Fujifilm GFX100RF

Disclaimer : although I'm in direct contact with Fujifilm France as part of their X-Photographer program, mainly to try out equipment, Fujifilm did not pay me, did not read this article before publishing it, and never asked me to publish anything.

The Elegance of a Rangefinder Meets Cutting-Edge Technology

As a photography enthusiast who’s tested nearly every Fujifilm camera since 2013, with a current kit that includes the GFX100S II and a limited-edition X100VI, I can confidently say the GFX100RF pushes the boundaries of craftsmanship and compactness. Its brushed aluminum body, only slightly larger than the X100VI (139 x 85 x 52 mm), feels both sleek and secure in hand. The shutter speed, ISO, and exposure compensation dials deliver a tactile click with near-ritualistic precision. At its core lies a medium-format sensor (43.8 x 32.9 mm) paired with a fixed GF 35mm f/4 R WR lens (equivalent to 28mm full-frame), producing images of jaw-dropping clarity. Like its X100 sibling, it features a 4-stop ND filter and a leaf shutter, enabling flash sync up to 1/4000s.

The GFX100RF is more than a beautiful object—it’s a technical marvel that blends the timeless soul of a classic rangefinder with Fujifilm’s innovative prowess. Designed as a “supercharged X100,” this fixed-lens camera stands out for its sophistication and immersive experience, outshining anything else on the market. That said, unlocking its full potential demands patience and skill. In this article, I share my hands-on experience with the GFX100RF, offering practical insights for those, like me, who’ve long awaited a transcendent, premium version of the X100VI. Instead of drowning you in technical specs, I’ll focus on what I loved, what fell short, and my wishlist for a potential version 2, so you can decide if this camera is right for you.

What I Liked

Unmatched Craftsmanship

Straight out of the box, the GFX100RF impresses with its build quality. It carries the DNA of the X100 series but elevates it with an extra layer of refinement. Everything feels sturdier, more metallic, more tangible, and distinctly professional. Words barely capture this premium feel—Fujifilm has delivered on its promise of a high-end camera that confidently rivals Leica. Even my GFX100S II feels less polished by comparison, and online photos don’t do this tangible elegance justice.

Surprising Ergonomics

Despite its boxier shape compared to the X100VI, the GFX100RF’s handling exceeds expectations. Far from feeling like a heavy brick à la Instax, it offers prolonged comfort, even one-handed, without slipping. At just 10 grams lighter than a Leica Q3, it’s no featherweight, but its balance makes it sling-friendly without risking a trip to the chiropractor. The ergonomics aren’t flawless, but they invite extended shooting sessions with minimal fatigue.

Stunning Image Quality

Unsurprisingly, image quality is a standout feature. The medium-format sensor and GF 35mm f/4 lens produce files with astonishing richness and sharpness. Details are so fine you could count skin pores or blades of grass in a landscape. Colors, true to Fujifilm’s heritage, are vibrant yet balanced, while film simulations (Provia, Velvia, Acros, etc.) infuse each shot with unique creativity. Despite its modest f/4 aperture, the lens delivers exceptional sharpness wide open, and its compact design—especially without the lens hood—makes it a discreet companion for a camera of this caliber.

Irresistible Fun Factor

The shooting experience is pure joy. Fujifilm’s dedicated dial for image formats (square, 4:3, 16:9, etc.) makes experimentation playful and intuitive. Paired with film simulations, it lets you explore creativity without diving into menus. Composing shots while anticipating the final look is a delight. The 5.76-megapixel electronic viewfinder shines with brightness, precision, and immersion—a clear step up from the X100VI. Fans of the X100VI will feel right at home with the nearly identical button and joystick layout. Plus, the battery, shared with other GFX models, offers robust longevity, sparing you the hassle of multiple chargers.

What I Didn’t Like

Despite its many strengths, the GFX100RF isn’t flawless.

The front dial for digital zoom, borrowed from the Leica Q3, feels unnecessary. I rarely use it, and it’s prone to accidental nudges, causing unintended crops. A lock or disable option would’ve been welcome.

The power button lacks resistance—I’ve had the camera turn on in my bag multiple times, draining the battery unnoticed. A firmer mechanism would fix this.

Manual focus, like on other GFX models, feels imprecise. The focus ring is smooth but lacks tactile feedback for pinpoint accuracy, especially in low light.

Autofocus, while improved over previous GFX models, doesn’t match the market’s best, particularly for street photography. Moving subjects or dynamic environments can trip it up, with a hit rate that’s too low—a recurring issue in the GFX lineup worth noting here.

The lack of in-body image stabilization (IBIS) is the biggest Achilles’ heel. Likely omitted to keep the size down, it makes low-light shooting tricky—below 1/125s, achieving sharpness without a tripod tests even the steadiest hands.

The f/4 aperture also limits depth-of-field control, making the signature “medium-format” 3D effect harder to achieve. The 28mm-equivalent focal length, while versatile, doesn’t lend itself to pronounced bokeh, which may disappoint fans of that signature look.

My Wishlist for a Version 2

For a future GFX100RF, here’s what I’d prioritize:

  • Integrated IBIS: A game-changer for low-light stability and versatility.

  • Wider Aperture: An f/3.2 or f/2.8 lens for a stronger medium-format effect and better bokeh.

  • Advanced Storage: A CFexpress slot or internal SSD to handle the massive 100-megapixel files.

  • Improved Autofocus: Faster and more reliable, matching top APS-C or full-frame systems, to expand its use cases, including street photography.

  • Brighter LCD: For better outdoor visibility.

  • More Accessible Price: To attract enthusiast photographers while maintaining its premium positioning.

Conclusion

The Fujifilm GFX100RF isn’t a one-size-fits-all camera or an all-purpose solution. It’s aimed at discerning enthusiasts and professionals who can leverage its strengths to offset its weaknesses. Its exceptional image quality, compact yet sharp lens, and immersive experience make it truly unique. However, the lack of IBIS, imperfect autofocus, and f/4 aperture demand expertise to fully harness its potential. One might even wonder: would a 50-megapixel sensor have sufficed for a premium daily point-and-shoot? With its 100-megapixel sensor, the GFX100RF is a resolution powerhouse, but that pixel count isn’t always justified. Until a refined version 2 arrives, it remains a photographic UFO: a bold blend of elegance, technology, and personality that leaves no one indifferent.