Fujifilm X100VI vs Sony A6100

The Fujifilm X100VI boasts a 40 megapixel APS-C sensor, a significant jump over the Sony A6100's 24 megapixels. In real-world use, this translates into greater resolving power for the X100VI, allowing for more cropping flexibility and the potential for higher-quality large prints. Fuji's renowned color science and film simulations also provide unique out-of-camera looks highly regarded by enthusiasts.

Both cameras use APS-C sensors of identical size, and both deliver strong image quality in good light. However, the X100VI's base ISO of 125 (expandable to 64) provides a slight edge in dynamic range and highlight recovery. In low light, both sensors perform well, though the A6100 has a slightly wider native ISO range (100-32000, expandable to 51200), but noise handling is more or less comparable thanks to sensor advancements in the Fuji.

The X100VI's fixed 23mm f/2 lens is sharp and renders pleasing bokeh, but you are limited to this field of view. With the A6100, image quality will depend heavily on the attached lens, but the kit zooms typically underperform compared to the Fuji's prime. Opting for premium Sony primes can close this gap.

For raw resolving power and out-of-camera images, the Fuji X100VI is ahead, though the Sony A6100's flexibility can sometimes be an advantage depending on lens choice.

Both cameras feature 425 autofocus points and fast, accurate phase-detection autofocus systems, making them excellent choices for a variety of subjects, including moving ones. The Sony A6100, however, inherits much of its autofocus technology from Sony's higher-end bodies, including Real-time Eye AF for both humans and animals, delivering industry-leading AF performance for stills and video. Tracking is sticky, reliable, and works well even in challenging conditions.

Fujifilm has significantly improved autofocus in the X100VI over previous generations, with quick focus acquisition, reliable subject detection, and good accuracy. However, it generally does not match the A6100's class-leading subject tracking and real-time eye detection in both photography and video modes.

For most casual and enthusiast shooters, both systems are highly capable. But for high-action, sports, or unpredictable moving subjects, the Sony A6100 pulls ahead with its more advanced algorithms and overall responsiveness for AF tracking.

The Sony A6100 is the clear video specialist in this pair, offering detailed 4K video at 30p without pixel binning, fast hybrid AF, microphone input, and reliable autofocus tracking. Its video output is sharp and ready for casual creators or those wanting reliable vlogging tool on a budget. However, it lacks in-body stabilization, meaning additional rigging or stabilized lenses may be necessary for handheld footage.

The Fujifilm X100VI, with its new sensor and processor, brings improved video, including 6.2K recording (not shown above but present in the model), 4K at up to 60p, and in-body stabilization-making it more competitive for video work than previous X100s. However, with its fixed lens and absence of features like microphone input or headphone jack, it's not designed for serious hybrid shooters. Rolling shutter can also be more noticeable on the Fuji's high-res sensor.

While the X100VI is much more capable than previous Fuji compacts, the A6100's autofocus dominance and better ergonomics for video win the day for most users in need of flexible video performance.

The Fujifilm X100VI is built around a premium magnesium alloy body that exudes a classic, retro aesthetic, complemented by tactile dials and a hybrid optical/electronic viewfinder-unique in this class. The control layout is deliberate and enthusiast-oriented, with dedicated aperture, shutter, and ISO dials offering a highly engaging shooting experience. At 521 grams, it feels sturdy yet remains compact enough for street or travel photography.

In contrast, the Sony A6100 is lighter (396g), more understated in design, and constructed primarily from polycarbonate, making it feel less premium but highly portable. The conventional ergonomic approach features fewer manual dials, instead relying on more menu-driven control, which may be less satisfying for traditional photographers but more straightforward for beginners.

The X100VI's unique hybrid viewfinder is a standout, offering both true optical and electronic viewing experiences. The A6100 offers a standard 1.44M-dot electronic viewfinder and a 921k-dot rear screen (lower in resolution than Fuji's), which are functional but not as immersive or high-quality as Fuji's setup.

For build quality, tactile control, and shooting experience, the Fuji X100VI leads. The Sony is more utilitarian but easier to carry and discreet for long shoots.

The Fujifilm X100VI has a battery rated for around 450 shots per charge, slightly edging out the Sony A6100's 420 shots despite its higher resolution sensor and in-body stabilization. This makes it one of the longer-lasting compacts in its class, and good enough for a day of casual shooting or travel. Both cameras offer USB charging, which adds convenience when on the go.

On storage, both cameras feature a single SD card slot, though the Fuji supports faster UHS-I cards. The Sony is in a similar position here, supporting SD cards (UHS-I). Neither offers dual card slots, which is reserved for higher-end models.

Ultimately, there's little major difference here: both provide adequate battery life and similar storage options for everyday usage.

When it comes to value, the Sony A6100 is a clear winner in terms of initial outlay, typically retailing for half the price of the Fujifilm X100VI ($750 vs. $1599). For users on a budget or those new to interchangeable-lens cameras, the A6100 offers a highly capable sensor, excellent autofocus, and the flexibility to grow with your photography by adding lenses over time.

The X100VI justifies its higher cost with premium build, high-res sensor, unique shooting experience, and built-in lens quality, but the price difference is considerable. With the Sony, buyers can choose between small prime lenses or zooms for different needs, potentially getting more utility and creative options for less money upfront.

For those prioritizing affordability and system flexibility, the Sony offers exceptional value. The X100VI is a luxury, enthusiast pick with a price to match.

A major distinction between these cameras is the lens system. The X100VI sports a fixed 23mm f/2 lens (35mm equivalent), which is sharp, compact, and great for street, travel, and environmental portraiture. Its simplicity is both a strength and a limitation-there's no zoom or ability to swap lenses, although wide and tele conversion lenses are available as optional accessories.

The Sony A6100 uses the popular E-mount, giving it access to a vast range of lenses, from affordable zooms to top-tier primes from Sony, Sigma, Tamron, and others. This makes the A6100 incredibly versatile for almost any subject or shooting style, from ultra-wide landscapes to sports to portraits.

The Fuji's fixed lens approach encourages a different mindset, emphasizing skill and composition within a single perspective. The Sony's ecosystem, on the other hand, allows you to adapt the camera to your needs, making it more suitable for photographers who don't want to be limited to one focal length.