Hasselblad Takes On FujiFilm with Cheaper, Faster Medium Format Camera

Iconic camera maker Hasselblad has announced a new medium format mirrorless camera with a larger touchscreen, higher resolution viewfinder, and improved performance.

The X1D II will retail for US$5,750, significantly less than the launch price for the original X1D and only slightly more than Fujifilm’s GFX range of medium format cameras.

The updated X1D II camera features a 50MP sensor, a 3.6-inch touchscreen with a faster refresh rate, as well as a higher resolution 3.69 million dot electronic viewfinder with 0.87x magnification.

According to Hasselblad, the start-up time on the X1D II has been reduced by 46 per cent, continuous shooting has been sped up by 35 per cent, and the live view frame rate has been increased by 62 per cent.

The OLED electronic viewfinder now boasts 55 per cent more pixels and a larger magnification than before.

Hasselblad has also added the ability to shoot tethered to iPad Pro models with USB-C, a first for a medium format camera.

The company’s app allows for wireless transfers, remote camera control, and the ability to export full/half resolution JPEGs and full resolution RAW files.

Hasselblad also announced a new XCD 35-75mm zoom lens, Phocus Mobile 2, a new CFV 50C digital back, and 907X camera body.

The camera will go on sale overseas next month, but local pricing and availability are yet to be announced.