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Fujifilm X100VI Review: One Year In Is It Living Up to the Hype?

Written by Kent

Buying the Fujifilm X100VI: A Decision Fueled by Hype

Sometimes the best gear decisions come from pure impulse. I wasn’t looking for another camera—especially not a fixed-lens compact—but after seeing the buzz around the Fujifilm X100VI, I had to see what all the fuss was about.

My trusty interchangeable-lens cameras like the X-T3 and Sony full-frame bodies had been my workhorses, but there was something about the sleek retro styling and compact form factor of the X100VI that pulled me in. Maybe it was the idea of having a “go anywhere, do anything” street camera that didn’t require lugging multiple lenses. Or maybe it was the subtle promise of Fuji’s classic film simulations packed inside. Whatever it was, I pulled the trigger.

From day one, the X100VI felt different. It’s a camera that’s trying to balance modern tech and old-school charm—but sometimes it feels like it’s biting off more than it can chew. Here’s what I found, after months of shooting and living with it.

What’s New in the X100VI (vs X100V)

  1. 40MP X-Trans V Sensor
    – Up from 26MP in the X100V (more resolution, better detail).
  2. In-Body Image Stabilization (IBIS)
    – 5-axis IBIS up to 6 stops; first X100 to feature this.
  3. AI-Based Autofocus System
    – Improved subject detection for people, animals, vehicles, etc.
  4. X-Processor 5
    – Faster and more efficient than the X100V’s X-Processor 4.
  5. New Film Simulation: Reala Ace
    – Added alongside existing simulations.
  6. 6.2K 30p and 4K 60p Video
    – Versus 4K 30p max on X100V.
  7. Internal Memory (6.2GB)
    – First in the series to include built-in storage.
  8. Faster Startup and Reduced Shutter Lag
    – Thanks to newer processor and architecture.
  9. Improved EVF Refresh Rate
    – Smoother experience compared to X100V (still same resolution).
  10. Slightly Refined Design
    – Similar look but subtly slimmer; new “X100VI” top plate engraving.

Design & Handling

The first time you pick up the X100VI, it feels right. Fuji hasn’t messed with the formula — it still looks and handles like a proper camera. Solid build, metal top plate, grippy texture where it counts. It’s a little more refined than the X100V, but the same in all the ways that matter.

After a few weeks of carrying it around, it starts to show little signs of use — the paint wears a bit on the corners, the finish gets smoother where your hands sit. It’s not a flaw. If anything, it makes the camera feel more like yours.

It fits a jacket pocket easily. Jeans, not so much. It’s not tiny, but it’s small enough to bring everywhere without thinking about it. Bigger than a true compact, way smaller than a full mirrorless setup. Just right, really.

Compact size ideal for street/travel photography (vs. bulkier ILCs). Leaf shutter is nearly silent (artificial sound can be disabled).

The dials feel good. They’re still mechanical and satisfying, though maybe a bit softer than on older models. The viewfinder — switching between optical and electronic — is still one of the best parts. It’s something you end up using more than you expect, especially if you shoot on the street or chase light.

The new nameplate on the top is clean and simple. Doesn’t shout, just sits there like it belongs.

It’s the kind of camera you want to use. No fuss, no distractions. Just the essentials, laid out the way they should be.

It is WAY smaller than an XT3 if you really want to pack light… using a sling or even a bigger pocket is possible with the X100VI but not with the XT3.

Buttons/dials feel "cheap" (especially ISO/SS dial) and Black version has plastic-like finish. Also, Shutter button has mushy/unpleasant feedback.

Same Lens With New X-Processor 5

The 23mm f/2 lens on the X100VI is the same design Fuji used on the X100V, and it still holds up. It’s the kind of lens that fits into your day without making a big deal of itself—good for street, travel, or just everyday photos where you want to show the scene without backing up too much. That 35mm equivalent view feels familiar. Not too tight, not too loose. It’s a frame you can live in.


At f/2, it’s not razor sharp, especially up close, but that’s part of the charm. There’s a softness that works well with the look Fuji cameras tend to give you. It smooths out the edges in a way that feels right, especially if you’re using the in-camera film sims. Stop it down a bit—f/4 or f/5.6—and it sharpens up across the frame. Handy if you’re out shooting landscapes or want everything in focus.


