Fujifilm X-H1

Can Fuji take compact system cameras to the next level with its latest model? We get snap-happy to find out

The latest in Fujifilm’s line of excellent mirrorless cameras is aimed slightly higher than usual. The XH-1 carries the price of a mid-range DSLR because it comes with more pro-level features to help it stand out as a lightweight alternative to a bigger snapper.

Small and tough

These upgrades are found inside and out. On the X-H1 you’ve got a sturdier, weatherproofed body compared to most compact system cameras (CSCs), and flexible features such as a touchscreen that tilts in three directions and an optional chunkier grip for hardcore handling. The electronic viewfinder is 3.69-million dots with a smooth 100Hz refresh rate, so it will keep up with fast-moving subjects (though a DSLR’s optical viewfinder still beats it). There’s even a top display for checking settings at a glance. All this in a body that’s smaller and lighter than a DSLR, though bulkier than other CSCs.

Inside you’ve got Fujifilm’s fantastic X-Processor Pro engine and 24MP sensor, which we’ve already seen together on cameras including the brilliant Fujifilm X-Pro2. But there’s also a new image stabilisation system, packing five-axis stabilisation into the body. It combines with the stabilisation tech Fujifilm normally puts into lenses – a special dual processor helps them work together. The result is first-rate images. Everything is super-sharp, even in low-light, partly thanks to the excellent stabilisation and partly due to noise being kept impressively low. The sharpness and fine detail are as good as you could hope for from this kind of APS-C sensor.

Fujifilm’s expanded dynamic range option is a big hit with us, too. The X-H1 is also just really easy to shoot. The autofocus is fast, while the shutter is surprisingly quiet, and the release is lighter to press than most. It’s less intrusive, in this way, and we like that.

This all makes the Fujifilm X-H1 a truly flexible option. It’s easier to carry than a DSLR, with better handling for bigger lenses than a smaller CSC. There’s plenty of control for pros, and solid video chops, including 4K 30fps.