The Printique photo book service offers a great option for whipping up a personal gift for a loved one or presenting your photography portfolio in its best light. It offers a wide range of pre-formatted themes, while allowing you all the flexibility you need to design a truly custom photo book from scratch.
If you’re just looking for quick and easy results, Printique’s photo books offer plenty of templates to choose from. Whether you’re looking for a clean and classy wedding photo book, a striking photography portfolio, or a photo album of your pet pupperino, there are a good number of options – although at 88 themes, its options are dwarfed by the more than 500 options listed by Mixbook. Just select a template and Printique will apply it to your whole project, then all you need to do is drag and drop your chosen snaps into the provided frames.
For those who want a little more customizability, Printique also provides layouts you can drag into individual pages and spreads in your photo book. From full-bleed images that span both pages to inset grids of thumbnail-size pics, these make it easy to include more variation in layouts and really adapt your book to fit your photos, rather than the other way around.
But what if you don’t want to color within the lines? What if you want to make a completely original photo book from scratch? Well there’s good news: building my own DIY Printique photo book was a snap, easily rivaling the best photo book services.
Placing images is simple: I just dragged my photos onto the page and they’d be added as image frames. On top of this, Printique’s built-in snap functionality made it easy to align them with each other or clip them to each spread’s margins. It even allows for really granular control over the size and position of image frames: the pop-up menu’s Properties section let me manually set images to specific dimensions and XY coordinates, as well as checking the DPI of each one to ensure it would print at a decent resolution.
There was the occasional bug here though – some images stubbornly insisted on defaulting to weirdly specific decimals like 4.97 inches, and resisted all of my attempts to set them to a whole integer. Odd behavior, but ultimately not a deal breaker.
Recreating the colored blocks and ribbons from TechRadar’s photo book test template was also pretty painless. Printique offers a range of shapes that you can add to your projects, and these are all super-flexible: I could precisely control their dimensions, add borders, and apply drop shadows from the properties menu. I was also able to change their color by entering a HEX code, setting RGB values or dragging a cursor to set saturation or brightness. However, the latter exhibited some odd behavior – changing either value would cause the color I’d chosen to creep away from my chosen hue, which occasionally proved irritating when I had a specific tone in mind.
(Image credit: Future)
Adding captions and credits to my photo book was also easy. Once I’d dropped a text box onto the page, I quickly was able to choose the font, size, styling and alignment. A small time-saver I especially appreciated is the ability to save chosen font settings as a style, which made it easy to achieve a consistent look for text throughout my photo book.
Thanks to some extra settings, it’s possible to get really creative with your layouts. First, Printique provides a wide range of shaped frames that allow you to show off your pics in rounded, slanted or even letter-shaped frames. While some of these are potentially a bit cheesy – star-shaped frames anyone? – they do add a high degree of flexibility that allows you to create some sleek, professional-looking designs.
You can also add extra flourishes and detail to your photo book using Printique’s background and sticker tools. Backgrounds offer everything from customizable block colors to a wide array of illustrations and patterns. Meanwhile, the stickers allow you to add pre-formulated text and illustrations to your photo book, from inscriptions about love to holiday iconography. Personally, some of the stickers aren’t to my tastes, giving things a distinctly clip-art vibe, but there are still a lot of choices there that could make useful ornaments to your text.
You will have to pay a premium for such powerful tools, however. Printique’s photo books were marginally more expensive than some of the other services we've tested. A 12 x 12 inch photo book cost $145.78 including delivery (roughly £112), whereas Shutterfly cost $132.5 (roughly £102) and Mixbook cost $133 (£102.25). It’s only a tiny price increase though, and I would argue one that’s more than worth it, given the flexibility of Printique’s platform.
(Image credit: Future)
Printique photo book review: performance
The printed photo book we received from Printique offered very high-quality results, with extra-thick pages and consistently good color and accuracy. Hues looked excellent throughout, whether it was a bright, sunny photo or more nuanced fog with creamy bokeh.
All of the photos were arranged perfectly, exactly as we set them, with no printing errors or unexpected margins. The book excels at photos that cross the binding, with a consistent look that feels mostly unbroken, allowing for very large spreads. I especially liked the brightness of the print and paper on our magenta TechRadar signature cover pages. Branding from Printique was minimal, but still present.
The heavy feel of the Printique photo book adds a nice bit of gravity to photos with the weight of the paper. I was almost worried that I would tear the heavy paper as I turned the pages, but the book held its binding nicely, and the photos feel even more special on such a thick presentation. This would make a fine photo book for wedding photography, very special occasions, or to highlight the best shots in your portfolio.
The pages may be a bit too thick if you're printing a large volume of work, and I still worry about those thick pages tearing with constant turning over the years. But for making a selection of photos feel extra premium, Printique’s photo books are a great choice.
(Image credit: Future)
Should I buy the Printique photo book?
Buy it if…
You want a high degree of customizability Whether it’s precisely controlling image dimensions, adding shaped image frames, including shapes in every color of the rainbow, or stamping your book with illustrations, you’re free to customize your photo book your way.
You want a polished final product With quality tactile paper, vivid colors and unerringly precisely alignments, Printique's photo books are finished to an excellent standard, making them a gorgeous gift for loved ones.
Don’t buy it if…
You want big savings There are cheaper photo book services out there. While Printique offers one of the best services we’ve tried, you can absolutely save some money elsewhere.
You want a huge array of ready-to-go templates Printique has a decent number of templates for you to start plugging your photos into, but if you don’t care about customizability and just want the most prefabricated options, services like Mixbook offer many more.
Printique photo book review: also consider
Mixbook With over 500 templates locked and loaded, Mixbook is a great choice if you want a no-hassle layout without needing to get into the nitty-gritty of creating your own designs. However, during our Mixbook photo book review we did find there were a few marks left by the printing process, so it’s worth bearing this in mind if you’re considering it for a gift.
Mimeo For sheer simplicity, Mimeo can’t be beat – its stripped-back offering allows you to just get on with the design without having to wade through too many options. However, it is pricey. Creating a 10 x 10-inch layflat photobook – the closest you can get to the 12 x 12 inch one we created here – will set you back $169.51 (£133.11) and that’s not including the $13.99 (around £10.80) shipping fee. Read our full Mimeo photo book review.
How I tested the Printique photo book
I exactly recreated TechRadar’s photo book test template
I spent many hours using the platform and experimenting with templates
I have over a decade’s experience working in print and design
At TechRadar, we use a set photo book template that we attempt to recreate using every photo book platform we review. I followed this as closely as possible, sizing images according to precise measurements, adding colored shapes in specific hues and shades, and recreating captions and credits in specific fonts and styles, allowing me to assess how easy it was to recreate specific designs that users might have in mind.
Our US Mobiles Editor Philip Berne then assessed the final product, analyzing its overall quality and finish, and comparing it to the template to identify any potential errors in the printing process.
Additionally, I spent several hours playing around with the platform’s templates, layouts, shaped frames and illustrations to see how effective its off-the-shelf design elements were.
I’m an experienced photographer, having spent many years shooting both on my Canon DSLR and my iPhone 16 Pro. I’ve also spent many years working in print, creating layouts for magazines and doing post-production on images, meaning I've spent a lot of time using design tools for producing printed products.
The Printique photo book service offers a great option for whipping up a personal gift for a loved one or presenting your photography portfolio in its best light. It offers a wide range of pre-formatted themes, while allowing you all the flexibility you need to design a truly custom photo book from scratch.
If you’re just looking for quick and easy results, Printique’s photo books offer plenty of templates to choose from. Whether you’re looking for a clean and classy wedding photo book, a striking photography portfolio, or a photo album of your pet pupperino, there are a good number of options – although at 88 themes, its options are dwarfed by the more than 500 options listed by Mixbook. Just select a template and Printique will apply it to your whole project, then all you need to do is drag and drop your chosen snaps into the provided frames.
For those who want a little more customizability, Printique also provides layouts you can drag into individual pages and spreads in your photo book. From full-bleed images that span both pages to inset grids of thumbnail-size pics, these make it easy to include more variation in layouts and really adapt your book to fit your photos, rather than the other way around.
But what if you don’t want to color within the lines? What if you want to make a completely original photo book from scratch? Well there’s good news: building my own DIY Printique photo book was a snap, easily rivaling the best photo book services.
Placing images is simple: I just dragged my photos onto the page and they’d be added as image frames. On top of this, Printique’s built-in snap functionality made it easy to align them with each other or clip them to each spread’s margins. It even allows for really granular control over the size and position of image frames: the pop-up menu’s Properties section let me manually set images to specific dimensions and XY coordinates, as well as checking the DPI of each one to ensure it would print at a decent resolution.
There was the occasional bug here though – some images stubbornly insisted on defaulting to weirdly specific decimals like 4.97 inches, and resisted all of my attempts to set them to a whole integer. Odd behavior, but ultimately not a deal breaker.
Recreating the colored blocks and ribbons from TechRadar’s photo book test template was also pretty painless. Printique offers a range of shapes that you can add to your projects, and these are all super-flexible: I could precisely control their dimensions, add borders, and apply drop shadows from the properties menu. I was also able to change their color by entering a HEX code, setting RGB values or dragging a cursor to set saturation or brightness. However, the latter exhibited some odd behavior – changing either value would cause the color I’d chosen to creep away from my chosen hue, which occasionally proved irritating when I had a specific tone in mind.
(Image credit: Future)
Adding captions and credits to my photo book was also easy. Once I’d dropped a text box onto the page, I quickly was able to choose the font, size, styling and alignment. A small time-saver I especially appreciated is the ability to save chosen font settings as a style, which made it easy to achieve a consistent look for text throughout my photo book.
Thanks to some extra settings, it’s possible to get really creative with your layouts. First, Printique provides a wide range of shaped frames that allow you to show off your pics in rounded, slanted or even letter-shaped frames. While some of these are potentially a bit cheesy – star-shaped frames anyone? – they do add a high degree of flexibility that allows you to create some sleek, professional-looking designs.
You can also add extra flourishes and detail to your photo book using Printique’s background and sticker tools. Backgrounds offer everything from customizable block colors to a wide array of illustrations and patterns. Meanwhile, the stickers allow you to add pre-formulated text and illustrations to your photo book, from inscriptions about love to holiday iconography. Personally, some of the stickers aren’t to my tastes, giving things a distinctly clip-art vibe, but there are still a lot of choices there that could make useful ornaments to your text.
You will have to pay a premium for such powerful tools, however. Printique’s photo books were marginally more expensive than some of the other services we've tested. A 12 x 12 inch photo book cost $145.78 including delivery (roughly £112), whereas Shutterfly cost $132.5 (roughly £102) and Mixbook cost $133 (£102.25). It’s only a tiny price increase though, and I would argue one that’s more than worth it, given the flexibility of Printique’s platform.
(Image credit: Future)
Printique photo book review: performance
The printed photo book we received from Printique offered very high-quality results, with extra-thick pages and consistently good color and accuracy. Hues looked excellent throughout, whether it was a bright, sunny photo or more nuanced fog with creamy bokeh.
All of the photos were arranged perfectly, exactly as we set them, with no printing errors or unexpected margins. The book excels at photos that cross the binding, with a consistent look that feels mostly unbroken, allowing for very large spreads. I especially liked the brightness of the print and paper on our magenta TechRadar signature cover pages. Branding from Printique was minimal, but still present.
The heavy feel of the Printique photo book adds a nice bit of gravity to photos with the weight of the paper. I was almost worried that I would tear the heavy paper as I turned the pages, but the book held its binding nicely, and the photos feel even more special on such a thick presentation. This would make a fine photo book for wedding photography, very special occasions, or to highlight the best shots in your portfolio.
The pages may be a bit too thick if you're printing a large volume of work, and I still worry about those thick pages tearing with constant turning over the years. But for making a selection of photos feel extra premium, Printique’s photo books are a great choice.
(Image credit: Future)
Should I buy the Printique photo book?
Buy it if…
You want a high degree of customizability Whether it’s precisely controlling image dimensions, adding shaped image frames, including shapes in every color of the rainbow, or stamping your book with illustrations, you’re free to customize your photo book your way.
You want a polished final product With quality tactile paper, vivid colors and unerringly precisely alignments, Printique's photo books are finished to an excellent standard, making them a gorgeous gift for loved ones.
