FujiFilm X100V vs Leica X1: A Deep Dive into Two Classic Large Sensor Compacts

When it comes to large sensor compact cameras, enthusiasts often find themselves balancing tactile charm, image quality, and modern usability. Today, I’m putting two distinctly different but iconic models head-to-head: the FujiFilm X100V, announced in early 2020, and the Leica X1, an earlier pioneer from 2009. Both pack APS-C sensors paired with prime 35mm-equivalent lenses, catering to photographers who prize portability blended with image quality.

With over 15 years of hands-on experience testing cameras across genres, I know the devil - and beauty - lies in the details. Let’s break down how these two fare in everyday shooting, technical prowess, and the types of photographers they’re best suited for, with a thorough look at design, performance, and feature sets. Strap in, because this is more than a spec-sheet comparison; it’s a nuanced exploration aimed at helping you pick the right tool for your creative vision.

The First Impression: Size, Feel, and Control

Before touching on pixels and processors, handling cameras reveals much about the shooting experience. Fuji’s X100V has refined a formula renowned for its hybrid optical/electronic viewfinder and robust build, while Leica’s X1 carries forward classic minimalist Leica styling in a compact, lightweight chassis.

Size and Ergonomics

Physically, the X100V is noticeably chunkier - 128 x 75 x 53 mm weighing in at 478g - offering a more substantial grip and a top plate peppered with tactile dials and buttons. This translates to confident handling, especially in one-handed shooting or longer sessions. Leica’s X1, by comparison, is a trim 124 x 60 x 32 mm and featherweight at 306g, prioritizing pocketability and sleekness, but somewhat at the expense of grip security - something I constantly felt when hiking or walking through busy streets.

Flip the cameras around, and the X100V sports a 3-inch tilting, touch-enabled LCD with crisp 1620k-dot resolution, while the X1’s fixed 2.7-inch screen offers just 230k dots and no touch support. This tactile screen on the Fuji makes on-the-go adjustments and focus point selection smoother and faster, particularly in dynamic shooting environments.

Lastly, the X100V features both an electronic and optical (tunnel) hybrid viewfinder boasting 3690-dot resolution and 0.52x magnification, allowing photographers to switch between digital precision and a more traditional optical look. Leica X1, classically, dispenses with a viewfinder altogether (no built-in electronic or optical finder), compelling you to compose via the rear LCD, which is less ideal in bright light or for precise framing.

Behind the Glass: Sensor and Image Quality

Now, let's dig into the heart of image creation - the sensor and lens combo - where real-world performance matters most.

Sensor Technology & Resolution

Both cameras wield APS-C sensors roughly 23.5 x 15.6 mm in size, but the X100V’s sensor edges out in resolution at 26MP compared to the X1’s 12MP sensor. This doubling in pixel count not only offers more cropping flexibility but also unlocks finer detail rendition critical for landscape or portraiture work.

The X100V’s sensor is a more modern back-illuminated CMOS type with no anti-aliasing filter, lending it fine detail capture and sharper images at base ISOs. Leica’s X1 sensor is an older generation CMOS with an anti-aliasing filter to reduce moiré but at a slight trade-off in crispness.

Dynamic range and high ISO performance also tilt heavily to Fuji’s advantage. The X100V can push ISO sensitivity up to 51200, with clean image quality up to ISO 12800 in my experience, making it well-suited for low-light scenarios or night photography. The Leica peaks at ISO 3200, beyond which noise escalates relatively quickly.

Lens and Aperture

Both cameras share a signature fixed 35mm equivalent lens, favored for versatility - portraits, street, and landscapes alike. Fuji’s bright f/2.0 maximum aperture aperture allows for shallower depth of field and better low-light performance compared to Leica’s f/2.8 lens, which feels a little more limited especially when aiming for creamy bokeh or faster shutter speeds in dim environments.

Note also that the Leica’s minimum focusing distance is 30cm, granting modest macro capability, unlike the Fuji, which doesn’t specify true macro focus but still manages decent close-ups given its design.

Controls and User Interface: How It Feels to Shoot

The best camera is one that feels like an extension of your vision. Fuji and Leica represent contrasting philosophies here.

The X100V is an enthusiast’s dream for direct manipulation: dedicated dials for shutter speed, exposure compensation, and aperture ring on the lens barrel, paired with a well-laid-out top plate. For my workflow, this means immediate confidence - no fiddling through menus when the decisive moment unfolds.

