Fujifilm X100S Vs X100T Comparison

Hey friends, I’m a seasoned photographer who’s spent years chasing the perfect shot, and today, I’m diving into a comparison of two fantastic cameras: the Fujifilm X100S and X100T. Both are compact, retro-styled gems with APS-C sensors, ideal for street and travel photography. While they share many features, the X100T offers upgrades like faster autofocus and Wi-Fi. Here’s my take to help you choose.

Fujifilm X100S Vs X100T Comparison

Key Differences

• Similarities: Both have a 16.3 MP sensor, 23mm f/2 lens, and retro design.
• X100T Upgrades: Faster autofocus, Wi-Fi, larger LCD, and Classic Chrome mode.
• Best For: X100S for simplicity; X100T for modern features.

A Deep Dive into Fujifilm X100S Vs X100T

Hey everyone, I’m thrilled to sit down with you—imagine us at a cozy café, cameras on the table—and share my journey with two incredible tools: the Fujifilm X100S Vs X100T. As a photographer who’s spent over a decade capturing fleeting moments, from bustling city streets to serene landscapes, I’ve grown to love these compact, retro-styled cameras. They’re part of Fujifilm’s X100 series, known for their APS-C sensors, fixed 23mm lenses, and film-like aesthetics. Today, I’ll walk you through their similarities and differences to help you pick the one that fits your style.

These cameras, often called the S and T for short, are beloved by street and travel photographers for their portability and manual controls. While they share a core DNA, the T introduces refinements that might sway your decision. Whether you’re chasing candid moments or crafting artistic shots, let’s explore what makes each special. Grab a drink, and let’s get started.

Design and Build Quality

When comparing the Fujifilm X100S Vs X100T, their design is the first thing that grabs you. Both boast magnesium alloy bodies that feel like they could survive a tumble. The tactile dials and buttons are a joy, letting me adjust settings without taking my eye off the scene. They scream retro charm, reminiscent of classic film cameras.

The T, however, tweaks the formula. It’s slightly smaller (126.5 x 74.4 x 52.4 mm vs. 126.5 x 74.4 x 53.9 mm) and lighter (440g vs. 445g), which I noticed during a long day shooting in Paris. Its grip has a cross-hatched texture, making it easier to hold steady. I once lugged the S through a dusty desert trail, and it held up like a champ, but the T’s ergonomics make it my go-to for extended sessions.

The S isn’t far behind, though. Its build is just as robust, and the difference in weight is barely noticeable unless you’re nitpicking. If you value a camera that feels like an extension of your hand, both deliver, but the T’s subtle refinements give it a slight edge.

Image Quality

Image quality is where these cameras shine, and honestly, they’re neck and neck. Both pack a 16.3 MP APS-C X-Trans CMOS II sensor, delivering vibrant colors and crisp details. The X-Trans technology, with its unique color filter array, reduces moiré and boosts sharpness without a low-pass filter (Mirrorlessons). I’ve shot everything from golden-hour portraits to gritty street scenes, and the results are stunning.

The T pulls ahead slightly with its expanded film simulation modes. Classic Chrome, a standout, gives photos a Kodachrome-like warmth that’s perfect for travel shots. I used it for a series in Kyoto, and friends raved about the nostalgic vibe. The S has a solid set of simulations like PROVIA and Velvia, but lacks Classic Chrome, which limits its creative range.

Both cameras share the same 23mm f/2 lens, offering a 35mm full-frame equivalent that’s versatile for most scenarios. The lens’s 9-blade aperture creates creamy bokeh, ideal for isolating subjects. If you’re after raw image quality, you can’t go wrong with either, but the T’s extra modes add a touch of flair.

Performance

Performance is where the T starts to flex its muscles. Its autofocus, enhanced with phase-detection pixels, locks on faster, especially in low light. I was at a dimly lit jazz club with the T, and it nailed focus on musicians mid-performance, where the S might’ve hunted. The S’s contrast-detection autofocus is decent but struggles in challenging conditions.

Both shoot at 6 frames per second, great for capturing fleeting moments. However, the T’s buffer holds 47 JPEGs compared to the S’s 31, which matters when shooting bursts, like kids playing in a park. The T also introduces an electronic shutter, reaching 1/32000 sec for silent shooting or bright conditions. I used this in a quiet temple, capturing monks without disturbing the peace.

Battery life is close, with the S rated for ~330 shots and the T for ~310, both using the NP-95 battery. I always carry a spare, as a full day of shooting can push these limits. For dynamic scenes or discreet work, the T’s performance upgrades make a noticeable difference.

Lens and Optics

The fixed 23mm f/2 lens is a hallmark of both cameras, and it’s a beauty. Equivalent to 35mm on a full-frame sensor, it’s perfect for street photography, environmental portraits, and travel. The 9-blade aperture produces smooth bokeh, letting me isolate subjects against dreamy backgrounds. Both can focus as close as 10 cm, which I’ve used for macro shots of flowers or food.

