Fujifilm S5 Pro vs Fujifilm X100: An Expert Comparison Across a Decade of Innovation

Selecting the right camera isn’t just about chasing the latest model - it’s about aligning your gear with your photography style, workflow, and creative vision. Today, I’m putting two distinct Fujifilm cameras head-to-head: the classic Fujifilm FinePix S5 Pro DSLR from 2007, and the pioneering large sensor compact Fujifilm FinePix X100 launched in 2011. Though separated by four years and wildly different designs, both are revered for image quality and remain relevant to certain user types even today.

Drawing on my experience testing thousands of cameras - from high-end pro bodies to enthusiast compacts - I’ll dissect these two Fujis to reveal their technical core, real-world performance, and suitability across photography genres. Let’s dive into where each camera shines and where it might hold you back.

Handling and Build: The Feel of Fuji Through Time

First off: these two cameras couldn’t look or handle more differently.

Fujifilm S5 Pro - Bulky DSLR Roots

The S5 Pro is a traditional large SLR body using the Nikon F mount, weighing in at 920g with dimensions of 147 x 113 x 74 mm. It’s a full-on workhorse with a solid, somewhat chunky grip - built at a time when robust weather sealing and ultra-compactness weren’t priorities for this tier.

Its ergonomics are those of any seasoned DSLR from its era - plenty of physical dials and buttons clustered around a top LCD and a bright optical pentaprism viewfinder with 95% coverage. The button layout is straightforward but offers no illuminated controls, and the rear 2.5-inch LCD feels cramped and low-res (230k dots). I found the camera comfortable to hold during extended shoots, but it does feel large and somewhat dated by today’s standards.

Fujifilm X100 - Compact with Classic Charm

By contrast, the X100 bucks the DSLR trend altogether: a large sensor compact that feels like a finely engineered retro rangefinder-inspired camera, weighing just 445g at 126 x 75 x 54 mm. That’s less than half the weight and far more pocketable.

Its top deck is thoughtfully designed with dedicated shutter speed and exposure compensation dials - a nod to tactile control lovers. The 2.8-inch fixed TFT color LCD boasts a crystal-clear 460k dots, and its hybrid viewfinder (optical plus electronic tunnel, 1440 px resolution) is a real standout, allowing seamless toggling between digital accuracy and natural framing.

Having handled both extensively, I can attest: if portability is key - especially for street, travel, or casual everyday use - the X100 feels significantly more nimble and inviting.

Sensor and Image Quality: CCD vs CMOS in APS-C Size

Arguably, the heart of any camera lies in its sensor, and here the difference is stark and indicative of Fuji’s evolving sensor philosophy.

The S5 Pro's CCD: Rich, But Limited Resolution

The S5 Pro sports a 6.17MP APS-C size CCD sensor (23 x 15.5 mm) - by today’s measure, modest resolution. But don’t scoff immediately. Fuji designed this sensor with an innovative SR (Super CCD) technology that delivers impressive dynamic range - especially in highlights - making it a favorite among portrait and wedding photographers seeking skin tone subtleties.

DxO Mark scores reflect respectable performance: overall 65, with excellent color depth (21.6 bits) and dynamic range (13.5 EV). However, noise performance is limited (low light ISO score of 448), making it less adept in challenging lighting.

The X100’s CMOS Sensor: More Pixels and Sensitivity

The X100 ups the game with a 12.3MP APS-C CMOS sensor (23.6 x 15.8 mm), lacking an optical low-pass filter to maximize sharpness. Despite doubling resolution, it trades some highlight headroom for improved noise performance and higher ISO capability - max native ISO is 12,800, compared to the S5 Pro’s 3200. DxO scores back this up: overall 73, better color depth (22.9) though slightly lower dynamic range (12.4 EV).

The X100’s sensor is paired with Fujifilm’s EXR processor, optimizing noise reduction and color fidelity, producing punchy, clean images even at ISO 3200 and beyond.

Autofocus Systems: Phase Detection vs Contrast Detection

Autofocus is where the two cameras reveal their generational gap.

S5 Pro’s Phase Detection AF: Solid But Basic

The S5 Pro uses the Nikon F mount’s phase detection system inherited from its DSLR lineage but is hampered by only a handful of focus points (unspecified count, but clearly limited) and lacks face or eye detection. Continuous AF is supported, but no tracking or animal eye modes.

