Fujifilm X-Pro1 vs. Kodak Pixpro S-1: A Detailed Mirrorless Showdown for the Discerning Photographer

When it comes to mirrorless cameras, especially those with a rangefinder style body, the options can sometimes feel limited - or at least niche-focused. Today, I’ve spent a significant amount of hands-on time with two quite distinct contenders: the Fujifilm X-Pro1, a 2012 advanced mirrorless classic known for its hybrid viewfinder and retro design, and the Kodak Pixpro S-1, a more recent entry-level Micro Four Thirds camera launched in 2014. Both share the rangefinder-type style and interchangeable lens flexibility but cater to vastly different user priorities, budgets, and expectations.

Having tested thousands of cameras over the past decade and a half - across genres from street snaps to pro wildlife assignments - this detailed comparison tackles how each camera holds up in practical use, from sensor tech to ergonomics, lens systems to real-world image quality. If you’re curious which mirrorless might best fit your photography style, keep reading - I’ll walk you through key difference points with hands-on insights and final purchase recommendations.

Holding Them in Your Hands: Size, Build, and Ergonomics

Let’s start tactile. Physical comfort is crucial, whether you’re on a long street shoot or lugging gear on a hike. The Fujifilm X-Pro1 measures 140x82x43 mm and weighs about 450g, whereas the Kodak S-1 is noticeably smaller and lighter, at 116x68x36 mm and only 290g. That’s a significant size and weight difference, favoring portability.

While the X-Pro1 sports a more substantial grip and metal body with a rangefinder-style hybrid viewfinder (electronic + optical tunnel), the Kodak S-1 is simpler, lacking an electronic viewfinder altogether, relying solely on its 3-inch tilting LCD for composition. This design choice signals different usage philosophies: Fujifilm leans into manual control with dedicated dials for shutter speed and exposure compensation, giving you tactile feedback photographers love. Kodak’s layout is more minimal and aimed at entry-level shooters who prefer simplicity or shooting with the screen.

The Fujifilm’s button layout is more extensive and ‘traditional’ with quick access to key manual controls - a huge plus for street and travel photography where you need to react fast without fumbling in menus. The Kodak S-1 has fewer physical controls, which might frustrate enthusiasts who want direct access or faster settings adjustments (no illuminated buttons either).

Sensor Size and Image Quality: The Heart of the Machine

Here’s where the X-Pro1 truly shines in the hearts of many enthusiasts - its APS-C X-Trans CMOS sensor measures 23.6x15.6 mm, significantly larger than the Kodak’s 17.3x13 mm Four Thirds sensor. This sensor size difference matters a great deal for image quality, low-light performance, and depth of field control.

The Fujifilm offers 16 MP resolution, no anti-aliasing filter, and a maximum native ISO of 6400 (boostable to 25600). The lack of AA filter means images tend to be razor-sharp with great micro-contrast, especially when paired with Fujifilm’s famous film simulation modes. The Kodak S-1’s Four Thirds sensor also sports 16 MP and includes an AA filter, which can slightly reduce micro-detail but helps prevent moiré in certain conditions.

In practice, the X-Pro1 delivers richer color depth and dynamic range, which I verified shooting landscapes and high-contrast scenes; shadows retain more detail without noise overwhelming. The Kodak can hold its own in bright conditions but struggles with noise creeping in at around ISO 1600 and above. For astrophotography or night shots, the X-Pro1’s sensor excels comparatively.

Finding Focus: Autofocus Systems Examined Under Pressure

Autofocus technology is another key area where these two cameras diverge. The Fujifilm X-Pro1 employs a contrast-detection only system with no phase detection, featuring basic face detection but none of today’s fancy animal or eye AF tracking. Focus points aren’t even specified numerically but work well in live view.

The Kodak S-1, despite being an entry-level body, includes 25 focus points and supports continuous AF tracking with face detection - nice perks for beginners or casual shooters aiming to capture simple portraits or moving subjects.

In real-world testing, I found the X-Pro1’s autofocus slower and occasionally hunting, especially in low light - an expected tradeoff from its release time and sensor tech. However, manual focus on Fuji’s lenses is extremely satisfying with precise focus peaking, so if you often shoot static subjects or prefer careful manual control, it’s no deal breaker.

The Kodak S-1 locks focus faster in daylight and performs better tracking moving subjects, which could benefit wildlife or sports beginners. However, the smaller sensor and slower max shutter speeds limit its utility for extremely fast action.

Displays and Viewfinders: Compose Your Shot Your Way

When you’re composing images, viewfinders matter a lot - it’s about immersive, accurate framing and ease of shooting.

The Fujifilm X-Pro1 offers a unique hybrid viewfinder combining an optical tunnel with an overlay electronic display for exposure and focus confirmation. This innovation caters wonderfully to photographers accustomed to analog rangefinders but craving the precision of digital.

Conversely, the Kodak S-1 doesn’t have any kind of viewfinder, relying solely on its 3-inch tilting LCD with 920k dots. While tilting helps compositions from difficult angles and makes street photography easier in some ways, lack of a viewfinder can be frustrating in bright sunlight or if you prefer the camera close to your eye.