It also focuses closer than you’d expect. About 10 cm. That’s enough for the little details—hands on a table, a coffee cup, textures on the wall. And the background falls away gently. The bokeh doesn’t try to impress; it just stays out of the way.


The new processor—the X-Processor 5—does bring a small shift compared to the older X100V. Files feel a bit cleaner. There’s a little more to work with in the shadows. It’s not dramatic, but if you’ve used both cameras, you’ll notice it. Mostly, it just lets the lens do what it’s always done, but with a bit more breathing room.

f/2 gave zero background separation. Strangely, f/4 looked better. For a 'premium' fixed lens? Underwhelming.

It’s worth saying this lens doesn’t have that punchy, high-contrast look you get from Fuji’s higher-end primes like the 35mm f/1.4 or 56mm f/1.2. It’s a bit gentler, a bit more laid back. But that fits. This isn’t a show-off lens—it’s meant to be the one that’s always with you, and for that, it does the job really well. Balanced, small, and just easy to shoot with.

A 100% crop proves the lens resolves just fine for this sensor.
New 40 MP Sensor capture more details
Look at the amount of details it has captured.

Autofocus & IBIS

Autofocus on the X100VI is mostly good, but not perfect. In decent light, it locks on quickly and does what you need. Faces, still subjects, street stuff—it handles all of that fine. Subject detection is better than before too. It’ll pick up people, pets, cars, that sort of thing, and usually keep them in focus without much trouble.

Things change a bit when the light drops. Indoors, at dusk, or in darker corners of the city, the AF can start to hunt. Sometimes it nails it, sometimes it doesn’t. It’s not unusable, but you notice the hesitation. Zone focus helps if you plan ahead, but it takes a bit of practice to get fast with it.

AF: Slow and unreliable. eye-tracking struggles below f/4. Low light? Forget it. Even my ancient X-T3 locked focus faster.
Continuous AF is noisy even with static subjects, it struggles to lock focus.

 

The autofocus is so unreliable and slow. As soon as the light isn’t perfect the eye-tracking misses almost every time and only is sharp by around f4.

5-axis IBIS up to 6 stops; first X100 to feature this.

One of the best upgrades here is IBIS. Finally, having stabilization built in makes a real difference, especially when shooting handheld in low light. You can shoot slower shutter speeds and still get sharp images, which opens up more options—night scenes, motion blur, handheld city shots without having to crank the ISO. It’s a quiet upgrade, but one you feel right away.

New 6 Stop IBIS feature for the X100 series; enables sharper handheld shots in low light

IBIS also helps with video. It smooths things out if you’re walking around or shooting handheld. That said, autofocus during video is still a bit clunky. It can be jumpy or make noise while it hunts, which pulls you out of the moment if you’re recording something more polished.

So yeah, AF is solid when the light’s on your side, but it still stumbles in the dark. IBIS, on the other hand, is a game changer. It makes this camera way more flexible, especially for people who like to shoot handheld in tricky light.

I really like the IBIS as an upgrade as I use it a lot with the ND filter. Things I definitely missed on my XT20 & the focus is inexcusably bad for an everyday camera.

You can shoot with a slower shutter speed—like 1 second—and still get sharp results in low light

Image Quality

The jump to the 40MP sensor is the first thing that stands out. You see it in the detail — fabric textures, tree bark, street grit — it all comes through with more clarity than before. Compared to the 26MP sensor in the X100V, there’s more room to crop and still come away with a sharp photo. It’s not just about resolution, though. The files have a quiet depth to them. They hold together when pushed, especially in RAW. You can lift shadows or pull back highlights, and they don’t fall apart.

Colors are still Fuji’s strong point. That’s probably not news to anyone. The film simulations are excellent straight out of camera. Classic Chrome is still my go-to, but Reala Ace has been growing on me. Skin looks natural. Greens and blues sit well. The look isn’t loud or overly processed. It just works, especially if you like shooting JPEGs and skipping the edit.

Only positive surprise was how good the lens is performing on that 40MP and the sharpness open is also nice.

