Fujifilm X100F vs Sony RX1R II: A Hands-On Comparison of Two Iconic Large-Sensor Compacts

When I first held the Fujifilm X100F and Sony RX1R II side by side, I was instantly reminded how powerful - yet intimate - large sensor compacts can be. These two cameras are dream tools for photographers who crave unparalleled image quality wrapped in a compact form, each representing a distinct philosophy: the Fuji with its classic rangefinder styling and hybrid viewfinder, and the Sony with its full-frame sensor packed into a deceptively small body. Over the years, I’ve tested thousands of cameras across genres, and in this detailed comparison, I want to break down the real-world strengths, weaknesses, and nuances that these two flagship fixed-lens compacts can bring to your photography.

Let’s dive deep into their design, sensor performance, autofocus, handling, and then explore how they perform across key photography disciplines - with practical insights you can only get from extensive hands-on experience.

At a Glance: Feel and Ergonomics

Right out of the gate, size and ergonomics set these cameras apart in subtle but meaningful ways. The Fujifilm X100F is remarkably compact but a bit chunkier compared to the RX1R II, which is slightly smaller but thicker due to its full frame and integrated lens.

Holding the X100F, I immediately appreciate its robust grip that fits comfortably in my hand, letting me shoot one-handed for longer sessions without fatigue. The RX1R II, while more pocketable, asks for a bit more deliberate grip technique because of its flat top plate and smaller grip. That said, the RX1R II feels impeccably solid in hand - its all-metal body exudes a premium heft that's reassuring, especially for professionals.

When comparing top controls, Fuji’s commitment to tactile dials gives it an edge for intuitive exposure control on the fly. The Sony takes a more streamlined, minimalist approach.

The X100F sports dedicated shutter speed, ISO, and exposure compensation dials, allowing me instant manual control without diving into menus. The RX1R II uses more multifunction buttons with fewer tactile dials, which feels less immediate, especially in dynamic shooting scenarios where time is critical.

Sensor and Image Quality: APS-C vs Full Frame

This comparison hinges largely on sensor size and capabilities, so let's look closely.

The X100F packs a 24MP APS-C X-Trans III CMOS sensor, a Fuji hallmark known for exquisite color rendering and high microcontrast. Despite its smaller physical size (23.6x15.6mm), the X-Trans filter array gives it a unique edge in suppressing moiré without the anti-aliasing filter.

Conversely, the Sony RX1R II boasts a massive 42MP full-frame BSI-CMOS sensor (35.9x24mm). This sensor not only offers higher resolution but also superb dynamic range that extends up to 13.9 stops (DXO mark), and excellent low-light performance with ISO up to 102,400 boost. That sensor nearly doubles the surface area capturing light compared to Fuji’s APS-C, translating into more detail and better noise control in shadows and highlights.

In practical shooting, I found the RX1R II’s images had incredible clarity and subtle tonal gradations unmatched in the X100F’s files. But Fuji’s APS-C sensor is no slouch - it produces vibrant, film-like colors with remarkable sharpness, especially at street-worthy ISO levels (200-3200).

Autofocus: Speed, Accuracy, and Tracking

Neither camera is intended as a sports autofocus monster, but autofocus performance is still crucial for many scenarios.

The Fujifilm X100F has 325 AF points using a hybrid system - phase and contrast detection. It supports face detection but lacks animal eye AF or highly sophisticated tracking modes. I often found its autofocus speed quick and accurate in good light. However, it occasionally hunting in challenging low-light or fast-moving subjects.

The Sony RX1R II offers only 25 focus points clustered around the center, but these are hybrid AF points that include phase detection. This significantly slows continuous autofocus tracking performance, with a peak continuous shooting rate of 5 fps. The RX1R II’s autofocus is best suited for deliberate single shots rather than action.

Although the RX1R II supports face detection, its autofocus is generally less flexible than Fuji’s for dynamic subjects. In wildlife or sports, neither camera excels, but Fuji’s 8 fps burst and more extensive focus points give it a practical edge for moderate action work.

Viewfinder and LCD Screen: The Shooter’s Interface

A camera is only as good as its user interface and viewfinder, especially when light conditions vary wildly.

Fuji’s hybrid viewfinder is more than a quaint feature - it is arguably one of the best in any compact. You can switch between optical and electronic views or overlay focusing data, which I found tremendously valuable shooting street or documentary. Its optical finder offers a classic rangefinder experience, aiding composition and situational awareness.