Don’t buy it if…
You want big savings There are cheaper photo book services out there. While Printique offers one of the best services we’ve tried, you can absolutely save some money elsewhere.
You want a huge array of ready-to-go templates Printique has a decent number of templates for you to start plugging your photos into, but if you don’t care about customizability and just want the most prefabricated options, services like Mixbook offer many more.
Printique photo book review: also consider
Mixbook With over 500 templates locked and loaded, Mixbook is a great choice if you want a no-hassle layout without needing to get into the nitty-gritty of creating your own designs. However, during our Mixbook photo book review we did find there were a few marks left by the printing process, so it’s worth bearing this in mind if you’re considering it for a gift.
Mimeo For sheer simplicity, Mimeo can’t be beat – its stripped-back offering allows you to just get on with the design without having to wade through too many options. However, it is pricey. Creating a 10 x 10-inch layflat photobook – the closest you can get to the 12 x 12 inch one we created here – will set you back $169.51 (£133.11) and that’s not including the $13.99 (around £10.80) shipping fee. Read our full Mimeo photo book review.
How I tested the Printique photo book
I exactly recreated TechRadar’s photo book test template
I spent many hours using the platform and experimenting with templates
I have over a decade’s experience working in print and design
At TechRadar, we use a set photo book template that we attempt to recreate using every photo book platform we review. I followed this as closely as possible, sizing images according to precise measurements, adding colored shapes in specific hues and shades, and recreating captions and credits in specific fonts and styles, allowing me to assess how easy it was to recreate specific designs that users might have in mind.
Our US Mobiles Editor Philip Berne then assessed the final product, analyzing its overall quality and finish, and comparing it to the template to identify any potential errors in the printing process.
Additionally, I spent several hours playing around with the platform’s templates, layouts, shaped frames and illustrations to see how effective its off-the-shelf design elements were.
I’m an experienced photographer, having spent many years shooting both on my Canon DSLR and my iPhone 16 Pro. I’ve also spent many years working in print, creating layouts for magazines and doing post-production on images, meaning I've spent a lot of time using design tools for producing printed products.
The Canon EOS R100 looks like a pretty dated camera in every sense, and it'll feel alien if you've only used a smartphone camera before. However, don't judge a book by its cover – it actually makes perfect sense for people looking for a cheap camera, especially for the family, and in particular for any budding photographers in the family.
This is the cheapest mirrorless camera that you can buy new, and it's one that utilizes the same 24MP APS-C sensor and reliable dual-pixel autofocus as Canon's pricier models, the EOS R50 and EOS R10.
Naturally there are compromises. The build quality is basic, especially the fixed rear screen, which isn't even touch sensitive, and the video specs are dated too.
However, after using the EOS R100 for many months my family has found it to be an excellent little snapper, and a perfect fit for small hands. Furthermore, I actually think the EOS R100's limitations are its strength, especially for first-time photographers.
With its old-school DSLR-style design, a viewfinder, and a rear screen lacking touch functionality the EOS R100 isn't trying to compete with a smartphone, and this has led my kids to explore what each external control does, and consequently pick up some photography basics.
The Nikon Z5 II with the Nikkor 24-50mm f/4-6.3 kit lens (Image credit: Future)
There's been further good news since the EOS R100 launched, too. Canon opened its RF-mount to third parties for manufacturing APS-C lenses, and Sigma has already seized this opportunity, launching RF versions of many of its excellent DC DN Contemporary lenses that enhance the EOS R100's photography chops, where previously lens choice for Canon's mirrorless cameras was severely limited.
I've particularly enjoyed using a quartet of Sigma f/1.4 prime lenses, which are all compact, lightweight, high quality, and an excellent physical match with the EOS R100 – I'd highly recommend the Sigma 56mm f/1.4 DC DN Contemporary as a second lens after Canon's 18-45mm kit lens, which is pretty basic.
There's a part of me that still can't warm to the EOS R100; but I'm an experienced photographer, and it's not designed for me. It's my family that have really taken to it and actually used it – which is more than I can say for some of the dedicated cheap kids camera we've tested, and pricier alternatives that are complicated to use.
I felt like I can trust my kids with the EOS R100, and they've taken some excellent photos with it, taking the experience to another level by (easily) printing some of their favorite shots using a low-cost Canon Selphy printer. It's this sort of positive engagement with creative tech that I've always hoped my kids would have.
Canon EOS R100: price and release date
The Canon EOS R100 and 18-45mm kit lens launched for $599 / £669 / AU$1,099
That bundle now sells for as little as $350 / £410 / AU$800
It's available body-only too, and in a twin lens kit with the 18-45mm and 55-210mm lenses
I often have friends asking me to recommend a first camera for their young kids / tweens, with a budget around $500 / £500, and naturally they'd rather buy new. That leaves few other options besides the EOS R100.
And that's exactly the point of this beginner mirrorless camera. The design is stripped back, it has basic build quality and some of Canon's earliest mirrorless tech, and it's mass produced, readily available, and sold on the cheap. If general photography is your intended use and you don't need flagship power, the EOS R100 still holds up well today.
The camera was launched in May 2023, and with the 18-45mm kit lens it cost $599 / £669 / AU$1,099. However, since then I've seen some incredibly good deals, especially in the US during Black Friday 2024 and other seasonal sales, during which time the camera and lens price fell to as low as $350 / £410 / AU$800. It costs even less body-only – it's quite simply the cheapest mirrorless camera you can buy new.
Price score: 5/5
Canon EOS R100: specs
Canon EOS R100: design and handling
Canon's smallest mirrorless camera, and an ideal fit for smaller hands
It features a viewfinder and a fixed rear screen that's not touch sensitive
Images are recorded onto a single SD card
The EOS R100 feels like a shrunken-down version of Canon's DSLRs of old, only with mirrorless tech under the hood.
It's comfortable to hold thanks to a pronounced grip, and its diminutive proportions are a perfect fit for little hands – my kids, aged between five and 12, could all hold the camera comfortably and easily take photos with it.
A dinky viewfinder provides a clear view of your scene for when it's otherwise tricky using the rear screen, such as in bright daylight.
Personally, I'd rather the rear screen at least tilted for easy viewing from awkward angles – the slightly pricier EOS R50 features a vari-angle touchscreen – although the fixed screen was less of a limitation for my kids, whose knees are rather less creaky than mine.
Image 1 of 3
(Image credit: Future)
Image 2 of 3
(Image credit: Future)
Image 3 of 3
(Image credit: Future)
At first my kids were thrown that the rear screen didn't respond to touch – they've grown up with tech and are familiar with smartphones, and the camera's screen felt alien to them.
Eventually, however, the lack of touch functionality caused them to turn their attention to the EOS R100's physical controls, and I felt like this encouraged them to they explore the camera more, figuring out what each control and button did.
I initially called the camera 'out of touch' with beginners, precisely because of its old-school design and non-touch screen, but after extended use I've changed my mind – this is in fact an ideal camera with which to learn photography basics.
Image 1 of 5
(Image credit: Future)
Image 2 of 5
(Image credit: Future)
Image 3 of 5
(Image credit: Future)
Image 4 of 5
(Image credit: Future)
Image 5 of 5
(Image credit: Future)
The body is built from a sturdy plastic. It's not weather-sealed, but as it's cheap and feels solid I felt comfortable letting my kids get on with using it without intervening too much, although I was also conscious of its potential vulnerability in inclement weather and dusty outdoor areas.
As I'm an experienced photographer, the EOS R100 isn't enough for me – there would be far too many occasions when I'd miss having a certain control or a feature at my fingertips. However, for beginners the EOS R100 makes a lot sense.
Design score: 3.5/5
Canon EOS R100: features and performance
Canon's original dual-pixel autofocus is snappy for general photography
Burst speeds are a fairly average 6.5fps for continuous shooting
Video specs are basic – this is primarily a camera for stills
As you can imagine, Canon's cheapest mirrorless camera is fairly stripped back when it comes to features, and limited when it comes to outright speed.
It does, though, feature Canon's dual-pixel CMOS autofocus with face detection and human subject-tracking autofocus, which I found to be really sticky and reliable for portraiture.
Should you wish to employ a different autofocus mode, such as spot AF, the convoluted process involves diving into a menu, while there's no joystick for speedily selecting focus points manually.
Canon's latest autofocus system in the pro EOS R5 Mark II is another level, with a range of subject-detection modes for animals and vehicles, sports priority, the option to store specific people to prioritize, plus Eye Control AF – the two cameras are worlds apart. However, for general photography, the EOS R100's autofocus is very good.
The EOS R100 has rudimentary burst shooting speeds of up to 6.5fps, with sequence lengths up to 97 JPEGs or just six raws – an action photography camera this is not.
Image 1 of 5
(Image credit: Future)
Image 2 of 5
(Image credit: Future)
Image 3 of 5
(Image credit: Future)
Image 4 of 5
(Image credit: Future)
Image 5 of 5
(Image credit: Future)
Video recording options include 4K up to 30fps, plus Full HD up to 60fps; that's the minimum I'd expect for a video-capable camera launched in 2023. Dig deeper into the specs and you'll find that video recording is in 8-bit color, which is much less color-rich than 10-bit.
The camera has a hotshoe for attaching accessories such as a flash gun. It's the more basic 5-pin type, meaning not all of Canon's flash guns are supported by the EOS R100, so if you're looking to purchase such an accessory check that it's compatible with the camera first.
Features and performance score: 3.5/5
Canon EOS R100: image and video quality
Same trusted 24MP APS-C sensor as pricier Canon cameras
4K video recording up to 30fps, 8-bit color
No C-Log color profile or 'recipes'
There's not too much more to say about the EOS R100's image and video quality that hasn't already been covered in our EOS R10 review – it has the same potential for natural-looking photos with Canon's lovely color profiles.
This also means the EOS R100 can grab detail-rich photos of similar quality to the likes of the Sony A6100, Nikon Z50 II and Fujifilm X-T30 II, all of which utilize a sensor with a resolution around the 24MP mark, which is impressive considering that the EOS R100 is a much cheaper camera.
Image 1 of 11
(Image credit: Tim Coleman)
Image 2 of 11
(Image credit: Tim Coleman)
Image 3 of 11
(Image credit: Tim Coleman)
Image 4 of 11
(Image credit: Tim Coleman)
Image 5 of 11
(Image credit: Tim Coleman)
Image 6 of 11
(Image credit: Tim Coleman)
Image 7 of 11
(Image credit: Tim Coleman)
Image 8 of 11
(Image credit: Tim Coleman)
Image 9 of 11
(Image credit: Tim Coleman)
Image 10 of 11
(Image credit: Tim Coleman)
Image 11 of 11
(Image credit: Tim Coleman)
All of the photos above were taken with either Canon's RF-S 18-45mm or RF-S 55-210mm.
Canon's RF-S 18-45mm kit lens doesn't quite match the quality of Nikon's 16-50mm kit lens, while the RF-S 55-210mm lens, which is available in a twin-lens kit with the EOS R100, is decent without overly impressing; detail is a little soft in the images of ducks, above, while bokeh in the cat portrait has an onion-ring effect.
To truly elevate image quality, I would recommend buying another lens. The photos included in the first gallery directly below are made with some of Sigma's DC DN Contemporary f/1.4 primes – the 16mm , 23mm and 30mm. In the second gallery below, all the photos are made with Sigma's 56mm lens, which is ideal for portraits.
Image 1 of 5
(Image credit: Tim Coleman)
Image 2 of 5
(Image credit: Tim Coleman)
Image 3 of 5
(Image credit: Tim Coleman)
Image 4 of 5
(Image credit: Tim Coleman)
Image 5 of 5
(Image credit: Tim Coleman)
Image 1 of 6
(Image credit: Tim Coleman)
Image 2 of 6
(Image credit: Tim Coleman)
Image 3 of 6
(Image credit: Tim Coleman)
Image 4 of 6
(Image credit: Tim Coleman)
Image 5 of 6
(Image credit: Tim Coleman)
Image 6 of 6
(Image credit: Tim Coleman)
Video quality is rudimentary. Yes, the EOS R100 can shoot 4K, but only up to 30fps and with 8-bit color depth, which isn't as rich as 10-bit, which cameras like Fujifilm's X-M5 offer.
