Our complete evaluation of the Fujifilm X-H2S will show why skilled hybrid pictures/videography content material creators ought to rejoice!
Fujifilm has a standout status for long-running mirrorless digital camera collection such because the X-T, X-E, and, in fact, the Fujifilm X100 vary.
Nonetheless, the Fujifilm X-H vary, which commenced in 2018 with the X-H1, is among the many greatest content material creation techniques.
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED
Fujifilm X-H2S
Professional-grade hybrid digital camera constructed for each high-speed stills and cinematic 6.2K video efficiency.
Hybrid pictures and videography functions are important for skilled visible creatives working to a consumer’s transient of blended media.
The Fujifilm X-H2S delivers a pro-grade platform that mixes the most effective of Fujifilm’s X collection expertise whereas particularly catering to videography wants.
Let’s dive into the complete evaluation and uncover what Fujifilm has in retailer.
Fujifilm X-H2S Specs
Professionals
Flagship high quality and options
Highly effective sensor/processor/IBIS combo
Professional-grade video specs
It’s all in regards to the grip!
Wonderful picture high quality
Cons
Fuji’s most costly X Collection
Some will query the 26MP sensor
Focus efficiency wants additional enchancment
Professionals will want the cooling fan for prolonged capturing
Let’s check out the pro-grade specs of the Fujifilm X-Hs2.
Sensor – 26.1MP APS-C X-Trans Stacked BSI Sensor
Processor – X Processor 5
Most decision – 6240 x 4160
Photograph ISO – Auto 160-12,800 (Expands to 80-51200)
Video ISO – Auto 160-12,800 (Expands to 160-25,600)
Video – 4K 120p, 6.2K 30p, FHD 240p 10-Bit Video
Viewfinder – 0.39″ 5.76m Million Dot EVF
LCD – 3.0″ 1.61 Million Dot Free-angle Tilting Touchscreen Coloration LCD Monitor
Sub-monitor – 1.28″ LCD Standing Show
Stabilization – 7-stop 5-axis Sensor-Shift
Focus – 425 level Clever Hybrid AF (TTL distinction AF / TTL part detection AF)
Max Shutter – 1/8000 MS 1/32000 ES
Storage – CFexpress Kind B & SD UHS-II Card Slots
USB – USB 3.2 / 3.1 Gen 2
Battery Life – NP-W235 as much as 720 frames
Weight – 1.5lb (660g) with battery and reminiscence card
Dimensions – 5.4 x 3.7 x 3.3″ (136.3 x 92.9 x 84.6mm)
The Fujifilm X-H2S is a flagship digital mirrorless digital camera supreme for skilled content material creators who demand excellent picture high quality plus complete videography instruments.
Not like the 40MP X-T5, a flagship pictures digital camera, the X-H2S optimises a decrease decision 26.1MP APS-C X-Trans Stacked BSI picture sensor to ship pro-level videography output.
Powered by the Fujifilm X Processor 5 (a processor now showing in nearly all current-gen Fujifilm X and GFX cameras), the X-H2S is a mirrorless powerhouse in its personal proper!
Fujifilm’s X-H2S options 5-axis picture stabilization, producing as much as 7 stops of extra mild in gradual shutter pace conditions. It additionally boasts a formidable ISO vary in stills and a good higher vary in video.
Whereas the Fujifilm hybrid mirrorless physique is a superb stills digital camera, it shines within the videography division because of a full-size HDMI port, impartial 3.5mm headphone and mic ports, a free-angle tilting touchscreen, and spectacular video efficiency.
The X-H2S can report silky clean 4K 120p, ultra-high definition 6.2K 30p, and slow-mo FHD 240p, all with 10-bit recording.
Construct & Look
Fujifilm X-H2S
I nonetheless recall the primary time I noticed and held the Fujifilm X-H1 shortly after its launch.
On the time, all Fujifilm X Collection cameras, such because the X-T, X-E, and X100, featured retro styling with minimal entrance grips. No Fujifilm X Collection digital camera has featured a deeper grip, very like these on Sony mirrorless and old-school DSLRs.
Fujifilm’s flagship hybrid digital camera is significantly completely different in some ways to different X Collection cameras – if something, it has extra in widespread with the GFX collection.
The entrance of the digital camera is minimal, with the steel X Collection lens mount entrance and centre. On both aspect is a single, customizable perform button, and the PC Sync port with cowl is on the highest proper.
