Fujifilm X100VI Review – Worth The Hype?

In this review, we will explore the compact Fujifilm X100VI, the sixth iteration of this extremely popular camera that was launched in early 2024. I previously owned the X100V which has informed my opinion on its successor. I foolishly sold that camera before the launch of the X100VI, thinking I could cash in on its popularity while securing the newer model on release day.

I assumed most people would not be aware of Fujifilm’s launch schedule, allowing me to snag one from my local dealer. I could not have been more wrong; pre-orders in China were beyond comprehension, as evidenced by screenshots I captured showing orders exceeding 500,000 on major platforms like JD.com and Alibaba’s Taobao.com!

After an exceptionally long wait, I finally received my silver X100VI. This review aims to answer the burning question: Is it worth the hype?

Before diving into the review, for newcomers to the X100 series, the naming convention can be confusing. Here’s a quick history:

• X100 was the first model
• X100S was the Second
• X100T was the Third
• X100F was the Fourth
• X100V marked a shift to a more conventional naming scheme, followed by the X100VI

All images in this review were post-processed in Capture One Pro. If you would like a high resolution version of any image, please leave a comment below with the filename of the image you would like and I would be more than happy to provide it to you.

Disclaimer: As with all my reviews, the X100VI used in the review was purchased at the prevailing market price from an Authorized Fujifilm Retailer. In this instance, the X100VI was purchased from JD.com in Mainland China. Neither JD.com nor Fujifilm were involved with this review.

In-Body Image Stabilization

For those upgrading from the X100V, the most anticipated improvement is the inclusion of In-Body Image Stabilization (IBIS) and its impact on the camera’s performance. After using the X100VI for over two months, I suggest the most significant enhancement may actually lie in the autofocus system—but more on that later.

Fujifilm is known for their excellent IBIS systems used across their range of cameras. Each generation has provided more hand-holding capability than the last without negatively affecting battery life. The X100VI is the first in the X100 lineup to get IBIS, but the technology is mature as Fujifilm first introduced IBIS in the X-H1 in 2018.

Testing the IBIS capabilities of the X100VI revealed remarkable hand-holding capability, producing sharp images down to a 1/4 of a second even with a 35mm equivalent lens, which would normally require a minimum of 1/35 for a sharp image. This equates to ~3 stops of improvement, enabling practical scenarios like capturing night scenes at f/2, 1/10th of a second shutter speeds and ISO 800.

To maximize IBIS’ benefits, it is best to use manual settings or limit the Auto ISO range so the system lowers shutter speeds appropriately. Without setting a low Auto ISO limit, Fujifilm cameras tend to ramp up ISO rather than bring down shutter speeds. Suggested settings include:

• Landscapes: ISO limit at 800 with no minimum shutter speed.
• People: ISO limit at 3200 with 1/125s minimum shutter speed.
• Animals: ISO limit at 6400 or 12800 with 1/250s minimum shutter speed.

For video, IBIS improves stability over its predecessor but falls short of the top-tier systems found in Panasonic or Olympus cameras. While useful, it still exhibits some wobble during handheld shooting. The X100VI is not intended to be an amazing video camera, so this minor shortcoming is expected.  Nevertheless, IBIS greatly enhances stills photography, allowing the 40MP sensor to shine in resolution and dynamic range.

In summary, the IBIS makes the camera much more capable at maximizing the resolution and dynamic range from the excellent 40MP sensor for stills. It also helps with video, albeit less than I would like.

Autofocus

One noteworthy enhancement of the X100VI is its incorporation of the AI-assisted autofocus (AF) system derived from Fujifilm’s XH-2, XT-5 and GFX100 Mk2 series cameras. While this autofocus system faced challenges in its initial iterations, it has undergone significant refinement, particularly following the firmware update released in December 2024.

The system now delivers remarkably consistent performance, with false positives occurring infrequently. However, Fujifilm maintains its distinction as a leader in accurate “niche” detection capabilities, including nostril-detection autofocus on my beloved Ollie. The autofocus does not match top-tier systems from Sony, but it is sufficient for this camera’s purposes.

In my experience, the updated autofocus system represents a significant improvement over its predecessor. I recall the X100V encountering substantial challenges with the AF-Continuous (AF-C) mode, often oscillating focus without achieving consistency. Additionally, face-detection functionality on the X100V was unreliable, necessitating the use of AF-Single (AF-S) mode with a small focus box manually aligned on the eye to guarantee proper focus.

This process proved cumbersome and inefficient. The X100VI addresses these issues effectively, offering dependable performance in AF-C mode (within its inherent lens construction limitations) and enhanced reliability in face-detection capabilities.

