When the Fujifilm X100VI was announced earlier this year, I tried my best to ignore the buzz. I already had the Fujifilm X-Pro3 and X-H2S in my kit, both of which I loved and considered more than capable. I didn’t think I needed another camera—especially one that seemed to be all hype. But after months of curiosity eating away at me, I found a good deal two months ago and took the plunge. Since then, the X100VI has been glued to my hands, accompanying me everywhere, including its first international trip to Ireland. (photos below)

Here are my thoughts after two months of near-daily use, along with the pros and cons of this camera—and why I think the hype is real.

The Pros of the X100VI

1. Form Factor

The compact design is a key reason the X100 series is so beloved. The X100VI is small enough to carry everywhere, whether it’s a day of street photography or a weekend trip abroad. Despite being slightly larger than its predecessors, it’s still perfectly portable without feeling delicate.

2. 40MP Sensor

The X100VI boasts Fujifilm’s 40MP sensor, and the detail it captures is simply incredible. This upgrade brings a whole new level of image quality, giving you the flexibility to crop without sacrificing resolution.

3. 6.2K Video at 4:2:2 10-Bit

The X100VI isn’t just for photographers; it’s a legitimate hybrid camera. Its 6.2K video capabilities and 10-bit color depth make it an excellent choice for filmmakers or anyone who wants to capture high-quality video in a small package.

4. IBIS (In-Body Image Stabilization)

Fujifilm’s inclusion of IBIS in the X100VI is a game-changer for low-light shooting and handheld video. It’s a welcome addition to this series and really helps improve the shooting experience.

5. Improved Sensor and Processor

The combination of the new sensor and X-Processor 5 ensures fast performance, excellent dynamic range, and fantastic color rendition—qualities Fujifilm cameras are known for.

6. Weather Sealing (Sort of)

While the X100VI isn’t fully weather-sealed out of the box, it does offer some protection when paired with an adapter. For casual photographers and travelers, this level of sealing provides peace of mind in less-than-ideal weather conditions.

The Cons of the X100VI

1. Pricey

There’s no way around it: the X100VI is expensive. While it offers plenty of features and excellent performance, the price tag may deter some photographers.

2. Too in Demand

Good luck finding one! The X100VI is in such high demand that it’s often out of stock, and when it’s available, you’ll likely face inflated prices.

3. Not Premium Enough for the Price

While the camera is well-built, it doesn’t feel quite as premium as its price suggests. Some might expect a higher level of finish or materials at this cost.

4. Weather Sealing Requires an Adapter

As mentioned, the weather sealing is incomplete without buying an additional adapter. For the price, this feels like a bit of an oversight.

5. Larger Than Predecessors

While still compact, the X100VI is bulkier than earlier models. For fans of the ultra-compact form factor of previous X100 cameras, this may be a slight disappointment.

Why the Hype is Real

After two months of using the X100VI, I can confidently say the hype is justified. Sure, it has its flaws, but no camera is perfect. What truly makes this camera special is the user experience.

It’s a joy to use, plain and simple. Every time I pick it up, I want to shoot—whether it’s a quick snapshot at home, street photography, or capturing landscapes while traveling. The tactile controls, the gorgeous image quality, and the seamless balance of portability and performance make it a camera that inspires creativity.

The built-in ND filter is another standout feature that I’ve found myself using often, especially for controlling exposure in bright conditions. And let’s not forget the 23mm f/2 lens (35mm equivalent), which is one of my favourite focal lengths—versatile enough for everything from portraits to street shots.

Conclusion

The Fujifilm X100VI isn’t just another hyped-up camera—it’s one that genuinely lives up to its reputation. Despite its cons, it excels at what it sets out to do: offer an unparalleled user experience in a compact, stylish body with top-tier performance.

If you’re someone who wants a camera that you’ll actually want to carry and shoot with every day, the X100VI is hard to beat. For me, it’s been a reminder of why I fell in love with photography in the first place. And that’s worth every penny.

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