Fujifilm X-H2S
In fact, the present’s star is the massive and deep entrance grip, which has a single customizable command dial beneath the shutter button/ On/Off toggle.
The best aspect of the digital camera physique homes the weather-resistant panel for the CFexpress Kind B and SD UHS-II card slots and a 2.5mm distant port.
On the left aspect, a number of panels conceal the full-size HDMI port, impartial 3.5mm headphone and three.5mm mic ports, plus a single USB-C charging port.
Fujifilm X-H2S
Turning our consideration to the highest plate (who can deny the elegant options of a Fujifilm prime plate?), the X-HS2 boasts a single, massive PSAM command dial wth seven extra customized slots and a video setting.
The centre of the X-HS2 is residence to a raised “mirror field” that homes the EVF and a scorching shoe for flash, set off, and microphone assist.
A function distinctive to the X-H and GFX vary is the inclusion of a 1.28″ LCD Standing Show sub-monitor. The secondary LCD monitor is customizable and shows core capturing settings.
To the suitable of the sub-monitor, simply behind the shutter button, are the video report, ISO, and White Stability buttons, plus a spare customizable management button.
Fujifilm X-H2S + XF 70-300mm f/4-5.6 R LM WR OIS
The H-HS2 prime plate is just like the GFX 100S II with the one command dial, sub monitor, and minimal button placement.
The rear of this flagship hybrid shooter continues the theme of minimalism, reflecting Fujifilm’s clear and practical design philosophy.
Its 3.0″ 1.61-million-dot free-angle tilting touchscreen LCD monitor flips and rotates, making it good for video monitoring and vlogging from nearly any angle.
It’s not Fujifilm’s highest-resolution display screen, however given that almost all critical content material creators will make use of an exterior monitor, its deficit is minimal.
Fujifilm X-H2S
For the EVF, the X-HS2 packs a giant, shiny, and punchy 5.76 million-dot OLED display screen full with a helpful diopter for previous eyes like mine.
It’s a stunning EVF for composing photographs, even higher than the three.69 million-dot display screen on the X-T5. It’s an incredible monitor with a number of punch and distinction.
The rear of the hybrid digital camera additionally incorporates a directional button structure, key command buttons, a second customizable command dial, and a helpful focus stage.
Fujifilm’s X-HS2 is constructed to endure the weather, that includes 79 weather-sealed factors and a grime-resistant artificial exterior.
Ergonomics & Dealing with
That’s me! Fujifilm X-H2S + XF 500mm f/5.6 R LM WR OIS
Whereas all of us love the look of the slimline X System cameras, such because the X-T5 and X100VI, there’s no substitute for a deep and comfy grip.
It’s all in regards to the grip!
Granted, you should buy third-party grips and brackets for all Fuji cameras, however having a built-in grip that homes a bigger battery is ideal.
Professional photographers, we have been calling for an X-series physique with pro-grade options and, above all else, a deep grip for bigger palms. My good good friend and Shotkit author Athol was an early adopter, and the digital camera suited him to a T! He has huge palms and a giant head.
The FujifilM X-H2S continues to (actually) assist professional photographers who’re searching for a workhorse digital camera with a deep, ergonomic grip. The digital camera is a pleasure to carry for lengthy intervals, particularly contemplating the thumb relaxation on the rear.
Fujifilm X-H2S + XF 70-300mm f/4-5.6 R LM WR OIS
One other huge frustration many photographers have is the proximity of the EVF eye-cup to the rear contact display screen. All too usually, our noses are squished up towards the LCD whereas composing a shot.
The Fujifilm X-HS2 addresses this frustration by leaving a substantial hole between the rear of the attention cup and the contact display screen. This minor design consideration enhances the capturing expertise.
As a hybrid pictures and videography digital camera, the X-HS2 is supplied with a flexible free-angle tilting touchscreen LCD. You’ll be able to swing it out to the aspect and rotate it to match your capturing angle—supreme for every little thing from low-angle stills to vlog-style video.
It’s additionally helpful to flip the display screen 180º for simpler vlogging and composition.
Total, whereas the Fujifilm X-HS2 is heavier than most X Collection our bodies, it’s extremely comfy to shoot with.
