The Fujifilm X-Pro2, released in 2016, is a rangefinder-style mirrorless camera. Eight years after its release, in 2025, this camera continues to be beloved by many photographers, particularly street photographers. With its unique hybrid viewfinder, excellent image quality, and classic design, the X-Pro2 holds a special place in today’s digital camera market. In this review, we’ll examine the X-Pro2’s key features, pros and cons, and its value from a 2025 perspective.
๐ Fujifilm X-Pro2 Key Specifications
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Sensor | 24.3MP APS-C X-Trans CMOS III |
| Processor | X-Processor Pro |
| ISO Range | 200-12800 (expandable to 100-51200) |
| Continuous Shooting | Up to 8fps |
| Video | 1080/60p |
| Viewfinder | Hybrid Optical/Electronic (2.36M dots) |
| LCD | 3.0-inch 1.62M dots fixed |
| Weather Sealing | Yes |
| Weight | Approx. 495g (with battery) |
| Dimensions | 140.5 x 82.8 x 45.9 mm |
| Release Date | March 2016 |
๐จ Design and Ergonomics: The Essence of Classic
The Fujifilm X-Pro2’s design draws inspiration from traditional rangefinder cameras and has played a crucial role in strengthening the identity of Fujifilm’s X series.
Robust and Premium Body
The X-Pro2’s body is constructed from magnesium alloy, providing both durability and premium feel. Its simple black design continues to captivate photographers over time. Weather sealing allows for shooting in various environmental conditions.
Intuitive Control Layout
The shutter speed and exposure compensation dials on top provide an analog shooting experience in the digital age. This intuitive control method is highly appealing to many photographers.
Button Placement and Operability
The X-Pro2 features ergonomically researched button placement. The joystick on the back falls naturally under the thumb for intuitive AF point control. The shutter button’s stroke and pressure are designed to clearly distinguish between half-press focusing and full release, while surrounding Fn buttons have appropriate height and resistance to prevent accidental operation. The Q-menu and playback buttons are slightly recessed to prevent unintended activation while remaining easily accessible when needed.
Hybrid Viewfinder
One of the X-Pro2’s most distinctive features is its hybrid viewfinder. Users can switch between optical and electronic viewfinders to provide the optimal shooting experience for different situations, particularly advantageous in street photography.
Display and External Details
The 3-inch 1.62 million dot LCD features reinforced glass to prevent scratches and anti-reflective coating for improved outdoor visibility. The brushed finish on top and bottom plates, edge highlights on the sides, and precise logo and text engraving add to its value as a premium camera. The classic black body and special graphite edition color treatment show attractive aging effects over time.
๐ธ Image Quality: The Magic of X-Trans Sensor
The X-Pro2 delivers excellent image quality through its 24.3MP APS-C X-Trans CMOS III sensor.
X-Trans Sensor Characteristics
The X-Trans sensor uses a unique color filter array different from traditional Bayer patterns. This reduces moirรฉ effects and provides sharp detail while delivering excellent low-light performance.
Outstanding High ISO Performance
Offering a native ISO range of 200-12800, expandable to ISO 100-51200, the camera shows natural noise patterns even at high ISO settings, producing film-like textures particularly appealing in black and white photography.
Film Simulation
Through Fujifilm’s famous film simulation feature, users can digitally recreate the characteristics of classic films like Provia, Velvia, and Astia. This is one of the X-Pro2’s major attractions, allowing for attractive images straight out of camera when shooting JPEG.
๐ฅ Video Performance: Focus on Basics
The X-Pro2’s video capabilities are relatively limited compared to its still photography prowess.
1080/60p Recording
Capable of recording Full HD video at up to 60fps. While 4K recording isn’t supported, the quality is sufficient for general purposes.
Film Simulation Available
Film simulations can be applied during video recording, allowing for unique looks without post-processing.
Limited Video Features
As the X-Pro2 is primarily focused on still photography, video features remain at a basic level. It may not be suitable for professional video production.
๐ Autofocus and Performance: Accurate and Reliable System
The X-Pro2’s autofocus system shows significant improvements over previous models.
273-Point Hybrid AF System
Provides 273 AF points including phase-detection points. This covers a wide area and enables quick and accurate focusing.
Enhanced Tracking Performance
Improved tracking performance for moving subjects makes it useful for street photography and everyday snapshots.
Manual Focus Assist Features
Offers focus peaking and digital split image features for accurate manual focus confirmation.
๐ Battery Performance and Connectivity: Practical Focus
The Fujifilm X-Pro2 provides adequate battery performance and various connection options.
Battery Performance
Using the NP-W126S lithium-ion battery, it can capture approximately 350 images per charge. While sufficient for normal use, spare batteries are recommended for extended shooting sessions.
Connection Options
- USB 2.0 port
- Micro HDMI output
- 2.5mm microphone input jack
- Built-in Wi-Fi
Wi-Fi connectivity enables photo transfer to smartphones or tablets and remote shooting capabilities.
๐ก User Experience: Strengths and Areas for Improvement
Extended use of the X-Pro2 reveals several distinct advantages and limitations.
