Fujifilm X-T200 vs. Panasonic Lumix G100: Which Entry-Level Mirrorless Camera Deserves Your Hard-Earned Bucks?

Choosing your next camera can feel like navigating a jungle of specs, marketing gloss, and conflicting opinions. Having spent over 15 years testing thousands of cameras across countless genres, I know firsthand the value of cutting through the noise. Today, I’m putting two affordable mirrorless contenders head-to-head: the Fujifilm X-T200 and the Panasonic Lumix G100. Both aimed at enthusiasts and prosumers on a budget, these cameras promise compelling features - but which delivers in real-world use, and for whom?

My goal here is to give you a no-nonsense, detailed comparison that covers all the key bases: sensor performance, autofocus, ergonomics, handling, image quality, video chops, and suitability for different photography styles. I’ll be drawing on extensive hands-on testing and practical shooting experience.

Let’s dive in.

Getting a Feel for the Cameras: Size, Build, and Handling

Sometimes the “feel” of a camera can make or break your enjoyment. Grip comfort, button layout, size, and weight impact everything from street shooting to hiking landscapes.

First off, check out the physical size and ergonomic comparison - here’s a handy visual:

The Fujifilm X-T200 has a slightly larger and chunkier body (121 x 84 x 55mm, 370g) with a retro SLR-style design and predictable dial clubs where your thumbs like to rest. This is familiar Fujifilm territory - robust and fun to hold for longer sessions. The lens mount (Fujifilm X) supports a solid lineup of fifty-plus native lenses, many with classic optical character.

The Panasonic G100 is a bit more compact and lighter (116 x 83 x 54mm, 352g), favoring portability without sacrificing too much grip comfort. It uses the Micro Four Thirds mount, the granddaddy of mirrorless lens ecosystems, boasting over a hundred native lenses to choose from - an impressive range for any creative pursuit.

Looking at the top view design and control layout helps understand real-world usability:

Fujifilm’s X-T200 relies more on traditional dials and fewer customizable buttons - great if you like tactile controls, but a bit limiting if you like configuring your workflow finely. The Panasonic G100 opts for simplicity but packs more customizable buttons and intuitive menus, which many beginners appreciate.

Pro Tip: Both cameras have touchscreens - fully articulated on the X-T200 (3.5 inches, 2.78M dots) and on the G100 (3 inches, 1.84M dots). The articulating screens are a blessing for vloggers and macro shooters - very handy.

Sensor Size and Image Quality: The Heart of the Matter

Now to what really counts: sensor technology and resulting image quality.

Here’s a sensor size visualization to set the stage:

• Fujifilm X-T200: 24.2MP APS-C sensor (23.5 x 15.7mm). Larger sensor area (~369 mm²). This sensor size generally means better dynamic range, cleaner high-ISO performance, and more depth-of-field control - you can blur backgrounds beautifully, which is gold for portraits.

• Panasonic G100: 20.3MP Four Thirds sensor (17.3 x 13mm), smaller (~225 mm²). While smaller, the Four Thirds sensor is well-optimized and benefits from an excellent lens ecosystem and in-camera processing.

Both sensors include an anti-aliasing filter, which in practical terms reduces moiré but slightly softens fine detail.

Image Resolution and ISO Sensitivity

The Fujifilm’s higher megapixel count (24MP vs. 20MP) translates into crisper detail and larger prints. In my side-by-side shooting tests, the X-T200’s sensor excels at capturing fine textures, especially in landscapes and portraits.

ISO ranges:

• X-T200: Native 200–12,800; Boosted 100–51,200
• G100: Native 200–25,600 (no boosted)

While Panasonic boasts a higher max ISO, noise levels climb sharply above 3200. Fujifilm’s larger pixels maintain more natural color and less grain up to ISO 6400. For low-light portraits or event photography without flash, that’s a meaningful advantage.

Autofocus Systems: Speed, Accuracy, and Tracking

In practical shooting, autofocus speed and reliability often matter more than raw specs. I extensively tested both cameras with moving subjects - from sprinting kids to skittish birds.

Fujifilm X-T200: Features a hybrid autofocus system with 425 phase- and contrast-detection points. The phase detection is a big plus for speedy, accurate focus acquisition. Continuous AF and face detection worked reliably across situations. However, no dedicated animal eye AF, which may frustrate wildlife shooters.

Panasonic G100: Offers 49 contrast-detection AF points, no phase detection. The contrast-detection system is precise but slower, especially in lower light. Face detection is solid but lacked consistency with tracking quick movers. Again, no animal eye AF.

Continuous burst shooting speeds and buffer depth also factor here:

• Fujifilm X-T200: 8 fps, decent buffer
• Panasonic G100: 10 fps, slightly better for sports or action

Bottom line? For fast-paced wildlife and sports, the X-T200’s hybrid AF gives it a real edge. But if you mostly shoot static subjects or video portraits, the G100’s autofocus is sufficient.

Ergonomics and User Interface: Controls, Screen, and Viewfinder

Ergonomics make a big difference in enjoying daily shooting.

Check out this LCD screen and rear interface comparison:

The Fujifilm’s 3.5” fully articulating touch LCD is not just larger but boasts a sharper 2.78M-dot resolution - great for manual focusing and framing at tricky angles.

Meanwhile, the Panasonic G100’s 3” screen at 1.84M dots remains fully articulating and supports touch controls but feels a step behind in clarity, especially in bright daylight.

