The Legendary Camera Gets a 40MP Upgrade Fujifilm has done it again. The long-awaited Fujifilm X100VI finally arrives, and it’s everything fans of the X100 series hoped for — and more. The successor to the beloved X100V, this 2025 release blends Fujifilm’s timeless retro charm with cutting-edge imaging technology.
With its 40.2-megapixel X-Trans CMOS 5 HR sensor, in-body image stabilization (IBIS), and 6.2K video capture, the X100VI is no longer just a photographer’s everyday companion — it’s a professional-grade compact powerhouse that fits in your palm.
Whether you’re a street photographer, traveler, or content creator, the Fujifilm X100VI represents the perfect fusion of portability, performance, and pure photographic joy.
Design and Build: Classic Aesthetics, Modern Strength
At first glance, the Fujifilm X100VI looks nearly identical to the X100V — and that’s a good thing. The minimalist retro design remains iconic, echoing analog rangefinders of the 1970s.
Crafted from magnesium alloy with a brushed metal finish, the camera feels premium and solid, weighing just 521 grams. It’s available in both Silver and Black finishes, and now includes enhanced weather sealing, especially when paired with the AR-X100 adapter ring and a protective filter.
The layout of physical dials — for shutter speed, exposure compensation, and ISO — continues to deliver Fujifilm’s tactile photography experience. You can shoot with full manual control without diving into menus.
This combination of retro beauty and modern durability is what makes the X100VI feel special — a camera that looks as good on display as it performs on the streets.
Display and Viewfinder: The Best of Both Worlds
The hybrid viewfinder — Fujifilm’s signature feature — returns stronger than ever. You can switch between:
- Optical Viewfinder (OVF): For a pure rangefinder-style shooting experience with parallax correction.
- Electronic Viewfinder (EVF): A bright, detailed OLED display for live exposure previews and digital overlays.
The 3.0-inch tilting touchscreen on the back has improved brightness and clarity, making it easier to compose shots even in bright sunlight. While it’s not fully articulating, it’s perfect for street-level or low-angle photography.
Sensor and Image Quality: 40MP of Fujifilm Magic
Inside, the Fujifilm X100VI packs the same 40.2MP X-Trans CMOS 5 HR sensor found in the flagship X-H2 — a major leap from the X100V’s 26MP sensor.
This sensor delivers breathtaking detail, incredible sharpness, and expanded dynamic range. Combined with Fujifilm’s legendary color science and Film Simulation modes, you get stunning JPEGs straight out of the camera.
Key Sensor Highlights
- Resolution: 40.2 megapixels
- Processor: X-Processor 5
- ISO Range: 125–12,800 (expandable to 64–51,200)
- Dynamic Range: Up to 13 stops
- RAW Support: 14-bit lossless compression
Every shot pops with life — whether you’re capturing cityscapes, portraits, or moody low-light scenes. Skin tones are beautiful, colors are filmic, and detail retention is exceptional.
The Lens: The Beloved 23mm f/2 Returns
Fujifilm retains the same 23mm f/2 fixed lens (equivalent to 35mm full-frame), a perfect focal length for everyday and street photography.
This lens, redesigned in the X100V era, continues to deliver crisp, distortion-free images with beautiful bokeh and excellent low-light performance. It now fully leverages the 40MP sensor’s resolution, with sharper edges and improved flare resistance.
Autofocus performance has also improved significantly — the 425-point hybrid AF system (phase + contrast detect) ensures fast and accurate focusing, even in challenging lighting. Eye and face detection have become snappier, making portrait shots effortless.
In-Body Image Stabilization (IBIS): Finally Here
For the first time in the X100 series, the X100VI includes 5-axis in-body image stabilization, offering up to 6 stops of compensation.
This is a game-changer for handheld photographers — you can now shoot at slower shutter speeds without blur, or record smooth handheld video without needing a gimbal.
IBIS also enhances low-light photography, making the X100VI far more versatile than its predecessors.
Video Capabilities: Compact Yet Cinematic
While the X100 series has always been photography-first, the X100VI makes a serious leap in video. It can now record 6.2K at 30fps, 4K at 60fps, and 1080p up to 240fps for slow motion.
Combined with Fujifilm’s renowned color profiles and Film Simulations like Eterna, Classic Chrome, and Nostalgic Negative, the footage looks cinematic straight out of the camera.
You can even shoot 10-bit 4:2:2 internally, giving creators more flexibility in post-production.
Performance and Speed
Powered by the X-Processor 5, the X100VI delivers fast startup, snappy AF tracking, and zero-lag shooting.
- Burst Shooting: Up to 20 fps (electronic shutter) / 11 fps (mechanical shutter)
- Buffer: Improved for long bursts of RAW shooting
- Startup Time: Under 0.5 seconds
The camera also benefits from AI-assisted autofocus, inherited from the X-H2S, which can detect subjects like humans, animals, cars, and even birds.
This ensures accuracy and consistency, even when capturing fast-moving street moments.
Connectivity and Features
Fujifilm keeps the X100VI connected with modern tools:
- Wi-Fi and Bluetooth 5.1 for wireless transfer and remote control via the Fujifilm X App.
- USB-C port for charging, file transfer, and webcam functionality.
- Single SD UHS-II slot for high-speed data writing.
Battery life sees a slight improvement thanks to the new processor — expect around 420 shots per charge, or more with optical viewfinder use.
Price and Availability
The Fujifilm X100VI is priced at $1,599 USD (approx.), launching globally in early 2025.
While it’s more expensive than the X100V’s launch price, the upgrades — 40MP sensor, IBIS, and advanced video — fully justify the increase.
Demand is already overwhelming, with early preorders selling out within hours.
Pros and Cons
✅ Pros
- Stunning 40MP image quality
- In-body stabilization (first time in X100 series)
- Gorgeous retro design and solid build
- Fast autofocus with AI detection
- 6.2K and 4K60 video recording
- Classic 23mm f/2 lens remains brilliant
- Film Simulations produce magical JPEGs
❌ Cons
- Fixed lens limits flexibility for some users
- Slightly heavier than X100V
- No weather sealing without filter adapter
- Expensive and high demand means limited availability
Final Verdict
The Fujifilm X100VI isn’t just an upgrade — it’s the ultimate evolution of the X100 legacy. Fujifilm has refined every detail that made the X100V a cult favorite, while adding pro-level features that photographers dreamed of.
From its 40MP sensor and IBIS to its timeless design, the X100VI bridges nostalgia and innovation like no other camera can.
For street photographers, travelers, and visual storytellers who want the best blend of image quality, portability, and artistic control — this is it.
If you can get your hands on one, don’t hesitate — the Fujifilm X100VI is easily the best compact camera of 2025.
GizmoDaily Verdict
⭐ Image Quality: 10/10
⭐ Design & Build: 9.5/10
⭐ Autofocus: 9/10
⭐ Video Performance: 8.5/10
⭐ Value for Money: 9/10
⭐ Overall Score: 9.4/10