The Hasselblad X2D 100C isn’t just another mirrorless camera. it’s a statement.
This medium format powerhouse delivers on its promise of unparalleled image quality, pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in a compact, high-resolution system.
For serious photographers and discerning enthusiasts who demand exceptional detail, dynamic range, and a distinctive color science, the X2D 100C stands as a compelling, albeit premium, choice that redefines the portable medium format experience.
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- Key Features: 100MP BSI CMOS medium format sensor, 15 stops of dynamic range, 5-axis in-body image stabilization IBIS, 1TB built-in SSD, 3.6-inch tilting touch display, Phase Detection Autofocus PDAF, Hasselblad Natural Colour Solution HNCS.
- Average Price: Approximately $8,199 body only.
- Pros: Unrivaled image quality and detail, superb color science, excellent IBIS, integrated storage, premium build.
- Cons: Very high price, limited lens ecosystem compared to full-frame, video capabilities are basic, larger file sizes.
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- Key Features: 50.1MP full-frame stacked CMOS sensor, 30fps burst shooting, 8K 30p and 4K 120p video, 759-point AF with Real-time Tracking, 5-axis IBIS, professional connectivity.
- Average Price: Approximately $6,499 body only.
- Pros: Incredible speed and autofocus, versatile for photo and video, excellent resolution, vast lens selection.
- Cons: High price, menu system can be complex for some, battery life could be better for heavy video use.
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- Key Features: 45MP full-frame CMOS sensor, 8K 30p and 4K 120p video, 20fps electronic shutter, Dual Pixel CMOS AF II, 5-axis IBIS, dual card slots.
- Average Price: Approximately $3,899 body only.
- Pros: High resolution for photos, excellent video capabilities, superb autofocus, robust build quality, large RF lens system.
- Cons: Can overheat with prolonged 8K recording, battery life is moderate.
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- Key Features: 45.7MP stacked CMOS sensor, 20fps RAW / 30fps JPEG / 120fps still, 8K 60p internal video, blackout-free EVF, robust professional build, no mechanical shutter.
- Average Price: Approximately $5,499 body only.
- Pros: Unmatched speed and tracking, exceptional video features, durable, excellent ergonomics, integrated grip.
- Cons: Heavy and bulky, high price, no mechanical shutter might be a concern for some though not an issue in practice.
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- Key Features: 102MP medium format sensor, 5-axis IBIS, 3.76 million PDAF points, 4K 30p video, compact and lightweight for medium format, film simulations.
- Average Price: Approximately $4,999 body only.
- Pros: Excellent 102MP resolution in a relatively compact body, strong IBIS, good value for medium format, beloved Fujifilm color science.
- Cons: Autofocus can be slower than full-frame competitors, limited lens selection, video capabilities are good but not class-leading.
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- Key Features: 500Ws battery-powered off-camera flash, 10-stop power range, continuous light for video 2500 lumens, lightweight and compact, AirX TTL/HSS support.
- Average Price: Approximately $2,295.
- Pros: Portable, powerful, versatile for both stills and video, excellent build quality, reliable wireless system.
- Cons: Expensive, proprietary battery system.
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- Key Features: A2+/17-inch desktop photo printer, 10-color UltraChrome PRO10 pigment ink set, dedicated photo and matte black ink channels, compact design, professional-grade output.
- Average Price: Approximately $1,299.
- Pros: Stunning print quality with wide color gamut and deep blacks, precise detail, compact footprint, user-friendly for a pro printer.
- Cons: Ink can be expensive, slower than office printers, requires specific paper handling.
The X2D 100C: A Deep Dive into Hasselblad’s Medium Format Marvel
The Hasselblad X2D 100C isn’t just a camera.
It’s a statement, a meticulously crafted instrument designed for those who refuse to compromise on image quality.
When you pick up an X2D, you’re not just holding a device.
You’re holding a piece of photographic heritage, redefined for the modern age.
This camera aims directly at the pinnacle of digital imaging, bringing medium format grandeur into a more accessible, mirrorless form factor. 2023 Volvo C40 Recharge Review
Unpacking the 100-Megapixel Sensor: Detail Beyond Belief
At the heart of the X2D 100C is its colossal 100-megapixel BSI CMOS sensor. This isn’t just a number. it’s a canvas for unprecedented detail.
