X Series · 2013

Fujifilm X100S

The one that fixed the original and started the reputation.

FUJIFILM X100S

Short answer

The X100S is the second-generation X100. It replaced the original’s EXR sensor with 16.3MP X-Trans II, added phase-detect autofocus and focus peaking, and made the camera usable. It has 10 film simulations and no Classic Chrome.

The original X100 was a beautiful camera with frustrating autofocus and a confusing menu. The X100S kept the body and fixed almost everything behind it, which is why it is the point where the line stopped being a curiosity.

Key specs

Sensor
16.3 MP X-Trans CMOS II
Processor
EXR Processor II
In-body stabilisation
No
Viewfinder
Hybrid optical (0.43×) / 2.36M-dot electronic
Video
1080/60p
Weight
445 g
Launch price
$1,299
Specifications
Released
January 2013
Sensor
APS-C · 23.6 × 15.6 mm
ISO range
ISO 200–6400 (100–25600 extended)
Burst
6 fps
Screen
2.8-inch fixed LCD, 460K dots
Lens mount
Fixed 23mm f/2 lens (35mm equivalent)
Card slots
1× SD
Dimensions
126.5 × 74.4 × 53.9 mm

Dimensions

126.5 mm74.4 mm
  • 126.5 mm wide
  • 74.4 mm tall
  • 53.9 mm deep

Body drawn to scale from the dimensions Fujifilm publishes. Depth is listed, not drawn.

What the S fixed

Phase-detect autofocus on the sensor, a genuine jump in speed. Focus peaking and a digital split-image display for manual focus. A faster processor and a rewritten menu.

The X-Trans II sensor removed the optical low-pass filter, which is why 16 megapixels from this camera resolve more detail than the number suggests.

Buying one today

It is cheap, which is the main argument. The screen is 2.8 inches at 460K dots and looks it, there is no Classic Chrome, and the lens is the original soft-wide-open design.

For a first camera with real controls and Fujifilm colour, at the price these sell for, it is hard to argue against.

What is good

  • Phase-detect autofocus made the line usable
X-Trans II colour with no low-pass filter
Very cheap on the used market
Leaf shutter and hybrid viewfinder

What is not

  • No Classic Chrome or ACROS
Low-resolution 2.8-inch screen
Old lens design, soft wide open up close

Verdict

The X100S is a good first Fujifilm and a bad only camera. Buy it to learn what you like about the X100 shape, then upgrade to a V when you know.

Film simulations on this camera

10 film simulations

Common questions

Does the X100S have Classic Chrome?

No. Classic Chrome arrived in 2014 and was never added to the X100S by firmware.

Is 16MP enough?

For screens and prints up to A3, comfortably. For heavy cropping, no.

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Last updated August 31, 2026