The Best (In-Stock) Alternative to the X100VI — Fujifilm X-T50!

Same Camera, One Big Difference

The Fujifilm X-T50 and X100VI are buzzing in the camera world this 2024. With a whopping 40.2-megapixel resolution in their compact frames, these models showcase how far camera technology has come — offering high-end features at a price that won't break the bank. Both cameras pack nearly everything a photographer could need, trimming away the frills.

Here's the catch: the X100VI sports a fixed lens, limiting it to one focal length, while the X-T50 offers interchangeable lenses, allowing you to switch up your shooting style on the fly. Beyond this crucial distinction, differences in ergonomics, battery life, and build quality also set them apart, which we'll explore to help you make a well-informed purchase.

I recently tested both cameras in my studio alongside my friend and model, @maddsmcintyre, capturing images under similar conditions. Using a comparable lens on the X-T50 to match the X100VI's fixed lens, the results were strikingly similar. Can you spot any differences?!

Camera Quality

The Fujifilm X-T50 and X100VI boast impressive 40.2 MP resolution sensors housed within an APS-C format. Despite sharing the same sensor size, there is a slight misconception about their capabilities.

Both cameras have identical sensor sizes, which means they possess the same pixel area — contrary to any assumptions that one might collect light more efficiently than the other given the same aperture settings.

What truly sets these models apart is that both the X100VI and X-T50 forego anti-alias (Low-Pass) filters, meaning they both enhance image sharpness and detail but also raise the likelihood of an analog-style look within particular shooting conditions (especially in scenes with lots of blues or greens).

Since the sensor sizes are the same, both cameras offer equivalent control over depth of field, assuming the same lens focal length and aperture settings are used.

You can see how similar the image looks in my pictures below — both cameras render a matte finish that contributes to a highly editorial and sophisticated appearance. Fujifilm’s color profiles have captured the essence of modern editorial photography, cementing its status as a favorite among professional photographers from various genres.

Weight Considerations

Weight is key, especially if you plan to carry your camera around all day. The Fujifilm X-T50 is significantly lighter (by 83g) than the Fujifilm X100VI, which could be a real perk for those long, exploratory walks. However, remember that this comparison might not always hold up in real life since we’re weighing a camera with a built-in lens against one without a lens. The total weight will naturally increase once you add a lens to the X-T50.

Weather Sealing

The X100VI's weather-sealed body lets you shoot more confidently in less-than-ideal conditions where you might encounter water and dust. This feature gives the X100VI an edge over the X-T50 in rugged environments.

LCD Screen Size and Features

The Fujifilm X-T50 and X100VI boast LCD screens measuring 3 inches diagonally. Each camera has a tilting screen, which is handy for snapping shots from tricky angles, like waist-level or above your head. It makes it easier to get that perfect shot without straining yourself.

Shooting Portraits in the Studio

Regarding image quality, while shooting in the studio, there was no significant difference between the X-T50 and X100VI. You can tell by the images — they look so darn similar! Because photographers can swap lenses on the X-T50, which is impossible on the X100VI, that flexibility can make a major difference in how you shoot. While the X100VI provides excellent image quality with its fixed lens, the X-T50’s ability to use a variety of lenses gives photographers more creative control over aspects like depth of field and framing.

When it comes to capturing skin tones, the Fujifilm X-T50 and X100VI deliver the same level of quality. Whether you’re using the classic Provia or other film simulations, both cameras produce accurate and pleasing skin tones. The results are identical, making sure that your photos have consistent color/skin tones regardless of which camera you choose.

While I enjoyed using both cameras, the X100VI reigns supreme in faster shooting. Thanks to its fixed lens design, which offers faster autofocus, the X-T50, while offering flexibility with interchangeable lenses, sometimes takes a bit longer for autofocus to lock on.

Use Cases

The Fujifilm X-T50 and X100VI cater to various photography styles, which is great if you have a specific type of photography in mind. Understanding which camera excels in different scenarios can help simplify your decision-making process.

👉Portraits

Handling the X100VI can be a bit tricky due to its smaller grip, which might make intentional portrait photography more of a challenge. However, it features an external flash shoe for those who love a quick and lively point-and-shoot experience, providing a vibrant, film-like flash to illuminate your subjects. A major point to consider is the X-T50’s ability to accommodate different portrait-specialized focal lengths, unlike the X100VI, which only offers a wide 28mm lens.

👉Street Photography

For street and lifestyle photography, the X100VI is the people's choice. Its design is perfect for quick, spontaneous shots — just grab it from your bag and capture a beautifully composed scene in seconds. The X100VI's fixed 28mm focal length is perfect for capturing everyday moments that convey a story within a single frame.

👉Sports & Action

Both cameras are fantastic for action photography, thanks to their quick sensors that snap up those once-in-a-lifetime moments in a flash. The X-T50, however, has a slight edge if you're into getting creative with your shots. Its compatibility with telephoto lenses means you can zoom in for tight details or get those dramatic, compressed background effects that really make your photos pop.

👉Everyday Documentation

When it comes to daily snaps, it's really about what feels right for you. If you're drawn to the classic vibe of old-school film cameras, you'll love the X100VI. It's reminiscent of iconic film point-and-shoots, like the Contax T3, making it super easy to capture your everyday moments. The fixed lens keeps things simple, the 20 film simulations bring a little extra flair to your photos, and with Frame.io connectivity, you can share your favorite shots on social media in no time.