FUJIFILM X100S BODY PREVIEW
Fujifilm upgraded the X100 without changing the attitude
Fujifilm introduced the new X100S two years after the X100, the highest grade in the fixed-lens X series camera lineup, was released. What are the improvements from the X100 which made the debut of the X series? Before we go out to shoot, we report about the body.
The two cameras look very much alike, except for the engravings on the top plate. Under the "FUJIFILM" logo, the X100 shows the key features followed by the model name, while the X100S just says "X100S" (the S is in red). And, the font for the model name is the same as the one for the X-E1. As for the shutter speed dial, it has a wider space between "A" and "4000" positions. This gap is convenient because we can be certain that it's turned to the A position while looking into the viewfinder.
The front view. First, the new "S" letter at the bottom right corner looks simple and proud. Without this letter, you may not notice the difference between the X100 and the X100S. Next, the shape of the viewfinder switch lever has changed from symmetrical to comma-shaped. The deep cut around the root works to catch the finger better.
The rear view. There're several differences. The "MADE IN JAPAN" engraving which used to be under the hot shoe has moved to the right of the LCD monitor and under the buttons. As for the buttons, the positions of the "AF" button (as one of the four vertically disposed buttons on the left of the LCD) and the "DRIVE" button (which used to be on the top side of the command dial on the right of the LCD) have been swapped. The "AF" button works to select AF area and with this upgrade you can now select it by moving the finger to the command dial instantly after you pushed it. Or, this change may be due to the improved focusing thanks to the quick AF and the digital split image for manual focusing. Additionally, the "RAW" button at the bottom-end is replaced with the "Q" button which calls the quick menu. Other minor improvements in user interface include the order of modes selected by the focus mode lever, torque of the dials, and the height of the button.
The evolution is quiet, but dramatic.
The rear view. There're several differences. The "MADE IN JAPAN" engraving which used to be under the hot shoe has moved to the right of the LCD monitor and under the buttons. As for the buttons, the positions of the "AF" button (as one of the four vertically disposed buttons on the left of the LCD) and the "DRIVE" button (which used to be on the top side of the command dial on the right of the LCD) have been swapped. The "AF" button works to select AF area and with this upgrade you can now select it by moving the finger to the command dial instantly after you pushed it. Or, this change may be due to the improved focusing thanks to the quick AF and the digital split image for manual focusing. Additionally, the "RAW" button at the bottom-end is replaced with the "Q" button which calls the quick menu. Other minor improvements in user interface include the order of modes selected by the focus mode lever, torque of the dials, and the height of the button.