Fujifilm X100VI vs X100V — Should You Upgrade?

I owned the X100V and only sold it because I needed the money for something else at the time. When I was ready to jump back into the X100 line, the X100VI had just been announced — so I pre-ordered it and wrote up my full X100VI review here.

Having now used both, here’s my honest take on how much has really changed… and whether it actually matters.

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Image Quality — Don’t Let the Megapixels Fool You

The X100V’s 26MP X-Trans IV sensor still delivers excellent image quality. In fact, the jump to the 40MP X-Trans V sensor in the X100VI sounds more dramatic than it actually is — as I also pointed out in my XT5 vs X100VI comparison.

Yes, you get more resolution. Yes, you can crop a bit more. But in reality, it doesn’t make a huge difference. I try to get my composition right in-camera, so the extra resolution doesn’t really change much for me.

You do get a lower native ISO of 125 on the X100VI compared to ISO 160 on the X100V. While the difference isn’t huge, it does make it slightly easier to shoot wide open in bright sunlight without hitting the maximum shutter speed or needing an ND filter as quickly.

Design and Handling — Spot the Difference

Physically, the two cameras are almost identical. Same size, same layout, same controls. Unless you’re looking at the model number, you’d struggle to tell them apart — especially when compared to other compact options like the Ricoh GR III, which takes a very different approach to size and handling.

The lens is the same too — the updated version that debuted on the X100V. Both produce excellent results across the frame. There’s no advantage here either way.

In short: if you liked how the X100V felt in the hand, you’ll feel right at home with the VI. Because it’s basically the same camera.

Autofocus — Now With Bonus Train Mode

The X100VI brings slightly faster autofocus and subject detection modes. You get options for animals, birds, cars, motorcycles, airplanes… and yes, trains. Because obviously, tracking high-speed locomotives with the X100 series is what most buyers are planning to use their cameras for.

Jokes aside, face and eye detection work well, and the new subject recognition is a decent addition. But unless you’re really pushing the AF system, the difference from the X100V is minimal — and as I noted in my XT5 + 23mm f/1.4 WR vs X100VI comparison, even Fuji’s flagship autofocus doesn’t magically transform real-world use at this focal length.

It’s a nice upgrade on paper. In practice? It’s pretty similar.

Video — Better Specs, Still Not the Right Tool

Yes, the X100VI has improved video specs — 6.2K, better bitrates, more formats.

No, I’m not going to waste time pretending this turns the X100VI into a cinema camera..

This is not a video tool. If you’re looking at the X100 line for video, you’re in the wrong place.

IBIS — The Only Upgrade That Actually Matters

Here’s where things finally get interesting.

The X100VI is the first X100 to feature in-body image stabilization (IBIS), rated up to 6 stops. That’s a big deal — if it fits the way you shoot.

With the X100V, I had to respect the old reciprocal rule: keep your shutter speed at your focal length (Full frame equivalent 1/35) or faster to avoid shake. Most of the time I’d shoot at 1/100s or higher anyway, because most of my photos these days have movement and people in them.

But with the X100VI, I’ve now got the creative freedom to:

• Drop the shutter down to 1/2s or even 1s for intentional motion blur
• Shoot handheld in low light without a tripod
• Lower ISO to maximise image quality when the scene is static

No, it won’t freeze motion — IBIS isn’t magic. But if your subject isn’t moving and you’ve got decent technique, it opens up new possibilities. And that does make a difference.

Film Simulations — Reala Ace Makes Its Debut

The X100VI also introduces Reala Ace, a new film simulation exclusive to the latest generation of Fujifilm cameras. Based on a professional negative film stock, it’s designed for faithful color reproduction with soft tonality and neutral contrast.

In use, it sits between the more stylised look of Classic Chrome and the muted subtlety of Pro Neg Standard. It’s clean, balanced, and neutral — a good everyday option if you want accurate color without a baked-in aesthetic. If you’re curious how to get the most out of it (and the rest of the camera), I’ve put together a full X100VI setup guide and settings walkthrough here.

Personally? I don’t use it much. Not because it’s bad — it’s not — but because I’ve already got my go-to film sims. Still, it’s a nice addition, and I can see others enjoying it.

Firmware Support — Another Reason to Go VI

Let’s not ignore the practical stuff. The X100VI is the newer camera, and that means it’ll likely get firmware updates and long-term support for longer than the V. If that matters to you — or if you’re hoping for future improvements — this might factor into your decision.

So… Should You Upgrade?

If you already own the X100V, there’s no real reason to upgrade — unless you specifically need IBIS for how you shoot.

Image quality is basically the same. Autofocus is only slightly better. Subject detection isn’t really a primary need for this kind of camera. Reala Ace is fine, but it won’t change your photography. And unless you regularly shoot slow shutter speeds in low light, IBIS won’t be a game-changer either.

The truth is: the X100V is still a brilliant camera. The X100VI just adds some nice-to-haves — not must-haves.

But — if you’re buying into the X100 line for the first time, get the VI. It’s the more flexible camera. It gives you IBIS, more resolution (if you care), and a longer lifespan in terms of firmware updates. There’s no reason to buy the older model if you’re starting fresh.

Final Thoughts

The X100VI isn’t revolutionary. It’s a small but meaningful refinement.

You still get the same compact form, the same excellent lens, the same Fuji charm. But now, you also get IBIS, a bit more resolution, and a few extra features that give you just a little more creative freedom.

So no, it won’t transform your photography. But if you’re the kind of person who can make use of what it offers, it might just expand what’s possible with the X100 series.

If not? Save your money. Your X100V is still more than good enough.