- Beyond Pixel Count: While 100MP sounds like a lot, it’s the size of the sensor that truly matters here. Being a medium format sensor, it’s significantly larger than full-frame sensors roughly 1.7 times larger. This larger surface area means larger photosites, which generally translates to better light-gathering capabilities and superior noise performance, especially in challenging conditions.
- Dynamic Range Prowess: Hasselblad claims an impressive 15 stops of dynamic range. In real-world shooting, this translates to an astonishing ability to retain detail in both the brightest highlights and the deepest shadows of a scene. You can pull back so much information in post-production, often rescuing shots that would be lost on lesser sensors. This is particularly crucial for high-contrast scenarios like sunsets or bright daylight exteriors.
- The BSI Advantage: The Backside Illuminated BSI design of the sensor further enhances its light-gathering efficiency. By placing the wiring behind the photosensitive layer, more light hits the sensor, leading to better low-light performance and reduced noise, even at higher ISOs. This is a must for photographers working in varied lighting conditions.
The Magic of Hasselblad Natural Colour Solution HNCS
If there’s one thing Hasselblad is legendary for, it’s their color science.
The Hasselblad Natural Colour Solution HNCS isn’t just a marketing term. it’s a fundamental aspect of the X2D’s appeal.
It aims to reproduce colors as accurately and naturally as possible, with pleasing skin tones and vibrant yet realistic hues.
- Why Color Science Matters: Many cameras produce technically accurate colors, but Hasselblad’s approach is often described as having a certain “look” or “feel.” It’s not about oversaturation or punchiness. it’s about subtle gradients, rich tonality, and a fidelity to the scene that often requires minimal post-processing.
- Effortless Beauty: For many photographers, the ability to get stunning colors straight out of the camera is a huge time-saver. While RAW files still offer maximum flexibility, the JPEG output from the X2D is often so good that it can be used directly for many applications, especially for clients who value naturalistic results.
- Consistency Across Platforms: HNCS ensures a consistent color rendition, whether you’re shooting stills or considering the limited video capabilities. This consistency is vital for professional workflows, ensuring that your final output maintains a cohesive aesthetic.
In-Body Image Stabilization IBIS: A Game Changer for Medium Format
One of the most significant advancements in the X2D 100C is the inclusion of 5-axis in-body image stabilization IBIS. This is a monumental step for a medium format camera, making handheld shooting much more feasible and expanding its utility significantly. Thermaltake The Tower 500 Review
- 5-Axis IBIS Explained: This sophisticated system corrects for various types of camera shake across five axes: yaw, pitch, roll, and horizontal/vertical shifts. The result is sharper images at slower shutter speeds, which is invaluable when shooting in low light or when using longer lenses without a tripod.
- The Handheld Advantage: Traditionally, medium format cameras were often tethered to tripods due to their size, weight, and the precise focus required. With 5-axis IBIS, photographers can now confidently shoot handheld in a wider range of situations, from street photography to environmental portraits, without sacrificing the benefits of the large sensor. Hasselblad claims up to 7 stops of stabilization, which is truly remarkable for this class of camera.
- Enhanced Versatility: This feature alone dramatically increases the X2D’s versatility. It means you can use lower ISOs in challenging light, leading to cleaner images, or achieve greater depth of field by shooting at slower shutter speeds with smaller apertures, all while maintaining sharpness.
Autofocus Performance: A Step Forward with PDAF
Autofocus performance has historically been a point of contention for medium format cameras, often lagging behind their full-frame counterparts.
The X2D 100C addresses this with the introduction of Phase Detection Autofocus PDAF.
- PDAF vs. Contrast Detect: Older Hasselblad X-series cameras relied solely on contrast-detect autofocus, which can be slow and prone to hunting in low light. PDAF, on the other hand, uses phase differences to directly determine focus, resulting in much faster and more accurate focusing, especially with moving subjects.