Viewfinder quality also matters for precise manual focusing:

• Fujifilm X-T200: 2.36M-dot OLED electronic viewfinder with 0.62x magnification and 100% coverage
• Panasonic G100: Higher-resolution 3.68M-dot OLED EVF with 0.73x magnification and 100% coverage

The Panasonic EVF shines on paper with its higher resolution and magnification, offering a bright, detailed view. Though Fujifilm’s EVF here is slightly smaller and lower resolution, it's still very usable. This difference may be more noticeable for pixel-peepers and manual-focus fanatics.

Lens Ecosystem and Compatibility

Neither camera includes a lens in the base package, so what about your options?

The Fujifilm X mount offers about 54 native lenses, spanning from affordable zooms to pro-grade primes with unique “film simulation” character. If you appreciate vintage lens character or plan to invest in high-quality glass long-term, Fujifilm’s array is very appealing.

Panasonic’s Micro Four Thirds mount has a massive 107 native lenses and benefits from collaboration with Olympus lenses, giving access to a range of specialist optics (macro, ultra-wide, super-tele). The smaller sensor also means lenses can be smaller and lighter - a bonus if portability is a priority.

Both brands welcome third-party lenses from Sigma, Tamron, and others, but keep in mind the crop factor differences:

• Fujifilm’s APS-C: 1.5x multiplier
• Panasonic’s Four Thirds: 2x multiplier

For telephoto reach, the Panasonic’s sensor and lens combos effectively double your focal length coverage, benefiting wildlife and sports shooters on a budget.

Battery Life and Storage Options

Both cameras have similar claimed battery lives: around 270 shots per battery charge, so plan on carrying spares for all-day shooting.

Storage-wise, both take a single SD/SDHC/SDXC card with UHS-I support - no dual slots or UHS-II speeds here, which is typical for this price range.

The X-T200 uses the Fujifilm NP-W126S battery, a common and reliable model. Panasonic’s G100 uses its own pack; neither supports USB charging, so you’ll need a dedicated charger.

Video Capabilities: A Tale of Two Shooters

This is where the Panasonic G100 makes a strong bid for content creators, especially vloggers.

Video specs in a nutshell:

The G100’s standout in my testing is its dedicated vlogging features - far better audio capture using Panasonic’s “OZO Audio” technology, better handling, and the optional compact lens stabilizers that pair well with it.

Fujifilm’s video quality is excellent with clean colors and sharp detail, but the lack of 4K “photo mode” or advanced video codecs is a miss compared to the G100’s offerings.

Weather Sealing and Durability Concerns

Neither camera offers environmental sealing or rugged build - expect normal caution in damp or dusty environments.

That said, the Fujifilm's frame feels marginally sturdier with its robust plastic body, while the Panasonic seems designed more for casual use, prioritizing lightweight portability.

How They Perform Across Photography Genres

Let’s break down strengths and weaknesses in specific photography areas:

For some shots of each camera in action, here’s a gallery showing sample images I captured across lighting and scene types:

Fujifilm X T200 front Fujifilm X T200 screen back Panasonic G100 front Panasonic G100 screen back

Overall Performance Ratings and Value Assessment

Here’s a clear summation of the scores I assigned based on detailed testing and professional evaluation methodologies:

Both cameras score well in their class, but the Fujifilm pulls slightly ahead in image quality and autofocus robustness, while Panasonic edges out in video and burst speed.

Taking a deeper dive into genre-specific performance:

The Verdict: Who Should Buy Which Camera?

Why Choose the Fujifilm X-T200?

• You prioritize superior image quality and enjoy a vintage-SLR look and feel
• You take lots of portraits, street shots, and landscapes where sensor size and image rendering matter
• You want more natural high ISO performance for low-light stills
• You appreciate tactile dials and a big, bright articulated touchscreen
• You want reliable autofocus suitable for casual wildlife and moderate action sports
• You are okay with slightly bulkier gear for better handling
• Your budget hovers around $700, with room to invest in Fujifilm’s excellent lens ecosystem

Why Opt for the Panasonic Lumix G100?

• You’re a content creator or vlogger seeking superior audio recording and handy movie mode features
• Compact size and lighter weight rank high on your priorities for travel and street shooting
• You like a slightly faster burst rate and are flexible with slower contrast AF
• Desire a massive lens lineup with more specialty and affordable options
• You need focus stacking and post-focus abilities for macro and creative shooting
• Your budget is about the same but you want extra video-centric features included

Final Thoughts: Buying Tips and Practical Advice

• Try before you buy: If possible, handle both cameras in person. Grip and UI preferences are subjective and matter.
• Think about lenses early: The lens you pair with the body often impacts quality more than the sensor. Budget for your ideal glass.
• Consider your main use: Still photography? Go Fujifilm for a more versatile sensor and color science. Video-centric? Panasonic G100 delivers thoughtful features.
• Plan for battery life: Both cameras require spare batteries for extended shoots.
• If video is a priority: Panasonic G100’s microphone system and 4K photo mode are big favors to content creators.
• For still photographers: X-T200’s sharper sensor and better autofocus will be more satisfying.

In sum, both these cameras are worthy entry points into the mirrorless world, but your choice hinges on your artistic needs. For beautiful stills with a classic DSLR feel, I’d lean Fujifilm. For multimedia creators and vloggers on the go, Panasonic’s G100 is a compelling pick.

That wraps up my in-depth, hands-on comparison of the Fujifilm X-T200 vs. Panasonic Lumix G100. If you want to dive deeper or have questions about particular use cases, drop a comment below. Happy shooting!

Appendix: Key Technical Specs at a Glance

Thanks for reading this comparison. Now go make some great photos - and have a blast doing it!