Leica’s X1, on the other hand, adopts a simpler control scheme with fewer external dials and a more button-driven process. It requires menu diving for some adjustments, which slows workflow. If you prioritize quick manual control, Fuji wins hands down.

In terms of focusing, the X100V has a hybrid phase and contrast detection system with 425 autofocus points, supporting face detection and continuous tracking - vital for erratic subjects like street or wildlife. Leica’s contrast-only AF with 11 points and no continuous autofocus means slower acquisition and less reliability in fast or unpredictable scenarios.

Viewing Experience: The Rear Screen and Electronic Viewfinder

Composing your shot is fundamental, so let’s talk about how each camera aids visual framing.

Fuji’s 3-inch tilting touchscreen is not just for selfies (though not selfie-friendly as there's no front screen flip), but a versatile tool for shooting from high or low angles. The resolution is crisp and responsive, enabling quick AF point relocation by tap, and easy access to settings.

Leica’s fixed, low-resolution screen is serviceable but less impressive; it doesn't tilt or support touch. In bright sunlight, I found it challenging to judge exposure or focus accurately, affecting shooting confidence.

The X100V also boasts a hybrid viewfinder - a rare gem combining optical clarity and electronic preview overlays. I often switched to the optical tunnel for immersion or the electronic mode for critical detail checking. Leica’s lack of any built-in viewfinder nudges you toward adding an external solution, which adds bulk and cost.

Autofocus, Shooting Speed, and Burst Performance

Whether you’re capturing fleeting street moments or tracing kinetic sports action, autofocus and frame rates matter.

Fuji’s X100V shoots up to 11fps in continuous mode with full autofocus tracking - impressive for this class. Its hybrid AF system rapidly locks and keeps focus on faces and even some animals (animal AF is absent, but face detection is effective).

Leica’s X1 tops out at a pedestrian 3fps, with a much slower and less reliable AF system. It’s perfectly suited for composed shots and deliberate shooting but struggles with spontaneous action or wildlife.

This performance gap reflects sensor generation differences and processing muscle - Fuji’s X-Processor Pro 4 is notably modern and efficient versus the essentially single-core design in Leica’s era.

Image Stabilization and Low Light Handling

Neither camera features in-body image stabilization, which is a bit of a drawback for handheld shooting in dim conditions. Fuji’s faster lens and higher native ISO compensations somewhat level the playing field here.

In low light, the X100V exhibits cleaner noise profiles and better detail at high ISO settings compared to the X1. When I tested indoor scenes with mixed lighting, Fuji’s images retained colors and contrast more faithfully, and the electronic shutter allowed shutter speeds up to 1/32000s, helping avoid blur from movement or maximize aperture use in daylight.

Leica’s shutter tops out at 1/2000s and, lacking electronic shutter modes, restricts flexibility somewhat.

Weather Resistance and Build Quality

If you travel, shoot outdoors, or often brave inclement conditions, weather sealing is crucial.

The X100V boasts weather resistance (dust and moisture) when paired with the optional adapter, whereas the Leica X1 has no environmental sealing. Fuji’s rugged magnesium alloy body confidently withstands tough use, while Leica’s lighter, more delicate plastic-and-metal composite feels less suited to rough handling.

If you’re hiking or shooting nature landscapes in variable climates, this Fuji advantage is significant.

Video Capabilities

Both cameras are primarily still shooters, but Fuji extends modest video support.

The X100V shoots 4K up to 30p and Full HD up to 120p, with decent video encoding and an external microphone input - welcome for casual hybrid shooters wanting quality video without lugging a separate device.

Leica X1 offers no video recording. For anyone with multimedia ambitions, Fuji is the clear winner.

Connectivity and Workflow

Fuji includes built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth for remote control and image transfer - conveniences in today’s connected world. Leica has no wireless options.

Storage-wise, both accept SD cards (Fuji supports UHS-I), but Fuji’s USB 3.1 port offers faster tethered transfers and battery charging. Leica uses the slower USB 2.0 and has no official battery life rating available.

Real-World Shooting Across Genres

How do these specs translate in photography types you care about?

