficial and continue to use the V for personal day to day camera. After all, the V was a great camera when it came out and, let's face it, still is a great camera and plenty sufficient for most of our needs when in non-pro (or even pro) mode.

[@TCinSoCal]

I left Fuji for the Zf. Love it. But it is a chunky/beefy thing.. and I have big chunky/beefy hands. Recently had an X100V in hand and was shocked how much lighter it is. I also have an A7Cii on the way to pair with the 40 2.5. I like a small kit. I did preorder the X100VI and one of these will ‘win’ and join me in London in a few weeks. I owned the X-T5 and while I didn’t see a lot of clear & improved resolution the 40 MP sensor did provide an ‘extra’ lens at 20ish MP. That was not a huge deal for the X-T5 as I could switch lenses.. But, IMO, it’s a HUGE deal for the X100VI. Now 50mm & 70mm modes become REAL options. The X100V has always been a Swiss Army Knife.. now it’s a bigger one with more tools in the bag.

[@D.Trider]

Stick with the ZF. You’ll thank me later. :)

[@RickMentore]

Being realised with internal storage, would have guarantee this a phenomenal long time bestseller!

[@IanInChengdu]

I tried one yesterday here in Chengdu and to be honest, the ibis takes it to the next level in low light. I could never justify buying a Leica so I'm eagerly waiting whilst still using my 100s.

[@3BMEP]

Enjoy

[@atomaalatonal]

i started photography almost 20 years ago on a minolta a1 and a2. it was a good start into the medium wihtout any hustle of changing lenses and whatnot. im not sure my transition to a 20d, then to a 5d with 3 lenses, wouldve been that fast with a camera like an x100 vi. i probably would be far better at making my shots today by being bound to a SUPERB bare minimum of a tool, if ever making a transition to dslr at all^^

[@parmanduke]

The camera I regret selling the most is my old x100f. Going to recify the situation with the x100vi.

[@marka9200]

I am interested in a documentary style series that I am preparing for now. I currently own the Fujifilm xt30 - which I love - and I have a few x lenses one of them being a wide angle 22mm lens. I think the xt30 would be a great 2nd camera... I love the look of the x100vi, but wouldn't it make more sense to get the xt5? same mega pixels and everything else except you can actually throw on different lenses. I am thinking of getting the xt5 which isn't in high demand and slapping that wide lens on it and throwing a 50mm on my xt30. Outside of the view finder, and the beautiful ascetics, why should I buy the x100 vi over xt5? Thank you! :)

[@JackBurton-qp4hc]

Size, weight, leaf shutter, ND filter, flash, rangefinder style VF position. None of that interest you, then it isn't likely for you.

[@federicotheironlyportrait]

I really like this new X100... but what I would love to see is a Sony RX1R iii in the near future ;)

[@botant500]

I traded in my X100f for a Q2 and almost immediately regretted it. The Q2's (and all Q's) lens is just too long, making it an awkward carry and unappealing aesthetically. The upgrade in file size and image quality wasn't enough to keep it. (Ultimately sold it for an X100v and have pre-ordered the X100vi.) I do hope the ibis is better than what you experienced with your pre-production model.

[@jimcharne9113]

I preordered an X100vi (thank you IBIS), but want to say I still loovelovelove my X100T.

[@duschbrauser]

Don't sell it. You will miss it. At least I prefer the pictures of the X100T more than my X-T3.

[@jimcharne9113]

I have no plans to sell the X100T --- and when I heard that FujiFilm had ~~~ one years worth of production pre-orders for the X100vi, I cancelled my order. It is not likely I would have received the camera before my planned departure for an overseas trip. With all those cameras out there, when I get back, maybe I'd wait for a return from one of the large camera dealers, marked down as an open box or scratch & dent item. @@duschbrauser

[@NotAnotherChannel_Channel]

The IBIS is a big hit for me. I was really leaning towards the Q3. I tried the Q3 a little. I felt it was only slightly better than the 100V. The IBIS moved the 100VI ahead, especially since I’m already accustomed to the X100V. Yes, I know people will howl that Leica is better, I really did not feel that trying one out. I couldn’t rationalize the exponentially higher price. The 100VI is a worthy upgrade for my use case. Can’t wait to get my ungloved hands on one.