The lens on the X100VI is designed with a relatively slow focusing mechanism, which limits its ability to track fast-moving subjects, such as those in sports or wildlife photography. Consequently, the X100VI is not ideally suited for capturing high-speed action. However, for street photography or general everyday use, the autofocus system performs adequately. I keep my X100VI set to AF-C mode, and while there is occasional oscillation in focus, I find it reliable and trustworthy, especially when the AF Priority setting is set to “Focus.”

For video applications, the touch-to-focus system proves significantly more intuitive to operate compared to its predecessor. The inherently slower lens focus mechanism is less of a concern during video recording, as smooth transitions between focus points are preferable to ensure a comfortable viewing experience. While the X100VI is not optimized for video production, autofocus limitations are not the primary impediment in this context.

I would encourage Fujifilm to continue dedicating engineering efforts toward enhancing their autofocus system. While the current iteration adequately serves the needs of the X100VI, further refinements would be welcomed, particularly across Fujifilm’s range of camera models. Additionally, there is room for improvement in the manual focus functionality of the X100VI. Fujifilm could draw inspiration from Leica, particularly the Q series, which exemplifies the ideal electronic manual focus implementation.

Size & Weight

The size and weight of the X100VI reflect a thoughtful design that has evolved to perfection over the series’ iterations. From the first X100 model to the most recent X100VI, the camera’s dimensions strike an ideal balance between portability and ergonomics. It is sufficiently robust to feel substantial in hand, yet compact enough to accompany its user effortlessly in various settings.

While other compact cameras such as the Ricoh GR and Sony RX100 series have been praised for their portability, the X100VI distinguishes itself by offering a balance that resonates with me. The Ricoh GR especially for me lacks the tactile presence of the X100VI, while the Sony RX100 does not feel substantial in use. Admittedly, when compared to the Leica M11, the X100VI feels like a less polished product, but such comparisons are apples to oranges given their differing purposes and markets.

The integration of IBIS in the X100VI was initially met with apprehension from enthusiasts, who feared that it might compromise the camera’s compact form factor. However, Fujifilm successfully incorporated this advanced technology with minimal impact on the camera’s physical dimensions, adding only modest increments in weight and size. This achievement underscores Fujifilm’s commitment to preserving the essence of the X100 series and to continuous improvement in making their cameras more usable.

Nonetheless, certain compromises accompany these advantages. The X100VI does not provide weather sealing in its standard configuration, and it employs the smaller NP-W126S battery from previous models, as opposed to the larger and more higher capacity NP-W235 battery used in Fujifilm’s X-T and GFX series cameras. Consequently, I initially experienced concerns regarding battery longevity during extended usage.

As evident in the accompanying product images, I have supplemented my X100VI with a Haoge Lens Hood for two distinct purposes: first, to safeguard the lens when stored in a bag, as the camera lens retains the characteristic that it extends and retracts when turned on—a potential issue when the camera sometimes turns on inside a bag; and second, to enhance the aesthetic resemblance to a miniature GFX100RF, which serves as my mental preparation for acquiring a future GFX100RF II. While the addition of the lens hood has marginally reduced the camera’s portability, it still comfortably fits within my bags.

Build Quality

There is little noticeable difference between my experience with the X100V and the X100VI; however, the newer model appears to exhibit tighter tolerances. While this observation may suggest improvements in build quality, it could alternatively be attributed to my specific cameras.

Nevertheless, one notable distinction is that my X100V consistently encountered a minor issue with the focus ring exhibiting friction at certain points—a common complaint among users, as corroborated by online discussions. By contrast, the X100VI demonstrates no such issue, which enhances its premium feel.

The X100VI delivers an excellent tactile experience, and the additional weight introduced by the IBIS system contributes positively to the camera’s overall impression of solidity. I find myself wondering why Leica has not considered licensing this model to sell under their brand name. Given that Leica has already licensed Fujifilm’s Instax cameras, it does not seem implausible for them to license the X100VI, perhaps incorporating a more robust body design and their proprietary Leica OS while retaining the internal components.

If I am to really critique, it could be said that the battery door would benefit from enhanced sturdiness. However, it is difficult to envision improvements outside of manufacturing it from metal. The current design, characterized by its elongated and slender structure with a hinge on the shorter side, creates leverage on the longer portion when subjected to external pressure while open. This structural limitation likely poses challenges to reinforcement efforts without compromising the overall design.

Image Quality

Modern Fujifilm cameras have consistently prioritized delivering excellent image quality and resolution, complemented by the brand’s film simulation colour profiles. The X100VI continues this legacy, incorporating the class-leading 40MP APS-C sensor featured in the X-H2 and X-T5 models. This sensor strikes an optimal balance between resolution and performance in low-light conditions.