Fuji’s fixed (non-touch) LCD is 3” with 1230k dots, offering slightly better resolution and brightness but not articulating or touch-sensitive either. In both cases, no touchscreen means menu navigation depends on physical buttons, which works but feels dated compared to modern models.

Lens Mounts and Ecosystem: Investment and Future Proofing

Your camera body is only half the package; lenses often represent the bigger long-term investment and impact on image quality.

Fujifilm’s X-mount system boasts an extensive collection of 54 native lenses, many praised for optical excellence, vintage style, and fast apertures. Prime lenses from Fuji, as well as third-party options from Zeiss and others, complement the X-Pro1 perfectly for portraits, landscape, and street work.

Kodak’s S-1 uses the extremely popular Micro Four Thirds system, compatible with over 100 lenses from Panasonic, Olympus, Sigma, and Voigtländer, among others. This is its strong suit - availability of affordable to pro optics, including excellent compact zooms and macro lenses.

My personal experience: If you want the best compact primes for beautiful portraits and rich color, Fuji’s glass is hard to beat. For sheer versatility, travel photographers might appreciate Micro Four Thirds’ lens breadth and more compact designs.

Battery Life and Connectivity: Staying Powered and Connected

Battery life is crucial when you’re out shooting all day, especially if there’s no quick recharge.

The Fujifilm X-Pro1 achieves about 300 shots per charge with its NP-W126 battery, average among mirrorless cameras of its era. The Kodak S-1 surprises with a longer-lasting 410 shots per charge - a noticeable benefit for travel or casual use.

Connectivity options point to their difference in target markets. Fujifilm offers USB 2.0 and HDMI output but no Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, or GPS. Kodak S-1 includes built-in wireless connectivity (Wi-Fi), which is convenient for instant sharing but lacks any USB or HDMI ports - limiting tethering and external monitor use.

Shutter and Burst Shooting: Capturing the Action

The Fujifilm records a max shutter speed of 1/4000s and shoots at about 6 frames per second continuously - a good rate for enthusiast-level sports or wildlife sequences if you are comfortable with focus limitations.

The Kodak tops at 1/4000s shutter speed too but has a slightly slower continuous shooting of 5 fps. Autofocus tracking here is better, though burst depth and buffer size aren’t specified, indicating this may not be ideal for professional sports action.

Video Capabilities: Casual Clips or Serious Video Work?

Both cameras offer Full HD video capabilities, but only up to 1080p at 24 fps for the Fujifilm and a more flexible combination on Kodak, including 1080p at 30 fps and 720p at 60 fps for smoother motion.

Neither supports 4K recording or advanced video features like microphone or headphone jacks, limiting their usability for serious videographers. Both lack in-body image stabilization, but the Kodak compensates somewhat with sensor-based stabilization, helping handheld video.

Specialty Photography: How Do They Handle Different Genres?

I’ve summarized key strengths and weaknesses below based on my experience shooting portraits, landscapes, macro, wildlife, and more with these cameras.

Fujifilm X Pro1 front Fujifilm X Pro1 screen back Kodak S 1 front Kodak S 1 screen back

Price-to-Performance: Which Makes Sense for Your Budget?

At launch and even secondhand today, the Fujifilm X-Pro1 commands a premium price (originally around $1100 body only). The Kodak S-1, priced much lower (approx $250 new), targets budget-conscious buyers wanting an interchangeable lens mirrorless camera.

Considering what you get: Fujifilm offers superior image quality, tactile shooting experience, and lens investment potential. Kodak provides an accessible entry into mirrorless with useful autofocus and video features but compromises on sensor size, ergonomics, and viewfinder usability.

Wrapping Up: Which Mirrorless Should You Choose?

Go for the Fujifilm X-Pro1 if:

• You demand great image quality with a larger APS-C sensor.
• You appreciate refined manual controls and hybrid viewfinder.
• You want a system with premium lenses for portraits, landscape, and street photography.
• You don’t mind investing in older, but still capable, tech and prioritizing excellent image aesthetics.
• Portability is less crucial than shooting experience and photo quality.

Opt for the Kodak Pixpro S-1 if:

• Budget constraints are significant - it’s an affordable mirrorless option.
• You prefer a lighter, more compact camera for travel or casual shooting.
• You value autofocus tracking and built-in stabilization for snapshots or simple wildlife.
• Video flexibility at the entry-level matters to you.
• You want the Micro Four Thirds mount ecosystem with abundant lens options.

Finally, I’ve rated these cameras on overall performance, image quality, usability, and value based on my tests.

Remember, both cameras represent different epochs and philosophies in mirrorless design. The X-Pro1 feels like a handcrafted, precise tool for serious enthusiasts and pros who love vintage rangefinder ergonomics paired with modern sensor tech. The Kodak S-1 is a practical stepping stone into interchangeable lenses for beginners and casual shooters.

Pick based on what photography means to you: artistic control or easy entry? Larger sensor and image quality or compact convenience? As always, the best camera is the one you enjoy shooting with and will consistently take out into the world.

Note: Throughout my years of testing, I’ve found that even a camera with limitations can excel if paired wisely with your style and goals. The Fuji and Kodak both offer intriguing paths - consider what matters most before committing.

Feel free to ask if you want detailed results on specific photography genres or usage scenarios - I’m always happy to share more of my hands-on insights!