The Fuji X100V is one of the most talked-about cameras right now, but getting your hands on one is nearly impossible. Thanks to platforms like TikTok, the demand for this camera has skyrocketed, and so has its price. Originally retailing for around $1,400, it's now hard to find for less than $2,000. Having spent a month with the X100V, I’ve put it through its paces—testing its strengths and weaknesses to determine if it’s truly worth the inflated cost. While it’s a capable and versatile camera, it may not be the perfect fit for everyone.
One of the biggest drawbacks of the Fuji X100V is its autofocus. If you’re capturing still subjects, it performs well, but when it comes to moving subjects—such as pets, cyclists, or sports events—it struggles. I had high hopes that it would serve as a reliable point-and-shoot camera for fast-paced moments, but I was left disappointed. The autofocus occasionally turns off without explanation, a flaw that has been mentioned by other users as well. This has sense been updated, but at the time of this review it was still an issue. While this may not be a dealbreaker for travel and casual photography, professionals needing consistent and accurate focus might find this camera frustrating.
For those interested in video capabilities, the Fuji X100V shoots 4K, but it comes with its own set of challenges. One major issue is overheating—when recording for extended periods, a warning signal appears, eventually turning red before shutting the camera off. While this won’t be a problem if you’re using the X100V primarily for photography, those looking for a reliable hybrid camera for both photo and video should consider alternatives. That being said, the image quality on this camera is undeniably impressive. Shooting close-up self-portraits, I was able to capture sharp details, from skin textures to individual hair strands. The built-in film simulations like Portra 400 and Ilford HP5 provide a nostalgic aesthetic, though I found the black-and-white simulations more accurate than the color profiles.
Another limitation is the battery life. Fuji claims it lasts for about 350 photos, which translates to around two and a half hours of use. This did not seem to hold up when using the camera regularly. I always carry a spare battery, as running out of power at a crucial moment is frustrating. Additionally, the fixed 23mm lens (35mm full-frame equivalent) means you’re limited in focal length, though there is a digital zoom option available. A more significant drawback, however, is the poorly functioning Fuji app, which makes transferring images from the camera to a phone a hassle. Despite attempts to fix it using various workarounds, I found that it simply does not work reliably, which is disappointing for a camera marketed toward street and travel photographers.
So, is the Fuji X100V worth the hype? Personally, I think it’s overrated and overpriced. While the film simulations and image quality are commendable, the inconsistent autofocus, overheating issues, and lack of a reliable mobile app make it difficult to justify the price. If I had known these drawbacks beforehand, I probably wouldn’t have purchased it. There are other digital cameras with similar film simulation features that might be worth exploring before settling on the X100V. If you’ve used this camera, I’d love to hear your thoughts—leave a comment below!
Follow the link for the full youtube video review: https://youtu.be/QESlLYORUEw?si=1T7_irhgLippUbap