Hasselblad is one of the few camera brands that has been able to send its devices to space. Their legacy is pretty amazing, considering the kind of innovations they were able to achieve over the decades. However, in more recent years, while the camera is still loved and adored, there are a few things people want to be different. With reports of a new Hasselblad X2D II on the way, here is a look at what the company can do differently.
The X2D II is supposed to be an update to the X2D 100c since the new registration with FCC and the newly released images showcase it as the case. The X2D 100c is a medium format 100MP sensor camera, which we have reviewed in the past. And so, with the new registration in place, we want certain things to be different this time.
Better Autofocus
The X2D 100c features a slow autofocus and even lacks eye and subject detection and tracking. While we are aware that a medium format camera is, in general, very slow with these things, it would be better to see some improvement in the department. The X2D 100c was launched in 2022, so if we see a new version of the same this year or the next, it will be almost three years since the first one. A three to four-year gap is great enough to change the performance. In fact, Fujifilm GFX100 II faces the same challenge, so if Hasselblad is able to change this, the camera will become more desirable for many. In addition, there is no focus peaking, which makes it a challenge when you focus manually. If this is also addressed in the new camera, we will be pretty sorted.
A Better Burst Rate
The Hasselblad camera has a 3.3 fps burst rate, while the Fujifilm GFX100 II can shoot up to 8 fps at 102MP with a mechanical shutter. So, a better shooting rate could be helpful, especially for those who prefer to capture documentary or street photography.
A High-Resolution Mode
The X2D 100c comes with an internal memory of 1TB, along with the ability to use additional cards. In this regard, if the Hasselblad X2D II could have a high-resolution mode to create a stitched image of 400MP, it would be great. This can be really helpful in photographing architecture and landscape.
Better Weather Resistance
The Hasselblad camera has weather sealing and even uses rubber to ensure its safety. However, it lacks an IP rating, which means that it can’t be taken out in challenging environments or outdoors. On the other hand, the Fujifilm GFX100 II can withstand mild drizzle, which gives it an edge over the X2D 100c. And so, it would be nice to have this as an added guarantee for outdoor photography.
More Battery Life
In our review, we stated that it would be great if Hasselblad gave us an extra battery and charging hub, which photographers would happily pay for. The current battery works 420 frames per charge, and it takes about two hours to fully charge the camera. While there is the option of charging while tethering, it would be great to have better battery life or an additional battery for those who shoot in remote areas with electricity challenges.
Storage Options
Since 100MP files are pretty massive and take a lot of time to transfer, it would also be nice to see additional storage options and transfer features. If the camera could support higher capacity CFexpress cards and faster USB-C connections, photographers would have more ways to access and work on their files.
The new Hasselblad X2D II camera holds a lot of promise, and we hope it will be more innovative. With the way new models are released today, we barely see any major upgrades. Furthermore, with Fujifilm GFX100 RF launching as a compact medium-format camera, there are varied reasons why one would choose it now over a Hasselblad. Perhaps the company takes this into consideration and makes a device that can stand the test of time.