Noise about a new Hasselblad camera has been around for a while; however, recent speculation suggests we might finally see the Hasselblad X2D 100C in September, and it could boast some very impressive specs.
We have discussed what we would like to see in the next camera release from Hasselblad before. Now, more information about the next Medium Format camera from the company has come to light. According to a recent post on Photo Rumors, the Hasselblad X2D 100C could launch as soon as next month. As the name suggests, the Medium Format camera will likely boast a 100-megapixel sensor and IBIS, which would make the Hasselblad X2D 100C a rival to the Fujifilm GFX100S.
Hasselblad X2D 100C — What we know so far
As fantastic as Hasselblad are, and as much as the company is respected for what they have done for photography, its transition to mirrorless cameras hasn’t been smooth. For example, the Hasselblad X1D 50C was a groundbreaking camera when it came out. This camera set a new standard for design, but the performance of the beautifully designed camera was lackluster.
The X1D II 50C was, again, a stunning-looking camera. However, the autofocus system was light years behind offerings from Fujifilm, and it was also priced much higher. I have used the X1D II 50c many times. While I love the images I’ve produced with the camera, I have always been frustrated because of the overall performance.
By the sounds of the specs of the new Hasselblad X2D 100C, the issues with the autofocus system could become a thing of the past. If this is the case, Hasselblad will have a very compelling camera. Now, the specs we’re about to list aren’t confirmed. However, Photo Rumors seem reasonably confident of the information they have received.
Possible specs
According to Photo Rumor’s source, the Hasselblad X2D 100C will feature a 100-megapixel sensor. In addition, the new camera will also feature an adjustable LCD and enhanced Live View modes. Trust me when I say Live View on previous Hasselblad cameras was pretty poor. So, any improvement here will be welcomed.
Apart from the new sensor, the most significant performance improvement will come via an improved autofocus system. Whether or not it will be a hybrid phase/contrast system remains to be seen. Still, we hope that this is the case. The Hasselblad X2D 100C will also feature IBIS, which as well all know, is incredibly hard to implement on larger sensors. Hasselblad will also implement a top LCD panel, which should compliment the rear LCD nicely. Let’s also not forget that in terms of user-friendliness, Hasselblad takes the crown so far. System menus and the touch interface in Hasselblad mirrorless cameras are second to none.
Regarding pricing, the Hasselblad X2D 100c could launch at roughly $8,000. This price will put a $2,000 premium on this camera over the Fujifilm GFX100S. However, I can guarantee that the build quality of the Hasselblad will far exceed the Fujifilm GFX100S. Anyone who has ever used a Hasselblad camera can tell you it’s an experience. Hopefully, the feeling you get from using a Hasselblad camera will transition into the new camera.
The stakes are high
One thing for sure is that Hasselblad needs to get the X2D 100C right. Fujifilm rocked Hasselblads’ world when they entered the Medium Format market. Since then, Hasselblad has been playing catch-up. Not only do Fujifilm Medium Format cameras hit all of the right notes regarding performance, but they also hit the sweet spot when it comes to price.
Hasselblad needs to ensure that the X2D 100C can compete with the performance of cameras like the Fujifilm GFX 50S II and the GFX 100S, and they need to ensure that the user experience is there too. Then, the premium price that comes with Hasselblad cameras will be warranted. We’re very excited about this potential new camera, though, and we hope we can get one in our hands when and if it launches.
What do you want to see in a new mirrorless camera from Hasselblad? How do you feel about the possible price of $8,000? Let us know in the comment section below.
I am an amateur. It is a hobby which I take serious – but given the camera, a Nikon D800, with multiple lens and software, such as Topaz’s DeNoise, Sharpen , and GigaPixel, that I have an $8,000 camera, sans lens, will not improve the images I capable of capturing.
That is not to take anything away from Hasselblad if you can afford it, professional or not.
Have you ever touched a Hasselblad? Have you ever seen photos made by a Hasselblad? This has nothing to do with Nikon etc. It’s in a different league. That’s what you are paying for ;)
I have the X1D II (2019) and the 907X (2020) and the full range of Hasselblad X series lenses. I also have the film based 500 C/M. Taking a picture with a say a 90 mm lens, equivalent to a full frame equivalency of about 71mm allows you in the worlds of photographer Hugh Brownstone “crop the crap out of it” and still have a terrific photograph. I am hobbyist. My previous camera, besides a series of iPhone models was a Nikon D80. Before than, an Olympus from 2000. Before that, a Yeshiva FX2 film camera. Before that, an Instamatic.… Read more »
Price of 8,000. Is way to high!!
I disagree. What you’re paying for here is build quality. These cameras are not mass-produced lumps of plastic. They’re expertly crafted tools made from solid blocks of aluminum.
Really..”far exceed the build quality” of the Fuji?? Qualitative evidence of that required? It’s Hasselblad that turned to Fuji to manufacture their lenses for their HD 645 series years ago. I don’t think that has changed and the lens looks “very Fuji” which is a good thing.
100mp…not so ambitious? 5×4 is equivalent to 300-400mp and I can exceed 100mp equivalent on my 1967 Mamiya Press/Super 23 (and get close on 66).. albeit including the film grain!
Yes, really. I’m sorry, but the GFX100 and any other GFX cameras cannot compete build quality-wise with a camera that’s precision engineered and made from a solid block of aluminum. Despite their performance issues, the Hasselblad X1D and X1D II are still works of art. Holding one, using one, it’s an experience that should not be missed.
“Made of solid block of aluminum” is hardly impressive as it is a rather common methodology across a number of industries including consumer goods. But yes, still and strangely it has a certain “wow” impact on general public suggesting for it to be both expensive, rare and exotic. Of course Hasselblad offers a long history, established branding and iconic design which is more known in their legacy pre-Chinese products. Interestingly, the V series if taken apart exposes rather crude mechanical solutions if compared with i.e. Japanese products of the same period…it’s wise to keep in mind that as attractive as… Read more »
I will be interested in the comparison to a Leica S3. In terms of quality, Leica and Hasselblad are the same, or am I wrong?
Build quality-wise, I would say Leica and Hasselblad are the best and equal. Picture quality-wise, that’s highly subjective. I prefer the tones and colors from Leica cameras, but again, that’s just me. Everyone likes different things when it comes to image rendering.
All the comments here are talking about value and price. TBH, I think if price/ value/ bang-for-the-buck is a primary factor for someone, then they simply shouldn’t consider Hasselblad. I mean, is a $150,000k Vacheron Constantin any more accurate than a $150 Seiko? Does a $1000 Mont Blanc write any better than a $3 Pentel? Does a $50,000 diamond ring reflect light that much better or is so much more beautiful than a $50 cubic zirconia? No, no, and no… If you are comparing pricing, there’s really no point having this conversation. I think technology is really as far as… Read more »
True words spoken, Edward!
I’d go for it if X2D is of the same form-factor as the X1D. Coupled with the 45mm f/4P pancake lens it would be a nice travel camera. 8K would be a good price as compared to my M11 which costs around the same. Some said you can buy Nikon glass and bodies and what not with 8K… well, I have the Nikon Z9 too. While it’s fast and convenient, the photo from the Leica lens and color science behind the sensor is on a different level. The Z9 looks tack sharp, contrasty, saturated but it feels “2D” even with… Read more »