Given that the X100VI is an integrated camera system, the lens plays a crucial role in the overall image quality. Earlier iterations of the X100 series exhibited notable shortcomings, particularly at close distances, where images suffered from aberrations and reduced contrast. These issues were addressed with the introduction of the X100V, which delivered excellent performance across both close and infinity focus distances.

The lens from the X100V has been retained in the X100VI, and when paired with the high-resolution 40MP sensor, it functions in perfect harmony. It is evident that Fujifilm designed this lens with the advanced sensor in mind, as it performs commendably even under more rigorous scrutiny, demonstrating excellent sharpness in both central and peripheral areas of the frame. To further analyze its capabilities, I subjected the camera to my usual barrage of test charts.

Centre

The lens demonstrates exceptional performance in the central portions of the frame. Analysis of the test chart reveals consistently high resolution from an aperture of f/2 up to f/8. While there is a slightly noticeable improvement in resolution when transitioning from f/2 to f/2.8, the quality at f/2 remains more than sufficient for most applications. Very minor purple fringing is visible at f/2 when viewed at 200%, but this will not be noticeable in real images.

Corners

As is often the case with pancake lenses, compromises are observed in the corner regions. At wider apertures such as f/2 to f/2.8, there is a discernible reduction in resolution compared to the central area; however, this discrepancy is unlikely to concern the majority of photographers. A significant enhancement in corner resolution becomes evident at f/4, with peak performance achieved from f/4 to f/8. Just as with the centre test images, minor purple fringing is visible at f/2 at 200%, but this will not be apparent in real images.

Bokeh

The quality of bokeh achieved with the X100VI is commendable both at the centre and in the corners of the frame. As anticipated with modern compact lenses, a characteristic cat’s eye effect is observed near the corners. Outlining is minimal, and while some slight fringing is visible at wider apertures, this remains inconsequential for most photographic scenarios. While an f/2 aperture lens paired with an APS-C sensor may not compete with systems designed for extreme bokeh, the X100VI overachieves, particularly owing to its impressively close 10cm minimum focus distance.

Video Quality

In recent years, my interest in video production has grown, particularly with the advent of modern AI-powered video editing tools. During a recent trip to Asia with my mother, I captured several videos utilizing the X100VI and seamlessly edited them using ByteDance’s CapCut application.

The introduction of IBIS in the X100VI enhances its appeal as a portable video camera. The device is capable of recording at resolutions of 6.2K (6240 x 3150) at 29.97p, as well as 4K (4096 or 3840 x 2160) in High Quality mode at up to 29.97p and standard 4K mode at up to 59.94p. Additionally, high-speed modes are available in Full HD (2048 or 1920 x 1080) at frame rates of up to 240p.

Paired with Fujifilm’s film simulations, the camera possesses the fundamental attributes to function as an impressive video camera. However, certain limitations become evident during use, likely stemming from the camera’s compact size and weight. Notably, heat buildup occurs rapidly in higher-resolution modes with my tests showing the yellow “High Temperature” warning at 8.5 minutes, the red warning at 13 minutes and the camera shutting itself off at 17 mins.

There are also compromises in the crop factor; the 6.2K and 4K High Quality modes exhibit a crop factor of 1.23x, while the regular 4K mode demonstrates a crop factor of 1.14x when recording at 59.94p. Despite these constraints, the 35mm field of view lens mitigates some concerns regarding cropping, though users may still prefer cameras that maintain their original field of view irrespective of settings.

Consequently, while the X100VI is suitable for casual video recording, more dedicated video creators may find superior alternatives in the Fujifilm X-H2S or X-T50 models, both of which feature enhanced heat dissipation capabilities and less restrictive cropping. For those opting to utilize the X100VI for video purposes, it is advisable to select the regular 4K mode at 29.97p with a 200Mbps bit-rate, as this configuration offers the optimal balance between image quality, cropping and battery longevity.

OVF/EVF

The Fujifilm X100VI excels in its optical viewfinder (OVF) and electronic viewfinder (EVF) offerings, providing photographers with a unique tool for diverse shooting scenarios. The OVF delivers a traditional, real-world perspective, ideal for those who prefer an unadulterated and immersive framing experience. It is particularly useful in fast-paced environments where lag-free visualization is essential.

On the other hand, the EVF, equipped with 3.69 million dots (1280×960 pixels) and precise colour rendering, enhances accuracy by displaying exposure adjustments, focus peaking and other critical settings in real time. The seamless integration of these viewfinders is complemented by the tactile control lever, which allows users to toggle between the OVF and EVF modes.