Focus Efficiency
Fujifilm X-H2S + XF 500mm f/5.6 R LM WR OIS | 1/2500 SS | 800 ISO | f/5.6
Fujifilm has been listening to the feedback sections, as they’ve persistently labored to handle the autofocus efficiency of latest X and GFX digital camera our bodies.
Whereas many will naturally evaluate the main target efficiency of the X collection with manufacturers comparable to Sony, Canon, and Nikon, it’s important to additionally evaluate the present technology with these of the previous.
The Fujifilm X-H2S delivers quick, dependable, and feature-packed focus efficiency on par with the efficiency of the flagship X-T5.
Fujifilm’s X-H2S boasts the model’s greatest 425-point Clever Hybrid AF (TTL distinction AF / TTL part detection AF) focusing system.
It’s spectacular how far the system has come because it now affords pro-grade options, together with Steady-Servo AF, Handbook Focus, and Single-Servo AF.
Past that, the hybrid system, powered by the X Processor 5, harnesses deep studying AI algorithms to drive topic detection and monitoring in stills and video. Topic detection contains automobiles, planes, trains, bikes, horses, canine, and cats.
It’s additionally important so as to add that autofocus efficiency can also be decided by the standard of the lens.
In fact, the system additionally boasts a dependable, quick, sticky eye detection and monitoring choice.
Low Gentle Efficiency
No matter capturing video or stills, the Fujifilm X-H2S presents an enormous ISO vary with picture mode, affording a regular 160-12,800 vary and an 80-51200 expanded vary. As for videography, the usual ISO vary is 160-12,800, and the expanded vary is 160-25,600.
Due to the sensor efficiency and X processor, the X hybrid delivers as much as 14 stops of dynamic vary whereas delivering a broad sensitivity vary.
It’s a formidable low-light system, even when capturing in video mode. The onboard 5-axis IBIS and video stabilization enable optimum low-light efficiency, even in probably the most difficult circumstances.
Picture High quality
Fujifilm X-H2S + XF 500mm f/5.6 R LM WR OIS | 1/1000 SS | 200 ISO | f/5.6
In a world the place we starvation for ever-greater numbers of megapixels, Fujifilm has discovered steadiness in a lower-resolution hybrid picture sensor.
The Fujifilm X-H2S delivers glorious picture high quality whatever the capturing circumstances and lighting.
The confirmed X Processor 5 delivers 64-bit processing speeds thrice sooner than these of the earlier technology X-T digital camera.
Mixed with the 26.1MP APS-C X-Trans Stacked BSI sensor, the picture high quality is classy, with glorious ranges of element, colour replica, and excellent dynamic vary.
Talking of colour, a Fujifilm digital camera evaluation wouldn’t be full with out mentioning the baked-in movie simulations. The X-H2S options a formidable assortment of colour preset designs that mimic the look of basic Fujifilm analog movie inventory.
The X-H2S contains Provia, Velvia, Basic Chrome (my favourite), Basic Neg (my second favourite), and Eterna Bleach Bypass, supreme for grading stills and movies.
Picture high quality can also be tremendously aided by the superior stage of sharpness obtained even when capturing in slower shutter speeds.
The 5-axis picture stabilisation delivers glorious low-light flexibility and ensures critically sharp photos each single time.
Fujifilm X-H2S Pattern Photos
Listed below are some pattern photos I took utilizing the Fujifilm X-Hs2 with an XF 500mm f/5.6 and an XF 50mm f/2 lens.
Fujifilm X-H2S + XF 500mm f/5.6 R LM WR OIS | 1/800 SS | 200 ISO | f/5.6
Fujifilm X-H2S + XF 500mm f/5.6 R LM WR OIS | 1/160 SS | 200 ISO | f/13
Fujifilm X-H2S + XF 500mm f/5.6 R LM WR OIS | 1/250 SS | 400 ISO | f/5.6
Fujifilm X-H2S + XF 500mm f/5.6 R LM WR OIS | 1/2500 SS | 800 ISO | f/5.6
Fujifilm X-H2S + XF 500mm f/5.6 R LM WR OIS | 1/250 SS | 400 ISO | f/5.6
Fujifilm X-H2S + XF 500mm f/5.6 R LM WR OIS | 1/125 SS | 1250 ISO | f/5.6
Fujifilm X-H2S + XF 500mm f/5.6 R LM WR OIS | 1/400 SS | 200 ISO | f/5.6
Total Efficiency
Fujifilm X-H2S + XF 70-300mm f/4-5.6 R LM WR OIS
There’s no denying that the Fujifilm X-H2S is a pro-grade powerhouse able to some actually spectacular outcomes.
