Comparison X2D 100C VS GFX100 II: What are the differences?

Medium-format cameras offer high image quality thanks to their large sensors and high resolution. On the medium-format photography market, two models undoubtedly stand out: the X2D 100C (Hasselblad) and the GFX 100 II (Fujifilm).

Although the two cameras share common features, such as a sensor of around 100 MP, they each have their own technical specifications and functionalities, making the choice between them sometimes complicated.

In this article, we compare the X2D 100C from Hasselblad and the GFX 100 II from Fujifilm, the two leading medium-format cameras. Together, we explore the differences between the two cameras to help you decide which side you’re on!

The X2D 100C and GFX 100 II are both among the highest resolution cameras you can buy, but they’re totally different in the way they do things and the user experience they deliver.

The GFX 100 II, it seems, can do almost anything. It’s one of the best medium-format cameras on the market, with a proven track record among professional photographers. It offers impressive video capability and speed.

The Hasselblad has no video options and is not as fast. But the X2D is the champion of design, desirability and efficiency, features that are rare in the medium-format market.

1. The differences between the GFX100 II and the X2D 100C

The sensor, the heart of the medium-format camera

The GFX100 II has a 102 MP CMOS II HS medium-format sensor, an X-Processor 5 and can achieve 400 MP images thanks to Pixel Shift Multi-Shot.

The Hasselblad also has a 100 MP medium-format sensor.

Both cameras share an identical sensor. The dimensions and number of megapixels are exactly the same, as it’s the same sensor manufactured by Sony.

However, note that what they do with this sensor is very different, and has to do with the camera’s processing.

The lenses

Both medium-format cameras use a bespoke lens mount: the GF lens mount and the XCD lens mount for the GFX 100 II and X2D respectively.

GF lenses for the GFX 100 II are not compatible with any other camera brand, not even with the brand’s own hybrid cameras, which are part of a different series (X-series).

Hasselblad’s XCD-mount lenses, on the other hand, are a compact alternative to the old H-series mount.

One of the main features of Hasselblad lenses is that they incorporate a leaf shutter. This means you can use the flash at any speed, and shutter operation should be quieter.

Low-light shooting

The processors of the two cameras are different. The GFX 100 II ‘s X-Processor 5 enables it to reach a maximum sensitivity of ISO 12,800 in its standard range and ISO 102,400 in its extended range.

The X2D only achieves a standard maximum sensitivity of ISO 25,600. While this is lower than the GFX 100 II, it’s still high for a camera designed for optimum resolution and quality.

Even so, it’s unlikely that you’ll choose either camera specifically for its low-light shooting capabilities.

Autofocus performance

One of the most common criticisms of Hasselblad X1D cameras was their slow contrast-based autofocus. But the new X2D 100C has a faster phase-detection autofocus system.

The GFX 100 II has a much more advanced AI-based subject recognition and tracking system, which is more effective with moving subjects.

The X2D now also has face-detection focusing thanks to Hasselblad firmware version 3.1.0.

Continuous shooting and electronic viewfinder

If you’re looking for a medium-format camera with high continuous shooting speed, you may want to consider the GFX 100 II.

The GFX 100 II can achieve up to 8.7 frames per second with its electronic shutter, and can capture 100 JPEGs or raw files.

By comparison, the X2D 100C achieves just 3.3 frames per second, making it less suitable for action photography situations.

As for the viewfinder, the X2D 100C incorporates a 5.76 million-dot electronic viewfinder, which is considered good by today’s standards, while the GFX 100 II’s viewfinder has a resolution of 9.44 million dots.

Both cameras offer 1.0x magnification, so apart from resolution, they’re pretty much equivalent.

2. A camera for photography or video

When it comes to video, there’s no doubt. It’s simple: while the GFX 100 II has 8K and 4K capture capabilities, the Hasselblad offers no video at all.

If you’re a hybrid photo/video/cinema photographer, the GFX 100 II is not only the best choice in this comparison, it’s the only choice.

However, if the X2D leaves video aside, it’s to focus 100% on its photographic capability. It stands out with its HNCS (Hasselblad Natural Color Solution) color science, which produces image effects with a distinctive, even unique, look.

3. Ergonomics, design and user experience

The Hasselblad X2D 100C stands out for its minimalist, elegant design, with clean lines and a high-end finish that stands in stark contrast to traditional cameras.

Despite its 100-megapixel sensor, it adopts a very compact, slim form factor of 148.5 x 74.5 x 106 mm and weighs just 895 g, making it more portable than the Fujifilm GFX 100 II, which measures 152.4 x 117.4 x 98.6 mm and weighs 948 g.

The X2D features a touch-sensitive LCD screen that presents an intuitive user interface. The X2D 100C’s touchscreen makes it easy to navigate and customize settings.

Hasselblad has opted for top-of-the-range construction, with metal parts machined and assembled by hand in Sweden.

In comparison, the GFX 100 II, which is heavier and larger, adopts a more robust, traditional design. In this case, the advantages in terms of user experience are more of a technical nature, with a fairly fast body, making it easier to use.

4. X2D 100C VS GFX 100 II comparison chart

5. Hasselblad X2D 100C VS Fujifilm GFX 100 II: Which to choose?

Although these two medium-format cameras are in the same price range and have similar sensors, they are very different from each other. The choice between the Fujifilm GFX 100 II and the Hasselblad X2D 100C will largely depend on your personal priorities and preferences as a photographer.

The GFX 100 II stands out for its exceptional versatility, video capabilities (the X2D has no video option) and superior autofocus performance. This makes it an ideal choice if you’re looking for a camera capable of handling a variety of situations, including commercial photography.

The X2D 100C will appeal to photographic purists who value simplicity, aesthetics and image quality. The X2D 100C is designed for photography, with a minimalist design and intuitive user interface.

The choice between these two flagship medium-format cameras will depend on the performance you expect from your camera, as well as your sensitivity to the body design and overall user experience.