[@NotAnotherChannel_Channel]

@@phillipbanes5484 I have big, powerful cameras already. The idea is to have a small, powerful single lens camera. I did look at this one and a few other Sonys in the A7 range thinking I could pair it with a pancake lens, but these options were still defeating my goal. This upgrade to the X100s happened at just the right time.

[@BrunoChalifour]

@@phillipbanes5484 1-the A7CR does not offer a 28 mm f 1.7, the camera + a 35 mm f 1.4 will come to around $4500 which is just $800 short of Q2 (and $3000 of a Q3 thence not quite double the price of the A7CR+lens).

[@philippebernard8987]

Is the old lens good enough for the pixel increase ?

[@jallen418]

Hugh, you speak so eloquently. I love it! Are you a writer as well?

[@3BMEP]

Thank you! I am a writer, but most of my writing over the past five years has been poured into my KZbin videos! 😊🖖🏻

[@jarmokarkkainen7621]

As the owner of both Sony A7RV and the Fujifilm XT-5 I agree completely on how bloated and complex the menu systems are in both cameras (I know how to pick 'em, I guess), but as I on the other hand love glass cameras like this are not that much my thing as versatility is what I'm looking for even in the more leisure use oriented Fuji that I got mostly for travel purposes. I fear this camera may become yet another hard to find, fashionable item like its predecessor was and I suppose still is...I do like the design, though minus those design quirks you nicely pointed out, Hugh. Will it indeed become the last one of its kind, or will it continue the success of the x100v and thus fuel yet another generation...hmm.

[@impulsesystems]

I just checked the dates on my first X100s pictures: 2013. When I wanted an X100V, they weren't available at reasonable prices. Maybe this time. I thank Fuji for rekindling my enthusiasm for not just street photography but all my photography. I thank Hugh for the VI preview.

[@3BMEP]

😊🖖🏻

[@levisimpson516]

This camera is certainly intriguing though the menu thing does seem like a turnoff. Photography is sort of my side creative hobby falling behind what I mostly do which is drawing and illustration. But I do love it and I do love a good camera and my Ricoh GRII has served me well these past 4 years and while the GRIII or IIIx may seem like a natural progression for me, I also kind of miss using a camera while composing through a viewfinder of some kind. Though the quality and portability of the GR series is so enticing. The Nikon ZF also intrigues me but the cost is quite a bit and it would lead me into the land of wanting to spend more on lenses as well as being a further step away from portability. Either way, I would love something with IBIS that can shoot closer to 50mm than the 28 on my GR. I enjoy your reviews man, thanks for taking the time. Cheers.

[@tomweis1194]

While I'm not a Fuji user, your comments about, and objections to the camera make sense to me. I would just add: No UHS-II slot?

[@nevvanclarke9225]

I think what people will discover using this camera is how good the XT5 is I think the XT5 was underrated by many people many XT4 users said oh it's not that much of an upgrade it's not that greater camera wait until people start taking photos with this camera essentially then they will go. Maybe I should just get an XT5 extra exactly that's what you should do not saying this camera is not a great camera but if I was having $1500 in my pocket US in Australia it's more like 2500 I would buy an XT5 over this camera sorry it's just a better build it's got more features and it's a better camera

[@CharlesCarlsonC3]

Hi Hugh, thanks for the great review.

