As we mentioned in our X-T5 review, the real power here is the new X Processor, which decodes the sensor data. There are a few good things here that weren’t as noticeable in the X-T5. First, the reduced power consumption. The battery is unchanged from the previous model, but Fujifilm claims that the number of shots per battery has increased from 420 to 450. This may not seem like much, but remember that the sensor size has nearly doubled. Frankly, any improvement here is a big win.
In reality, it’s nowhere near that amount though. The problem lies in Fujifilm’s excellent film simulations, which I use a lot. These “recipes” allow you to simulate the look of old film stocks (the Tri-X recipe is my favorite here). Rendering these JPEGs in camera creates overhead and reduces battery life. In my testing, the main culprit seems to be the clarity setting, but either way, if you plan on using these (and you should), expect reduced battery life.
Battery life aside, another thing I love about the X-Trans 5 sensor and X-Processor combination is the color. You get great color contrast and some really great tones, especially the golden hour light which comes through really well in these images.
Probably the most common complaint about the X100V is the autofocus, which, frankly, is just not good. There’s good news and bad news. First, the autofocus is much better. It’s faster and more accurate. I found this to be most true when using the new tracking and object recognition modes. I was particularly impressed with the eye and face recognition modes, both of which are great for keeping even fast-moving kids sharp in the frame.
Let me just say that the autofocus improvement is a welcome one. It may not be up to the standards of a professional level flagship mirrorless camera, but the X100VI is not that camera, nor is it the target audience. The autofocus on this camera is perfect for an everyday camera.
