Review: Fujifilm X half Compact Camera

Since its launch, the Fujifilm X half has raised a few eyebrows. Some photographers see it as a bit of a gimmick, and others have written it off entirely. But has it been misunderstood?

This compact digital camera is designed to capture the fun, spontaneity and aesthetic quirks of disposable film, without the cost or hassle of developing it. To see what it’s really like, MPB’s Amy Moore took the Fujifilm X half on a trip around East Sussex and used it the way it’s supposed to be used: enjoying the moment and focusing on the joy of photography rather than technical perfection.

Weighing 240 grams, the X half is light, playful and nostalgic. It’s designed for younger users, casual creators or anyone who wants to take photos without overthinking every setting. The X half takes the simplicity of the retro-styled Fujifilm X100 series and its rivals, like the Nikon Zf, and pushes ease-of-use even further. With stripped-back controls, a 1-inch sensor, and plenty of charm, is it just a pretty face, or something refreshingly different? Let’s take a closer look.

Fujifilm X half Specs

Pros

• Fun, nostalgic shooting experience mimics disposable cameras

• Film mode with winding lever adds physical interaction

• Lightweight and portable (240g)

• 10 film simulations and more filters

• Vertical sensor optimized for social sharing

• Diptych mode lets you create two-in-one photo pairings

• Reliable WiFi app that makes file transfer and film ‘development’ smooth

• Connects to Instax printers

Cons 

• JPEG only; no RAW shooting

• No continuous autofocus; limited face/eye autofocus control

• Poor low-light performance

• No viewfinder or quick menu; touchscreen lags

• Build quality feels low 

• Not a practical everyday camera for quality-focused photographers

• 1-inch sensor, not a half-frame camera

Not A Half-Frame Camera

Despite the name, the Fujifilm X half isn't actually a half-frame analogue camera. Instead, it features a vertically mounted 1-inch CMOS sensor (13.3 x 8.8 mm) with a resolution of 17.74 megapixels.

The name is more about the ‘vibe’ than technical accuracy, a nod to the spirit of half-frame film. For other cameras that can replicate the experience of shooting on film, check out our best digital film-like cameras.

Despite what the name suggests, there’s no 72-shots-per-roll film logic here—just a digital sensor rotated to suit vertical framing.

The vertical sensor is one of the X half’s most distinctive features. It’s a first for Fujifilm and a move that shows just how far they’re willing to go to rethink digital photography for a younger, more social-first audience.

The camera is made to capture portrait-oriented images and shareable moments, and you have to turn the camera vertically if you want a landscape shot. Remembering to hold the X half the ‘right way up’ can take some getting used to.

Design and Handling

The Fujifilm X half makes a great first impression. It’s small, stylish and clearly designed with care. Everything about it feels thoughtful at first glance, from the retro look to the stripped-back controls. The X half makes you want to take photos with it. But, in practice, some photographers may find that the camera’s charm doesn’t quite carry through to the way it handles.

Looks and Feel

Visually, the Fujifilm X half is a showstopper. You can tell that design was a big focus here, and Fujifilm has got the look down. There’s a strong retro influence, with three color options: silver, charcoal silver and black. The minimalist layout and tactile buttons channel the small number of controls available on a classic point-and-shoot film camera.

Build and Handling

In your hands, though, things feel a little less convincing. It’s light and easy to carry around, but it doesn’t quite have the build quality that you might expect from a camera at that launch price. If only it could feel more like a vintage Voigtländer from the 1960s, something solid and thoughtfully made.

And while it looks that way, it actually feels a bit plasticky and lacks that weighty feel. This does, on the other hand, make it a perfect lightweight carry for day-to-day image creation.

Controls and Interaction

There’s a manual focus ring and some manual controls, but most of the X half’s settings are on the two small screens.  There’s no hot shoe (just a cold shoe, so no sync with the camera), no electronic viewfinder (optical only), and no image stabilisation.

Standout Features

One of the more charming touches is the ‘film advance’ lever. It looks like an old-school wind-on mechanism, and while it isn’t strictly necessary for the camera to function, it does come into play in Film camera mode (more on that later) and when creating diptychs (that too). It’s not the most premium-feeling lever, but it adds a bit of fun to the overall experience.

You don’t see this kind of thing often in the digital world. Only the Epson R-D1x has this — read our full Epson R-D1 review — so it’s refreshing to see that Fujifilm is doing something a little different.

