The Fujifilm X100VI is the kind of camera that makes photography fun again. It’s compact, it’s stylish, and yes I’ll admit it, I partly wanted it because it looks so good. The design alone is enough to get people start a conversation when I’m out shooting. I chose the black version, and honestly, it feels like carrying around a little piece of vintage charm with modern tech under the bonnet. Then once done for the day it sits proud as punch in my office on display.
So far I have taken the Fuji X1OOVI to Istanbul , Cyprus and here in the UK. Here are my thoughts on one of street photography’s favourite camera systems. I upgraded from a silver Fuji X100V, which is a work of art, this time I opted for the black edition. Fujifilm have created two gorgeous designs.
First Impressions
At first glance, the X100VI look, well, like an X100V. retro styling, tactile dials, that lovely hybrid viewfinder. Fuji rightly subscribes to the “if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it” philosophy. The look is a thing of beauty.
But beneath that familiar hood, there’s a new 40.2MP sensor, in-body stabilisation, and video upgrades that would make it a worthy upgrade from the Fuji X100V, which I reviewed for Expert Photography. Basically, it’s the same charming package, just souped up where it counts, with welcomed bells and whistles.
Key Specs That Matter
- Sensor: 40.2MP X-Trans CMOS 5 HR (up from 26MP in the X100V)
- Processor: X-Processor 5 (snappier and more efficient)
- Stabilisation: 6 stops of IBIS — every little helps!
- Lens: 23mm f/2 (35mm full-frame equivalent) — classic street focal length, still sharp
- Viewfinder: Hybrid optical/electronic with 3.69M-dot EVF
- Screen: 3-inch tilting touchscreen, 1.62M dots
- Video: 6.2K at 30p, 4K up to 60p
- ISO Range: 125–12,800 (expandable if you’re brave)
- Weight: About 521g with battery/card (slightly chunkier than the V)
The Good Stuff
- Image quality: That 40MP sensor is a peach. Tons of detail, gorgeous colours, and plenty of room to crop.
- IBIS: You can shoot handheld at slower shutter speeds, which gives a little extra in low light.
- Film simulations: Fuji’s film looks are still here, and they’re still addictive. For me I shoot RAW and edit my style for consistency
- Video upgrade: The leap to 6.2K/30p and smoother 4K/60p makes this much more viable for hybrid shooters. You still won’t confuse it for a fully fledged video camera, but it’s a huge step up.
The Niggles
- Lens is the same: The 23mm f/2 is lovely, but it’s been around a while. Don’t expect a new optical formula.
- Weight creep: That stabilisation adds some grams. Still portable, but you’ll feel it compared to the feather-light older models. No big deal.
- Weather sealing: Same caveat as the X100V, you’ll need a filter adapter to make it truly sealed.
- Battery life: Good, not amazing. Especially if you’re filming. Bring spares. Equally better than some alternative systems.
Who’s It For?
The X100VI is perfect if you:
- Love shooting street, travel, or documentary with a discreet, stylish camera
- Want Fuji’s film simulations baked into your workflow if you don’t like to spend time editing.
- Like the idea of a high-res sensor in a body that actually fits in your bag
- Don’t mind the fixed lens (or see it as a creative constraint rather than a limitation) I personally love the 35mm equivalent. My legs are my zoom.
Final Thoughts
The X100VI doesn’t reinvent the wheel. It just makes the wheel roll smoother. If you already adored the X100V, this is the logical next step, higher resolution, stabilisation, better video.
It’s not for everyone. If you need zoom, ultra-fast burst shooting, or massive battery endurance, look elsewhere. But if you want a camera that makes photography feel fun again while still being technically excellent, the X100VI is very appealing and makes you want to get out and shoot. Plus did I mention the colours you can pull from the RAWS? Famous for it’s recipes but my goal is to keep consistency of edit alongside my wedding work.
Another thing I like is I tend to shoot the X100VI in zone focus, it makes life so much easier. I don’t have to think about the autofocus every time something happens,I can just frame and shoot. But sometimes the scene changes in a split second, and that’s where back-button focus comes in handy. Say I’m on the street and someone suddenly steps into the light, a bit closer than I’d set my zone for. Instead of missing the shot, I quickly hit the back button, lock focus, and I’m good to go. It’s like having a safety net.
Pimp My Ride
People take pride in their Fuji X100VI. I am no different. You can really go to town with the accessories. For me I love the thumb grip. it improves handling, especially when shooting for longer periods or using the camera one-handed. I also bought a Muziri Kinokoo leather half case for cosmetic protection. A Hoage lens protector which matches the lens design. Also I use a Peak Design leash and a couple of spare batteries. All in all I am super happy with the camera. Hope you enjoy the images.
Review by Dan Morris Street