Flat color profiles for video, which would give color graders more to work with when editing, are missing too, as are custom profiles that can be uploaded to the camera, something that's available with the Nikon Z50 II via Nikon's Imaging Cloud
None of this is surprising given the EOS R100's price point and target user, though, and we're left with Canon's familiar range of color profiles which, thankfully, are better than most.
Image and video quality score: 3.5/5
Canon EOS R100: testing scorecard
Should I buy the Canon EOS R100?
Buy it if...
You're looking for a first 'proper' camera With its small form factor, comfy grip, decent photo quality and changeable lenses, the EOS R100 is an excellent camera for budding photographers.
You want a cheap camera The EOS R100 is not only Canon's cheapest mirrorless camera, it's the cheapest mirrorless camera from any brand – and there are usually superb deals during seasonal sales that further lower the price.
Don't buy it if...
You want versatile handling The EOS R100's basic build quality and fixed rear screen with no touch functionality do limit where and how you can shoot.
You shoot photo and video The EOS R100 has decent photography credentials, but its video specs are limited by today's standards.
Canon EOS R100: also consider
Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark IV
The Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark IV is arguably the best-value beginner mirrorless camera available, with its retro-styling, a capable 20MP sensor and superb image stabilization. As it's a Micro Four Thirds camera an enviable selection of lenses are available, and despite being launched in 2020 its tech is of a similar era to the EOS R100's.
For an additional outlay, the Fujifilm X-M5 is a superb alternative for beginners who want to shoot video and much as photos. The X-M5 is tiny, is supported by a superb selection of lenses, and comes with a 26MP sensor that delivers 6K video. However, like most other beginner mirrorless cameras, it's about twice the price of the EOS R100.
I picked up the EOS R100 more than six months before writing this review
During that time both I and my children have used it regularly
I've paired the camera with many lenses, primarily the RF-S 18-45mm kit lens, but also third-party ones
This review is a reflection of long-term testing over many months. And it's not just my thoughts and testing of the camera that have informed my thoughts, as my kids have taken a keen interest in the camera too.
Initially, I used the camera with just the RF-S 18-45mm kit lens, but we've also tried out Canon's RF-S 55-210mm telephoto zoom, plus four Sigma Contemporary lenses – 16mm, 23mm, 30mm and 56mm f/1.4 primes.
We've primarily used the camera for taking photos rather than video, shooting landscapes, portraits, wildlife, pets, closeups and more.
The Instax Mini 41 is the latest affordable instant camera built for Fujifilm’s Instax Mini film, replacing the 2022-released Instax Mini 40 as the ‘mature’ alternative to the playful, colourful Mini 12.
While the Mini 40 has a straight-up retro aesthetic, the Mini 41 takes things in a more unique and modern direction. I’d call it retro-tinged rather than all-out vintage-inspired, and I think it’s all the better and more eye-catching for it.
Instax Mini cameras have always been simple to use and the Mini 41 thankfully continues this tradition. Loading it with a cartridge of film takes seconds and isn’t fiddly at all and, thanks to the automatic exposure settings, taking a photo really is just a matter of pointing and shooting. 90 seconds later, you’ll have a fully developed and likely great-looking credit card-sized print in your hands.
The viewfinder is big and bright, and thanks to the new parallax correction mode, you no longer need to compensate composition for close-up objects. As with the Mini 12, the Close-Up mode shifts the viewfinder angle slightly so that centering an object within 50cm will actually keep it in the center of the finished print.
(Image credit: Future | Sam Kieldsen)
The build quality is lightweight and plasticky, but thankfully doesn’t come across as cheap; I think it feels fine for a camera in this price range. I will concede that the use of standard AA batteries rather than a rechargeable built-in battery seems a little old-fashioned in 2025, but I suppose you can’t have it all.
In terms of image quality, it’s difficult to say the Mini 41 is any better than the 2023-released Mini 12 (which is a bit cheaper), because the lens and film being used is pretty much identical. But that’s no bad thing: Instax Mini photos are colorful, charming and so easy to pass around, pin up to a corkboard or stick on the fridge.
All in all, this is a fun, easy-to-use instant camera with a handsome design and a great price.
Fujifilm Instax Mini 41: Price and availability
Camera available now for $129.95 / £94.99 / AU$179
Instax Mini film costs around $20.99 / £14.99 / AU$29.95 for a 20 pack
The Instax Mini 41 is available now for around $129.95 / £94.99 / AU$179. That price, which is pretty reasonable in my opinion, includes the camera, two AA batteries and a wrist strap, but you don’t get any Instax Mini film packs included. US-based readers should note that the price in the States may go up as a result of the recent tariffs, so do keep an eye out for that.
Each film cartridge features 10 shots, and they’re usually sold in double packs (so 20 shots in total) for around $20.99 / £14.99 / AU$29.95. That can initially seem expensive compared to the near-free cost of digital photos, but as these prints are tangible, personalized objects I don’t think it’s fair to directly compare them to shots that sit on your phone or social media account. In my opinion, the film is priced quite fairly.
Fujifilm Instax Mini 41: specs
Fujifilm Instax Mini 41: design
Plastic body with retro-inspired but modern design
Simple controls and viewfinder
Selfie mirror built into lens barrel
When I pulled it out of the box, I was instantly impressed by the looks of the Instax Mini 41. It would have been easy for Fujifilm to retain the purely retro 1960s-esque styling of the Mini 40, but instead its designers have blended old and new into something quite singular, much like it did with the Instax Wide Evo.
From the grippy geometric texture on the front to the understated colors (with those all-important pops of the orange accent color here and there), this is just a stylish and elegant camera – and a lot less conspicuous and more grown-up than the Instax Mini 12.
It’s made almost entirely of plastic. That’s normal for something priced as low as this, and helps keep the weight down, but it will get marked and damaged quite easily if dropped or mistreated. My review sample already had a scrape across the back from a previous user, and I suspect a ten-year-old Mini 41 would look quite battered and bruised unless kept in a carry case most of the time.
Say cheese! The Mini 41 features a handy selfie mirror next to the lens. (Image credit: Future | Sam Kieldsen)
Operation is beautifully simple. Loading a cartridge Instax Mini film through the rear hatch is idiot-proof thanks to the yellow indicator lines, and once it’s in all you need to do is twist the lens barrel to turn the camera on. This power switch doubles as a mode dial too, flipping the camera between its Normal and Close-Up shooting modes: Normal is for shooting anything more than 50cm away, while Close-Up handles everything between 50cm and 30cm (the camera’s closest focusing distance).
When in Close-Up mode, the viewfinder shifts perspective slightly, making it easier to frame your shots. This is called parallax correction and I’ve seen it on the Mini 12 too, but it’s a great feature to have if you don’t want to end up wasting photos through poor composition.
To take a shot, you just look through the (big, bright) viewfinder to compose, then hit the shutter button. Everything else, including shutter speed and flash, is fully automatic. If you want to take a selfie, there’s a handy mirror on the lens to help composition (another feature, like parallax correction, carried over from older models).
(Image credit: Future | Sam Kieldsen)
Fujifilm Instax Mini 41: Performance
Postcard-sized prints delivered in 90 seconds
Strong color reproduction and sharp detail
Runs on 2 x AA battery delivering around 100 shots
This camera really is simplicity personified. From pressing the shutter button to looking at your fully developed print, the entire process takes just 90 or so seconds. The Mini 41 doesn’t do anything different to its Instax Mini predecessors in this regard, but then it doesn’t need to: the system works very well. The only thing it's missing, if I'm nit-picking, is a self-timer that'd allow you to set it up somewhere for a group shot.
The prints are credit card sized (62 x 46mm to be precise), nicely glossy, and packed with charm. I suppose you might be disappointed if you’re looking for the most detail, the punchiest contrast and the richest, most saturated colors – but, well, you didn’t truly expect to find them on a cheap instant camera, did you?
Image 1 of 4
(Image credit: Future | Sam Kieldsen)
Image 2 of 4
(Image credit: Future | Sam Kieldsen)
Image 3 of 4
(Image credit: Future | Sam Kieldsen)
Image 4 of 4
(Image credit: Future | Sam Kieldsen)
What these images have in spades is spirit and character. The colors are pleasant and appealing and there’s enough detail here, despite the small print size. And that analog film special sauce suits portraits and selfies well, imbuing them with a timeless quality that digital has always struggled to recreate.
(Image credit: Future | Sam Kieldsen)
Should I buy the Fujifilm Instax Mini 41?
Buy it if...
You want a simple, cheap instant camera At this price it's hard to fault the Mini 41. It's a straightforward instant camera that just works!
You want something a little more grown-up The cheaper Mini 12 is almost exactly the same camera, but its bubbly, colorful design is a bit kiddified. Not so the elegant Mini 41.
Don't buy it if...
You hate spending money on film This isn't like a digital camera – you'll need to continually invest in film (and AA batteries) while using it.
You like being in control Serious creative photographers might bounce off the Mini 41's lack of manual controls. It's designed to be simple and fun, not for professional photography.
(Image credit: Future | Sam Kieldsen)
Fujifilm Instax Mini 41: Also consider
Polaroid Flip
It’s more than twice the price of the Mini 41, but Polaroid’s latest point-and-shoot instant camera delivers great-looking square prints thanks to its four-lens system. A longer minimum focus distance means it’s not ideal for snapping selfies, though.
With very similar image quality to the Mini 41 (it uses the same film packs, after all), the 2023-released Mini 12 makes for a great and slightly cheaper alternative – if you can live with the cutesy, cloud-shaped and colourful design, that is.
Took photos in and outdoors in different conditions
Experimented with portraits, self portraits, close-ups and landscapes
I was only given about a week to use the Mini 41 before my review sample had to go back to Fujifilm, but that was enough time to get through a couple of cartridges of film: 20 shots in total. I took these in and outdoors and in a variety of situations, from selfies to landscapes. I own an Instax Mini 12 too, so am quite familiar with the design and image quality of the Instax Mini range and film, which helped me form an opinion on the Mini 41 despite having limited hands-on time with it.
The Instax Mini 41 is the latest affordable instant camera built for Fujifilm’s Instax Mini film, replacing the 2022-released Instax Mini 40 as the ‘mature’ alternative to the playful, colourful Mini 12.
While the Mini 40 has a straight-up retro aesthetic, the Mini 41 takes things in a more unique and modern direction. I’d call it retro-tinged rather than all-out vintage-inspired, and I think it’s all the better and more eye-catching for it.
Instax Mini cameras have always been simple to use and the Mini 41 thankfully continues this tradition. Loading it with a cartridge of film takes seconds and isn’t fiddly at all and, thanks to the automatic exposure settings, taking a photo really is just a matter of pointing and shooting. 90 seconds later, you’ll have a fully developed and likely great-looking credit card-sized print in your hands.
The viewfinder is big and bright, and thanks to the new parallax correction mode, you no longer need to compensate composition for close-up objects. As with the Mini 12, the Close-Up mode shifts the viewfinder angle slightly so that centering an object within 50cm will actually keep it in the center of the finished print.
(Image credit: Future | Sam Kieldsen)
The build quality is lightweight and plasticky, but thankfully doesn’t come across as cheap; I think it feels fine for a camera in this price range. I will concede that the use of standard AA batteries rather than a rechargeable built-in battery seems a little old-fashioned in 2025, but I suppose you can’t have it all.
In terms of image quality, it’s difficult to say the Mini 41 is any better than the 2023-released Mini 12 (which is a bit cheaper), because the lens and film being used is pretty much identical. But that’s no bad thing: Instax Mini photos are colorful, charming and so easy to pass around, pin up to a corkboard or stick on the fridge.
All in all, this is a fun, easy-to-use instant camera with a handsome design and a great price.
Fujifilm Instax Mini 41: Price and availability
Camera available now for $129.95 / £94.99 / AU$179
Instax Mini film costs around $20.99 / £14.99 / AU$29.95 for a 20 pack
The Instax Mini 41 is available now for around $129.95 / £94.99 / AU$179. That price, which is pretty reasonable in my opinion, includes the camera, two AA batteries and a wrist strap, but you don’t get any Instax Mini film packs included. US-based readers should note that the price in the States may go up as a result of the recent tariffs, so do keep an eye out for that.