Advantages
- Excellent Image Quality: Produces sharp and natural images through the X-Trans sensor
- Classic Design and Operation: Rangefinder-style design and analog controls enhance shooting enjoyment
- Hybrid Viewfinder: Flexibility to use both optical and electronic viewfinders for different shooting situations
- Superior Weather Sealing: Reliable performance in adverse weather and dusty conditions
- Film Simulation: Creative expression through Fujifilm’s unique color processing and various film simulation options
Areas for Improvement
- Limited Video Features: Lacks 4K recording and advanced video capabilities by modern standards
- Fixed LCD Screen: Non-tilting LCD makes shooting from certain angles challenging
- Battery Life: Relatively quick battery consumption typical of mirrorless cameras
- High Initial Learning Curve: Unique operation method and menu structure may require adaptation time for beginners
๐ Comparison with Competitors
Let’s compare the X-Pro2 with similarly priced competitors.
1. Sony A7 III
- Advantages:
- Superior low-light performance and shallow depth of field with full-frame sensor
- Professional video features including unlimited 4K 30p recording and S-Log3 support
- Fast and accurate autofocus with 693 phase-detection points
- Wider native ISO range (100-51200)
- Latest Real-time Eye AF and Animal Eye AF support
- Disadvantages:
- Larger size and weight reducing portability
- Lacks X-Pro2’s unique hybrid viewfinder
- Complex menu system and less intuitive interface
- Color science relatively inferior to Fujifilm
2. Fujifilm X-T3
- Advantages:
- Fast continuous shooting up to 30fps (1.25x crop)
- 4K 60p recording and 10-bit internal recording support
- Three-axis tilt screen for versatile angle shooting
- Improved resolution and noise handling with X-Trans CMOS 4 sensor
- Superior tracking performance with 425-point phase-detection AF
- Disadvantages:
- Lacks rangefinder-style classic design
- No optical viewfinder for unique shooting experience
- Relatively larger body size
- Less robust grip compared to X-Pro2
3. Leica Q2
- Advantages:
- Excellent resolution with 47.3MP full-frame sensor
- Superior optical performance with Summilux 28mm f/1.7 ASPH
- IP52-rated weather sealing
- Premium brand value and high-quality finish
- Sharp 3.68M-dot OLED viewfinder
- Disadvantages:
- Price 2-3 times higher than X-Pro2
- Limited versatility with fixed 28mm lens
- Heavy weight and large body
- Limited customization options
4. Nikon Z6
- Advantages:
- Excellent dynamic range with full-frame BSI CMOS sensor
- Effective 5-axis IBIS
- N-Log support and ProRes RAW external output
- Robust durability and weather sealing
- Disadvantages:
- Single XQD/CFexpress card slot
- Relatively poor battery life
- Limited Z-mount lens lineup
- Complex menu structure
X-Pro2’s Differentiating Points
The X-Pro2 offers several unique strengths compared to these competitors:
- Shooting Experience:
- Unique shooting experience through hybrid viewfinder
- Classic rangefinder-style operation
- Intuitive dial-based controls
- Image Quality:
- Fujifilm’s distinctive film simulations
- Unique color reproduction of X-Trans sensor
- Excellent straight-out-of-camera JPEG quality
- Practicality:
- Compact size and appropriate weight
- Robust durability and reliability
- Dual SD card slots
However, it shows some limitations compared to competitors:
- Limited video capabilities compared to newer models
- Relatively slow continuous shooting speed
- Lack of tilting screen
- Relatively inferior AF performance
๐๏ธ Real-World Scenarios
Street Photography
The X-Pro2 is optimized for street photography. The hybrid viewfinder allows maintaining connection with subjects while enabling precise framing. The quiet shutter and relatively small body provide advantages for unobtrusive shooting.
Travel Photography
Weather sealing and robust body construction enable shooting in various environments. Film simulation features allow for attractive travel photos straight out of camera, eliminating the need for post-processing.
Everyday Snapshots
The compact size and intuitive controls make it easy to capture everyday moments. Wi-Fi functionality enables convenient sharing to social media via smartphone transfer.
๐ง Recommended Lenses and Accessories
Here are recommended lenses and accessories to maximize the X-Pro2’s potential.
Recommended Lenses
- XF 23mm f/2 R WR: Ideal for street photography with its compact size and fast AF performance
- XF 35mm f/1.4 R: The famous “magic lens” known for sharp image quality and beautiful bokeh
- XF 16-55mm f/2.8 R LM WR: High-performance zoom lens covering various focal lengths
Recommended Accessories
- Hand Grip MHG-XPRO2: Provides more stable handling
- Leather Case BLC-XPRO2: Genuine leather case combining protection and style
- Additional Battery NP-W126S: Essential for extended shooting sessions
๐ Conclusion: Who is the X-Pro2 For?
The Fujifilm X-Pro2 remains an attractive camera in 2025. It’s particularly suitable for:
- Street photographers
- Users who prefer classic design and analog-style controls
- Photographers who appreciate Fujifilm’s color science and film simulations
- Those seeking the unique hybrid viewfinder experience
- Users wanting high-quality JPEG output
However, it might be limiting for:
- Videographers needing 4K video and advanced video features
- Users wanting the latest technology and features
- Photographers requiring a tilting screen
Overall, the X-Pro2 continues to be loved by many photographers for its unique shooting experience, excellent image quality, and classic design. It’s particularly recommended for street photographers and those who enjoy everyday snapshot photography.
Available in the used market for around $400-600 as of 2025, the X-Pro2 offers excellent value compared to newer models. It remains an attractive choice for photographers who prioritize the essence and enjoyment of photography over the latest technology.
Rating 8.5 out of 10, this camera will be a special tool for photographers seeking analog essence in the digital age. The Fujifilm X-Pro2 continues to establish itself as a timeless classic digital camera that maintains its value even in 2025.