There’s no optical zoom, but I find the prime lens forces me to think creatively about composition. During a market shoot with the S, I moved closer to capture vibrant details, and the lens delivered tack-sharp results. The T’s lens is identical, so optically, they’re twins. This fixed focal length encourages you to work within its constraints, often leading to more intentional shots.

I’ve never felt limited by the lack of zoom. The lens’s fast f/2 aperture excels in low light, and its compact design keeps the camera pocketable. Whether you’re with the S or T, this lens is a key reason these cameras are so loved.

User Interface

Both cameras are a photographer’s dream when it comes to controls. Physical dials for shutter speed and exposure compensation let me shoot intuitively, like I’m using a film camera. The S’s interface is straightforward, but its menu can feel sluggish when navigating settings. I’ve missed shots fumbling through it during fast-paced events.

The T refines this experience, drawing inspiration from Fujifilm’s X-T1. It swaps the S’s toggle wheel for a four-way controller and adds seven customizable buttons. I set shortcuts for white balance and depth-of-field preview, streamlining my workflow. The T’s Q menu is a lifesaver, letting me access key settings instantly (Best Mirrorless Blogs).

The T also expands exposure compensation to ±3EV (vs. ±2EV on the S), giving more flexibility in tricky lighting. For example, shooting high-contrast scenes at sunset, I could dial in precise adjustments. If you value speed and customization, the T’s interface is a clear step up.

Connectivity and Features

Connectivity is where the T leaps ahead. Its built-in Wi-Fi lets me transfer photos to my phone or control the camera remotely via the Fujifilm app (Fujifilm Camera Remote). On a trip to Iceland, I shared aurora shots with friends instantly, a feature the S lacks without an Eye-Fi card. This makes the T ideal for social media-savvy shooters.

The T also adds a built-in intervalometer, perfect for time-lapse photography. I captured a starry night sequence with it, something that would’ve required extra gear with the S. The T’s hybrid viewfinder is brighter, with 92% coverage (vs. 90% on the S), and its 3-inch LCD (1.04M dots) outshines the S’s 2.8-inch (460K dots) for reviewing shots.

Both cameras have a built-in ND filtro, great for long exposures in daylight. The T’s microphone port enhances video capabilities, which I’ll cover later. For modern features, the T feels like a camera built for today’s connected world.

Viewfinder

The hybrid viewfinder is a signature feature, blending optical and electronic modes. The T’s version is a step up, with a 2.3 million dot resolution and real-time effect previews, like seeing film simulations before shooting. Its optical mode covers 92% (vs. 90% on the S), offering a more accurate frame. The ‘Shooting Effect Reflection’ mode helps visualize exposure settings (Photography Life).

I used the T’s viewfinder in harsh sunlight, and its clarity made composing shots a breeze. The S’s viewfinder is excellent but slightly less refined. For precise framing, especially in bright conditions, the T’s upgrade is a game-changer.

Video Capabilities

Neither camera is a video powerhouse, but they handle casual clips well. Both shoot Full HD at 60 fps, suitable for short videos. The T stands out with a microphone port for better audio, which I found useful for recording ambient sounds at a festival. Its electronic shutter also enables silent video recording, ideal for discreet settings.

The S lacks the microphone port, limiting its audio quality. The T’s larger, sharper LCD makes framing videos easier. If video is more than an afterthought, the T is the better choice, though dedicated video shooters might look elsewhere.

Battery Life

Both use the NP-95 battery, with the S lasting ~330 shots and the T ~310. This is enough for a typical day, but I always carry a spare for extended shoots. The T’s USB charging is a nice touch, letting me top up with a power bank on the go. Battery performance isn’t a major differentiator, as both are reliable.

Comparison Table

Here’s a side-by-side look at the key specs:

Aspect	Fujifilm X100S	Fujifilm X100T
Design	Magnesium alloy, standard grip	Magnesium alloy, improved grip texture
Size	126.5 x 74.4 x 53.9 mm	126.5 x 74.4 x 52.4 mm
Weight	445g	440g
Sensor	16.3 MP APS-C X-Trans CMOS II	16.3 MP APS-C X-Trans CMOS II
Autofocus	Contrast detection	Phase detection pixels
Shooting Speed	6 fps, buffer 31 JPEG	6 fps, buffer 47 JPEG
Lens	23mm f/2, 10 cm min focus	23mm f/2, 10 cm min focus
Film Simulations	PROVIA, Velvia, ASTIA, B&W, Sepia	Adds Classic Chrome
Display	2.8-inch, 460K dots	3-inch, 1.04M dots
Wi-Fi	No	Yes
Battery Life	~330 shots	~310 shots
Viewfinder Coverage	90%	92%
Microphone Port	No	Yes

Which One Should You Choose?

Ultimately, the choice between Fujifilm X100S Vs X100T hinges depends on your photography needs. The S is perfect for purists who want a reliable, no-frills camera with exceptional image quality. It’s ideal for street photographers or travelers who value simplicity and don’t need connectivity or advanced autofocus. I’ve used it for countless shoots, and its straightforward design never lets me down.