F8.0 1/500 ISO 125
100% Crop

Low light is handled well. ISO 3200 looks fine. Even 6400 is usable if you don’t mind some grain — and to be honest, it’s the kind of grain that doesn’t get in the way. It feels more like film than digital noise. You can shoot in poor light and still come back with something worth keeping.

There are trade-offs. The files are bigger, which means your cards fill up faster, and if your computer is getting on a bit, editing can be slow. The sensor also pulls more power, so battery life takes a small hit. It’s not terrible, but it’s noticeable if you’re out for a full day without spares.

That said, the payoff is there. This is a compact camera that delivers files on par with bigger setups. It’s the kind of quality that makes you want to shoot more. No fuss. Just strong, clean images — whether you’re shooting a quiet street, a portrait, or a passing moment.

Left: ISO 1600 & Right: ISO 12800

New Film Simulation: Reala Ace, Nostalgic Neg, Eterna Bleach Bypass

Fuji’s film simulations are a big part of what makes these cameras fun to shoot with, and the X100VI carries that tradition forward. There’s a new one this time: Reala Ace. It’s got a softer, more neutral look — less contrasty than some of the others, with smooth colors that work especially well for portraits and everyday street shooting. It’s subtle, in a good way.

New Film Simulation: Reala Ace
Reala Ace Film Simulation

You still get all the usual favorites too. Velvia is punchy and bold, Classic Chrome has that muted, moody vibe, and Acros is one of the best black-and-white modes out there. Each one gives the photos a different feel without needing to touch a computer.

Nostalgia Negative

What’s really nice on the X100VI is the ability to save up to seven custom film recipes. You can tweak grain, color, shadows, highlights, sharpness — whatever look you’re going for — and save it to one of those slots. If you’re the kind of person who likes playing with tones or dialing in a specific mood, this is where the camera really shines.

There’s a whole community around Fuji recipes now. People trade them, share them online, and build out their own looks. It adds a kind of playful, creative layer to using the camera. You can build a recipe for rainy city streets, one for sunny landscapes, one for low-light cafés — and flip between them as you go.

Eterna Bleach Bypass

What’s great is that the JPEGs look good straight out of the camera. Whether you’re using a recipe or just a standard film sim, most of the time you don’t need to edit much, if at all. It’s easy to just shoot, share, and move on — which can be a real relief if you don’t love post-processing.

If you like the idea of building your own look and shooting with it in-camera, the film sims and recipe slots make the X100VI feel like more than just a tool. It becomes something you can personalize and grow with over time. Keeps things fun.

6.2K Video Quality

Video isn’t the main reason most people buy the X100VI, but it can still pull off some surprisingly nice results. It shoots up to 6.2K at 30 frames per second, and the footage looks clean and detailed. There’s 10-bit color and F-Log2 if you want to do some grading later, which is more than enough for casual filmmakers or people who just want better-than-average clips from a stills camera.

Here, you can compare it to 4K:

6.2K does capture more details than 4K
4K HQ doesn’t show much difference, but with it, you’re giving up a 1.3x crop factor.

The big win here is the image stabilization. IBIS really helps smooth things out when you’re shooting handheld. You can walk around with it, grab some B-roll, shoot city scenes or travel clips, and it holds together without looking too shaky. There’s also a built-in ND filter, which is great when you’re filming in bright light and want to keep your shutter speed looking natural.

Notice what how high ISO does to the video

 

Still, it’s not perfect. The screen doesn’t flip around, so if you’re trying to film yourself, it’s a bit of a guessing game. Autofocus during video can also be hit-or-miss — sometimes it hunts, and you can hear the lens motor if it’s quiet. Definitely not ideal for vlogging or serious video work.

No Flipscreen

But if you’re someone who mainly shoots photos and just wants to mix in the occasional bit of video — something to capture the feel of a place or a moment — the X100VI is more than capable. It’s not trying to replace a dedicated video rig, and it doesn’t have to. It’s just a camera that also happens to shoot pretty nice video when you need it to.

If you shoot in 6.2K for more than 10 minutes, it will overheat and after a few standard temperature warnings, it will shut down.