- 739 PDAF Zones: The X2D features 294 PDAF zones on the sensor, with 739 total zones covering nearly the entire frame. This wide coverage allows for flexible composition without having to re-focus and re-compose.
Design, Ergonomics, and Build Quality: A Premium Experience
Hasselblad cameras have always been known for their meticulous design and impeccable build quality.
The X2D 100C continues this tradition, offering a tactile and satisfying user experience.
- Understated Elegance: The camera’s design is clean, minimalist, and unmistakably Hasselblad. The matte black finish, the classic orange shutter button, and the precision-machined aluminum body exude a sense of luxury and durability.
- Ergonomics for Control: Despite its medium format sensor, the X2D is surprisingly compact and well-balanced. The grip is substantial and comfortable, allowing for secure handling even with larger lenses. The placement of dials and buttons is intuitive, catering to a direct and uncluttered shooting experience.
- Top Display Evolution: A notable design change is the new 1.08-inch color top display. This acts as a customizable status screen, showing key shooting information like aperture, shutter speed, ISO, and battery life. It’s incredibly useful for quick glances and adjustments without needing to look at the main screen or through the EVF.
- Robust Construction: The X2D feels like it’s built to last. The all-metal construction provides excellent protection, and while it’s not explicitly stated as weather-sealed to an IP rating, it’s generally understood to be robust enough for professional outdoor use in reasonable conditions.
Storage and Connectivity: Integrated SSD and High-Speed Ports
Hasselblad took a bold step by integrating a massive 1TB SSD directly into the X2D 100C. Canon Imageclass Lbp236Dw Review
This is a unique feature that simplifies workflows and ensures you’re rarely caught without storage.
- 1TB Internal SSD: This built-in storage is incredibly fast, capable of writing at 2370MB/s and reading at 3600MB/s. This speed is crucial for handling the massive 100MP RAW files, allowing for rapid burst shooting and quick image review. For many, this 1TB might be enough for a significant shoot without needing external cards.
- CFexpress Type B Slot: In addition to the internal SSD, the X2D also features a single CFexpress Type B card slot. This provides flexibility for backup, overflow, or simply using your preferred storage media. It’s also vital for quickly transferring files off the camera.
- USB-C 3.1 Gen 2: The USB-C port is not just for charging. it’s a high-speed data transfer hub. It allows for fast tethered shooting and quick transfer of files to a computer, which is essential for studio work or on-location editing.
- Wi-Fi and Bluetooth: Standard wireless connectivity is included for remote control via the Phocus Mobile 2 app and for transferring lower-resolution images. This is convenient for quick sharing or for controlling the camera from a distance.
User Interface and Software: Phocus and Beyond
Hasselblad’s user interface is known for its simplicity and elegance, and the X2D 100C continues this philosophy.
The touch-screen heavy approach is intuitive, and the Phocus software ecosystem is designed to maximize the potential of the camera’s files.
- Intuitive Touch Interface: The 3.6-inch tilting touch display is central to the X2D’s operation. Menus are clean, icons are clear, and gestures are responsive. This allows for quick adjustments to settings, focus point selection, and image review.
- Electronic Viewfinder EVF: The 5.76-million-dot OLED EVF provides a large, clear, and bright view of the scene, with 100% coverage. It’s an immersive experience that allows for precise composition and focus verification, even in bright sunlight.
- Phocus Software: Hasselblad’s proprietary Phocus software is where you unlock the full potential of the X2D’s RAW files. It’s designed specifically for Hasselblad’s unique color science and offers powerful tools for processing, color grading, and tethered shooting. While it might have a learning curve for those accustomed to other RAW converters, its results with Hasselblad files are often superior.
- Third-Party Compatibility: The DNG RAW files produced by the X2D are widely compatible with popular third-party software like Adobe Lightroom and Capture One, giving photographers flexibility in their post-processing workflow.
The Hasselblad Lens Ecosystem: XCD Lenses
A camera is only as good as the glass in front of it.
The Hasselblad XCD lens line-up, designed specifically for the X-series, is a testament to optical excellence. Fitbit Inspire 3 Review
- Central Leaf Shutter: Most XCD lenses feature a central leaf shutter, which offers several advantages. Firstly, it allows for flash synchronization at all shutter speeds up to 1/2000s or 1/4000s depending on the lens, making it invaluable for studio photographers using strobes. Secondly, it contributes to quieter operation and reduces camera shake compared to a focal plane shutter.