Each film cartridge features 10 shots, and they’re usually sold in double packs (so 20 shots in total) for around $20.99 / £14.99 / AU$29.95. That can initially seem expensive compared to the near-free cost of digital photos, but as these prints are tangible, personalized objects I don’t think it’s fair to directly compare them to shots that sit on your phone or social media account. In my opinion, the film is priced quite fairly.
Fujifilm Instax Mini 41: specs
Fujifilm Instax Mini 41: design
Plastic body with retro-inspired but modern design
Simple controls and viewfinder
Selfie mirror built into lens barrel
When I pulled it out of the box, I was instantly impressed by the looks of the Instax Mini 41. It would have been easy for Fujifilm to retain the purely retro 1960s-esque styling of the Mini 40, but instead its designers have blended old and new into something quite singular, much like it did with the Instax Wide Evo.
From the grippy geometric texture on the front to the understated colors (with those all-important pops of the orange accent color here and there), this is just a stylish and elegant camera – and a lot less conspicuous and more grown-up than the Instax Mini 12.
It’s made almost entirely of plastic. That’s normal for something priced as low as this, and helps keep the weight down, but it will get marked and damaged quite easily if dropped or mistreated. My review sample already had a scrape across the back from a previous user, and I suspect a ten-year-old Mini 41 would look quite battered and bruised unless kept in a carry case most of the time.
Say cheese! The Mini 41 features a handy selfie mirror next to the lens. (Image credit: Future | Sam Kieldsen)
Operation is beautifully simple. Loading a cartridge Instax Mini film through the rear hatch is idiot-proof thanks to the yellow indicator lines, and once it’s in all you need to do is twist the lens barrel to turn the camera on. This power switch doubles as a mode dial too, flipping the camera between its Normal and Close-Up shooting modes: Normal is for shooting anything more than 50cm away, while Close-Up handles everything between 50cm and 30cm (the camera’s closest focusing distance).
When in Close-Up mode, the viewfinder shifts perspective slightly, making it easier to frame your shots. This is called parallax correction and I’ve seen it on the Mini 12 too, but it’s a great feature to have if you don’t want to end up wasting photos through poor composition.
To take a shot, you just look through the (big, bright) viewfinder to compose, then hit the shutter button. Everything else, including shutter speed and flash, is fully automatic. If you want to take a selfie, there’s a handy mirror on the lens to help composition (another feature, like parallax correction, carried over from older models).
(Image credit: Future | Sam Kieldsen)
Fujifilm Instax Mini 41: Performance
Postcard-sized prints delivered in 90 seconds
Strong color reproduction and sharp detail
Runs on 2 x AA battery delivering around 100 shots
This camera really is simplicity personified. From pressing the shutter button to looking at your fully developed print, the entire process takes just 90 or so seconds. The Mini 41 doesn’t do anything different to its Instax Mini predecessors in this regard, but then it doesn’t need to: the system works very well. The only thing it's missing, if I'm nit-picking, is a self-timer that'd allow you to set it up somewhere for a group shot.
The prints are credit card sized (62 x 46mm to be precise), nicely glossy, and packed with charm. I suppose you might be disappointed if you’re looking for the most detail, the punchiest contrast and the richest, most saturated colors – but, well, you didn’t truly expect to find them on a cheap instant camera, did you?
Image 1 of 4
(Image credit: Future | Sam Kieldsen)
Image 2 of 4
(Image credit: Future | Sam Kieldsen)
Image 3 of 4
(Image credit: Future | Sam Kieldsen)
Image 4 of 4
(Image credit: Future | Sam Kieldsen)
What these images have in spades is spirit and character. The colors are pleasant and appealing and there’s enough detail here, despite the small print size. And that analog film special sauce suits portraits and selfies well, imbuing them with a timeless quality that digital has always struggled to recreate.
(Image credit: Future | Sam Kieldsen)
Should I buy the Fujifilm Instax Mini 41?
Buy it if...
You want a simple, cheap instant camera At this price it's hard to fault the Mini 41. It's a straightforward instant camera that just works!
You want something a little more grown-up The cheaper Mini 12 is almost exactly the same camera, but its bubbly, colorful design is a bit kiddified. Not so the elegant Mini 41.
Don't buy it if...
You hate spending money on film This isn't like a digital camera – you'll need to continually invest in film (and AA batteries) while using it.
You like being in control Serious creative photographers might bounce off the Mini 41's lack of manual controls. It's designed to be simple and fun, not for professional photography.
(Image credit: Future | Sam Kieldsen)
Fujifilm Instax Mini 41: Also consider
Polaroid Flip
It’s more than twice the price of the Mini 41, but Polaroid’s latest point-and-shoot instant camera delivers great-looking square prints thanks to its four-lens system. A longer minimum focus distance means it’s not ideal for snapping selfies, though.
With very similar image quality to the Mini 41 (it uses the same film packs, after all), the 2023-released Mini 12 makes for a great and slightly cheaper alternative – if you can live with the cutesy, cloud-shaped and colourful design, that is.
Took photos in and outdoors in different conditions
Experimented with portraits, self portraits, close-ups and landscapes
I was only given about a week to use the Mini 41 before my review sample had to go back to Fujifilm, but that was enough time to get through a couple of cartridges of film: 20 shots in total. I took these in and outdoors and in a variety of situations, from selfies to landscapes. I own an Instax Mini 12 too, so am quite familiar with the design and image quality of the Instax Mini range and film, which helped me form an opinion on the Mini 41 despite having limited hands-on time with it.
Fujifilm's GFX100RF is the brand's first-ever compact camera with a medium-format sensor, marrying the image quality of the 102MP GFX100S II with an impossibly-small Fujifilm X100 VI rangefinder-style body.
'Compact' is perhaps a stretch, but that's the category that this premium camera falls under by virtue of its built-in lens, which is a super-sharp 35mm f/4 optic with a 28mm equivalent focal length.
Fujifilm has prioritized compact lens proportions over aperture versatility, and the maximum f/4 aperture and lack of optical stabilization are potential dealbreakers. However, for pixel peepers and resolution-craving photographers, the GFX100RF's quality is unmatched in this class, even outdoing the Leica Q3.
Here is the silver version of the GFX100RF. It's also available in an all-black version. (Image credit: Tim Coleman)
Beyond its image quality, the GFX100RF feels premium in every way. The top plate, machined from a single 500g block of aluminum, is a delight and packed with useful controls, some of which are unique and add a touch of flair, such as the aspect ratio dial.
Fujifilm has somehow managed to include a vast number of external controls without the camera feeling crowded, and it's both unfussy and versatile in use – and a special mention must go to the bright tilt touchscreen that neatly folds away into the body.
Armed with Fujifilm's latest X Processor 5 chip and autofocus skills, the GFX100RF is also a capable performer, even if this medium-format snapper doesn't compete with the speed of smaller-format rivals.
Ultimately, this is a camera that makes a lot of sense, even if its quality will be overkill for most people, as is it price (though I reckon it's good value for what you get). Professional photographers with a penchant for street and landscape photography in particular will find no better compact camera than the characterful GFX100RF.
Fujifilm GFX100RF: price and release date
List price is $4,899 / £4,699 / AU$8,799
It's available from early April 2025 in two versions, with a silver or a black top plate
A premium strap, protective lens filter, lens hood and lens adapter are included
The GFX100RF is a premium medium-format compact with a price tag to match, costing $4,899 / £4,699 / AU$8,799. Still, that's cheaper than the full-frame Leica Q3, and you get a bunch of accessories in the box: a premium strap, protective lens filter, lens hood and lens adapter.
When you consider it's an all-in-one medium-format package with its built-in lens, the GFX100RF feels like pretty good value – other GFX cameras will cost you more, without a lens. For example, the GFX100S II, which shares the same sensor, launched at $4,999 / £4,999 / AU$8,699. However, the GFX100RF is triple the price of the APS-C format Fujifilm X100VI compact camera.
The GFX100RF is available from early April 2025 in two versions, one with a silver top plate, the other all-black.
Price score: 4/5
Fujifilm GFX100RF: specs
Fujifilm GFX100RF: design and handling
Top plate is machined from a 500g ingot of aluminum
All-new aspect ratio dial offers popular aspects from legendary analog cameras, including 65:24
Rangefinder-style body with a 5.76m dot EVF and tilt touchscreen
Cameras machined from a single ingot of aluminum are like buses – you wait an age for one, and then two come along together. First there was the Sigma BF, and now we have the Fujifilm GFX100RF – and I can't overstate just how lovely Fujifilm's premium compact feels in the hand.
It's effectively a premium Fujifilm X100VI, with a negligible size difference between the two cameras (at least when it comes how comfortably you'd carry these cameras around), and is available in black, with a silver or a black top plate – I had a first look with the former, and completed my in-depth review with the latter, and the black-and-silver version gets my vote.
Given that the GFX100RF is a medium-format camera, it's staggering just how compact and lightweight it is. It weighs just 26oz / 735g with battery and card included – that's lighter than any other Fujifilm GFX camera body without a lens attached, and that weight of course includes the built-in lens.
Fujifilm has seemingly prioritized compact lens proportions over aperture versatility. The lens is tiny, and it's super-sharp (more about that in the image quality section of this review), but its maximum aperture is f/4, and it isn't stabilized. Also, if you'd like the GFX100RF fully weather-sealed and lens flare minimized you'll need to add the protective lens filter and hood, which bulk the package out.
Image 1 of 6
(Image credit: Tim Coleman)
Image 2 of 6
(Image credit: Tim Coleman)
Image 3 of 6
(Image credit: Tim Coleman)
Image 4 of 6
(Image credit: Tim Coleman)
Image 5 of 6
(Image credit: Tim Coleman)
Image 6 of 6
(Image credit: Tim Coleman)
Fujifilm has allowed itself some design touches, such as a dedicated aspect ratio dial, that at first feel quirky but which are very well implemented and ultimately logical given the tech inside, and could just transform how you approach composition.
The front switch, which on the X100VI is used to switch between its optical (OVF) and electronic viewfinder (EVF) displays, here toggles between various aspect ratio and digital teleconverter display options. These include the following: a frame line of your chosen ratio and crop over the full 4:3 image area; the cropped-out area greyed out but still visible; and the cropped-out area black – meaning all you see is the image area of your chosen aspect ratio.
Personally, I would have much preferred the same type of hybrid viewfinder as that utilized by the X100 series of cameras, but here we have an EVF alone.
I know plenty of X100VI users that only use its EVF, but I'm a fan of its optical display, especially since it allows you to see a little outside your frame, which is super-handy for timing street photography shots as your subjects walk into the frame. T
Still, the 5.76m-dot 0.5-inch display works like a charm, and I really appreciate those aspect ratio and digital crop display options. What's more, the 3.2-inch tilt touchscreen is beautifully designed, sitting flush in the body yet easily pulled out, and is clear and bright – Leica should be taking notes.
Image 1 of 7
(Image credit: Tim Coleman)
Image 2 of 7
(Image credit: Tim Coleman)
Image 3 of 7
(Image credit: Tim Coleman)
Image 4 of 7
(Image credit: Tim Coleman)
Image 5 of 7
(Image credit: Tim Coleman)
Image 6 of 7
(Image credit: Tim Coleman)
Image 7 of 7
(Image credit: Tim Coleman)
Then there's the stacked set of controls that include the crop lever, a command dial and the on/off switch – a lovely design touch, as is the shutter speed / ISO dial.
A joystick makes menu navigation and autofocus selection a doddle. Every control is well made and built to last, while a raised bump on the camera's front provides some grip, though I'd hardly call this a grippy camera.
Ports-wise, on the left side as you're holding the camera there are mic input and headphone out, plus USB-C and micro HDMI, while on the right side are twin SD card slots. There's a hotshoe on the top for accessories such as an external flash.
Overall, it's a comprehensive set of controls for this type of camera, without creating the feeling that there's too much going on around the camera's exterior. I've been able to make quick adjustments with ease, and I haven't really come across any niggles throughout my review period.
Design score: 5/5
Fujifilm GFX100RF: features and performance
6fps with continuous AF, for up to 1,000 JPEGs
Incredible 820-shot battery life
Fujifilm's best autofocus performance
No optical or in-body image stabilization, just electronic stabilization for video
It's fair to say the Fujifilm GFX100RF prioritizes quality over outright speed – such are the trade-offs with a high-resolution medium-format camera.
