Canon EOS R100 vs Fujifilm X-T100: A Hands-On Comparison for Photography Enthusiasts

When stepping into the realm of entry-level mirrorless cameras, buyers often find themselves navigating a maze of closely matched options. Two such contenders - the Canon EOS R100, released in 2023, and the Fujifilm X-T100 from 2018 - stand out for their compact SLR-style mirrorless designs, appealing to beginners and enthusiasts alike. Over countless hours of hands-on testing with both cameras, I've evaluated their practical performance, build, and usability to help you determine which suits your needs best.

This detailed comparison covers all major photography disciplines, technical aspects, and user considerations - from sensor tech to video features - so you can make an informed choice. Let’s dive in.

Seeing Eye to Eye: Ergonomics and Handling in Real Life

Ergonomics can make or break your shooting experience, especially during long sessions or fast action. The Canon R100 and Fujifilm X-T100 share an SLR-style form factor, but subtle differences in size, weight, and control placement impact handling.

Physically, the Canon R100 is more compact and noticeably lighter, weighing 356 grams versus the X-T100’s heftier 448 grams. The extra weight of the Fujifilm, combined with its more robust grip, delivers a more substantial hand feel, which I found reassuring during extended landscape walks or street photography excursions. Conversely, the R100’s size - 116x86x69mm versus the X-T100’s 121x83x47mm - makes it pocketably appealing for travel and casual shooting.

Looking at the top-view layout:

The Fujifilm’s control dials are more numerous and tactile, offering quick physical access to ISO, shutter speed, and exposure compensation without digging into menus - ideal for photographers who prefer manual control. The R100 simplifies controls, with fewer dedicated dials, targeting beginners who might find multiple dials overwhelming at first but craving enough functionality.

The downside to the Canon’s compact frame is reduced battery life (370 vs 430 shots per charge) and less room for ergonomic refinement. Still, both cameras use Battery Packs (LP-E17 for Canon, NP-W126S for Fuji), allowing for extras if needed. Opting for either may come down to your hand size and preferred grip heft.

Sensor and Image Quality: The Heart of the Matter

Let's dig into what truly matters - the imaging sensor. Both cameras use APS-C CMOS sensors but they differ in size and design details:

• Canon EOS R100: 22.3 x 14.9 mm sensor (328.56 mm²), 24 MP resolution
• Fujifilm X-T100: 23.5 x 15.7 mm sensor (368.95 mm²), 24 MP resolution

This slightly larger sensor area in the Fujifilm generally translates to better light-gathering ability and potentially higher dynamic range, which aligns with my testing. In practical shooting, the X-T100 delivers slightly richer color depth and finer detail retention in shadows and highlights - an advantage for landscape and portrait photographers prioritizing subtle tonal gradations.

Both cameras feature an anti-aliasing filter that can soften details slightly but reduce moiré artifacts, suitable for general photography needs. Canon’s R100 lacks full DxOMark testing but Fujifilm’s sensor performance has earned praise for color fidelity and noise control up to ISO 6400, matching Canon’s top native ISO while pushing Fuji’s boosted ISO to 51200 (vs Canon’s 25600). This extended ISO range benefits night or astro photographers, though noise will intrude at higher ISOs.

The Eyes of the Camera: Autofocus Systems Compared

Autofocus is a critical area where camera performance can shine or falter under real shooting conditions - wildlife, sports, or street photography all demand razor-sharp, fast focus.

While the Canon boasts a remarkably high number of AF points (3975), these rely solely on contrast detection. This method results in slower AF acquisition compared to phase-detection systems. In my real-world tests, the R100 performed adequately in still portraiture but struggled slightly with fast-moving subjects or in low-contrast scenes.

The X-T100 pairs fewer AF points, but it includes phase-detection pixels integrated on the sensor, delivering faster and more reliable focus acquisition and tracking - particularly valuable for wildlife and sports photography. Face detection in both is competent, with the Fujifilm’s system feeling a bit more responsive and stable in lower light. Neither camera offers animal eye detection, a feature you’d find on higher-end models.

Inside the Frame: Build Quality, Weather Sealing, and Durability

Neither camera offers robust environmental sealing. Neither Fujifilm nor Canon targets rugged outdoor professionals with these models, but how do they hold up in average shooting conditions?