Screen and Menus

The X half has a rear LCD monitor (for settings and reviewing your images) and a small touchscreen, which you can use to flick between film simulations. The screens bring some fun interactivity, though their responsiveness leaves a bit to be desired. Still, they fit the theme: it’s more about enjoying the process than absolute precision.

Buttons and Controls

Speaking of buttons, there's only one: the play button. There's also a switch with two options: stills or video.

The X half does have an exposure compensation dial, but it’s basic and doesn’t offer much manual control. This keeps things simple, but more advanced users might miss the ability to fine-tune.

The Fujifilm X half prioritizes style over substance. It looks like a design classic, and for casual shooters or ‘aesthetic’ Instagram days out, that might be totally fine. But if you’re hoping for the tactile feel of an old-school rangefinder, you might be left wanting more.

Shooting Performance

Ready to shoot on film? Or pretend to? Push the switch to Film mode and mimic the analogue shooting experience. Before you begin, choose the number of exposures you want in your 'roll' from the main menu. You have three options: 36, 54 or 72 shots.

Once you’re in this mode, you won’t be able to review your images until the roll is complete and developed in the app. You can transfer them from your SD card to your computer. And you can also end a ‘roll’ early, but where’s the fun in that?

Tip: Remember to take the lens cap off and wind the lever after each shot. The camera won’t prompt you.

The X half's Film mode is great for mindfulness. It encourages you to slow down and think more intentionally about what you’re shooting. The downside? While the X half does have a number of built-in film simulations, it doesn’t support Fujifilm’s custom film recipes, which might be a letdown for avid Fujifilm fans.

Once your roll is finished, you can connect the camera to the Fujifilm XApp on your phone using the built-in camera WiFi. Your images will then appear as a digital contact sheet, which is a nice touch.

The Fujifilm XApp itself works well. It connects easily, and the ‘developing’ process is quick, which is a rare win in the world of camera companion apps.

Bonus feature: The 2-in-1 Diptych mode mimics that of a half-frame camera, putting two images side by side. It’s perfect for creating a visual narrative.

Autofocus

There’s no continuous autofocus on the X half. Eye autofocus is available, but it doesn’t offer continuous tracking or manual control. Overall, autofocus performance is limited, but the good news is it doesn’t get in the way of capturing portraits or everyday snaps.

Low Light Performance

This is another one of the camera’s weakest areas. The X half’s small LED flash only works at close range and lacks the crisp pop you’d get from flashguns.  The X half’s 1-inch sensor can’t capture as much light as APS-C (and larger) sensors, so it’s always going to struggle in low light.

Image Quality

The JPEG-only output and 1-inch sensor mean that you have less editing capability, so be wary of that. The quality of the images is fine for social media, but don’t expect sharp detail or dynamic range. Just expect the images you end up with to look closer to prints from a Fujifilm QuickSnap than those from a modern mirrorless.

Left: Amy Moore | Fujifilm X half | 10.8mm | f/7.1 | 1/800 | ISO 200 | Right: Amy Moore | Fujifilm X half | 10.8mm | f/7.1 | 1/950 | ISO 200

You can choose from 10 of the most popular film simulations: Provia, Velvia, Astia, Real Ace, Classic Chrome, Nostalgic Neg, Eterna, Across and Seia.

Tip: Adding light leaks, grain, and simulation filters can help mask any weaknesses.

Sample images

Video Capabilities

The button on the back of the camera allows you to switch to movie mode and film in up to 1080x1440 at 24p. Switching modes feels satisfying, but we wouldn’t say the video quality is up to scratch. There’s also a slow-motion option, too, though it’s hard to imagine it getting much use.

It’s clear this isn’t a camera for video-first creators, but the option is there if you just want to capture the occasional clip.

Is the Fujifilm X half Worth It?

If image quality and pro-level shooting are your bag, then the Fujifilm X half may not be the camera for you. But if you’re the photographer who can get bogged down with technicalities, it’s a gentle reminder that photography can be light-hearted. It can be nostalgic. It can be fun.

For those after more control or a step up in image quality, the Fujifilm X100 series is a more serious alternative. Check out our X100-series camera guide. For casual photographers, or any adult who’s tired of cameras always feeling so ‘serious’, the X half brings back something that’s often missing from photography: play.

We wish it felt as good as it looked. It may not be perfect, but it’s proof that photography doesn’t always have to be.

While you’re here, take a look at the best compact travel cameras and find your go-to companion for your next trip. Or, read more camera gear guides on the MPB Content Hub.