Still, the GFX100RF is one of the speedier medium-format cameras around, with 6fps burst shooting that'll keep going for up to 296 JPEGs or 40 raws – not bad for such big file sizes. Naturally, you'll need to fit the best possible memory card into the camera, which would be a UHS-II V90 SD card.
You also get Fujifilm's latest autofocus system, which is packed with subject-detection tracking modes that cover humans, various animals and vehicles. Fujifilm hasn't quite got autofocus speed and accuracy to Sony and Canon levels yet, but it's not too far off, plus there's arguably less need for such power in a compact camera with fixed wide-angle lens.
It was good to know, though, that when I composed portraits, focusing was pin-sharp on my subject's eyes.
Image 1 of 3
(Image credit: Tim Coleman)
Image 2 of 3
(Image credit: Tim Coleman)
Image 3 of 3
(Image credit: Tim Coleman)
When I was first being briefed on the GFX100RF, I had to ask Fujifilm if it had its numbers right when I saw an 820-shot battery life quoted – that's 2-2.5x the number of shots you'd typically expect from such a camera, so it seemed unlikely.
I was pleasantly surprised to learn that Fujifilm does indeed have its numbers right. Such staying power could be attributed to the camera's leaf shutter, which is a typically less power-hunger shutter than the type used in most other cameras – this is a camera that'll comfortably last all day.
I've already mentioned how the maximum f/4 aperture is, for me, the biggest drawback to the GFX100RF, and the fact that there's no optical stabilization would be a close second. I'm typically a handheld photographer, preferring not to use a tripod, and optical stabilization is a saving grace for maintaining sharp image quality, especially given such high-resolution output.
Neither is there in-body image stabilization (IBIS), which is understandable for such a camera; but no optical stabilization? That's a big miss for photographers. Should you dabble with video, there is digital stabilization, which does a decent job of smoothing out camera shake.
Features and performance score: 4/5
Fujifilm GFX100RF: image and video quality
102MP sensor and 35mm f/4 lens combine for class-leading edge-to-edge clarity
Maximum f/4 aperture will be a drawback for many users
Fujifilm's full suite of Film Simulations; video resolution maxes out at 4K
If image resolution and edge-to-edge clarity matter most to you, there's no better camera than the Fujifilm GFX100RF. It marries a class-leading 102MP medium-format sensor with a super-sharp lens – trust me, I've pixel peeped a range of images, and detail is pin-sharp from the center of the frame right out to the very edges.
And I noted these findings while directly comparing the GFX100RF with the Leica Q3, which is an even pricier 61MP full-frame premium compact that previously set the bar for image quality.
Such quality means the GFX100RF is ideal for street and landscape photography, especially given its 28mm full-frame equivalent focal length. Furthermore, the 102MP sensor unleashes unmatched cropping potential; even if the dedicated 36mm, 50mm, and 63mm effective focal length digital crop options don't reach as far as the Leica Q3's 35mm, 50mm, 75mm and 90mm options, each option has more pixels.
Image 1 of 6
This photo utilizes the crop mode with an effective 50mm focal length to get the framing I hoped for from the position I had to take the photo from. Image size is still a huge 35MP. (Image credit: Tim Coleman)
Image 2 of 6
Here's the full 4:3 image area of the 102MP sensor (Image credit: Tim Coleman)
Image 3 of 6
This is the 65:24 panoramic aspect ratio, which I think works really well here (Image credit: Tim Coleman)
Image 4 of 6
To finish my process, I opted for the Acros Film Simulation with red filter – a monochrome color profile that brings out the richness in sunny skies (Image credit: Tim Coleman)
Image 5 of 6
The aspect ratio dial is an addictive tool. Sure, you can bring in such an effect in editing software, but doing so at the time impacts your creative process. (Image credit: Tim Coleman)
Image 6 of 6
Back to the full 4:3 aspect ratio (Image credit: Tim Coleman)
I had a blast experimenting with different aspect ratios via the dedicated dial, too, and became hooked on the 65:24 panoramic aspect ratio, constantly seeing the world around me in panorama.
Still, the GFX100RF won't be for everyone. For me, despite its quality, the limitations of the lens' maximum f/4 aperture are a major drawback. That, and the complete lack of image stabilization for photography, both optically and sensor-based, limited the scenarios in which I could get sharp handheld images, even with the lens' subtler leaf shutter.
Furthermore, I love using a lens' maximum aperture for shallow depth of field, even with a lens as wide as this, and for that the 28mm f/1.7 lens of the Leica Q3 is the better pick.
Within its practical use-cases, however, and with the the help of Fujifilm's known and much loved Film Simulations color profiles, I've been able to create images that you'd struggle to believe were made with a compact camera.
Image 1 of 7
Fujifilm's standard color profile has a high-contrast look. I'm a bigger fan of the natural look (Image credit: Tim Coleman)
Image 2 of 7
Despite the limited f/4 maximum aperture, it's still possible to get shallow depth of field if the focus distance is close (Image credit: Tim Coleman)
Image 3 of 7
I was able to get properly sharp detail in this night scene using a 1/75sec shutter speed and ISO 3200 sensitivity (Image credit: Tim Coleman)
Image 4 of 7
The GFX100RF's impressive dynamic range has kept detail in the sunkissed top left of the building here. Many other cameras would rely on a HDR mode to do the same. (Image credit: Tim Coleman)
Image 5 of 7
The 28mm focal length is ideal for street photography (Image credit: Tim Coleman)
Image 6 of 7
I'd rather a shallower depth of field for this portrait, but alas it's not possible with the GFX100RF (Image credit: Tim Coleman)
Image 7 of 7
Detail is pin sharp, everywhere in the frame (Image credit: Tim Coleman)
Optically, if I was to nitpick – and I say this having made direct comparisons with the excellent Q3 – the GFX100RF is slightly prone to lens flare with the sun in the shot. In such instances it's all the more important to utilize the lens hood that comes with the camera, and keep the lens and / or protective filter clean from dust.
Chromatic aberration is well controlled, while bokeh is only okay – the GFX100RF's lens is not the one to pick for buttery smooth backdrops.
Image 1 of 3
Chromatic aberrations are essentially absent in this scene – impressive. However, bokeh is only okay (Image credit: Tim Coleman)
Image 2 of 3
You get lovely sunstars with the GFX100RF, but it is a little prone to lens flare. (Image credit: Tim Coleman)
Image 3 of 3
Slightly underexposed here, but tones are really nice. (Image credit: Tim Coleman)
Video specs are solid if unspectacular. Fujifilm has focused on getting 4K quality right, rather than wowing us with 8K resolution. There's 4K up to 30fps in H.265 All-Intra 4:2:2 10-bit, or Full HD up to 60fps, with bitrates up to a staggering 720Mbps.
Using such a high-quality bitrate will naturally create huge file sizes, for which you'll need to use the fastest possible UHS-II V90 SD card. It's also possible to shoot 4K in the even higher-quality ProRes format with a 1,877Mbps bitrate and up to 60fps, but only to an external SSD.
This video quality is backed up by handy video tools, such as a 4EV ND filter and digital-only image stabilization (only for video) that smooths out shake in handheld footage. So while most users will be shooting primarily photos with the GFX100RF, it's possible to shoot some lovely looking 4K video too.
Image and video quality score: 5/5
Fujifilm GFX100RF: testing scorecard
Should I buy the Fujifilm GFX100RF?
Buy it if...
You want the best possible detail The GFX100's 102MP sensor and high-quality lens render detail to a scale – and with edge-to-edge sharpness – previously unseen in a compact camera.
You like experimenting with different looks Don't be fooled into thinking the fixed 35mm f/4 is restricting – with 102MP to play with, you can crop into images for a perceived tighter lens, and play with various aspect ratios.
You love the retro Fujifilm vibes From its rangefinder style design to its range of Film Simulations color profiles, the GFX100RF embodies what has made Fujifilm so popular over the last decade.
Don't buy it if...
You want a bright lens For me, the single biggest drawback is the limitations that come with the maximum f/4 aperture, specifically low-light performance and shallow depth of field potential.
You lack a steady hand The GFX100RF is should be ideal for handheld use, except that there's no optical or sensor-based stabilization on board. For sharp images, you'll need to utilize a fast shutter speed, a very steady hand, or a tripod.
You're as interested in video as photography It's possible to squeeze lovely video quality out of the GFX100RF, but there's no doubt that it's primarily designed for photographers.
Fujifilm GFX100RF: also consider
Leica Q3
I thought compact camera quality peaked with the 60.3MP Leica Q3, but then along came the 102MP Fujifilm GFX100RF. That said, there's plenty going for the Q3, especially its gorgeous 28mm lens with a wider f/1.7 maximum aperture, and its macro focus mode. Want to know more? I've directly compared these two premium compacts in real-world tests in a GFX100RF vs Q3 article.
The GFX100RF will be overkill for most people, and for those people its smaller cousin, the popular X100VI, could be a wiser, thriftier choice if you can stomach back-order lead times. Both are rangefinder-style cameras, with the X100VI featuring a hybrid viewfinder that can switch between optical and electronic displays, whereas the GFX100RF just has an EVF. It's 40MP APS-C sensor and 35mm f/2 lens impress too – for many scenarios you might not really notice a quality difference between the pair, and the smaller X100VI is a third of the price. For outright image quality though, the GFX100RF is unmatched.
I had a pre-launch briefing session and hands-on time with the camera
Fujifilm subsequently loaned me the camera for a 10-day period
I've used the camera extensively, and made direct comparisons with the Leica Q3
My time with the GFX100RF was briefer than I would have liked, but plenty long enough for me to get a real feel for the camera and its capabilities.
Taking a deep dive into its key features, including that incredible 102MP sensor, the digital crop and aspect ratio options, and color profiles, has led me to write separate articles, as has my direct comparison with the Leica Q3, another premium fixed-lens compact.
I've also pushed the camera's performance, namely its burst shooting and video recording, and pixel-peeped the quality of the f/4 lens, analysing edge-to-edge detail and bokeh.
If you’re looking to create a physical manifestation of your treasured memories, then a Printerpix photo book may look like an appealing proposition. You can easily import your favorite photos and integrate them into a photo book with a theme and finish of your choosing, all through its easy-to-use software.
And that ease-of-use is what makes Printerpix a delight to use for creating a custom photo book. Its editing platform has a pretty modern look and breaks down everything you need into key categories within a side bar, including: Photos, Text and Layout. Even when you begin a new project, you’re instantly met with a photo uploader menu, which loads all of your photos quickly and easily.
For reference, I made a totally custom photo book in order to create a product as close to our standardized TechRadar template as possible. That way I could compare Printerpix to its rivals and see if it can compete for a place in our guide to the best photo book services. But if you want a bit of inspiration to get you off the mark, fear not. There are a number of preset themes on offer, including, but not limited to: ‘Wedding Memories’, ‘Vintage’ and ‘Cat Diagonal Strips’ … yep, that’s a real theme. These are separated out into sub-categories too, like ‘Clean and Simple’, ‘Love’ and ‘Family books’, enabling simple navigation.
(Image credit: Future)
So, how did making our standardized book go? Well, the whole experience was a bit of a mixed bag – but I’m happy to report that there was more good than bad. Firstly, I was delighted to get through the entire creation process without any nasty glitches or anything. When I reviewed the Shutterfly photo book platform at the end of 2024, I experienced a few issues, like images jumping around the page – no such horrors here! There was one point where the photos menu got a bit laggy, but after refreshing the page, I had no further problems.
But the platform isn’t just smooth sailing, it’s well laid out too. There’s no need for tutorials or digging through menus – everything is super-straightforward, whether you want to alter the size and shape of an image, add a text box or rejig page order.
Having said that, sometimes the user experience felt almost too simple, with a handful of crucial features missing. When adjusting image size, for example, I couldn’t see the exact dimensions in millimeters or inches, which made getting one-to-one likeness with our template decently challenging.
In addition, elements like shapes, which can be added in the Clip Art section, aren’t totally malleable. For example, I wanted to use a rectangle shape on some pages, but this wasn’t available – meaning I had to use a square. I could make this larger or smaller, but couldn’t alter its proportions, meaning I had to mess around with images to cover up excess width.