This is NOT a video camera. Fuji doesn’t even try to sell it as a video camera

 

After 13 minutes of 6.2K recording in 20°C, it shuts down

Battery Life

One of the biggest frustrations with the X100VI is battery life. I went in expecting something close to my X-T3, which uses the same NP-W126S battery, but the reality was harsher. The X100VI’s battery drains much faster—noticeably faster than Fuji’s interchangeable-lens cameras and way faster than my Sony full-frame bodies. This aligns with comments from the Reddit thread where users pointed out that the camera’s more active electronics—like IBIS—are power-hungry culprits.

It makes sense: cramming image stabilization and a built-in ND filter into this compact body taxes the battery beyond what that little cell was designed for. It’s a disappointment for anyone wanting a grab-and-go street camera without packing extra batteries or lugging a charger everywhere.

For comparison, the X-S10, which also uses the same battery and IBIS, offers better endurance, suggesting the X100VI’s compact form forces sacrifices on power management. If you’re a photographer who shoots long days without easy charging access, this camera could become a frustrating companion.

Same NP-W126S battery as the x100v, X2 & X-T3 cameras.

The Good News:
It charges over USB-C. That’s genuinely useful. Stick it on a power bank in your bag, plug it into your laptop at a cafe, or even use a car charger. You don’t need a wall socket constantly. Makes travelling or long days wandering much less stressful. But honestly? If you shoot a lot, carrying a spare battery or two is just part of the deal with this camera.

Heat? Not Really an Issue:
The camera handles heat well. Even on warmer days, or during longer shooting sessions, it doesn’t get toasty. Sure, if you’re recording video non-stop for hours, the body might get noticeably warm to the touch. You might have to shut down if you shoot video especially 4K or 6.2K.

Bottom Line:
Don’t expect a lot from the battery. It’s the trade-off for the size and features. The USB-C charging is a big help for staying topped up, and the camera runs cool enough you won’t worry about overheating. Plan your power – bring spares or a power bank – and you’ll be fine.

Same battery as my X-T3 but it wears down so fast. Much faster than all my other cameras also & they use the same NP-W126S

 

Fujifilm App Connectivity

The Fujifilm X100VI connects easily to the Fujifilm X App over Bluetooth and Wi-Fi. Once paired, the camera stays linked in the background, making it quick to transfer photos or use remote control features.

You can browse and import images to your phone without needing a cable, and geotagging works automatically if you allow location access. And, it lets you easily update the camera firmware, view the health status like shutter movements, back up your camera settings.

It’s not instant every time, but once it’s paired, the connection is stable enough for casual use and sharing shots on the go.

X100vi Viewfinder

Hybrid Viewfinder

The X100VI’s viewfinder gives you two ways to see: optical and electronic. The optical one is clear and direct, with frame lines—simple and familiar, like looking through a film camera. Flip the switch, and you’re in electronic mode, where you see exactly how the photo will look.

I mostly rely on the EVF because it shows me exactly what the camera is capturing in real time.

There’s also a hybrid option—a small electronic patch in the corner while using the optical view. Handy for checking focus without breaking the moment.

It’s all done with a small lever. No menus, no fuss. Just a quiet choice that fits the way you want to shoot.

It’s not a real rangefinder, but it definitely has that feel.

Pros: Why x100vi Shines

Pros: Why the X100VI Shines

40MP Sensor + X-Processor 5:
You get Fuji’s beloved color science in stunning high-res detail—ideal for cropping, printing, or just pixel peeping.

IBIS (In-Body Image Stabilization):
Finally! 6 stops of stabilization in an X100 body means more handheld flexibility for stills and video.

Video Upgrades:
6.2K/30p and 4K/60p with F-Log2 make it more hybrid-friendly than ever. A true step up for creators.

Autofocus Improvements:
Animal, vehicle, face, and subject tracking is more reliable and faster than on previous X100s.

Film Simulations:
Includes Reala Ace, Nostalgic Neg, and Bleach Bypass—giving you even more creative looks straight out of camera.

Weather Resistance (with adapter):
A solid travel companion once you add the filter ring and UV filter.

 

Cons: What to Consider Before Buying

Same Lens as X100V:
Still the 23mm f/2. It’s great, but I was hoping for a new or sharper optic to match the 40MP sensor.