- Exceptional Optical Quality: XCD lenses are renowned for their sharpness, micro-contrast, and beautiful bokeh. Each lens is meticulously designed to resolve the immense detail captured by the 100MP sensor, ensuring that the optical performance matches the sensor’s capabilities.
- Growing Selection: While not as vast as full-frame systems, the XCD lens ecosystem is steadily growing, covering key focal lengths for various photographic genres. From wide-angle to telephoto, there’s a growing selection of primes and zooms to meet professional demands. Current standout lenses include the XCD 3,5-4,5/32-60, XCD 2,5/38V, XCD 2,5/55V, and XCD 2,5/90V.
Considerations and Who It’s For
The Hasselblad X2D 100C is an aspirational camera, and its price point reflects that.
It’s not for everyone, but for a specific type of photographer, it’s an investment that pays dividends in image quality.
- Investment, Not Just a Purchase: At over $8,000 for the body alone, this is a significant financial commitment. It’s an investment for professionals or serious enthusiasts whose work demands the absolute highest resolution and color fidelity.
- Specialized Tool: While versatile, the X2D excels in specific genres:
- Portrait Photography: The medium format look, with its shallower depth of field and beautiful bokeh, combined with accurate skin tones, is ideal for studio and environmental portraits.
- Fine Art Photography: The resolution and color fidelity make it suitable for large prints and archival quality images.
- Product and Still Life: The ability to resolve minute details is invaluable for commercial product photography.
- Video Capabilities: It’s important to note that while the X2D 100C can record video 2.7K at 30fps, it’s not its primary focus. If video is a critical component of your workflow, you’d be better served by a Sony Alpha 1, Canon R5, or Nikon Z9, which offer significantly more advanced video features.
- Patience and Deliberation: This is not a camera for rapid-fire action or run-and-gun shooting. It encourages a more thoughtful, deliberate approach to photography, where every composition and exposure is considered. The slower pace, though improved from previous medium format cameras, is still part of the experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Hasselblad X2D 100C?
The Hasselblad X2D 100C is a premium mirrorless medium format digital camera featuring a 100-megapixel BSI CMOS sensor, built-in image stabilization, and a refined autofocus system, designed for professional photographers seeking the highest image quality.
How much does the Hasselblad X2D 100C cost?
The Hasselblad X2D 100C body typically costs around $8,199 in the United States. Lenses are purchased separately.
What kind of sensor does the X2D 100C have?
It features a large 100-megapixel BSI Backside Illuminated CMOS medium format sensor, which is significantly larger than full-frame sensors. Mackie Mp 20Tws Review
Does the X2D 100C have image stabilization?
Yes, it includes 5-axis in-body image stabilization IBIS, providing up to 7 stops of shake reduction, a significant advancement for a medium format camera.
What are the main improvements of the X2D 100C over the X1D II 50C?
Key improvements include a higher resolution 100MP sensor vs. 50MP, 5-axis IBIS, Phase Detection Autofocus PDAF, a faster processor, a built-in 1TB SSD, and a higher resolution EVF and tilting LCD.
How good is the autofocus on the X2D 100C?
The X2D 100C introduces Phase Detection Autofocus PDAF with 294 PDAF zones, offering a significant improvement in speed and accuracy over previous models, making it much more capable for general shooting.
Can the Hasselblad X2D 100C record video?
Yes, it can record video, but it’s limited to 2.7K resolution at 30 frames per second.
Video is not its primary strength, and it lacks advanced video features found in full-frame hybrid cameras. Pentax Hd D Fa Macro 100Mm F28 Ed Aw Review
What kind of internal storage does the X2D 100C have?
It has a unique built-in 1TB SSD Solid State Drive for high-speed internal storage, supplemented by a single CFexpress Type B card slot.
What type of lenses does the X2D 100C use?
It uses Hasselblad’s XCD lens series, which are designed specifically for the X-series cameras and feature central leaf shutters for flash synchronization at all speeds.
