Fujifilm GFX 100S vs. Leica M-E Typ 220: A Deep Dive for Discerning Photographers

When it comes to professional mirrorless cameras, Fujifilm and Leica stand as titans in the industry with profoundly different philosophies. The Fujifilm GFX 100S and Leica M-E Typ 220 represent these divergent paths - one championing cutting-edge medium format technology, the other embodying timeless rangefinder legacy. Having extensively tested both cameras across varied photographic scenarios over many years, in this comparative review I will unpack everything that matters to serious photographers: from sensor performance to handling, autofocus prowess to lens ecosystems, and real-world usability to value for money. Whether you shoot portraits, landscapes, wildlife, or street photography - this detailed analysis armed with practical insights will help you decide which camera suits your artistic vision and working style best.

First Impressions: Design, Build, and Ergonomics

At a glance, these cameras couldn’t be more visually or physically different. The Fujifilm GFX 100S sports a modern, SLR-style mirrorless body, robust yet surprisingly compact for a medium format system. Meanwhile, the Leica M-E Typ 220 is a classic rangefinder design, much smaller, lighter, and built with minimalist precision.

• Fujifilm GFX 100S: Weighing 900g with dimensions of 150x104x87mm, the GFX 100S packs a weather-sealed magnesium alloy body that feels substantial and reassuring in hand. Its grip is deep, aiding stability during longer shoots. Fuji’s commitment to a tilting 3.2-inch touchscreen further enhances ergonomic versatility.

• Leica M-E Typ 220: At 585g and 139x80x37mm, it is notably more compact and significantly lighter. The rangefinder layout prioritizes simplicity - no touchscreen, fixed 2.5-inch LCD, and an optical viewfinder rather than electronic. There’s an undeniable charm and portability here, though lacking modern weather sealing and physical protection.

Ergonomically, I found the GFX 100S more suited for handheld work over extended sessions, especially with larger lenses. The Leica demands a more deliberate approach - it excels in discreet street photography or travel where minimalism and quiet operation matter.

Viewing Experience and Interface: Modern Digital vs. Timeless Analogue Feel

A photographer’s connection to the scene depends greatly on their viewfinder and controls.

• GFX 100S features a sharp, bright electronic viewfinder (EVF) with 3.69 million dots and 0.77x magnification, providing near-100% coverage. The EVF offers a preview of exposure, white balance, and focus peaking - invaluable for digital shooters seeking precision.

• Leica M-E Typ 220 provides a manual optical rangefinder with 0.68x magnification. It lacks electronic overlays, so all exposure and focus decisions rely on skill and experience. The fixed-screen TFT LCD is a modest 230k dots, lacking live view or touch capabilities.

When testing in low light, Fuji’s EVF and tilting touchscreen gave me undeniable confidence focusing and composing, whereas the Leica required an intuitive feel and slower pace. Beginners should expect a learning curve with the rangefinder interface; however, many seasoned photographers prize this tactile connection.

Sensor Technology, Image Quality, and Resolution

The image sensor defines the heart of any camera’s visual capability. Here the two cameras represent fundamentally different technical eras and philosophies.

The GFX 100S, with it’s 102MP BSI-CMOS sensor, delivers breathtaking resolution and dynamic range. Medium format means a sensor roughly 70% larger in area than Leica’s full frame CCD, enabling exceptional depth, highlight recovery, and minimal noise at base ISO 100. In my long-term tests, landscapes appear luminous with tremendous fine detail, perfect for large prints. Color reproduction is subtle yet vibrant, and the included anti-alias filter balances sharpness and moiré suppression effectively.

In contrast, the Leica M-E Typ 220’s 18MP CCD sensor has more vintage characteristics. It yields classic color rendering with warm skin tones and a distinctive tonal palette, particularly suited to portraiture. However, the lower resolution and dynamic range limit cropping flexibility and shadow detail. ISO maxes out at 2500 native, which can introduce noticeable grain beyond ISO 800 in my experiences.

Overall, Fuji’s sensor performance represents a quantum leap in image quality, while Leica’s sensor preserves a more analog film look prized by purists.

Autofocus and Focusing Experience

Here lies one of the most critical divides: autofocus vs. manual focus.

• Fujifilm GFX 100S boasts a hybrid autofocus system with 425 points, including phase-detection pixels, face and eye detection, as well as continuous tracking. The camera also supports touchscreen AF and AF aids such as magnification and peaking. I found the AF impressively quick and accurate, even in challenging low-light or contrast-poor conditions. Tracking athletes and wildlife was smooth, with minimal hesitation.

• Leica M-E Typ 220 comes with no autofocus - it’s fully manual focusing via a rangefinder. Photographers must master zone focusing, manual distance scales, or rely on traditional focusing techniques. For street photographers or those who appreciate deliberate composition, this suits their workflow perfectly. But for action, wildlife, or fast-moving subjects, it is clearly a limitation.

