Fujifilm has revealed the latest update to its X100 series of fixed focal length compact cameras. The X100T sticks with much of what made the X100S great, but offers what could be significant upgrades for some users. It boasts the world's first electronic rangefinder, an improved control layout, and built-in Wi-Fi connectivity for remote shooting.
The X100S was certainly able to deliver the goods when it came to image quality. As such, it's not entirely surprising the Fujifilm X100T keeps the same trio of sensor, processor and lens as its predecessor. That means a 16.3-megapixel APS-C size (23.6 x 15.6 mm) X-Trans CMOS II sensor, EXR Processor II image processing engine, and a Fujinon 23-mm F2 lens which gives a 35-mm equivilent.
Also staying the same is the maximum shooting speed of 6 fps, and the native ISO range of 200 to 6,400, though that can now be extended to 51,200 rather than 25,600. Full HD 1080p video recording is still possible at 60 fps, but more frame rates (60/50/30/25/24 fps) are available to support other worldwide motion picture formats.
However, the main upgrade is to the hybrid viewfinder. While it still has an optical viewfinder with a 2,360K dot EVF, it's gained a few new tricks. Most notable is the electronic rangefinder. With this, users can look through the optical viewfinder, but also see an EVF display projected in the bottom right corner of the optical image. This makes focusing while using the optical viewfinder much easier, and more like a mechanical rangefinder. There's also real-time parallax correction for more accurate framing.
There are several changes to the design of the camera which should make it easier to control and customize than its predecessors. For example, setting the aperture in 1/3 steps no longer means using the command lever, and can be done with the aperture ring. The command lever has been switched for a command dial, and the four-way controller on the rear has been improved. The X100T also has seven customizable Fn buttons which can be assigned to any number of features.
Also on the rear of the camera is a bigger and better LCD monitor which is now a three-inch TFT with 1,040K dots. This resolution boost could come in handy when checking images, including those shot with a new Classic Chrome film simulation mode, which mimics the effects of photographic films with muted tones and deep colors.
Built-in Wi-Fi means users no longer have to rely on wireless SD cards for sharing images, and remote shooting is possible with the Fujifilm Camera Remote app for iOS and Android devices. It's worth noting the X100T adds an electronic shutter which is capable of exposures up to 1/32,000 sec, for when you want to shoot with the aperture wide open in bright conditions.
The camera, which uses die-cast magnesium alloy for the top and bottom of the body, measures 126.5 x 74.4 x 52.4 mm (5 x 2.9 x 2.1 in) and weighs 440 g (15.5 oz), which is almost identical to its predecessor. It can be used with the same accessories including cases, grip, and conversion lenses.
The Fujifilm X100T will be available in either silver or black finishes from mid-November, and will set you back US$1,300.
You can check out the X100T in the Fujifilm promo video below.
Product page: Fujifilm X100T