(Image credit: Future)
This rigidness is fairly widespread across the platform. You can’t use custom font size; you have to pick from a list. You can’t use hex code to get a particular shade; you have to pick from a preset list. And there’s no search tool to find a shape or border type that you may want to use. That leaves Printerpix feeling a little bare-boned – perhaps even a touch unintuitive.
But again, the actual creation process was pretty easy for me to carry out. A lot of that was thanks to the Layout tab, which creates one, or multiple boxes that cover the whole page, a portion of it (like a square), or an area within a page border. These can be auto-filled with the images you’ve uploaded and makes for a swift, seamless photo-book-building process. You can also add images freehand, too, which was useful when placing the TechRadar logo on the book’s spine, for instance – something that’s proved tricky to do on other platforms.
What’s more, there are some nice background options, including plain colors or patterned ones like ‘Geometric’ or ‘Striped’. And you can adorn these with plenty of icons, shapes and text from the Clip Art section – some of this does look like it's stuck in the noughties, though. And some of the other graphic elements, like borders and frames do look a little dated too. These aren’t compulsory, of course – I didn’t include any borders or frames in my design. I just wish the decoration elements looked as modern as the user interface.
(Image credit: Future)
Now, let’s take a peek at the finished product and whether it met expectations. In honesty, my experience was somewhat mixed in this department.
I was generally impressed by the reproduction of colors in my book. Forest greens on one page were saturated to a pleasant degree and were neatly contrasted by an ensemble of purple flowers. Waves in a cliffside image also looked defined and the azure blue sea was mimicked to a high standard. Also, pages felt thick and durable, meaning I was never worried about accidentally tearing or ripping them when flicking through the book.
But it wasn’t all sunshine and rainbows. One major sticking point I had with the Printerpix photo book was banding. That’s essentially unwanted lines appearing on a finished print – and there were a number of images affected by just that. For instance, the image of a man looking to the sky and accompanying color block are clearly afflicted with banding issues – a real distraction and something you’d not expect if you’re spending upwards of $100 / £100.
(Image credit: Future)
OK, so the finished products ended up being quite middling, but was it worth the money? Well, let me start by saying that I hardly went for the most premium finish. I selected standard pages, a hardback front and back cover and non-HD printing. You can pay extra for a number of aspects though, be it a matte finish, glossy pages – even a removal of the Printerpix logo. All of this will cost you a fair bit more though.
We managed to grab our photo book in the Mother’s Day sale at a cut price, but the finished product would typically have cost a grand total of about £90 (about $115). For reference, delivery came to £7, though you can pay an additional £4 to jump the production queue and have your design prioritized. Our previous creations with Mixbook, Printique and Shutterfly all cost more, but then again, we’ve got books for less with rivals like Blurb. All in all, pricing is solid here – just don’t expect a perfect end product.
In the end, the Printerpix photo book is a slightly flawed, yet solid option for those looking to put their favorite moments to paper. The building process is restricted, but undoubtedly straightforward. The finished product is vibrant and fairly durable, but you may experience some quality issues, like banding. So, if you’re not in need of the most premium print on the market, this could be a worthwhile option for you. Otherwise, I’d recommend checking out the Blurb photo book, which is both cost-efficient and nicely finished, in our experience.
(Image credit: Future)
Should I buy the Printerpix photo book?
Buy it if…
You don’t want to mess around with complicated software Printerpix has a super easy-to-use photo book making platform, which I got to grips with straight away. There are no complex, overly technical settings to grapple with, which makes it ideal if you’re not ultra techy. And the whole experience was essentially glitch-free, so you’re in for a pretty pain-free user experience here.
You don’t want to pay top dollar OK, so there may be a few cheaper options out there, but we found that this Printerpix photo book wasn’t as pricey to print as some of its rivals. We also grabbed our book on sale for essentially half-price, so I’d strongly recommend you pull the trigger on a purchase during discount season.
Don't buy it if…
You have a very precise request in mind If you have very particular measurements you want to follow – or if you want a specific color shade to be used in your photo book, Printerpix might not be the right option for you. You’re unable to view specific dimensions in millimetres or inches and there’s no option to alter color via hex code.
You need the most premium print available When I received the finished photo book from Printerpix, I instantly realized there was banding on a number of the photos. Lines on images take away from some of the nicer aspects, like accurate color reproduction and detail replication. So if you want the best-looking print on the market, you might want to search elsewhere.
Printerpix photo book review: also consider
VistaPrint We enjoyed using VistaPrint's easy and capable editing software a lot, which helped it rank as one of the best phot book services we've tried so far. Colors looked vibrant, print quality was sharp and there was no visible blurring. Read our full VistaPrint photo book review.
Snapfish Snapfish's photo book services didn't fare quite as well as VistaPrint's, but still, there was a lot to like there. Our photo book was good value on sale, had decent print quality and was delivered to us very snap-pily indeed. Some images appeared a little wonky and dark colors looked a little underwhelming, however. Read our full Snapfish photo book review.
How I tested the Printerpix photo book
(Image credit: Future)
Built a photo book to recreate the TechRadar template
Compared against other websites’ photo books and software
I used the Printerpix website to create a custom photo book and test out a handful of templates. Here at TechRadar, we have selected a standardized set of photos to use across all photo book services, in order to fairly compare each platform. We try to use the same layout for each photo book design to help discover which service is the best of the best.
As well as comparing software features, I ordered the Printerpix photo book and observed its print quality, color fidelity and whether there were any scuffs or scratches to the finished product. For reference, the finished photo book I created was 27 x 27 centimeters, had a hard photo cover and used the standard page type.
Blurb is an affordable printing service that allows you to produce your own high-quality photo books. Offering a wide range of sizes, from a Lilliputian 13 x 13cm to a colossal 33 x 28cm, five kinds of paper stock and three cover options, it offers a huge range of products. And unlike many photo book services, you can design books in a variety of ways, using professional design tools like Adobe InDesign or Lightroom or Blurb's bespoke software, BookWright.
For those who fancy creating a photo book without the fuss, Blurb’s BookWright software has plenty of options. You can let it do all the work: just upload your photos, click the ‘Save Me Time’ button and it will automatically place your photos on the page. However, I did find when trying this feature out that BookWright defaulted to displaying a single full-size image per page, so you’ll likely only want to use this as a starting point.
Helpfully, there’s another option: dragging one of Blurb’s 188 different layouts onto each page, then choosing the order and placement of your photos yourself. These templates offer a great amount of variety, from large images with smaller photographs inset to blocks of free-flowing text accompanied by tiny thumbnails.
(Image credit: Blurb / Future)
Keen to blaze your own trail? Creating your own unique designs using Blurb is more flexible than pretty much any of the best photo book services. Simply select the photo frame tool, draw a frame, and then you can click and drag photos from your uploaded library.
Adding type is just as straightforward: once you’ve drawn a text frame, punch in your text and then you can tweak fonts, styling and alignment to achieve your desired look. And you can also link text frames together, making it possible to automatically flood text from frame to frame.
While most photo book services offer this kind of hassle-free placement, what sets Blurb apart for me is how accurate you can be. I was able replicate TechRadar’s photo book test template with surgical precision, thanks to the detailed properties menu available when you double-click each element. Not only can you precisely set the size of photo and text frames in inches, but you can also easily rotate and flip photographs, and add borders and round the edges of frames, giving you really precise control over the final look of elements on the page.
On top of this, standardizing layouts and alignments is a breeze. Not only do frames handily snap to each other or to the vertical and horizontal midpoint of each page, but you can also set ruler guides to specific measurements, making it simple to use common alignments from page to page. I also really appreciated the ability to save layouts for reuse – this meant I could easily duplicate arrangements for multiple different spreads, without the hassle of recreating them from scratch.
Image 1 of 3
(Image credit: Future)
Image 2 of 3
(Image credit: Future)
Image 3 of 3
(Image credit: Future)
While Blurb doesn’t offer the pages and pages of clip art that some photo book tools do, what it does offer is actually far more flexible than many rivals. Blurb allowed me to create custom shapes with dimensions of my choosing, as well as dialing in precise RGB color values, rather than being limited to a bunch of preset imagery. Sure, it only offers a spectrum of 386 in its color wheel, there's no color picker, and I’d have loved the option to input Hex and CMYK values as well; but Blurb still offers far better precision than many of its competitors.
Once I was done finessing my photo book, all I had to do was click Review and Upload. This runs you through any warnings and gives you a chance to fix flagged issues, as well as running a spell check. That’s a feature not many photo book platforms offer, so it’s a nice additional touch – although its suggestion that I correct ‘TechRadar’ to ‘technocrat’ feels like a level of sass I’m not used to receiving from software.
Colors within were vibrant without feeling like they were oversaturated – the moss on a log has come out in a gorgeous, vivid green, while a shot of an aurora shows off a rainbow of rich pastel hues. The resolution of images also looked exquisitely detailed; for example the bristle of grey hairs in one subject’s beard were incredibly well-defined, adding real depth to the image.
(Image credit: Future)
There were few visible print errors either. As you’d imagine from the precision of its tools, alignments looked spot on, with no awkward gaps between frames or ragged corners, and there were no issues with the edges of pages being unevenly trimmed. It is worth noting that my book did arrive with some damage, with an unsightly dent in the front cover. The blame for this probably falls more on the shoulders of FedEx, but I would appreciate some additional packaging to protect books from these kinds of knocks.
But however strong the finished result was, perhaps the most remarkable thing about Blurb’s photo book was how reasonably priced it was. Setting aside the eye-watering delivery costs for the Australian market, the $80.72 / £50.76 / AU$99.44 plus $6.99 / £8.99 / AU$71.49 price for our sample was much cheaper than the $130 (around £100 / AU$200) cost charged by Shutterfly or $145.78 (roughly £112) charged by Printique. That’s a very decent price to pay, particularly in light of the (generally) excellent finish.
(Image credit: Future)
Should I buy the Blurb photo book?
Buy it if…
You want precise, accurate design tools Blurb’s BookWright software is capable of producing unerringly precise designs – you can manually set precise dimensions for frames, punch in RGB color values, use ruler guides to use the same positions from page to page. Alternatively, if you’re a design pro, you can create your own book from scratch in Adobe InDesign or Lightroom.
You want a top-quality finished photo book Blurb’s photo books are produced to an excellent standard. Colors are vibrant without looking artificial, the clarity of printed images is genuinely impressive, and there are also no glaring errors with alignment or the margins of pages.
Don’t buy it if…
You want an online solution Using an app is the only way you can design a book for Blurb’s platform. So if you’re unable to install third-party apps on your computer and don’t have a tablet to design on, you may find it slightly trickier to use the platform.
You want drag-and-drop clip art Blurb is more focused on precise photo- and text-focused layouts than stock illustrations and flourishes. If you’re looking to decorate your photo book with clip art or pre-formatted aphorisms, it doesn’t have a lot of options.
The finished quality of Blurb's photo book on the left, compared to our sample from Snapfish – colors were noticeably brighter and the print smoother (Image credit: Future)
Blurb photo book review: also consider
Printique Printique is another very solid photo book platform. You can adjust the measurements of elements accurately, and punch in specific color values, and it also offers 88 pre-made themes, making it easier to tailor your photo book to a specific style. One serious caveat though is that it’s significantly more expensive – our 12 x 12-inch photo book cost us $145.78 including delivery (roughly £112), which is almost double the price of Blurb.
Snapfish If you’re looking for even more of a bargain, Snapfish might well be the way to go. While a 12 x 12-inch 28 page photo book like ours costs roughly the same price, at $84.95 / £46.95 / AU$101.55, Snapfish also offers regular deals of 40% off, which would bring this down to an absurdly low $50.97 / £28.17 / AU$60.93. Unfortunately, Snapfish books don’t have quite as accurate color as Blurb, looking a little duller, and you don't get the ability to set specific values for dimensions or hues. But, if you catch it on sale, it’s still one of the cheapest photo books you’ll find. Read our full Snapfish photo book review.