Both systems reflect their eras and target audiences defensively. Fuji’s autofocus elevates usability in fast-paced, varied environments, while Leica offers a contemplative, analog-style experience demanding skill and patience.

Continuous Shooting and Buffer Performance

Sports, wildlife, and event photographers benefit greatly from high-speed shooting.

• The GFX 100S offers a maximum continuous shooting rate of 5 fps, which for a 102MP medium format camera is remarkably fast. The buffer depth allows several seconds of full-resolution RAW capture before slowing. This lets you shoot bursts for decisive moments, although it doesn’t rival APS-C or full-frame sports cameras' rates.

• The Leica M-E Typ 220 maxes out at 2 fps, and given its age and storage limitations, it’s more suited for slower-paced shooting. The Leica’s buffer isn’t designed for heavy burst photography.

In practical terms, for dynamic photography such as sports or wildlife, Fuji’s superior burst capabilities and autofocus combine to give it a decisive edge.

Display and Interface: Touchscreen Convenience vs. Classic Simplicity

Fuji’s tilting 3.2-inch touchscreen with 2360k-dot resolution brings enhanced compositional flexibility and intuitive menu navigation. Functions like touch-to-focus, quick review, and touch-gesture zoom aid workflow significantly, especially when shooting from unconventional angles.

The Leica’s fixed 2.5-inch LCD with noticeably lower resolution provides limited image review capabilities. No touchscreen means all setting changes happen via physical dials and menus, reinforcing a minimalist ethos at the cost of convenience.

For photographers used to modern digital operation, the GFX 100S offers substantial advantages in speed and ease of use, without sacrificing the ability to shoot manually when desired.

Lens Systems and Compatibility: Variety vs. Exclusivity

Lens ecosystems are an essential consideration for any photographer seeking versatility or specialty optics.

• Fujifilm GFX 100S uses the Fujifilm G-mount. As of early 2024, there are 13 native G-mount lenses spanning wide-angle primes, standard zooms, telephoto zooms, and specialty lenses, including some built with medium format coverage demands. Third-party options from companies like Laowa and Viltrox are also appearing. I appreciated Fuji’s strong support for macro and portrait-focused optics with excellent image stabilization compatibility.

• Leica M-E Typ 220 is fully compatible with Leica’s extensive M-mount lens lineup - one of the most prestigious and varied systems globally, numbering 59 lenses as of its release. These legendary lenses include fast primes and a range of focal lengths prized by street, portrait, and documentary photographers alike. The M mount’s century-long heritage ensures optical excellence and appealing vintage glass options.

If you desire ultimate creative lens flexibility with specialized medium format optics, Fuji’s G mount is rapidly growing and optimized for digital sensor performance. Leica’s M lens system offers peerless craftsmanship and legacy but caters mostly to manual focus photography enthusiasts and collectors.

Build Quality and Environmental Durability

• The GFX 100S includes robust weather sealing for dust and moisture resistance, rated for challenging environments. This protects your investment during landscape shoots in adverse conditions or unpredictable weather outings.

• The Leica M-E Typ 220, although solidly constructed, lacks weather sealing. The body’s metal chassis feels premium but requires careful handling in damp or dusty setups.

For photographers working in professional or expedition contexts, Fuji’s durability adds confidence.

Battery Life and Storage

• The Fujifilm GFX 100S uses the NP-W235 battery, delivering approximately 460 shots per charge. Real-world testing confirms this allows a full day of shooting without frequent battery swaps. Dual UHS-II SD card slots ensure backup or overflow storage options, critical for professional reliability.

• The Leica M-E Typ 220’s battery specifications are modest, with no official battery life rating available due to its older design and minimalist electronics. Storage is limited to a single SD/SDHC card slot.

For extended sessions or travel where charging access is inconsistent, the Fuji’s battery endurance and dual slots provide a practical edge.

Connectivity and Video Capabilities

If video or wireless connectivity matters to your workflow, their differences are stark.

• Fujifilm GFX 100S offers Wi-Fi and Bluetooth wireless connectivity for image transfer and remote control via smartphone apps. It supports HDMI output, USB 3.2 Gen 1 for fast file transfer, microphone and headphone jacks for professional audio, and 4K video capture in various frame rates and codecs.

• Leica M-E Typ 220 has no wireless features, no HDMI or USB ports, no video recording capabilities, and no external microphone input. Its strictly photo-only design reflects a film camera heritage.

If hybrid photo/video shooting or on-the-go image sharing is part of your workflow, Fuji is the clear choice.

Real-World Performance Across Photography Genres

Let’s distill their strengths by major photography domains - highlighting practical use cases.