What is the Hasselblad Natural Colour Solution HNCS?
Is the X2D 100C good for handheld shooting?
Yes, thanks to its effective 5-axis IBIS, the X2D 100C is significantly more capable of handheld shooting than previous medium format cameras, even in lower light.
What is the dynamic range of the X2D 100C?
The camera boasts an impressive 15 stops of dynamic range, allowing it to capture a vast amount of detail in both highlight and shadow areas of a scene.
Is the X2D 100C suitable for action photography?
Its strengths lie in deliberate, high-resolution work. Samsung Smartthings Station Review
What is the battery life of the Hasselblad X2D 100C?
Battery life varies based on usage, but typically you can expect around 400-500 shots per charge under CIPA standards.
Heavy use of the EVF and continuous shooting will reduce this.
What is the maximum ISO sensitivity of the X2D 100C?
The native ISO range is 64-25600, with an extended range up to 25600. Its BSI sensor generally provides good noise performance even at higher ISOs for a medium format sensor.
Does the X2D 100C have a mechanical shutter?
No, XCD lenses feature a central leaf shutter, eliminating the need for a separate mechanical focal plane shutter in the camera body. This allows for flash sync at all shutter speeds.
What software is recommended for processing X2D 100C files?
Hasselblad’s proprietary Phocus software is optimized for its RAW files and color science. Leica M11 Monochrom Review
Files are also compatible with popular third-party RAW converters like Adobe Lightroom and Capture One.
Is the X2D 100C weather-sealed?
While Hasselblad doesn’t provide specific IP ratings, the X2D 100C features a robust, all-metal construction that is generally considered durable and capable of withstanding professional use in various environmental conditions.
What type of display does the X2D 100C have?
It features a 3.6-inch tilting touch-sensitive LCD with 2.36 million dots and a smaller 1.08-inch color top display for quick status information.
What is the resolution of the electronic viewfinder EVF on the X2D 100C?
The X2D 100C boasts a high-resolution 5.76-million-dot OLED electronic viewfinder.
What is the flash sync speed of the X2D 100C?
Thanks to the central leaf shutters in XCD lenses, the X2D 100C offers flash synchronization at all shutter speeds, up to 1/2000s or 1/4000s depending on the lens. 2023 Nissan Ariya Review
Is the X2D 100C good for portraits?
Yes, it is excellent for portraits due to its large sensor, which provides a beautiful medium format look with shallow depth of field and smooth bokeh, combined with Hasselblad’s natural color rendition for skin tones.
How heavy is the Hasselblad X2D 100C?
The X2D 100C body weighs approximately 895 grams 1.97 lbs with battery and card, making it relatively compact for a medium format camera.
Does the X2D 100C support tethered shooting?
Yes, it supports tethered shooting via its high-speed USB-C 3.1 Gen 2 port, primarily using Hasselblad’s Phocus software.
What kind of memory card does the X2D 100C use?
In addition to its 1TB internal SSD, it uses a single CFexpress Type B memory card slot.
Is the Hasselblad X2D 100C worth the price?
Can I use older Hasselblad V-system lenses with the X2D 100C?
Yes, with an adapter like the XH Converter, you can use older Hasselblad H-system lenses, and with other third-party adapters, you can adapt V-system lenses, though these will be manual focus and manual aperture. Asus Tuf Gaming Z790 Plus Wi Fi Review
What are the main drawbacks of the X2D 100C?
The main drawbacks include its very high price, limited lens selection compared to full-frame systems, basic video capabilities, and potentially slower autofocus speed for very fast-moving subjects.
How does the X2D 100C compare to 100MP full-frame cameras?
While both offer high resolution, the X2D 100C’s medium format sensor is physically larger, potentially offering advantages in dynamic range, noise performance, and the distinct “medium format look” with shallower depth of field at equivalent apertures.
Is the X2D 100C suitable for beginners?
No, the X2D 100C is a highly specialized, professional-grade camera.
Its price, advanced features, and workflow are generally not suited for beginners, who would benefit more from less expensive and more versatile full-frame or APS-C systems.
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