Skilled and seasoned fanatics will recognize the general pace and efficiency of the hybrid mirrorless system.
The capabilities, pace, and energy of the X Processor 5 aren’t a thriller—it’s in nearly each current-gen X and GFX collection physique. The purpose is that it’s a recognized amount and is in all Fujifilm cameras for a motive—reliability.
The 64-bit processing pace delivers optical autofocus, topic detection, and monitoring efficiency. It additionally allows quick 6.2K video recording with increased bitrates, together with ProRes 422 HQ and ultra-high-speed 240p full HD.
When capturing with the Digital Shutter, the Fujifilm X-H2S punches out as much as 40fps with a 140 consecutive uncompressed RAW file buffer.
In fact, you’ll be able to prolong the capabilities and output of the Fujifilm X-H2S with the Fujifilm VG-XH Vertical Grip so as to add two extra high-capability NP-W235 batteries.
Videographers seeking to prolong the efficiency and recording instances may add Fujifilm’s FAN-001 cooling fan.
Video Efficiency
In 2024, I used to be lucky sufficient to be concerned in a Fujifilm Australia occasion that includes native musician Cap Carter. The occasion, HIDDEN, was a dwell efficiency that includes Cap and his band as they wrote and carried out a number of items in his city fashion.
Whereas I wasn’t hands-on with the X-H2S (I used to be busy capturing with the brand new X100VI and X-T5), a lot of the occasion was filmed on Fujifilm X-H2S and GFX 100S II cameras.
A pair of pro-grade videographers recorded the dwell occasion and produced the video above. I’ve included it right here so you have got a first-hand instance of the digital camera’s videography capabilities.
Wanting on the Fujifilm X-H2S video specs, there’s a lot to be impressed by.
The X-H2S internally information 4:2:2 10-bit in DCI/UHD 4K at as much as 120p and Full HD at as much as 240p. It additionally information in a pro-grade, open-gate 3:2 6.2K setting appropriate for anamorphic and cinematic functions.
Fujifilm’s hybrid flagship helps a variety of codes, together with H.265, and three tiers of ProRes: the high-bitrate 422 HQ, the usual 422, and the extra compressed 422 LT.
Due to efficient energy and warmth administration, the X-H2S can report constantly in any respect body charges and resolutions for as much as 90 minutes.
How I Examined the Fujifilm X-H2S
Fujifilm X-H2S + XF 500mm f/5.6 R LM WR OIS
I examined the Fujifilm X-H2S over a two-week interval whereas additionally testing and reviewing the XF 500mm f/5.6 super-telephoto prime (try our full evaluation of the 500mm right here).
I additionally paired the X-H2S with a number of Fujifilm prime lenses, together with the XF 50mm f/2, XF 27mm f/2.8, XF 23mm f/2, and XF 16mm f/2.8.
I shot all photos in RAW and edited them later utilizing Adobe Lightroom.
Whereas I shot most photos with the large XF 500mm f/5.6, I nonetheless discovered it an extremely comfy digital camera to hold and management with a Fortunate Straps wrist strap.
Alternate options to Fujifilm X-H2S
Fujifilm X-T5 + XF 56mm f/1.2 R WR
Happily, if you happen to’re searching for a hybrid videography and pictures digital camera, you’re spoiled for selection.
All digital camera manufacturers have realized that professional photographers, videographers, and content material creators demand high-quality video output from current-gen fashions.
Sony, Canon, Nikon, and Lumix all supply pro-grade, class-leading hybrid cameras to optimise the inventive potential of name loyalists.
If you wish to persist with the Fujifilm ecosystem, there’s a lot to select from.
If you happen to’re searching for a photography-centric but highly effective Fujifilm digital camera, the Fujifilm X-T5’s capabilities and output are onerous to disregard.
The X-T5 is the flagship pictures digital camera boasting a 40.2MP X-Trans CMOS 5 HR picture sensor, X Processor 5 brains, 5-axis picture stabilization, and vital heritage from the Fujifilm X-T vary.