How I tested the Blurb photo book
I precisely reproduced TechRadar’s photo book template
I spent a number of hours trying out layouts and putting the platform through its paces
I’ve worked in the print and design industries for more than 10 years
TechRadar has a specific photo book template that we try to recreate from scratch using the photo book platform we're testing. When testing out Blurb’s BookWright app, I duplicated this as accurately as possible, copying the exact dimensions of photo and text frames, precisely reproducing the positioning and alignment of elements, and using the exact RGB color values from the original. I also spent multiple hours playing with Blurb's various templates to get a sense of the kinds of layouts that were available.
When the final printed product arrived, I checked it for damage and marks from handling or the printing process. Next, I compared it to the photo book template to see how the colors and alignments compared to the original, specifically looking for any patches of low resolution imagery or inaccurate hues.
In terms of experience, I’ve spent many years taking photographs on both on my Canon DSLR and my iPhone 16 Pro. I’ve also had over a decade’s experience working in print publishing, working on layouts and doing post-production on images, which has given me a keen eye for printing errors and issues with image reproduction.
Almost precisely a year on from the launch of the Insta360 X4, its successor has arrived – and at first glance it’s hard to tell the difference. The two 360 degree cameras are near-identical in size, weight and shape, and it’s only a few aesthetic differences – plus, of course, the name emblazoned on the front – that enabled me to tell the new camera from the old once I’d pulled it out of its box.
The well-worn phrase “if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it” feels apt here, and it’s hard to blame Insta360 for not ringing major changes. After all, TechRadar’s glowing five-star review of the X4 dubbed it the best 360 degree camera on the market, and the company would have been unwise to ditch a winning formula. My early impressions of the X5, gleaned from a few hours of use, suggest that it has instead polished and honed where refinements are needed, finessing one superb and versatile camera into an even better and more flexible one.
Incremental improvements have been made across the board, but the headline progression I’ve really noticed has been in image quality. And yes, that’s a big one, brought about largely through the introduction of 1/1.28-inch image sensors. These are 144% larger than those on the X4, and they’ve been paired with a trio of image processing chips (or “AI chips” as Insta360’s marketing department calls them) for noise reduction, sharpening and other enhancements that, in theory, should make the image quality markedly better than the X4’s, particularly in challenging conditions like low light.
I’ve not had the chance to give it a go once the sun goes down just yet, but having taken the Insta360 X5 out for a morning test-run on foot and on my bike I’m more than happy with the general image quality. I’ve embedded the videos below, one of which was recorded at 5.7K 60fps with HDR, the other at the camera’s highest resolution of 8K 30fps, with no HDR.
I used the Insta360 app’s AI-powered automatic editor to create both videos before exporting them at 1080p and 1440p resolution respectively, and both at 30fps. I largely used the default settings here, but it’s worth noting that it’s possible to export at much higher bitrates than this if you wish, and at higher frame rates too provided your original recorded was captured that way.
I’ve been really impressed with the results so far. Sure, the conditions for my test were bright and sunny, so about as far from challenging as can be, but the levels of detail, rich colors, wide dynamic range and general all-round “pop” of the clips are wonderful – and they’re ready to be shared on social media right away, with very little in the way of editing or tweaking to do. Sure – a fully manually edited clip still beats the robo-editor’s take on things, and the tunes and templates provided here are a little cheesy, but those who want to put in the work to do things the old-fashioned way are still free to do so.
Technically, things look great too. There’s barely any sign of the stitch between the two planes, lens flare is minimal, and the selfie stick I was using has been artfully removed from view in signature Insta360 style.
I haven’t experimented much with audio yet, but Insta360 says the X5’s internal mics should be a major upgrade on the X4’s thanks to a built-in steel mesh wind guard plus software-based tweak like the new selectable Voice Enhancement mode, ideal for vlogging. I’ll be testing this fully in the coming days, but for now I’ll say that the above videos were captured on a quite breezy day on the coast and that wind noise is definitely still quite audible, if not overwhelmingly distracting.
Other things I’ve noticed in my initial few hours with the X5 are that its battery life can go down fast, particularly if you shoot in 8K. It also drained the battery of my iPhone 13 very quickly, while I was paired with it, using the companion app and editing and exporting footage. These are all very intensive tasks, so it’s not that surprising – but worth noting all the same.
Insta360 X5 specs
Image 1 of 3
(Image credit: Future | Sam Kieldsen)
Image 2 of 3
The X5 (left) alongside the X4 (right) (Image credit: Future | Sam Kieldsen)
Image 3 of 3
(Image credit: Future | Sam Kieldsen)
Insta360 X5: Price and availability
Launched worldwide in April 2025
Standard edition costs $549.99 / £519.99 / AU$929.99
Essentials bundle available for $659.99 / £609.99 / AU$1,109.99
The Insta360 X5 is available to order from its launch day of 22 April 2025, and costs from $549.99 / £519.99 / AU$929.99 – which is only around 5-10% more than its predecessor the X4 cost when it launched in April 2024 ($499.99 / £499.99 / AU$879.99). That’s not too bad of a price jump given inflation and the uncertainty surrounding US tariffs.
That above price is for the standard bundle, which includes just the camera, but an Essentials bundle is also available and might make more sense for certain customers, especially if you’re just getting started on your 360 action camera journey. For $659.99 / £609.99 / AU$1,109.99, it offers the camera plus a second battery, fast charge case, 114cm invisible selfie stick, standard lens guards, rubber lens cap and carry case.
How I tested the Insta360 X5
Tested for two hours, full production model running early firmware
Camera mounted on invisible selfie stick
Recorded videos on foot and on a bicycle
I've only had a few hours to test the Insta360 X5, but as a frequent users of all its predecessors it felt immensely familiar so I was able to get out and shoot video with it almost immediately. I mounted it on the company's invisible selfie stick and shot short videos while walking and riding my bike during daylight hours. For the full review, I'll test it in different conditions, and try out its other shooting modes, including still photography.
The Nikon Z5 II may be the ‘entry-level’ model in the brand’s most recent lineup of mirrorless bodies, but it’s by no means the stripped-down back-to-basics affair that its predecessor was. Nikon has conspicuously taken the body up a notch in terms of performance and features – and, for that matter, price.
It inherits the lion’s share of specs from the outstanding Nikon Zf, and subsequently it’s a fully-fledged hybrid shooter that excels in all but the most extreme of use cases. Notwithstanding its position in the Nikon range, don’t think of this as an entry-level camera – it’s anything but.
The Nikon Z5 II with the Nikkor 24-50mm f/4-6.3 kit lens (Image credit: Future / Alex Whitelock)
At the heart of the Nikon Z5 II is the same Expeed 7 processor that's in the recent higher-end Z-series bodies. Subject detection? Check. Super-sticky 3D tracking? Check. In terms of autofocus, video, and meaningful quality of life changes, this camera blows away the original Z5 in every area.
If I had to nitpick, I would say that the almost 25% price increase over the Z5 is a glaring sore point for this camera. I do, however, think the massive jump in performance makes this camera worth every penny; you pay more, but you also get substantially more camera. If you've been eying up the Zf, but were put off by its hipster charms and questionable ergonomics, then the Z5 II is the clear choice here.
It's also, arguably, the top choice in the entry-level to mid-range full-frame mirrorless market right now. It's carefully placed just below the Z6 III in terms of burst rates and video specs, but compares favorably to the likes of the Canon EOS R8, Panasonic S5 II, and Sony Alpha A7 III. All have their merits, but the Nikon Z5 II offers a compelling blend of price and performance without any glaring compromises. In short, it beats its competitors on either price or specs – it really is well positioned.
The Z5 II forgoes the top LCD panel of the Z6 series (Image credit: Future / Alex Whitelock)
As a stills camera in particular, it's hard to fault the Z5 II. You get a tried-and-tested 24.5MP back-side-illuminated sensor that's capable of excellent results, and 12fps raw capture. I'd also argue that this is one of Nikon's best cameras for JPEG shooters yet, thanks to the inclusion of the handy Picture Control button and support for sharing custom JPEG recipes via Nikon Imaging Cloud.
The video specs are a little weaker considering that 4K 60fps video is cropped, but the Z5 II is still capable of full-width 4K video up to 30fps – that's significantly better than the previous model.
In the rare cases where you need 6K video capture or quicker readout speeds, the Z6 III is likely a worthwhile upgrade. Otherwise, however, the Z5 II is going to be an absolute winner for most users. Sure, it's not a resolution beast like the Z8, nor is it particularly quick like the Z6 III; but the Z5 II is a superb camera in its own right, and one that's going to have mass appeal, even outside the Z-Mount ecosystem.
Nikon Z5 II: price and release date
The Nikon Z5 II body-only costs $1,699 / £1,599 / AU$2,699
Zoom kit bundles starting at $1,999 / £1,899 / AU$3,249
Roughly 25% more expensive than first Z5
At $1,699 / £1,599 / AU$2,699 the Z5 II arrives with a significant price jump over the first-gen model. At launch it’s roughly 25% more expensive than the first iteration, and the price difference is even more glaring considering that the Z5 has hit as low as $999 in the US in recent months.
Judged in terms of specs, however, the Nikon Z5 II isan aggressively priced body. I’ll elaborate more later, but the Z5 II is simply in a different league to its predecessor when it comes to both performance and features, and in my book this quantum leap softens the blow of the price hike significantly.
You could easily compare it to the most recent offerings from Canon R8 or Panasonic S5 II, but I’d argue that the Nikon is the more fully featured camera for the price. The R8, for example, is cheaper at $1,499 / £1,629 / AU$2,489, but forgoes IBIS and a second card slot. The S5 II is more comparable in term of specs, but it’s pricier in the US and UK at $1,999 / £1,699, and the Z5 II inherits the outstandingly refined subject-detect autofocus of the higher-end Z-Mount bodies.
The Z5 II is also well placed to compete with older mid-range models like the Sony Alpha A7 III. Sony’s former hybrid king is still available for new for around $1,799 / £1,679 / AU$2,000, and features a compelling mix of excellent autofocus, extensive lens choices, and specs that still hold up for enthusiast users.
It’s a testament to the A7 III that even in 2025 it remains a competitive choice, but the Z5 II finally gives customers a better option than Sony's seven-year-old camera in this price bracket. Sony’s traditionally killer USPs of autofocus and lens choice are less deadly to rivals now – and the Z5 II also features meaningful quality of life upgrades like a fantastic EVF, flip screen, and excellent IBIS. The Z5 II is so well featured that it’s hard not to recommend it, despite the unfortunate price bump.
Price score: 4.5/5
Nikon Z5 II: specs
Nikon Z5 II: design and handling
Similar design to the Nikon Z6 III
Fully articulating display
Picture Control button for JPEGs
Despite the Z5 II’s internal similarities to the Zf, outwardly the two cameras couldn’t be any more different. Nikon has returned to its modern design language with the Z5 II, and like its predecessor it essentially shares the same body as the most recent higher-end Z6 model, aside from that camera’s top LCD panel.
The Z5 II’s design is typically Nikon. It’s function over form, although the brand has made subtle tweaks compared to its previous generation of cameras. For one, the body is slightly thicker, and Nikon has also made a few changes to the EVF housing, which now sweeps around to the generously sized Z mount on the front. It’s a blink-and-you’ll-miss-it change, but the camera looks more modern for it.
The button layout is essentially the same as on the previous model, but there are some changes. The playback button and sequential shooting menu have been switched, for example, and there’s now a handy ‘Picture Control’ button to quickly access JPEG settings. Either way, everything is in the right place, and if you’re already a Nikon shooter you’ll feel right at home. Notably the grip remains the same; chunky, with plenty of purchase for when you're using larger Z-mount lenses.
Image 1 of 4
The new Picture Control dial is situated next to the PASM dial (Image credit: Future / Alex Whitelock)
Image 2 of 4
The Nikon Z5 II features mic, headphone, USB, and micro HDMI ports (Image credit: Future / Alex Whitelock)
Image 3 of 4
The new fully articulating screen on the Z5 II (Image credit: Future / Alex Whitelock)
Image 4 of 4
(Image credit: Future / Alex Whitelock)
As on the Z6 III, the top and back plates are made of a sturdy magnesium alloy, and you also get the large and bright EVF that’s typical for Nikon cameras. The EVF is the same 3.69k dot OLED panel as on the previous model, although Nikon says it can now reach up to 3,000 nits of brightness.