Fujifilm X100V front Fujifilm X100V screen back Leica X1 screen back

Portraits:
Fuji’s 26MP sensor captures skin tones with exquisite detail and color gradation. The f/2 lens produces attractive subject isolation and creamy bokeh. Eye detection AF helps keep portraits crisp and engaging. Leica’s X1, with a slower f/2.8 lens and lower resolution, yields softer results and less background separation, suitable for casual portraits but not professional headshots.

Landscapes:
Fuji’s higher resolution and wider dynamic range provide more latitude in post-processing, preserving highlight and shadow detail in scenes. Weather resistance adds peace of mind outdoors. Leica’s images are pleasant but lack the same punch or cropping margin.

Wildlife:
The Fuji’s fast AF and 11fps burst allow for reasonable wildlife captures, albeit with its fixed lens limiting reach. Leica’s slower AF and frame rate make it mostly unsuitable for any fast-moving animals.

Sports:
Similar story - Fuji manages light action well, Leica struggles.

Street Photography:
Leica’s compactness and discreet appearance appeal here, but Fuji’s hybrid viewfinder and faster AF create more reliable snaps in diverse lighting and quick moments. I personally prefer the handling and control layout of the Fuji for urban shots.

Macro:
Leica edges slightly here with 30cm close focus ability; Fuji doesn’t officially support macro but close framing is feasible.

Night/Astro:
Fuji’s high ISO and electronic shutter, plus better dynamic range, serve astrophotographers and street shooters after dark much better than Leica’s older sensor and smaller sensitivity range.

Video:
Fuji only.

Travel:
Fuji’s weather resistance, better battery life (around 420 shots vs Leica’s unknown but presumably shorter), and wireless connectivity favor it heavily for travel. Leica’s smaller size shines for ultralight packing but with compromises.

Professional Work:
Fujifilm offers raw support, tethering, and a robust lens ecosystem (via Fuji’s interchangeable lens system if expandability is ever desired). Leica’s limited functionality and dated connectivity reduce its professional use case.

Scoring the Cameras’ Performance Holistically

When I rate cameras, I weigh sensor/image quality, autofocus, build, handling, features, and value. Fuji’s X100V scores high for modern hybrid compacts, whereas Leica’s X1 reflects its era’s compromises.

Specialized Use-Case Scores

Not all cameras serve all disciplines equally, so here are ratings by photography categories based on extended testing:

• Portrait: Fuji clearly excels
• Street: Neck and neck, but Fuji’s AF and EVF give an edge
• Landscape: Fuji leads due to DR and resolution
• Wildlife/Sports: Fuji dominant due to AF and frame rate
• Macro: Leica slightly better focus distance but limited by other factors
• Night/Astro: Fuji vastly better
• Video: Fuji only

Price and Value Consideration

At launch, both hovered around $1400-$1500 - a premium compact bracket. The Leica’s current used market value varies widely but generally holds well due to branding and scarcity. Fuji’s newer tech and feature set offer more bang for your buck today, especially for enthusiasts craving versatility.

What to Pick? My Recommendations Based on Your Needs

• If you want a modern, versatile compact that handles portraits, street, travel, night, and video well: The Fujifilm X100V is the clear choice. It suits enthusiasts and pros who want intuitive control, cutting-edge sensor performance, and whetted video features in one compact body.

• If you’re after a minimalist classic with timeless Leica design, focused on deliberate manual shooting and pure stills: The Leica X1 remains a beautiful, if dated, option - great for collectors or fans of analog-style photography. Just be aware of its slower AF, limited ISO, and absence of viewfinder.

• For street photographers craving stealth and simplicity: Both fit, but Fuji’s hybrid viewfinder and responsiveness win my vote for fast, decisive shooting.

• Travelers seeking rugged dependability combined with quality: Fuji again wins with weather resistance and battery life.

Final Thoughts: Classic Charm Versus Contemporary Power

Handling these cameras back-to-back confirms how technology shapes experience. The Leica X1 offers an unhurried, pure approach that some will adore. The FujiFilm X100V, on the other hand, satisfies a broader range of shooting conditions and creative ambitions with its potent sensor, superior controls, and thoughtful modern design.

Choosing between them depends on your style and priorities - but if you ask me personally, the FujiFilm X100V delivers superior real-world performance that will keep pace with your growing photographic challenges and artistic pursuits.

Thanks for joining me in this detailed comparison. For more hands-on reviews, sample images, and live tests, feel free to check out my full video review and sample galleries. Until next time, happy shooting!