The RX1R II sports a high-resolution electronic viewfinder with 100% coverage and excellent brightness, but no optical option.

Both have 3-inch rear screens, but Fuji’s fixed 1040k-dot display is well calibrated and viewable in sunlight, albeit non-touch. Sony’s tilting 1229k-dot LCD gives more shooting angles, though it lacks touch capability as well. In low light, the OLED EVF of the Sony shines bright and noise-free, offering detailed image previews.

From an interface standpoint, Fuji’s tangible dials and menus geared toward photographers make it faster to set exposure and focus options than Sony’s more minimalist menus.

Lens Characteristics: Fixed 35mm with Different Sensors

Both cameras feature a fixed 35mm equivalent lens with a bright f/2.0 aperture, but lens design and sensor crop produce different results.

The Fuji X100F’s lens is a 23mm f/2.0 (35mm equivalent on APS-C), renowned for sharpness and beautiful bokeh. Its 1.5x crop factor gives a slightly tighter field of view, which I personally favor for portraits and street scenes. However, its close focus capabilities are standard, with no macro-specific features.

The Sony RX1R II’s 35mm f/2.0 Zeiss lens is a marvel. Fully optimized for its full-frame sensor, it delivers superb corner-to-corner sharpness and pleasing, smooth bokeh. The RX1R II also boasts a minimum focus distance of 14cm, making close-up shots and macro-like images easier to capture - something that Fuji lacks.

Continuous Shooting and Buffering

For photographers interested in action or fleeting moments, burst speed and buffer depth are important.

The Fuji X100F impresses with 8 fps continuous shooting, supporting decent buffer depth that accommodates about 23 RAW frames before slowing. This is solid for a camera in this class.

Sony RX1R II offers a more modest 5 fps burst, which in combination with a large RAW file size (due to 42MP) means the buffer fills faster, slowing sustained shooting. For deliberate, composed shooting, this is acceptable but less optimal for rapid-fire needs.

Build Quality and Weather Resistance

Both cameras carry sturdy metal chassis but lack official weather sealing.

Though the X100F doesn’t advertise environmental sealing, it feels robust enough to handle moderate use outdoors. The RX1R II is similarly solid but, given its premium price, some might expect weatherproofing that’s sadly absent.

Neither is intended as a rugged adventure camera but can handle occasional rain or dust if careful.

Battery Life and Storage

The Fuji X100F’s NP-W126S battery delivers about 390 shots per charge, which proved reliable during my day-long photo walks without spare batteries.

Sony’s RX1R II uses a smaller NP-BX1 battery, rated at around 220 shots per charge - significantly less than Fuji’s. For intense shooting, carrying extra batteries is essential.

Both cameras utilize a single SD card slot; Sony also supports Memory Stick Pro Duo cards. The lack of dual slots in both cameras may be a drawback for professionals requiring instant backup.

Connectivity and Extra Features

Connectivity is basic but practical on both.

Fuji’s built-in Wi-Fi allows for remote control and image transfer via smartphone - very handy for instant sharing or tethering during studio shoots.

Sony’s RX1R II, despite lacking Bluetooth, has NFC for quick pairing and also built-in Wi-Fi for similar functions, though its app ecosystem feels a bit fragmented in comparison.

Both offer microphone inputs for external audio when shooting video, an important feature for serious multimedia creators.

Video Capabilities: Functional but Not Primary

Neither was designed as video-centric tools, yet both cover essential video needs.

Fuji X100F records full HD 1080p up to 60fps in H.264 format with basic stabilization. The absence of 4K video, 4K photo, or advanced video features, however, limits its appeal for hybrid shooters.

Sony RX1R II also offers 1080p video, with additional 120fps slo-mo in HD (720p). Its codec options (AVCHD, XAVC S) provide higher quality capture than Fuji’s, though neither is ideal for professional video work.

Neither camera includes in-body image stabilization, so steady handheld video requires care or external gimbals.

Real-World Performance Across Photography Disciplines

Let me walk you through how these cameras fare in practical scenarios that matter most to photographers:

Portrait Photography: Rendering Skin and Bokeh

The RX1R II’s full-frame sensor offers richer tonality and superior depth of field control, creating creamy, natural skin tones and graceful background separation. Paired with its razor-sharp Zeiss lens, I captured stunningly detailed portraits with smooth transitions from subject to background.