Rolling Shutter in Video:
In 6.2K especially, rolling shutter is present and noticeable—so not ideal for fast motion capture.

Single SD Card Slot:
Fine for casual shooting, but limiting for pros needing backup or faster workflows.

Same Battery Life:
Despite the improved processor, it still uses the NP-W126S—respectable, but not amazing.

Slightly Heavier:
The addition of IBIS adds a bit of weight and depth, making it chunkier than the X100V.

The X100VI's Missing Bits (Things I Wish It Had):

Let’s get the obvious out of the way: the X100VI is a fantastic camera. But for the price — and the expectations that come with it — there are a few things that feel like they should have been sorted by now.

No Headphone Jack

The X100VI gets a real bump in video specs, but strangely leaves out a headphone jack. That makes monitoring audio a guessing game. If you’re making casual clips, it’s not a dealbreaker. But if you’re taking sound seriously — even for simple interviews or travel footage — not being able to check levels in real-time feels like a miss.

Touchscreen — But Only a Little & No Flip Screen

The rear screen is touch-sensitive, but only in certain ways. You can move focus points or swipe through photos, sure. But you can’t navigate menus or change settings. It’s not a huge issue once you’re used to the dials and buttons, but if you’re coming from cameras or phones where the touchscreen does more, it feels oddly limited.

And not to mention, it still doesn’t have a flip screen.

Weather Sealing (Sort of)

Fuji says there’s some weather resistance — and I believe them, to a point. Light rain or dusty sidewalks, fine. But if you’re out in bad weather, you’ll want to be cautious. Full sealing would’ve been nice, especially for a camera that’s meant to travel everywhere. Instead, you’ll need the adapter and filter combo just to protect the lens properly.

You’ll Probably Buy Accessories

There’s a bit of an “accessory tax” with the X100VI. To make it work exactly how you want, you’ll likely need:

  • The adapter ring, just to use filters.
  • A thumb grip or leather case, for better handling.
  • At least one extra battery — two if you shoot all day.
  • A dedicated charger, since it only charges via USB-C out of the box.

None of this ruins the experience, but it adds up — in cost and in what you carry. It’s worth keeping in mind if you’re trying to travel light.

Who the X100VI Is For (And Who It’s Not)

This isn’t a camera built to please everyone — and that’s part of its charm. It does what it does very well, but if your needs fall outside that, it might not be the right fit.

Buy It If:

You enjoy a hands-on shooting experience.
If physical dials, a proper aperture ring, and a classic viewfinder are what make photography fun for you, this camera delivers. It feels like using an old manual camera — but with modern image quality.

You shoot street, daily life, or documentary-style work.
The compact size, quiet shutter, and fast startup make it ideal for grabbing fleeting moments. It doesn’t draw much attention, which is great when you don’t want to be noticed.

You want to travel light.
It’s small, it’s light, and it doesn’t need much. IBIS helps in low light, and the film simulations often mean you can skip editing altogether. For trips or walks where you don’t want to carry a big setup, it’s a perfect companion.

You want something you’ll always carry.
If you like the idea of having a capable camera on you at all times — not just on planned shoots — this is that camera. It fits into daily life in a way bigger systems don’t.

Default Reala Ace film sim

Skip It If:

You need interchangeable lenses.
There’s no zoom, no swapping. The 23mm (35mm equivalent) lens is versatile, but it’s all you get. If you want wide or telephoto options, this isn’t the system for you.

You shoot for shallow depth of field.
The f/2 lens does well, but it won’t melt backgrounds like a full-frame 85mm at 1.4. If you’re chasing creamy bokeh or separation, you might find it a bit tame.

You’re focused on video.
No flip screen, no headphone jack, and the autofocus isn’t the most reliable for moving subjects on video. It’ll handle the occasional clip, but it’s not built with video-first users in mind.

You want cutting-edge features.
Touch navigation is limited. There’s some weather sealing, but not full protection. If you want everything modern cameras offer — from advanced menus to full connectivity — you might find it lacking.

