Fujifilm X Half Review (2025): Retro-Style Camera with Digital Convenience
Fujifilm X Half Review: The Fujifilm X Half is a digital compact camera that brings the feel of analog photography into the digital age. Inspired by classic half-frame film cameras, it aims to offer a similar experience without the need for film rolls. It’s designed for those who enjoy photography as an art form, focusing on creativity and simplicity.
2. Fujifilm X Half Price and Availability
Fujifilm will launch the X Half globally on June 12, 2025. It will be available in silver, charcoal, and black.
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Price:
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US: $849
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UK: £699
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Australia: AU$1,349
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While it isn’t the cheapest compact camera on the market, it balances unique design with modern features that justify the cost.
3. Design and Build
The X Half looks like a film camera and feels like one too. It weighs just 240g including the battery and SD card, making it ideal for casual street photography.
Design Highlights:
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Fixed 32mm equivalent f/2.8 lens
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Mechanical aperture dial (f/2.8 to f/11)
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Optical viewfinder
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Twin touch-sensitive LCD screens
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Cold shoe (non-powered) on top
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Built-in LED flash for close shots
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USB-C port for charging
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Sturdy controls with classic-style dials
The most unique element is a touch LCD screen that mimics a film canister window, where users can swipe through Film Simulation modes.
4. Key Features and Specifications
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Sensor | 1-inch (13.3 x 8.8mm), 18MP |
| Lens | 10.8mm f/2.8 (32mm equivalent) |
| Photo Resolution | 3648 x 4864 (vertical) |
| Video | Full HD (vertical) |
| Display | Dual vertical touch LCDs |
| Battery Life | Up to 880 shots |
| Weight | 240g (with battery & SD card) |
| Autofocus | Face-detection supported |
5. Performance and Image Quality
Despite offering JPEG-only output, the camera delivers solid image quality through Fujifilm’s trusted color processing. There’s no RAW option, staying true to the film-like concept – once the shot is taken, it’s locked in.
Photography Experience:
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13 Film Simulation modes (including Provia, Velvia, Astia, Sepia)
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New creative effects like Light Leak and Mirror
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Autofocus works well in casual settings with face detection
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Depth of field achievable at f/2.8 for close-ups
This camera encourages you to focus more on composition than post-editing.
6. Film Camera Mode and Diptych Function
Film Camera Mode lets you pick a film simulation, number of shots, and then shoot using the optical viewfinder only. The screen remains off during this mode, echoing the unpredictability of analog shooting.
Diptych Mode mimics how half-frame film cameras pair two shots on one frame. Using the wind-style lever, two images can be combined side by side into a high-resolution 3:2 photo – just like a traditional 35mm film format.
7. Who Should Buy the Fujifilm X Half?
The X Half is not for professional work or detailed post-processing. Instead, it’s ideal for:
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Street photographers
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Creative hobbyists
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Analog photography fans
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Travel bloggers and content creators
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Anyone who values compact size and creative freedom
8. Pros and Cons
Pros:
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Creative and fun shooting modes
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Lightweight and portable
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High-quality lens for casual shots
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Long battery life
Cons:
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No RAW format
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Limited video resolution (Full HD only)
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Fixed focal length
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No hotshoe for flash accessories
9. Alternative Cameras to Consider
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Pentax 17
A true film half-frame camera, cheaper upfront but with ongoing film costs. -
Kodak Ektar
Affordable film camera option with fewer manual controls. -
Ricoh GR III
Premium compact with a larger APS-C sensor and RAW support. Great for serious photographers who want image flexibility.
10. Conclusion
The Fujifilm X Half is a camera made for enjoyment rather than technical perfection. It’s a digital tribute to film photography, with a form factor and feature set that promote creativity, spontaneity, and a bit of nostalgia. While not designed for pixel peepers or professionals, it’s a unique choice for anyone who wants to capture life in a different way.
11. FAQs
Q1. Does the Fujifilm X Half shoot RAW images?
No, it only records JPEG files, staying true to the film-style photography theme.
Q2. Can you change the lens on the Fujifilm X Half?
No, it has a fixed 32mm equivalent lens.
Q3. Is the X Half good for video?
It shoots vertical Full HD videos. It’s best suited for casual clips rather than professional video work.
Q4. Can I use it in manual mode?
You can adjust aperture manually, and the Film Camera mode simulates fixed settings, but there’s no full manual mode like on DSLRs.
Q5. What kind of autofocus does it have?
It uses face-detection autofocus and works best in well-lit scenes.