While the OVF is an integral feature of the Fujifilm X100VI, I am embarrassed to admit that I seldom use it. Compared to the Leica M11, I find the OVF small and dark. Given the advanced capabilities of this camera, the EVF provides a superior user experience, offering real-time visualization of the final image and enhancing precision during shooting.

However, there is a distinctive scenario where the OVF magic happens. When capturing images at small apertures, such as f/8 or f/11, on a bright day, and setting the focus manually to encompass a range from a few meters to infinity, the OVF truly shines. This approach allows for a seamless framing of the scene without concern for autofocus or depth of field, presenting an almost magical, unencumbered shooting experience.

I fully expect Leica engineers to have a deconstructed version of the X100VI’s Hybrid OVF/EVF in their laboratories, and I hope that the future Leica M12 has a brighter and large viewport hybrid OVF/EVF heavily inspired by what Fujifilm has created.  

Controls

One of the most commendable aspects of the Fujifilm X100VI is its thoughtfully designed control mechanisms. The inclusion of a classic film camera-inspired set of controls was an ingenious decision by Fujifilm, further refined with the dual ISO/Shutter Speed dial introduced in the X-Pro2 and X100V and retained in the X100VI.

The engineering behind this dial is undeniably impressive, and I tip my hat in appreciation to the meticulous efforts of the engineers responsible for its creation. A potential improvement would be the addition of detents at the various ISO settings, akin to those present for shutter speeds. Exposure compensation is managed through a top-mounted dial, characteristic of most Fujifilm cameras, which offers the perfect level of resistance to prevent accidental adjustments.

Remarkably, in 2025, it bears highlighting when a camera manufacturer excels in power switch placement, given the inconsistencies seen in modern camera designs. Fujifilm has placed the power switch in the optimal position—beneath the shutter button. While slightly sensitive, leading occasionally to unintended activation, the standard power-saving functionality ensures the camera powers down efficiently after a brief interval.

The focus joystick is intuitive and straightforward, although its pointed design may feel somewhat coarse to the touch. Nonetheless, it remains vastly superior to the less tactile version found on my GFX100S II. Aperture adjustments are controlled directly on the lens, reflecting Fujifilm’s consistent approach across its lens range.

Additionally, the camera provides an array of buttons and levers that can be customized to align with individual shooting preferences. For instance, I have configured the small button adjacent to the shutter to quickly switch between custom modes dedicated to people, animals and landscapes. The front lever allows toggling between the EVF and OVF while also activating the ND filter. The touch screen offers customizable swipe actions tailored to specific requirements, although I rarely use the screen for this purpose.

In conclusion, the physical controls of the Fujifilm X100VI exemplify excellence in design and functionality. The ability to access the exposure triangle externally with all settings visible—even when the camera is powered off—stands as a testament to its tactile, traditional camera ethos.

Performance

Fujifilm highlights that the X100VI is equipped with the X-Processor 5, which facilitates advanced AI autofocus capabilities and provides sufficient processing power to manage the higher-resolution 40MP sensor. In practical application, the X100VI demonstrates excellent responsiveness, with no perceptible delays in its controls or operations.

Feature	Fujifilm X100V	Fujifilm X100VI
Release Year	2020	2024
Sensor	26.1MP APS-C X-Trans CMOS 4	40.2MP APS-C X-Trans CMOS 5 HR
Image Processor	X-Processor 4	X-Processor 5
Lens	23mm f/2 (35mm equivalent)	23mm f/2 (same optical design as X100V)
ISO Range	160–12,800 (standard), 80–51,200 (extended)	125–12,800 (standard), 64–51,200 (extended)
Autofocus	Hybrid AF (425 points, phase & contrast detect)	Hybrid AF (improved; subject detection incl. faces, eyes, animals, vehicles, and planes)
Continuous Shooting	Up to 11 fps (mechanical), 20 fps (electronic, crop)	Up to 11 fps (mechanical), 20 fps (electronic, crop)
Video	4K/30p, 1080/120p	6.2K/30p, 4K/60p, 1080/240p
Viewfinder	Hybrid: 0.52x OVF (95% coverage), 3.69M-dot OLED EVF	Hybrid: 0.52x OVF, 3.69M-dot OLED EVF
LCD Screen	3.0″, 1.62M-dot tilting touchscreen	3.0″, 1.62M-dot tilting touchscreen
Built-in ND Filter	Yes (4 stops)	Yes (4 stops)
Stabilization	No IBIS	5-axis in-body image stabilization (IBIS), up to 6 stops
Wireless Connectivity	Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 4.2	Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 4.2
Battery	NP-W126S	NP-W126S
Body Size (W x H x D)	128.0 x 74.8 x 53.3 mm	128.0 x 74.8 x 55.3 mm (slightly thicker due to IBIS)
Weight	Approx. 478g (with battery & card)	Approx. 521g (with battery & card)
Other Features	Weather resistance (with filter), film simulations, digital teleconverter	Weather resistance (with filter), film simulations, digital teleconverter, AI subject detection, IBIS