• Canon R100: No weather sealing; lightweight plastic build prioritizes cost and portability.
• Fujifilm X-T100: Also lacks weather sealing, but build materials feel more solid, and the body has better perceived durability.

For casual backyard wildlife or travel photography, both are sufficient, but I cannot recommend either if you frequently shoot in harsh weather or dusty environments. For those cases, seeking a weather-sealed tier above entry-level is essential.

Viewing and Composing: Screen and Viewfinder Details

A comfortable composition experience is vital for any photographer performing manual or autofocus adjustments regularly.

Both cameras feature a 3-inch LCD with 1040k dots resolution. However, the X-T100 boasts a tilting touchscreen, enabling versatile angles for vlogging or low/high angle photography, plus direct touch-based focus control - a huge plus for intuitive shooting. The touch interface on the Canon R100 is absent, relegating you to button navigation which may slow the workflow but could appeal to those seeking less distraction.

Electronic viewfinders match resolution (2360 dots) and coverage (100%), but Fuji’s viewfinder magnification (0.62x vs 0.59x) gives a slightly larger feel, aiding composition refinement in bright conditions. While subtle, I found the X-T100 EVF binoculars more comfortable over prolonged use.

Lenses and System Compatibility: Expanding Creative Horizons

A camera's lens ecosystem greatly influences creative flexibility and investment potential.

• Canon R100: Canon RF mount with around 39 lenses available (native and third-party).
• Fujifilm X-T100: Fujifilm X mount with approximately 54 lenses available.

Canon's RF mount has exploded in recent years, primarily in full-frame segments, but its APS-C lens options remain relatively limited and expensive. The R100 can adapt EF lenses via an adapter, though this may impact autofocus speed and increase bulk.

Fujifilm has built a mature APS-C lens lineup, catering well to a broad range of genres with primes, zooms, and specialty optics - including superb vintage-style lenses beloved by street and portrait photographers. The system thus costs less to expand, and the options feel more diverse.

Speed, Burst Rates, and Buffer Performance

For action and wildlife photographers, frame rate and buffer depth dictate how often you catch that critical split-second.

• Canon R100: 6.5 fps continuous shooting.
• Fujifilm X-T100: 6.0 fps continuous shooting.

Burst rates are close, though the Canon edges out Fuji slightly. However, Fujifilm’s buffer and processing accommodate longer bursts before slowdown. Neither camera targets professional sports shooters - higher-end models eclipse these rates by large margins.

Video Capabilities: Moving Image Performance

Today, an entry-level mirrorless must offer capable video too; here both units come with pros and cons:

Canon’s 4K video is limited to 24p and higher bitrate, delivering cleaner footage, but with no 4K photo or slow motion. Fujifilm delivers 4K at only 15p, a serious limitation if you need smooth video. However, their inclusion of a 4K photo mode lets you extract high-res stills from video frames - a nice creative tool.

Both cameras lack in-body stabilization, so lens-based stabilization or gimbals may be needed for steady video work.

Specialty Photography Uses: Macro, Night, and Travel

Macro: Neither camera offers dedicated macro modes or focus stacking, but the Fuji’s focus bracketing and stacking features are notable for an entry-level body. The Canon R100 lacks these, which could frustrate macro enthusiasts aiming for do-it-yourself focus stacking.

Night/Astro: Fuji’s broader ISO 51200 range provides flexibility, but noise impairs image quality beyond ISO 6400 significantly. The Canon’s 25600 max ISO is decent but noisier as I’ve observed on tests. If you pursue astro or low-light portraiture, Fuji gives a slight edge.

Travel: For carry-on comfort, the Canon’s compact dimensions and lighter weight favor travel photographers prioritizing portability. Battery life is slightly better on Fuji but not dramatically so. Both have built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth for fast image transfer, a must for sharing on the go.

Portrait and Landscape: Practical Image Quality Considerations

Portrait Photography

Both cameras excel at delivering pleasing skin tones thanks to APS-C sensors paired with competent color science. Canon aims for clean, natural skin rendering, while Fuji injects a touch of warmth and film simulation modes that many portrait photographers appreciate for in-camera looks.

The bigger sensor area and more sophisticated AF tracking in the X-T100 translate to more reliable eye detection and bokeh in practice. However, neither camera has dedicated animal eye AF or advanced face-tracking found in more expensive models.

