Hasselblad’s X2D II 100C affords improved autofocus and world-beating stabilization

Hasselblad has launched the followup to its first 100MP medium-format camera with a brand new mannequin that improves on it in virtually each manner. The X2D II 100C guarantees higher picture high quality, a brighter show, 10-stop stabilization and up to date hybrid autofocus. As with all Hasselblad product, it is costly — however much less so than the earlier mannequin.

The unique X2D 100C took stunning images however lacked even fundamental expertise like steady autofocus. That is not the case. The X2D II 100C is the primary Hasselblad digital camera with AF-C phase-detect AF backed by AI algorithms and LiDAR help, lastly permitting burst capturing for movings topics (albeit at a low 3 fps). With these modifications, the brand new mannequin “quick and correct outcomes” with focus, particularly, in low gentle, which might be an enormous enchancment over the earlier mannequin.

On the similar time, Hasselblad is pushing the picture high quality envelope additional. The X2D II 100C is the primary medium-format digital camera to help true end-end-end HDR, which reduces overexposure, enhances spotlight retention and improves tonal depth for extra pure trying photographs. These can then be considered immediately on the show as HDR HEIF or Extremely HDR JPEG photographs. The up to date 100MP BSI sensor additionally delivers 16-bit RAW photographs and as much as 15.3 stops of dynamic vary, among the many highest of any digital camera accessible.

One other key change is the up to date 5-axis in-body stabilization system. It now delivers as much as 10 stops, greater than every other digital camera (Fujifilm’s GFX100 II affords 8 stops and a few Canon fashions go as much as 8.5 stops) — excellent for a high-resolution digital camera the place sharpness is vital. With the brand new system, Hasselblad claims you’ll be able to seize “hand-held lengthy exposures lasting a number of seconds with out a tripod” for additional inventive prospects.

The X2D II 100C weighs 7.5 p.c lower than the X2D 100C at round 730 grams with out a lens — not dangerous in any respect for a medium format digital camera. The grip has additionally been up to date with a textured floor to “improve consolation and management,” the corporate wrote.

Different updates embody a brand new 3.6-inch contact show with 1,400 nits of peak brightness that tilts 90 levels upward and 43 levels downward to make excessive and low angle capturing simpler. Hasselblad additionally included a 5D joystick to alter focus or function the menus, addressing an enormous consumer criticism concerning the X2D 100C. It comes with 1TB of built-in storage as earlier than — one thing virtually no different mirrorless digital camera affords — together with a CFexpress Sort B slot (as earlier than, there is no help for video). Lastly, Hasselblad launched a brand new app, Phocus Cellular 2, that permits customers to remotely management the digital camera, switch photographs and even edit them.

As for the value, it is much less stunning than you might count on. The Hasselblad X2D II 100C is now on sale for $7,399, $800 lower than the X2D 100C at launch and (maybe strategically) $100 lower than rival Fujifilm’s GFX100 II was at launch.

Hasselblad additionally launched a brand new zoom lens, the XCD 2.8-4 35-100E (28-76mm full-frame equal). It guarantees “top-tier” optical efficiency and the quickest stepping motor in its XCD lens lineup, together with management rings for shutter velocity, aperture and extra. Like all Hasselblad lenses, it incorporates a leaf shutter that permits for as much as 1/4000th flash sync speeds for simpler use of fill gentle in vibrant circumstances. The XCD 2.8-4 35-100E is now accessible for $4,599.

Lastly, the corporate launched the $469 Hasselblad-branded Vandra 20-liter backpack that can enable you flaunt the model identify even when the digital camera’s tucked away. It will probably maintain an X2D II 100C physique, two lenses and equipment. Lastly, Hasselblad unveiled three new 86mm filters: a UV for $299, ND ($329) and round polarizer (CPL) for $559. Ouch.