Every now and then, we get some really great questions in the form of a letter to the editor. In this latest installment of Letters to the Editor, we have a photography enthusiast looking for a fun, compact camera that can get their creative juices raving. That’s right, we’re talking about Fujifilm X100vi alternatives. Let’s get to the mailbag.
The Ask
I just read your new piece about the Fujifilm XV100[VI]. I rented that camera a couple months ago for an amateur photoshoot night with friends. I am thinking about taking the step to buy a full camera, and I do not have much experience with photography aside from my phone. From your article, it sounds like there are better options available. Do you have any suggestions for a point-and-shoot camera that is good for indoors, mid to close range, and won’t break the bank? I also go to raves and like to get at least one or two good photos on my phone. Should I just upgrade my phone to the one with the best camera? Or is there a compact “point-and-shoot” camera that would fit my needs?
Buying cameras can be overwhelming. There are many variables to consider – from spec sheets to form factors, and yes, even how aesthetically pleasing they are. But even if you could read every review, as someone new to photography, your priority might be whatever is easiest to jump into. That’s what this list of cameras is looking to accomplish – the camera must be easy to use, deliver good-to-great image results, and preferably be a compact camera.
The Best Fujifilm X100VI Alternatives
Here’s a list of some of our favorite compacts that we’ve reviewed recently that aren’t super duper expensive. These, to us, are the best Fujifilm X100vi alternatives right now — some of them are all into the retro digital trend too!
Canon S95
Right now, there’s an ongoing resurgence of the classic point-and-shoot camera. Few exemplify the pure joy of having a camera you take wherever you go than the Canon S95. It’s a pocketable camera that delivers great images and is easy to use. In our retro review of the S95, EIC Chris Gampat said:
The Canon S95 speaks to me like a 90s R&B song speaks to generations of men who went out into the rain and weren’t afraid to tell women that they loved them — and to give them one more chance.
Our reader clearly wants to start a passionate relationship with photography, and for that reason, the Canon S95 is a great place to start.
Sony CyberShot T-200
While it the name sounds like a failed Terminator villain, it’s actually a really fun camera to have. This was one of the first cameras that I saved up to purchase and have many fond memories taking it with me to New York City’s Webster Hall. Yes, it has that direct flash look that will only be magnified at rave. This will be the smallest, lightest, and thinnest camera on this list, and it’s worth considering for all these reasons. Here’s what we wrote in our recent review:
The Sony T200 has a lot to offer with its 8-megapixel sensor, it can easily produce 16×22 prints. It’s an ultraportable camera that can easily fit into just about any pocket and if going incognito is your goal, no one will ever think twice about this pocket wonder.
Unlike the Fujifilm X100VI, you can buy the Sony T-200 at prices that easily take it into “impulse buy” territory.
Fujifilm X100V or Older Models
In our letter, the reader notes that they took the Fujifilm X100VI out for a spin, having rented it for a weekend shoot. First, I think this is always a great idea when shopping around if you can afford it. While it’s nice to get to a camera store and actually touch the camera you’re interested in buying; it’s always better to spend real time with your gear to get familiar with it – warts and all.
When we reviewed the Fujifilm X100V the world was in the middle of COVID lockdowns, a strange world to live and review a camera. Still, the Fuji X100V blew us away and earned a coveted Editor’s Choice award. In that review, we wrote:
The Fujifilm X100v is the closest thing that we have to a perfect point and shoot on the market. It’s got great autofocus capabilities, wonderful image quality, weather sealing, a revamped lens, and a simple interface. What more could you need?
Five years after its introduction, the Fujifilm X100V still feels like the closest thing to perfect for the X100 series cameras. If you’ve fallen for this compact camera’s tactile experience, you can easily consider an older model like an X100T or even an X100S and bank your savings.
A Personal Decision and That’s Okay
Dear reader, one of the things you’ll find out about your personal photography journey – whether you aspire to be a professional or not – is that many of our decisions become deeply personal. In the beginning, you may want to purchase the same gear as some of your influences; for me, it was buying my first Canon DSLR because my mentor at the time raved about the Canon EOS 5D. But as you develop your own style, your decisions should be guided by what brings you joy when making photographs. So, dear reader, don’t allow yourself to be pigeonholed into one brand or camera style – especially if you’re primarily making photographs for yourself, friends, and family. Explore, experiment, and, most of all, print your photos. You’re in for a good time.