Fujifilm x100vi Review – Final Thoughts

The Fujifilm X100VI is the kind of camera that will work for most people. It’s small. It looks good. And it does what it’s supposed to do without getting in your way. The new sensor gives you plenty of resolution.

The IBIS helps when the light starts to go. And Fuji’s film simulations still make everyday photos feel a bit more alive. It’s not perfect. The fixed lens forces you to think more about how you shoot. Sometimes that’s good. Sometimes it’s not.

Autofocus is better than before but still not great. And it’s expensive now. Harder to find too.

If you like the idea of Fuji but want more control, take a look at the X-T50 or X-T5. You can change lenses. You’ll get more options. Same colors. Same sensor. Just a different kind of setup.

In the end, the X100VI is more than a camera—it’s a companion. Just make sure it’s the right one for you.

Fujifilm x100vi FAQs

Why is the Fujifilm X100VI so hard to get?

Due to extremely high demand, limited production capacity, and global supply chain constraints, the X100VI has been hard to keep in stock since its release. It's especially popular among content creators and street photographers, causing frequent sellouts.

Will there be a Fujifilm X100VI?

Yes, the Fujifilm X100VI was officially announced in February 2024 and is the sixth generation of the X100 series.

Where to buy Fuji X100VI in the USA?

You can buy the X100VI from official retailers like B&H Photo, Adorama, Moment, and Amazon. It's recommended to sign up for stock alerts or pre-orders, as availability is limited.

Is the Fujifilm X100VI worth buying?

Yes, if you value a compact camera with a sharp fixed lens, 40MP sensor, IBIS, beautiful color science, and hybrid viewfinder. It’s ideal for street, travel, and everyday photography.

Is X100VI better than X100V?

Yes, it features a higher-resolution 40MP sensor, in-body image stabilization (IBIS), AI-powered autofocus, improved video, and internal memory. However, the shooting experience remains similar, so it depends on your needs.

How much is the Fujifilm X100VI?

The X100VI retails for $1,599 USD (body only) at launch in 2024.

When did the Fujifilm X100VI come out?

The Fujifilm X100VI was officially released in February 2024.

Can you change the lens on a Fujifilm X100VI?

No, the X100VI has a fixed 23mm f/2 lens. However, you can use optional wide and tele conversion lenses to change the effective focal length.

Why is Fuji X100V not available?

The X100V was discontinued due to overwhelming demand that exceeded production capacity. It became viral on platforms like TikTok and YouTube, causing global shortages before the X100VI was announced.

What quality is the X100VI video?

The X100VI can shoot 6.2K at 30fps and 4K at 60fps, with support for F-Log2 and improved color depth, making it more capable for video than previous models.

Is the Fujifilm X100VI good for portraits?

Yes. The 23mm f/2 lens (35mm equivalent) is sharp and versatile, especially for environmental portraits. While not a traditional portrait focal length, it delivers excellent results with Fuji’s film simulations and subject detection AF.

What camera is similar to the Fujifilm X100VI?

Alternatives include the Ricoh GR IIIx (more compact, no viewfinder), Leica Q3 (full-frame, expensive), and Fujifilm X-E4 with a 23mm lens (interchangeable lens system).

Is X100VI good for travel?

Absolutely. It’s lightweight, compact, and discreet with excellent image quality — a top choice for travel photographers who want to pack light but shoot with pro-level tools.

Does the X100VI come with a charger?

No dedicated battery charger is included in the box. It charges via USB-C. A separate charger like the BC-W126S can be purchased if you prefer charging batteries outside the camera.

How is the Fuji X100VI weather sealed?

The body is weather-resistant only when you attach a filter and adapter ring to the lens. Without them, it’s not fully sealed.

Why is the Fujifilm X100VI so popular?

It combines a stylish, retro design with modern features like a 40MP sensor, IBIS, and film simulations. Its compact size and excellent JPEG output make it a favorite among pros and casual shooters alike.

Do you need a UV filter X100VI?

If you want full weather sealing, yes — you’ll need a UV filter and adapter ring. Many people also use one for lens protection.

Can you zoom on a X100VI?

No optical zoom. The X100VI has a fixed focal length lens. It offers digital crop modes (50mm and 70mm equivalents), but image quality is reduced slightly compared to native resolution.