Landscape Photography

High resolution and dynamic range matter most here. Fujifilm’s larger sensor and color handling shine for landscapes, delivering wide tonal latitude and preserving detail in mid-tones and shadows. The Canon, competent but more limited, will require good post-processing to match.

Neither camera offers weather sealing, so shooters venturing outdoors must invest in protective housing or behave cautiously.

Street and Sports: Discretion and Speed in the Field

In street photography, where portability and spontaneity reign, the Canon R100’s smaller form factor helps stay discreet. Its silent shutter (max 1/4000s) allows stealthy shooting in quiet environments. However, autofocus latency - due to its pure contrast detection - can frustrate rapid candid capture.

Fujifilm’s X-T100, while bulkier, offers more precise AF tracking, particularly useful for sports or street moments demanding quick lock-on. Its 6 fps burst is adequate for casual sports, though not competitive for professional athletes.

Professional Workflow and Connectivity

Both cameras support RAW and JPEG, allowing extensive post-processing flexibility. The Canon’s 14-bit RAW files embed rich data, though Fujifilm’s X-Trans sensor files provide distinct color characteristics and noise control favored by landscape and portrait professionals.

Connectivity-wise, both boast built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth for remote control and image transfer via smartphone apps. Neither has GPS or NFC. HDMI outputs allow clean external monitoring and recording workflows.

Price and Value: Which Offers More Bang for Your Buck?

At time of writing:

• Canon EOS R100: Approx. $479 USD
• Fujifilm X-T100: Approx. $499 USD (still widely available new or used)

The pricing is neck and neck. For a slight premium, Fuji offers:

• More versatile controls
• Larger, higher-grade sensor
• Tilting touchscreen
• Advanced focus features like bracketing
• Slightly better video tools (4K Photo)

Canon counters with the advantages of:

• Lighter weight, more compact body
• Superior burst frame rate
• Slightly more approachable user interface for beginners

Scoring the Cameras: Objective and Subjective Ratings

Bringing everything together into an overall performance summary:

In genre-specific performance:

• Portrait: Fuji X-T100 leads due to color and AF
• Landscape: Fuji X-T100 favored for sensor size and DR
• Wildlife/Sports: Slight edge to Fuji for AF tracking
• Street: Canon R100 preferred for portability and quiet shooting
• Macro: Fuji with focus stacking capabilities
• Night/Astro: Fuji with higher ISO range
• Video: Canon for better 4K frame rate and bitrate
• Travel: Canon wins on size and weight
• Professional use: Fuji edges for lens options and RAW processing

Final Thoughts and Recommendations

Choosing between these two entry-level mirrorless cameras boils down to your priorities.

Choose the Canon EOS R100 if you:

• Favor compactness and light travel gear
• Are stepping into mirrorless with minimal manual complexity
• Want a budget-friendly body with good 4K video quality
• Shoot mostly portraits, travel, and street with occasional fast action
• Prefer Canon’s RF mount and existing Canon ecosystem

Choose the Fujifilm X-T100 if you:

• Value richer image quality and color science, especially for landscapes and portraits
• Want solid autofocus performance with hybrid PDAF/contrast detection
• Plan to experiment with focus bracketing and in-camera effects
• Appreciate a tilting touchscreen and more physical dials for creative control
• Are leaning toward a more mature APS-C lens ecosystem with affordable options

My Personal Experience

After extensive real-world use, I found the Fujifilm X-T100 more enjoyable for creative still photography, thanks to its handling, richer colors, and flexible focusing features. However, the Canon EOS R100 is a very worthy, approachable alternative for beginners craving simplicity combined with solid stills and video in a compact package.

Both cameras offer remarkable value and open exciting photographic paths without breaking the bank. If you want the latest tech and a smaller footprint, Canon excels; if you prefer refined image quality and more manual control, Fuji remains a classic choice.

Sample Images: Seeing is Believing

Take a look at these sample images captured under varied conditions - a testament to what these cameras can deliver.

Canon R100 front Canon R100 screen back Fujifilm X T100 front

In closing, both Canon EOS R100 and Fujifilm X-T100 are excellent options for anyone venturing into mirrorless photography or upgrading from smartphones. Your decision should align with your preferred shooting style, lens ecosystem, and whether you prioritize portability or creative control. Either way, these cameras will inspire your photographic journey for years to come.