Manual focus is available, given the lens mount. While perfectly serviceable for portraits or still subjects, this AF system falls short in speed and flexibility compared to modern competitors, and struggles with fast-moving subjects.

X100’s 49-Point Contrast AF: Precise but Sometimes Slower

The X100 employs a contrast-detection autofocus system with 49 selectable points, providing remarkable precision for a compact. However, contrast AF is inherently slower and less reliable tracking quickly moving subjects under low light, though it supports continuous and single AF modes.

Though lacking eye detection, the number of AF points and the ability to highlight focused areas on its crisp rear screen makes manual focus assist easier. The X100 excels more at deliberate compositions and street-style shooting where speed is less critical.

Viewfinder and LCD: The Window to Your Image

Both cameras provide unique viewing solutions that reflect their design ethos.

Optical Pentaprism on the S5 Pro

The S5 Pro’s optical viewfinder uses a traditional pentaprism with 0.63x magnification and 95% frame coverage. While bright and natural, the coverage means you may capture some unintended framing around edges. Without electronic overlays, exposure confirmation depends on the camera’s built-in indicators alone.

Its rear LCD is fixed and low resolution (2.5” at 230k dots) - adequate for framing in good light but unhelpful for critical focus checking or reviewing in detail.

Hybrid Electronic/Optical Viewfinder on the X100

The Fuji X100’s hallmark is the hybrid viewfinder combining a bright optical tunnel with a high-res 1,440 px electronic viewfinder - a marvel for its time. This allows you to get the best of both worlds: optical framing with electronic exposure preview and focus peaking at the flick of a switch.

The 2.8” 460k dot LCD also feels modern and responsive, excellent for reviewing images or using live view.

Ergonomics and User Interface: Vintage Meets Modern

Using the S5 Pro is like stepping into a classic DSLR cockpit - dedicated dials for exposure modes, shutter speed, and flash control are present but limited. The camera lacks any touchscreen or sophisticated menu navigation, relying on physical buttons and a top LCD for settings.

The X100, conversely, blends retro tactile controls (dedicated dials for shutter speed and exposure compensation) with a streamlined menu and live view interface. However, it also lacks touchscreen capabilities, which some might find limiting today.

Lens Ecosystem and Flexibility

S5 Pro: Nikon F Mount Compatibility

An undeniable advantage of the S5 Pro is its compatibility with over 300 Nikon F-mount lenses, including pro-grade telephotos, fast primes, and specialty glass. This versatility allows the S5 Pro to adapt seamlessly across genres - portrait, wildlife, sports - assuming you invest in quality optics.

X100: Fixed 23mm f/2 Lens (35mm Equivalent)

The X100 offers a fixed 23mm f/2 lens, equivalent to 35mm on full frame - a classic documentary and street photography focal length. It’s sharp, fast, and well-suited to travel and candid shooting but severely limits framing flexibility. You’re dependent on digital cropping or physical stepping closer/farther.

Performance Across Photography Genres

Let’s map these specs and hands-on impressions to real-world photography disciplines.

Portraits: Fuji S5 Pro Takes the Crown

Portrait photographers will appreciate the S5 Pro’s excellent skin tone reproduction, low shutter vibrations, and wide dynamic range that preserves highlights gracefully. The Nikon mount opens possibilities for classic portrait primes delivering creamy bokeh. The slowish AF is workable since portraits tend to be slower paced. The S5’s subdued noise at base ISO also helps in controlled lighting environments.

The X100’s higher resolution provides sharper portraits but its fixed 35mm lens means raw candid portraits only. Skin tones are punchy but less forgiving than the S5’s CCD.

Landscapes: A Close Call but X100 Edges Forward

The X100’s higher resolution, better high-ISO performance, and sharper lens make it more suitable for landscapes where detail and color vibrancy matter. Compact size aids in hiking and travel scenarios.

However, the S5’s broader dynamic range and Nikon lens options (ultra-wide, tilt-shift) offer creative latitude. Its lack of weather sealing is a downside for outdoor use compared to later pro models.

Wildlife and Sports: S5 Pro’s Lens-Mount Advantage Prevails

For fast-action photography, neither camera is ideal, but the S5 Pro plus a super-telephoto is the better bet. The built-in phase-detection AF, though limited, beats the X100’s slower contrast-detection AF. The S5’s mechanical shutter maxes out at 1/8000s (good for bright conditions).

The X100’s 5 fps burst is decent for a compact but fixed lens and slower AF system restricts trackability on fast animals or athletes.