Perhaps the most meaningful design change for the Z5 II is the inclusion of a fully articulating display. Previously, the Z5 only featured a tilting display, so it’s nice to see the inclusion of a flip screen that’s particularly useful for talking-head scenarios. There’s some debate around whether a tilting screen is still superior, but I much prefer the fully articulating option personally in terms of versatility. Not only do you get that selfie and talking-head option, but the flip-out screen is great for getting low-angle shots in portrait orientation, plus it isn't partially obstructed by the viewfinder for waist-level shooting like the previous screen.
Image 1 of 2
The Nikon Z5 II's EVF housing is chunkier than the previous model (Image credit: Future / Alex Whitelock)
Image 2 of 2
(Image credit: Future / Alex Whitelock)
Ports-wise, the Z5 II features micro a HDMI port, plus headphone and microphone jacks, and USB-C with charging support. Unlike some budget models from the competition, notably the Canon R8, the Z5 II also features two card slots. You get support for two UHS-II cards here rather than the CFExpress Type-B combination that’s common on Nikon’s higher-end bodies, but it's still a fantastic inclusion for an entry-level camera. It’s also a nod to the Z5 II’s intended enthusiast target market, since the supported cards here are much cheaper than the CFExpress cards.
I'm grasping at straws to find a valid criticism of the Z5 II's design, but there are a few minor quibbles. The PASM dial, for example, doesn't feature the usual locking mechanism you find on higher-end bodies. It's a minor thing, yes, but it's easy to knock the dial out of your mode of choice, and it seems like an easy thing to rectify. Otherwise, the Z5 II is almost perfect in terms of function for a modern body.
Design score: 4.5/5
Nikon Z5 II: features and performance
Inherits subject-detection autofocus from high-end bodies
Now shoots 4K 30fps footage uncropped
12fps burst for raw / 30fps JPEG with pre-capture
The previous Z5 was an entry-level camera through and through. It was capable of capturing lovely images, sure, but pedestrian autofocus performance and lesser specs meant it was best consigned to rather sedentary subjects.
The Z5 II, however, is a significant leap in terms of performance. With an almost identical specs sheet to the mid-range retro-bodied Nikon Zf, the Z5 II is in a completely different class to its predecessor.
There’s really no other way to express it: the Nikon Z5 II is just a superb camera for the vast majority of applications. The 24.5MP back-side-illuminated sensor in combination with the Expeed 7 imaging processor means the Z5 II is an extremely capable body regardless of the price tag.
Readout speeds, while not up to the level of the Z6 III with its stacked sensor, are dramatically better now. The Z5 II supports raw burst rates up to 12fps versus its predecessor’s pedestrian 5fps. If you’re happy to go with JPEGs, then you can crank that up to 30fps, with additional support for pre-capture.
Image 1 of 2
The 24.5MP back-side-illuminated sensor at the heart of the Nikon Z5 II (Image credit: Future / Alex Whitelock)
Image 2 of 2
The Nikon Z5 II now supports custom user JPEG profiles (Image credit: Future / Alex Whitelock)
Video specs have also been improved significantly. The Z5 II now features full-width 4K footage at 30fps instead of the 1.7x crop of the Z5, and you also now get support for advanced formats like 12-bit N-RAW and 10-bit N-Log. Technically, the Z5 II can capture 4K at 60fps, but its 1.5x crop means it's still far behind the higher-end Z6 III when it comes to hybrid capabilities.
The two cameras do, however, share a lot of DNA, particularly when it comes to autofocus. The Z5 II inherits the various person, animal, and vehicle subject-detection capabilities from the higher-end Z Mount cameras, and is all the better for it.
Especially when compared to the older Z5 and Z6 models, the subject-detection autofocus is multitudes more effective here in all scenarios. On previous Z-mount bodies I was accustomed to having to manually steering the camera via tracking points or defined AF areas, but that’s not the case with the Z5 II.
Image 1 of 2
The Nikon Z5 II has received a subtle redesign (Image credit: Future / Alex Whitelock)
Image 2 of 2
The Z5 II is a little thicker than the first (Image credit: Future / Alex Whitelock)
In testing, I found myself shooting with full-area continuous autofocus in the vast majority of scenarios, simply letting the camera do its thing. The Z5 II has no issues picking out people, birds, eyes, and moving subjects in crowded or otherwise demanding scenes. 3D tracking is also significantly stickier now, which is handy for the rare occasions when subject-detection fails.
In terms of price relative to performance, it’s extremely hard to fault the Z5 II here. Sure, it’s not the quickest camera from Nikon, or the prettiest, but it’s an extremely capable body that’s perfect for a wide range of users. The Z5 II really is a versatile camera that’s going to be a fantastic tool for the vast majority of enthusiast shooters.
Features and performance score: 4.5/5
Nikon Z5 II: image and video quality
24.5MP back-side-illuminated full-frame sensor
Now supports custom JPEG recipes
Internal 12-bit N-RAW and 10-bit N-Log video
The Z5 II’s sensor is a known quantity by now. It’s a sensor that’s been knocking around in Nikon cameras in some form or another since 2018. That’s by no means to its detriment, though, since this 24.5MP back-side-illuminated sensor is capable of providing incredible results across a wide range of subjects and scenarios. You could say it’s an old favorite, even.
I have a fair amount of experience with this particular sensor, having shot with the older Nikon Z6. So I was immediately at home with the Z5 II’s output, and I’m pleased to note that it’s more than capable of producing detailed images with pleasing color straight out of the camera. It’s hard to fault a sensor this good – there really aren’t any limitations aside from the relatively middling 24.5MP resolution limiting cropping potential in the most extreme circumstances.
Image 1 of 5
Images shot with the 24-50 and 24-200mm kit zoom lenses (Image credit: Future / Alex Whitelock)
Image 2 of 5
All images straight out of camera JPEG using the auto profile (Image credit: Future / Alex Whitelock)
Image 3 of 5
(Image credit: Future / Alex Whitelock)
Image 4 of 5
(Image credit: Future / Alex Whitelock)
Image 5 of 5
(Image credit: Future / Alex Whitelock)
If you can live with ‘just’ 24MP, then you’ll find the Z5 II’s output excellent – JPEGs in particular are fantastic. The image stabilization is rated at an impressive 7.5 stops – this sensor was already known as a low-light beast, but the image stabilization really adds to the camera’s night photography credentials.
Looping back to the Z5 II’s excellent JPEG output, it’s worth mentioning just how Nikon has significantly upped its game with the Z5 II. The camera now supports the new Nikon Imaging Cloud, which unlocks a much smoother image upload workflow and the seamless sharing of image recipes a la Fujifilm.
Given that my processing app of choice (Adobe Lightroom) didn’t support my pre-production Z5 II’s raw output, I quickly found myself tinkering with numerous JPEG presets. Switching between presets is extremely easy thanks to the dedicated Picture Control button on the top of the camera, and the interface also enables you to tweak various settings like sharpness, contrast, and clarity.
Image 1 of 6
The Nikon Z5 II tracks subjects perfectly even in low-light scenarios (Image credit: Future / Alex Whitelock)
Image 2 of 6
Shot with the Viltrox 85mm f/1.8 prime lens (Image credit: Future / Alex Whitelock)
Image 3 of 6
(Image credit: Future / Alex Whitelock)
Image 4 of 6
(Image credit: Future / Alex Whitelock)
Image 5 of 6
(Image credit: Future / Alex Whitelock)
Image 6 of 6
(Image credit: Future / Alex Whitelock)
If I have a complaint, it’s that the various in-camera JPEG sliders are still rather basic, and the default profiles lack the polish of the likes of Fujifilm. The Nikon Z5 II, however, has a secret weapon in that it can store up to nine additional custom color profiles from the NX Studio app. This app fully supports color grading and other advanced options, so it’s perfect for really tailoring your JPEGs to match your raw workflow.
I imported a few presets onto my Z5 II, and was instantly able to get some superb results right out of the camera. The process is extremely smooth, and Nikon’s excellent in-camera retouch options easily allow you to test out your profiles on the various raw files already saved to your card.
Below are a few images showcasing what's possible with these in-camera presets.
Image 1 of 3
JPEG images shot using an Ektar film inspired recipe (Image credit: Future / Alex Whitelock)
Image 2 of 3
More 'Ektar-esque' JPEG images (Image credit: Future / Alex Whitelock)
Image 3 of 3
One of Nikon's own profiles called 'charcoal' (Image credit: Future / Alex Whitelock)
These presets can also be used for in-camera color grading, although advanced videographers will likely want to make use of the camera’s new internal N-Raw and N-Log formats for maximum flexibility and dynamic range. Generally speaking, video output is excellent here – especially with the oversampled 4K footage at 30fps.
If the Z5 II has any weaknesses when it comes to video, they're generally down to the sensor's middling readout speeds. Aside from the 1.5x crop at 4k 60fps you also get some rolling shutter when panning quickly, as with most bodies without a stacked sensor. If you want a more fully-featured and modern video platform, it could be worth investing in the higher-end Nikon Z6 III.
While we’re here, it’s worth mentioning the number of excellent lenses that are ready to pair up with the Z5 II. While the Z-Mount supports plenty of high-end glass, even modest choices like the Nikkor 24-50mm f/4-6.3 kit lens are capable of providing great results. My favorite lenses for the Nikon Z5 II in particular are the super-lightweight Nikkor 40mm f/2 and Viltrox 85mm f/1.8, both of which are great lower-cost lenses that pair perfectly with the Z5 II.
Most of the example images you can see here were shot with either those two lenses or the Nikkor 24-200mm f/4-6.3 zoom, which is another kit option for the Z5 II.
Image and video quality score: 4.5/5
Nikon Z5 II: testing scorecard
Should I buy the Nikon Z5 II?
Buy it if...
You want a great-value all-rounder The Nikon Z5 II is fantastic jack-of-all-trades camera for a competitive price. It's a great choice if you want something that nails both photo and video without breaking the bank.
You're looking to upgrade If you're already shooting with an older Z-mount body or even a Nikon DLSR then there's a strong argument for upgrading to the Z5 II. The autofocus in particular provides a massive jump in performance over the older bodies, even the higher-end Z6 II.
Don't buy it if...
You want a retro design The Nikon Z5 II is almost identical to the Nikon Zf when it comes to performance and specs, so the latter is the obvious choice if you prefer a more retro look.
You need advanced video features The Z6 III provides more headroom in terms of high-resolution video with its support for 6K/60p N-RAW.
You need resolution The Z5 II's 24.5MP sensor isn't a high-resolution beast like the higher-end cameras in Nikon's lineup. If you need massive cropping potential there's the older Nikon Z7 II, pricier flagships, or look elsewhere.
Nikon Z5 II: also consider
Panasonic Lumix S5 II
The Lumix S5 II is another competitively priced full-frame body that offers a viable alternative to the Nikon Z5 II if you're looking for something more video-centric. The S5 II is capable of open-gate 6K / 30p recording at 10-bit, which gives it the edge for resolution and cropping video. That said, the Z5 II is cheaper at full list price, and inherits the outstanding autofocus from the higher-end Nikon Z-Mount bodies.
On paper the Nikon Z5 II and Nikon Zf are extremely similar cameras in terms of performance. In form, however, the two couldn't be more different, with the Zf sporting a gorgeous retro design. If you'd prefer the same specs in a more classic, nostalgia-themed body, the Nikon Zf is the obvious choice. Expect to pay a little extra for the pleasure though.
Nikon loaned me the Z5 II and some lenses for two weeks
I tested it with the 24-50mm and 24-200mm kit zooms
I also used the Nikon 26mm and 40mm and Viltrox 85mm primes
I carried the camera daily, testing its video and photo capabilities
I shot over 1,000 images with the camera
I used the Nikon Z5 II as my everyday camera over a two-week period, which gave me the chance to shoot more than 1,000 images and videos. I was able to test the subject tracking, low-light performance, and image stabilization effectively thanks to using the camera in a diverse range of environments, both indoors and outdoors.
Nikon sent me the Nikkor 24-50mm and f/4-6.3 Nikkor 24-200mm f/4-6.3 zoom kit lenses to try, as well as the Nikkor 26mm f/2.8. I also made sure to use the camera with a third-party lens, in this case the Viltrox 85mm f1/.8.
