Second-hand hall of fame: Fuji lm X100F
At half the cost of its launch price, the X100F makes an extremely tempting second-hand purchase
Fujifilm’s X100-series of fixed lens compacts, with their retro rangefinder-style design, APS-C sensors and clever hybrid optical/electronic viewfinders have become a cult classic. As with previous models, the F (for fourth’) remains close in spirit to the original design, with the same 35mm equivalent f/2 lens and analogue dial-led operation. Inside it uses the same combination of 24.2MP X-Trans III CMOS sensor and X-Processor Pro as the X-Pro2. Notable features include a built-in ND filter, 91-point AF system, a fixed 1.04-million dot LCD, Wi-Fi connectivity and excellent customisation.
What we said
‘Few cameras inspire you to pick them up and go out to shoot in the way this one does’
‘Make no mistake; it’s a serious photographic tool’
‘Fujifilm has produced a camera that’s as lovely to shoot with as it is to look at’
‘Users of the X100S and original X100 will find it a huge upgrade, while X100T owners should appreciate the new sensor and improved controls’
How it fares today
The X100F remains a fabulous camera today. Its sensor resolves impressive detail and delivers very respectable JPEG and raw files straight out of camera, with colour that faithfully represents the scene photographed. But it’s not as fast as the X100V and shots are fairly soft when it’s used at its maximum aperture at close focus distances. With no weather resistance it’s also not as durable as its successor.
What to pay
The Fujifilm X100F cost £1,249 when we tested it in 2017. Since then we’ve seen the price drop considerably, helped by the introduction of the X100V, which has contributed to a healthy rise in the number of used X100F models appearing on the second-hand market. Head to MPB.com and you can buy used X100Fs in ‘excellent’ condition for £689, with like-new examples from £724.
New alternatives
The X100V’s 26.1MP X-Trans sensor offers a wider ISO 160-12,800 sensitivity range, that’s expandable to ISO 80-51,200. It also boasts a reconfigured lens, advanced autofocus system, new tilting touchscreen, 4K video and weather resistance when used with an optional filter kit. Design changes include a refined ISO dial and crisper edges to the top and bottom aluminium plates.