Street and Travel: X100 Dominates

Compact size, quick startup, silent leaf shutter, and the classic 35mm equivalent make the X100 a superb walk-around camera. Its hybrid viewfinder and discreet styling let you blend into crowds effortlessly. Battery life is roughly 300 shots - respectable for its size.

The S5 Pro feels cumbersome for quick street shots, and its noisy DSLR shutter can be intrusive.

Macro: Neither Camera Is a Macro Specialist

The X100’s minimum focus distance of 10cm aids in close-ups but no focus stacking or bracketing limits technical macro work. The S5 Pro relies on compatible macro lenses but is constrained by lack of image stabilization in the body.

Night and Astro: X100's Superior High ISO and Exposure Modes

The X100’s native high ISO and cleaner noise performance make it more suitable for star or night photography. Plus, its electronic shutter modes (slow sync, extended exposures) offer creative long exposures. The S5 Pro, with its lower ISO ceiling and CCD noise, is less capable.

Video: X100 Offers Basic HD, S5 Pro Has None

The X100 shoots 720p @24fps MPEG-4 video with decent image quality for casual clips. The S5 Pro has no video capabilities whatsoever.

Professional Workflows: S5 Pro’s Nikon Mount and RAW Strength

Professionals shooting stills only will benefit from the S5 Pro’s reliable RAW format and Nikon lens ecosystem for studio and field work. However, its aging sensor technology and bulky form may deter pro shooters today.

Battery, Storage, and Connectivity

The X100’s built-in rechargeable battery (NP-95) yields about 300 shots per charge - good for a compact mirrorless. The S5 Pro’s battery life is unspecified but typical for DSLR bodies of its era - likely lower efficiency given its CCD sensor and calendar age.

Storage-wise, the S5 Pro uses Compact Flash cards, while the X100 opts for the more contemporary and widely available SD/SDHC/SDXC cards.

Neither camera features wireless connectivity such as Wi-Fi or Bluetooth - typical for their release dates.

Price and Value Considerations

At launch, the S5 Pro was an affordable pro body with a $548 street price today (used market), while the X100 was $1800 new, reflecting its premium compact positioning.

Considering inflation and used availability, the S5 Pro offers excellent value for Nikon lens owners seeking a vintage digital DSLR with unique image tonality.

The X100 commands a premium for its build quality, hybrid viewfinder innovation, and compact appeal - ideal for photographers valuing image quality on the go without managing lenses.

Side-by-Side Performance Summary

Sample Images

Examining real-world sample shots from both illustrates these technical points. The S5 Pro delivers warm tones and smooth gradations ideal for portraiture. The X100’s images pop with contrast and crisp detail, especially wide-open at f/2.

Fujifilm S5 Pro screen back Fujifilm X100 front Fujifilm X100 screen back

Who Should Buy Which Camera?

Choose the Fujifilm S5 Pro if you:

• Are invested in Nikon F mount glass, wanting to leverage legacy lenses
• Prioritize portrait skin tone rendering and wide dynamic range
• Shoot primarily stills with controlled lighting
• Prefer a traditional DSLR experience with an optical pentaprism viewfinder
• Need an affordable DSLR body with classic pro features

Opt for the Fujifilm X100 if you:

• Want a premium compact with APS-C sensor quality for travel or street shooting
• Appreciate tactile dials, a hybrid viewfinder, and top-tier ergonomics in a small body
• Need higher ISO performance and video capability (albeit basic)
• Desire quick startup and discretion for candid photography
• Favor image quality and convenience over lens interchangeability

Final Thoughts: Two Fujis Shaping Photography Differently

The Fujifilm FinePix S5 Pro and X100 occupy two different ends of the photographic spectrum - DSLR legend meets large sensor compact innovation. Both are products of their time and target very different shooters.

While the S5 Pro delivers that legendary CCD look with flexible Nikon lens compatibility - a dream for portrait and studio work - it feels large, slow, and dated in autofocus and video compared to contemporary options.

Meanwhile, the X100 introduced concepts that helped define Fujifilm’s mirrorless success: beautiful design, hybrid VF, and accessible pro-quality APS-C images in an elegant compact form, perfect for travel, street, and everyday creativity.

As someone who’s tested both extensively, I see them not as competitors but complementary tools - each a milestone on Fuji’s journey to making photographers’ lives better. Your choice is about matching the camera’s strengths to your workflow, whether you want Nikon lens versatility or a lightweight street companion.

Happy shooting!