Connectivity

It is important to address the connectivity features of modern cameras, especially as technological advancements have made seamless integration into mobile ecosystems not only feasible but expected. By 2024, companies such as Leica and Sony had demonstrated the reliability and convenience of robust connectivity solutions.

Fujifilm has yet to meet these standards, as its approach to connectivity remains unbearable. For instance, when connecting the X100VI via a USB-C cable to non-Thunderbolt Type-C ports on my Mac computers, images cannot be accessed as one would with a typical USB drive. This necessitates the use of the Image Capture application. Such limitations suggest there might be unresolved licensing issues between Fujifilm and Apple, especially as other cameras under similar circumstances are fully accessible as USB drives using the same Type-C port.

Additionally, Fujifilm’s mobile application exhibits significant shortcomings. It often fails to maintain a stable connection long enough to transfer tagged images, and geotagging functionality requires users to manually activate the application prior to use—a process that feels outdated in comparison to the competition. Given the advancements we see around us in 2025, these connectivity issues are both disappointing and difficult to justify.

As of today, the most practical method to transfer images from the X100VI to another device involves physically removing the SD card and utilizing an adapter for manual transfer. This approach, reminiscent of the early 2000s, highlights an area where Fujifilm must focus on substantial improvement to remain competitive in a connected world.

Magic of Flash

A lesser-known feature of the Fujifilm X100VI is its remarkable combination of a built-in flash and leaf shutter. This pairing enables photographers to utilize exceptionally high shutter speeds while maintaining adequate flash power to effectively manipulate lighting conditions.

For instance, the X100VI allows photographers to achieve an aperture of f/2 under bright, backlit sunlight while employing a high shutter speed of 1/2000s to control exposure. The built-in flash can then be used to illuminate the subject from the front, resulting in professional-grade imagery.

This capability stands out due to the technical challenges associated with reproducing the same effect on cameras equipped with focal plane shutters. Cameras with focal plane shutters are typically limited to 1/250s and require larger external flash units that must employ pulsing and high-speed synchronization techniques to match the performance of the X100VI.

Conclusion

The Fujifilm X100VI fulfills all the essential criteria for a compact camera. Building upon the success of its predecessor, the X100V, this iteration achieves a refined balance of technical advancements and overall design. It is challenging to envision the direction Fujifilm might pursue next; perhaps computational photography could serve as a path for further innovation beyond the existing features such as multiple exposure modes, HDR, panoramas and Film Simulations.

Among the photographic equipment at my disposal, including the compact Leica M11, Fujifilm X100VI and X-T5 and Sony A7R5, the X100VI consistently proves to be the camera of choice for my outings. Its exceptional portability and versatility make it a steadfast companion, effortlessly integrating into my daily routine. This characteristic represents the essence of the X100VI: its ability to encourage users to carry it wherever they go.

Initial apprehensions regarding the battery life have proven to be negligible in practice. Thanks to USB-C charging, replenishing the battery is easy and convenient, particularly in Asia, where portable charging packs are readily available in commercial venues. By ensuring the camera is powered off between uses, I have consistently managed battery consumption to sustain a full day of shooting.

Additionally, the enhancement to the autofocus system represents a significant improvement in usability. Compared to the X100V, the autofocus of the X100VI is reliable and efficient, allowing me to confidently operate the camera in AF-C mode with the appropriate AI settings for the intended subject. While there remains room for further refinement in comparison to systems offered by Sony, the autofocus performance is more than adequate for my purposes.

The waiting period for my X100VI was considerable, but the experience of using the camera has justified the patience invested. I can unequivocally recommend this device to both novice and experienced photographers. Fujifilm has delivered an exceptional camera, and the persistent demand for the X100VI is understandable given its unique combination of features, including gorgeous looks, compact dimensions, OVF, high-resolution output, IBIS and AI autofocus. It is unlikely that the availability will improve as awareness of Fujifilm and the X100VI continues to grow.

I hope this review has been useful to you. If you have any questions, please feel free to leave a comment below. I invite you to subscribe to the mailing list by entering your email address below to receive updates on future posts. Additionally, I encourage readers to share this review on their preferred photography or travel forums to spread the word regarding this remarkable camera.