Relating to video efficiency, the X-T5 produces 6.2K 1.23x (native) crop or sub-sampled 4K full-width video.
I’ve owned or reviewed each X-T digital camera within the collection, and I like the X-T5 because the fruits of all that’s nice in regards to the collection —try our evaluation right here!
Fujifilm X-S20 + XF 18mm f/1.4 R WR
If you happen to’re on a price range but need the most effective Fujifilm hybrid pictures and videography, the Fujifilm X-S20 is for you!
The Fujifilm X-S20 packs a 26.1MP X-Trans CMOS 4 picture sensor, X Processor 5, and 7-stop, 5-axis picture stabilization. Whereas it’s a extra compact providing, it nonetheless incorporates a deep ergonomic grip and flippy rotating display screen good for vlogging.
The X-S20 presents spectacular video specs, together with 6.2K 30P 4:2:2 10-bit inside recording, 6.2K 30P 12-bit Apple ProRes RAW to ATOMOS HDMI exterior recorder, and full-width 4K 60p. Remember to try the XS20 evaluation right here.
Lastly, it’s important to spotlight the important thing variations between this X-H2S and the X-H2. The X-H2 is one other hybrid stills/video digital camera that packs a beefier 40MP APS-C X-Trans BSI picture sensor and the capability to report a formidable 8K 30p, 4K 60p, FHD 240p 10-Bit Video.
The Fujifilm X-H2 retails for round US$2,000.
Worth for Cash
Fujifilm X-H2S
Worth, like magnificence, is within the eye of the beholder. Others could regard what I take into account nice worth as so-so – and vice versa.
Placing that apart, the Fujifilm X-H2S retails for round US$2,500, making it the costliest Fujifilm X Collection digital camera physique within the vary.
As compared, the Fujifilm X-T5 retails for round US$1,700 and the Fujifilm X-S20 for round US$1,300.
So why is the Fujifilm X-H2S a lot costlier? Particularly when contemplating the X-T5 packs a 40MP picture sensor in comparison with the 26MP X-H2S.
It’s important to do not forget that the Fujifilm X-H2S is a pro-grade hybrid pictures and videography digital camera designed to satisfy the calls for of professional visible creatives.
I’ve labored alongside skilled videographers who shoot solely with Fujifilm X-H2S cameras and swear by the system.
It’s additionally vital to do not forget that in relation to high-grade video recording, a devoted lower-resolution picture sensor usually delivers higher flexibility and high quality than higher-megapixel beasts.
To grasp and recognize the X-HS2’s worth, you solely must evaluation its core specs and recording capabilities.
It cranks out 4K 120p, 6.2K 30p, and FHD 240p 10-bit video, inside ProRes 422 HQ and F-Log 2 recording, and ProRes & Blackmagic RAW by way of HDMI exterior. It additionally boasts twin CFexpress Kind B and SD UHS-II Card Slots.
Plus, the X-HS2 produces beautiful nonetheless photos whereas spitting out 40 fps in digital shutter and 15 fps in mechanical shutter.
Contemplating the Fujifilm X-HS2’s skilled {qualifications}, the worth justifies the associated fee.
Fujifilm X-H2S Assessment | Conclusion
The Fujifilm X-H2S is knowledgeable digital mirrorless digital camera straddling the boundary between masterful stills and fascinating video.
Happily for professional photographers and videographers, the X-H2S delivers each side of the transient.
Whereas it’s at the moment the costliest X Collection digital camera physique, it’s additionally probably the most optimized hybrid physique within the vary.
Fujifilm’s X-H2S is a perfect do-it-all digital camera that, when paired with the stellar vary of Fujifilm lenses, is unstoppable—particularly if you happen to add the cooling fan to the equation.
The one aspect of the X-H2S that wants additional consideration from Fujifilm is the autofocus efficiency. Sadly, Fujifilm isn’t a frontrunner in autofocus efficiency and has dedicated to enhancing pace and reliability via firmware updates and future releases.
Having mentioned that, the X-H2S’s total focus efficiency is terrific—it’s simply less than the extent of manufacturers like Sony and Canon.
Placing that apart, the Fujifilm X-H2S is the primary selection for X Collection hybrid content material creators working to ship on skilled consumer briefs.
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED
Fujifilm X-H2S
Professional-grade hybrid digital camera constructed for each high-speed stills and cinematic 6.2K video efficiency.