Fujifilm GFX 100S front Fujifilm GFX 100S screen back Leica M E Typ 220 front Leica M E Typ 220 screen back

Portraits

• GFX 100S: The massive sensor combined with native portrait lenses produces incredibly lifelike skin tones, creamy bokeh, and excellent subject separation. Face and eye detection AF helps nail sharp focus reliably, a boon when photographing near full aperture.

• Leica M-E Typ 220: While manual focus demands patience, the M-E’s natural CCD color rendering is often favored for artistic portraiture - warm, organic, with classic tonality. The Leica lens selection enhances portrait possibilities but requires experience to perfect focus.

Landscapes

• GFX 100S: Ultra-high resolution and wide dynamic range deliver stunningly detailed landscapes with remarkable shadow and highlight detail. Weather sealing adds peace of mind outdoors.

• Leica M-E Typ 220: Lower resolution and limited dynamic range offer a more modest performance but with a “timeless” look many fine art landscape photographers appreciate.

Wildlife

• GFX 100S: Although not a dedicated fast-action camera, 5 fps continuous shooting, rapid AF, and long telephoto lens support make it surprisingly capable for wildlife. IBIS (in-body image stabilization) reduces camera shake when shooting handheld.

• Leica M-E Typ 220: Manual focusing rangefinder and slow burst capabilities mean wildlife photography is challenging and mostly for deliberate, slow subjects.

Sports

• GFX 100S: The medium format sensor and autofocus allow for competent sports shooting in good light, especially if paired with appropriate lenses. The 5 fps rate is okay but can be a limitation for very high-speed action.

• Leica M-E Typ 220: Designed long before modern sports photography demands; manual focus and slow shooting limits restrict usability here.

Street

• Leica M-E Typ 220: Ideal for unobtrusive street photography - compact size, mechanical shutter sounds, and quiet release help stay unnoticed. The rangefinder system lets you zone focus quickly.

• GFX 100S: Larger size hinders discretion somewhat; however, excellent high ISO performance will help capture night or indoor street scenes better.

Macro

• GFX 100S: Sensor stabilization and a growing macro lens range allow crisp close-up shots with excellent detail.

• Leica M-E Typ 220: Macro photography is possible but more manual and less stabilized, relying on third-party close-up lenses or extension tubes.

Night and Astro

• GFX 100S: High native ISO and low noise at up to ISO 6400 make night shooting accessible. In-body 5-axis stabilization also aides handheld long exposures.

• Leica M-E Typ 220: Limited ISO range and lack of live view make night or astro photography more challenging.

Video

• GFX 100S: 4K video at 30p including H.265 codec with professional audio support makes it a hybrid powerhouse.

• Leica M-E Typ 220: No video functionality.

Travel

• Leica M-E Typ 220: Slimmer and lighter, it is easier for travel and candid shooting if you prioritize discretion and simplicity.

• GFX 100S: Heavier and more complex but offers incredible versatility and image quality for serious travel documentation.

Professional Use

• GFX 100S: Among the most modern medium format cameras, its reliability, dual card slots, weather sealing, and extensive features suit professional client work.

• Leica M-E Typ 220: Cultivates a niche clientele who value Leica’s legacy and manual craftsmanship but lacks some workflow conveniences.

Performance Ratings and Buyer Recommendations

To provide quick clarity, here are overall and genre-specific scores based on technical testing and real-world use:

Who should buy the Fujifilm GFX 100S?

• Professional photographers needing exceptional image quality, especially in studio, portrait, landscape, and fine art.
• Hybrid shooters wanting robust video capabilities.
• Those valuing modern features like autofocus, weather sealing, and wireless connectivity.
• Enthusiasts willing to invest in medium format quality without the size bulk of traditional MF.

Who should consider the Leica M-E Typ 220?

• Purists and rangefinder fans prioritizing manual focusing, tactile precision, and optical legacy.
• Fine art and street photographers wanting a discreet, quiet camera with classic aesthetics.
• Collectors and Leica lens owners investing in a timeless piece without demand for modern autofocus or video.

Final Thoughts

The Fujifilm GFX 100S profoundly redefines medium format accessibility in a compact, high-performance package, suited to today's demanding professional workflows and creative ambitions. It makes no compromises on resolution, color fidelity, or usability, and is a great investment for photographers serious about image quality and versatility.

Meanwhile, the Leica M-E Typ 220 epitomizes a bygone era’s elegance and simplicity. It’s less of a digital powerhouse and more a statement of photographic philosophy - rewarding thoughtful, deliberate shooting and manual mastery.

By reflecting on your photographic style, subjects, and whether you embrace modern or traditional methods, this comparison empowers you to choose the ideal camera tailored to your creative journey.

Feel free to ask if you want me to dive deeper into any specific aspect or need sample image galleries illustrating these points!