[@3BMEP]

You’re welcome. 😊🖖🏻

[@richarddmendoza]

Got my pre-order last night and as a Q3 owner I cannot wait to not only compare them, but to finally not take the Q3 to every adventure. I get nervous just taking it out of the bag haha :)

[@thejerrycliff]

😂 the exact reason I didn’t get one! If it was the same price as the x100vi I’d really be 🤔🤔🤔

[@thejerrycliff]

@@phillipbanes5484 half the price is not really true is it? A7CR is £2800 here without a lens. Let’s put the 24 GM on it and you’re adding £900 even for used. £3700 is not half of £5000 last time I checked. It is a great camera though.

[@richarddmendoza]

Agreed, however the Leica is more of a luxury porshe, the Sony is a everyday workhorse that maximizes tech. 🥰@@phillipbanes5484

[@richarddmendoza]

@@phillipbanes5484 agreed, however there is a difference between owning a Leica for its timelessness and a Sony for its workhorse quality. Sony is doing so much for photographers and I applaud them all the way since I started with Sony video in the beginning of my career (Fs100, FS7, a6300). But the Leica Look looked in my wallet and took it all haha!

[@thejerrycliff]

@@phillipbanes5484 you make a fair point I don’t know about indistinguishable however that Leica lens is widely regarded as incredible

[@peregrineclarke]

Thanks Hugh! I had an X100V, loved the images it took and the sexy retro styling (I had the black version) but, for many of the reasons you mentioned, found it too fiddly to use. The menu system drove me to distraction, the flash controls were maddening and the battery was underpowered. I ended up selling it, fortunately for me at a time when the X100 buying frenzy was gaining momentum and they were as rare as hens teeth so I recouped my initial investment and them some. I'm sure it will sell very well and become another cult camera just like it's older siblings, but more so with the hipster and trendy Insta generation.

[@christopherbgriffith]

I’ll never sell my V, but mine is special. 😊 The only thing I find compelling about the VI after almost 4 years of using the V is the inclusion of IBIS. As an X-T5 owner, I’m not the biggest fan of the 40MP sensor. While AF and performance are much better, I have several times found dark areas of scenes much muddier than my venerable X-T3. I feel like 40MP is pushing the physical boundaries of what is practical on APS-C. I may be the only person in the world who wishes the X-T5 and X100VI had the X-H2S 26MP sensor instead. 😅 I love the discussion of UX in camera design. All the manufacturers have lagged behind in this regard. I’m still amazed that camera menus haven’t followed a decades-old paradigm of professional software and offer a Basic and Advanced version of the menus. Any good UX designer will tell you “design for the intermediate user”. I would not be bothered at all if when setting up a new camera I had to make one additional selection after Language. Us gear heads could immediately delve into all the advanced options and newcomers could be more held by the hand with a basic one-level menu a la the first Leica M digital models or the Canon 5D, with the final menu item allowing the switch at any time to Advanced mode. Frankly, unless I was looking to do something complex like intervalometer shooting or advanced video settings, I’d probably shoot in basic menu mode a fair amount of the time to avoid the futzing. I guess what I’m saying is, Fujifilm, give me a call and let this two-decade software engineer help you redesign your menu systems. 😁

[@paulharmer7050]

I'm a pro photographer, new to Fujifilm, and have bought a X100VI as a fun camera, which is certainly is. I think your review pretty much hit the nail on the head in all aspects (apart maybe from the Leica comparisons because I think if you want a Leica, you're going to get one regardless). My IBIS mileage seems to be better than yours. Flash control is ridiculous, as you say, and some of the buttons could be just a tad more tactile. But overall I love it. Thanks for the review, very watchable.

[@MatthewRaifman]

Always enjoy your thoughtful takes. You asked for thoughts: I agree with the conclusion that this is the last generation of x100 to be let off the hook so easily, but don’t agree with the premise of your thesis that the x100iv is targeted at folks moving from phone to first camera. I think the design language and technical aspects are focused on photographers looking to retain the patina and ethos of an analog world in spite of the advances in the digital one. Computational photography has no place in that. The x100 series retains the form factor, analog controls, and film simulations that both make it both fun and unique to use. Even those cumbersome secondary controls focus you on the execution instead of the review of images (though I’d never suggest they thought that part through).