The T, however, brings modern touches that make it more versatile. Its faster autofocus, Wi-Fi, and features like the intervalometer and microphone port cater to those who want flexibility. I often reach for the T when I’m sharing photos on the go or shooting in dynamic settings. Its silent shutter and refined viewfinder are bonuses for discreet or precise work.

Both cameras produce stunning images, thanks to their identical sensors and lenses. If you’re budget-conscious or prefer a minimalist setup, the S is a fantastic choice. If you want a camera that keeps up with today’s connected, fast-paced world, the T’s upgrades make it worth considering. My insights draw from hands-on experience and sources like Photography Life and Mirrorlessons.

Decision-Making

The X100S is great for purists who want reliability without extra features. The X100T, with Wi-Fi and faster performance, suits those needing versatility. Both excel in image quality, so your choice depends on whether you prioritize simplicity or modern functionality.

FAQ

Q: What are the main differences between the Fujifilm X100S and X100T?
A: The X100T builds on the X100S with several upgrades. It has a better hybrid viewfinder with 92% coverage (versus 90% on the X100S), a larger 3-inch LCD screen with higher resolution, an electronic shutter for faster sync speeds up to 1/32000s, the Classic Chrome film simulation mode for a unique look, improved video capabilities like 60fps recording and an external mic jack, built-in Wi-Fi for easy sharing, faster autofocus with phase detection, and more customizable controls. If you’re looking for a more modern feature set, the X100T is the way to go.

Q: Do the X100S and X100T have the same image quality?
A: Yes, both cameras use the same 16.3 MP APS-C X-Trans CMOS II sensor, so their image quality is identical. You’ll get vibrant colors, sharp details, and excellent low-light performance from either camera. However, the X100T adds extra film simulation modes, like Classic Chrome, which can give your photos a distinctive, nostalgic vibe.

Q: Is the autofocus better on the X100T?
A: Definitely. The X100T’s autofocus is faster and more reliable, thanks to phase detection pixels. This makes it better for low-light situations and capturing fast-moving subjects, like street scenes or action shots. The X100S uses contrast detection autofocus, which is good but not as quick or accurate in tricky conditions.

Q: Can I connect the X100S to Wi-Fi?
A: The X100S doesn’t have built-in Wi-Fi, but you can use Eye-Fi memory cards for wireless photo transfer. The X100T, on the other hand, has built-in Wi-Fi, which makes it easier to share photos or control the camera remotely using the Fujifilm app. If connectivity is important to you, the X100T is the better choice.

Q: What about video capabilities? Is there a difference?
A: Yes, the X100T has significant video improvements. It can shoot Full HD at 60fps (versus 30fps max on the X100S), allows you to adjust exposure while recording, uses the optical viewfinder during video mode, and has a 3.5mm microphone jack for better audio. If you’re into video, even casually, the X100T’s upgrades make it more versatile.

Q: Should I upgrade from the X100S to the X100T?
A: It depends on your needs. If you want faster autofocus, Wi-Fi, better video features, and additional creative modes like Classic Chrome, then yes, the X100T is worth the upgrade. But if you’re happy with your X100S and don’t need those extras, you can stick with it—it’s still a fantastic camera.

Q: How does the battery life compare?
A: Both cameras use the same NP-95 battery, but the X100S is rated for about 330 shots per charge, while the X100T is rated for around 310 shots. The difference is small, and for most photographers, it’s not a dealbreaker. I always carry a spare battery for long shoots, no matter which camera I’m using.

Q: Are there any design changes between the two?
A: The X100T has a slightly better grip texture, which makes it more comfortable to hold during long shooting sessions. It’s also a tiny bit smaller and lighter (440g vs. 445g). The user interface is refined too, with more customizable buttons and a four-way controller for easier navigation compared to the X100S’s toggle wheel.

Q: Can I use the same accessories for both cameras?
A: Absolutely. Since both cameras share the same body design and fixed 23mm f/2 lens, accessories like cases, straps, filters, and hoods are interchangeable. You won’t need to buy new gear if you switch from one to the other.

Q: Which one is better for street photography?
A: Both are excellent for street photography thanks to their compact size, fast lens, and excellent image quality. However, the X100T’s faster autofocus might give you an edge when capturing fast-moving subjects, and its Classic Chrome mode adds a creative touch that’s perfect for street scenes. That said, if you’re on a budget or already own the X100S, it’s still a stellar choice.

Q: How do the X100S and X100T compare to newer models like the X100V?
A: The X100V, released later, has several advancements, including a higher resolution 40 MP sensor, improved autofocus with face and eye detection, in-body image stabilization, and a higher resolution electronic viewfinder. It also has a new lens with closer focusing distance and a wider aperture at close range. However, the X100S and X100T are still highly capable cameras with great image quality and are more affordable, especially if you’re looking for a used option. If you’re on a budget or prefer a simpler setup, they’re still worth considering.