FUJIFILM Announces X100VI Camera, Now with 40MP Sensor and IBIS

It’s finally here. FUJIFILM has announced the latest iteration of its ever-popular, stunningly viral compact camera: the X100VI. This is the sixth generation of this camera, which is known for its seamless melding of retro aesthetics, high-performance imaging, and a unique design that includes a hybrid EVF/OVF and a fixed wide-angle lens. The new model brings significant updates to the platform, including the 40MP X-Trans CMOS sensor from the X-H2, 6.2K video recording, improved AF, a new Film Simulation mode, and, for the first time in an X100 body, in-body image stabilization.

The X100V, the VI’s predecessor, was announced almost exactly four years ago. This is a long iteration cycle for a camera series that’s been on FUJIFILM’s roster since 2010. During this time, however, the X100V gained immense popularity, thanks to some prominent exposure across social media during the latter stages of the X100V’s lifecycle. The X100VI is looking to back up the recent surge of attention to the platform with a wealth of tech, inherited from X-Series mirrorless cameras, and a familiar, beloved rangefinder-inspired configuration.

Borrowed from the X-H2, the X100VI gets a significant imaging boost, thanks to this APS-C-format 40.2MP sensor and an X-Processor 5. More than higher-res stills, this sensor-processor combination enables creating 10-bit 6.2K 30p, 4K 60p, or FHD 240p videos, and it works with a newly updated AF algorithm, which uses deep-learning AI technology for faster autofocus and improved subject detection and tracking performance in various lighting conditions.

As expected, the X100VI also includes a new Film Simulation mode—REALA ACE—which brings the total number of simulation modes up to 20, and these creative modes can be used while shooting or applied in post, for photo or for video. For video shooters especially, there are also two F-Log recording options for even more editing and color grading control during post-production.

One of the elements carried over from the previous generation is the built-in 23mm f/2 lens; a 35mm equivalent wide-angle prime that’s the heart and soul of the X100 platform. The fixed focal length gives the camera its character and the bright f/2 maximum aperture makes the camera a champ in low-light conditions. When the environment is bright, the built-in 4-stop ND filter can also be used for more control over your exposures and to enable working with shallow depth of field. Also, one additional benefit of the extra resolution the 40MP sensor provides is due to the new 1.4x and 2x digital teleconverter modes, which can render the effective equivalent focal lengths of 49mm and 70mm, respectively.

One of the major upgrades the X100VI sees is, finally, the inclusion of in-body image stabilization, which can compensate for up to 6 stops of camera shake. This 5-axis sensor-shift mechanism is a major benefit for low-light shooters, helping to keep photos and footage sharp when working with slow shutter speeds.

Tangentially related to the inclusion of IBIS, thankfully, the X100VI is able to accommodate this mechanism without bloating or weighing down the camera body—this new model has the same dimensions as the previous gen (5 x 3 x 2.1") and only weighs 1.5 oz more. It keeps the same NP-W126S battery, too, and manages very similar battery life, compared to its predecessor.

Some of the other assets carried over from the past include the essential Advanced Hybrid Viewfinder that meshes optical and electronic viewing functions together to suit various methods of shooting. The same 3.69m-dot EVF provides clear rendering and playback and benefits the bright, optical finder for a more familiar, retro-minded shooting experience. The rear 3.0" 1.62m-dot touchscreen is the same, as well, featuring a tilting mechanism that’s great for working from high and low angles. Also, in terms of wireless connectivity, the X100VI gains Frame.io Camera to Cloud technology in addition to conventional Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connection methods.

The X100VI is an update that I think a lot of photographers and filmmakers will enjoy. The advanced compact camera market is an interesting arena where brands are at their best and most creative—FUJIFILM excels here with its ultra-stylish model that features one of the most unique viewfinders around and now gains an upgraded sensor, top-notch video recording, and image stabilization. Assuming you thrive under the constraints of a fast wide-angle prime lens, and appreciate the rangefinder-esque features, this is an exciting camera that keeps FUJIFILM in a unique place, straddling the classic and contemporary realms.

For more information about the new camera, including additional features, specs, and highlights, be sure to check out the detailed product page for the X100VI. Or drop us a line below, and we’ll do our best to reply to your comments and questions.