[@stuartmeador8993]

Have had and enjoyed many of the Fuji cameras over the years... but no more.... Got a Nikon Zf... love it.

[@Austinite333]

I probably would have taken the plunge and purchased a V. If only I could have found one that wasn’t $400 over the retail price. This created a downward spiral in which the older models jumped in price as well. I hope the VI is more readily available.

[@albertmeyer8983]

You are so right about the shitty infernal fuji menu’s Its why I tossed the fuji and bought a Q3

[@Louie-ty6bh]

"further down Dante's inferno" LOL !! every youtuber hyping this camera and this guy kept it real......love it.

[@nevvanclarke9225]

The interesting thing with Iris in this style of camera is that generally speaking, this is a camera for candid portraits and Street Photography where shooting low shutter speeds is not going to artistically be a huge advantage. This is not a camera say that you're gonna take out and shoot landscapes with you might, but it's generally not going to be a landscape for Photography camera because I'm a landscape photographer and I wouldn't take this camera so you're not needing that 1/10 or 1/20 of a second to create motion blur in the water so it's still gonna be that camera that you shoot at 1/50 of a second, and if you're shooting people in a candid situation, you are probably still gonna need to shoot at 1/200.... So while Ibis is very useful, maybe for this camera, it's not the game changer that we think it is because of the type of Photography that people are generally going to do now. There are going to be exceptions with this. I think this is a wonderful camera don't get me wrong, but it's not a camera I will buy because I don't have a need for a street candid portrait camera.... It can't do anything that my XT5 can't do. But if you were anX100 fan and there are many then I would recommend that you get this camera and I've never held it but I know from the specifications inside an XT5 that it will produce amazing image quality

[@JackBurton-qp4hc]

"It can't do anything that my XT5 can't do." It is a 23mm f2 that fits in your jacket pocket.

[@donsoley746]

The video, as always was a pleasure to listen to…

[@zerodicjcorez9173]

i have x100 OG and x100T and xt1 and 2 printed billboards on the xt1 16mb and 2 24 mb ......only worth is the ibis for vdo id say or used xt4 but is/Tetempting

[@emilianogarcia8254]

Great opinions. Especially about marketing this camera to “smartphones’ users”.

[@magneticboy]

I share your pain points on fuji menu navigation. I dream of a day when they follow the simplicity of hasselblad et al. I have a deep respect for so many Japanese methodologies, approach to science, appreciation of nature, koji, food served in their hospitals, you name it, everything seems consistent and considered, yet menu systems.. cave painting level 😂

[@JoseHerrerawl]

Thanks for the honest review and great sample images. Might not be good enough for Leica elitists but I’m looking forward to it.

[@frand6822]

Yeah, might be true about the Leica "elitists," but not everyone who owns and uses Leica cameras is an elitist.

[@gchristopherklug]

Just saying hello… this camera (and the category, digital rangefinder), is my ‘white whale.’ I loved shooting my Bessa R2a, loved those m-mount lenses. But as I age, the manual loop of shoot-develop-scan is not as rewarding as it was. And Fuji’s film-like presets were a siren song with the X-Pro and the X-Pro 2. I owned them both. But the EVF … one of the glorious aspects of a Leica is the viewfinder. I rented an M10P last spring in an effort to, for once and for all, determine my rangefinder future. Loved it. But I’ve been hoping against hope that the next rev of Fuji’s offerings would give us stabilization (check) and a better viewfinder. You HAD me, sir, until the groan about the viewfinder. I really hope you and yours are well. Bless you.

[@3BMEP]

Nice to see you here!

[@tashihishey34]

Amazing content! I think you should be in Hollywood. Hold that thought!

[@22welcome]

Awesome pictures from unique Camera 📸

[@3BMEP]

🙂🖖🙏