The Fuji’s APS-C sensor and unique color science lend a warm, filmic tone that’s extremely flattering for skin - especially in natural light. Its bokeh is smooth but less pronounced due to the smaller sensor crop. Its faster burst rate also helps catch fleeting expressions.

Both excel at face detection autofocus, but Fuji’s faster AF makes capturing spontaneous moments easier.

Landscape Photography: Dynamic Range and Detail

Sony’s sensor shines in landscape work, delivering superior dynamic range that gracefully handles deep shadows and bright highlights without clipping. The 42MP resolution means massive print potential and cropping latitude.

Fuji’s X-Trans sensor offers respectable dynamic range with good shadow recovery, especially using its film simulation modes that add artistic flair. Its fixed lens is sharp edge-to-edge, and the hybrid viewfinder aids in composing wide scenes.

For serious landscape shooters prioritizing maximum detail, the RX1R II edges ahead.

Wildlife Photography: Focus and Burst

Although neither is an ideal wildlife camera, Fuji’s higher frame rate (8 fps) and larger number of AF points provide better tracking chances than Sony’s 5 fps and limited 25-point AF system.

In practice, both struggle with fast-moving animals, but Fuji is more versatile in moderately active environments.

Sports Photography: Tracking and Low Light

Neither camera is tailored for sports. Fuji’s faster shutter and burst rate are small advantages for capturing quick action, but limited autofocus tracking restricts usability.

Sony’s lower shooting speed and fewer AF points mean missed opportunities in fast-paced scenes.

For low-light sports, Fuji’s lower max sensitivity cap (ISO 12800 vs Sony’s 25600) limits shadow performance.

Street Photography: Discretion and Swift Operation

This is where Fujifilm’s heritage truly shines. The X100F’s hybrid viewfinder, mechanical dials, compact shape, and fast start-up make it a joy to use in candid moments.

Sony’s RX1R II is stealthy too, but the lack of physical dials and need to navigate menus slows reaction times.

Fuji’s autofocus reacts efficiently in tricky street conditions, and its lower weight helps with all-day carry.

Macro Photography: Close-Up Capabilities

Sony’s minimum focusing distance of 14cm allows for close macro work capturing fine detail with the sharp Zeiss lens.

The Fuji, lacking a true macro mode or close focusing below 10-20cm, is less suited for insect or extreme detail photography, limiting flexibility.

Night and Astro Photography: High ISO and Exposure Control

Sony’s superior high-ISO noise performance translates to cleaner astro shots and night scenes. Its 42MP sensor picks up subtle star details with minimal noise.

Fuji can manage respectable night shots but with more noise at elevated ISO.

Sample Images Showcase

I’ve included a comparative gallery shot in varied conditions revealing image character, sharpness, and tonal rendition of both:

Fujifilm X100F front Fujifilm X100F screen back Sony RX1R II front Sony RX1R II screen back

This set highlights Fuji’s classic film-like colors and smooth bokeh, while Sony delivers crisp details and extended tonal gradation.

Overall Performance Ratings and Value Assessment

Drawing from multiple metrics including image quality, handling, autofocus, and features, here are the overall ratings I assigned based on rigorous testing protocols:

As you can see, Sony excels in sheer image quality but trails in speed and ergonomics; Fuji offers balanced performance with tactile controls and faster operation at a more accessible price.

Category-Specific Scores for Targeted Photography Types

Breaking down strengths by photography genre provides tailored insight:

This visual guide highlights Fuji’s superiority in street and candid shooting, while Sony leads in studio portraits and landscapes.

Wrapping Up: Which Camera is Right For You?

After spending weeks with both cameras in diverse scenarios, here’s how I would recommend them based on user profile and photographic priorities.

Final Thoughts From My Experience

The Fujifilm X100F and Sony RX1R II both deliver a unique photographic experience that belies their compact size. The Fuji, with its classic handling and fast AF, offers a camera you can carry everywhere and trust instinctively. The Sony, though pricier and less versatile in autofocus, rewards with extraordinary image quality - particularly in portrait, landscape, and controlled settings.

When choosing between them, ask yourself what matters most: The spontaneity and speed of use, or the pinnacle of image quality with a cult classic full-frame sensor. Both cameras shine in the hands of photographers who appreciate fixed focal lengths and uncompromising design.

Whichever you pick, you’ll own a compact powerhouse capable of remarkable images - and I hope my insights help you make a confident choice.

Disclosure: I have no financial ties to Fuji or Sony and base all opinions here on in-depth, hands-on testing under varied conditions over several years.