Fujifilm X-H1 vs Nikon 1 V2

The Fujifilm X-H1 and the Nikon 1 V2 are two digital cameras that were revealed to the public, respectively, in February 2018 and October 2012. Both the X-H1 and the V2 are mirrorless interchangeable lens cameras that are based on an APS-C (X-H1) and an one-inch (V2) sensor. The Fujifilm has a resolution of 24 megapixels, whereas the Nikon provides 14.2 MP.

Below is an overview of the main specs of the two cameras as a starting point for the comparison.

Headline Specifications

Fujifilm X-H1		Nikon 1 V2
Mirrorless system camera		Mirrorless system camera
Fujifilm X mount lenses		Nikon 1 mount lenses
24 MP, APS-C Sensor		14.2 MP, 1" Sensor
4K/30p Video		1080/60p Video
ISO 200-12800 (100-51200)		ISO 160-12800
Electronic viewfinder (3690k dots)		Electronic viewfinder (1440k dots)
3.0" LCD, 1040k dots		3.0" LCD, 921k dots
Fully flexible touchscreen		Fixed screen (not touch-sensitive)
14 shutter flaps per second		15 shutter flaps per second
In-body stabilization		Lens stabilization only
Weathersealed body		Not weather sealed
310 shots per battery charge		310 shots per battery charge
140 x 97 x 86 mm, 673 g		109 x 82 x 46 mm, 278 g

Going beyond this snapshot of core features and characteristics, what are the differences between the Fujifilm X-H1 and the Nikon 1 V2? Which one should you buy? Read on to find out how these two cameras compare with respect to their body size, their imaging sensors, their shooting features, their input-output connections, and their reception by expert reviewers.

Body comparison

The physical size and weight of the Fujifilm X-H1 and the Nikon 1 V2 are illustrated in the side-by-side display below. The two cameras are presented according to their relative size. Three successive views from the front, the top, and the rear are shown. All width, height and depth measures are rounded to the nearest millimeter.

The V2 can be obtained in two different colors (black, white), while the X-H1 is only available in black.

If the front view area (width x height) of the cameras is taken as an aggregate measure of their size, the Nikon 1 V2 is considerably smaller (34 percent) than the Fujifilm X-H1. Moreover, the V2 is substantially lighter (59 percent) than the X-H1. It is worth mentioning in this context that the X-H1 is splash and dust resistant, while the V2 does not feature any corresponding weather-sealing.

The above size and weight comparisons are to some extent incomplete since they do not consider the interchangeable lenses that both of these cameras require. Hence, you might want to study and compare the specifications of available lenses in order to get the full picture of the size and weight of the two camera systems.

The power pack in the X-H1 can be charged via the USB port, so that it is not always necessary to take the battery charger along when travelling.

The adjacent table lists the principal physical characteristics of the two cameras alongside a wider set of alternatives. If you would like to visualize and compare a different camera combination, just use the right or left arrows in the table to switch to the respective camera. Alternatively, you can also navigate to the CAM-parator app and make your selection from the full list of cameras there.

Camera Body Specifications

	Camera Model	Camera Width	Camera Height	Camera Depth	Camera Weight	Battery Life (CIPA)	Weather Sealing (yes/no)	Camera Launch (announced)	Launch Price (USD)	Street Price (USD)	Used Price (USD)	Camera Model
	Fujifilm X-H1»	5.5 in	3.8 in	3.4 in	23.7 oz	310	Y	Feb 2018	1,899			Fujifilm X-H1
	Nikon 1 V2«	4.3 in	3.2 in	1.8 in	9.8 oz	310	n	Oct 2012	799	-		Nikon 1 V2
	Canon 6D Mark II« »	5.7 in	4.4 in	3.0 in	27.0 oz	1200	Y	Jun 2017	1,999			Canon 6D Mark II
	Fujifilm X-T3« »	5.2 in	3.7 in	2.3 in	19.0 oz	390	Y	Sep 2018	1,499			Fujifilm X-T3
	Fujifilm X-Pro2« »	5.6 in	3.3 in	1.8 in	17.5 oz	350	Y	Jan 2016	1,699			Fujifilm X-Pro2
	Fujifilm X-T2« »	5.2 in	3.6 in	1.9 in	17.9 oz	340	Y	Jul 2016	1,599	-		Fujifilm X-T2
	Fujifilm X-M1« »	4.6 in	2.6 in	1.5 in	11.6 oz	350	n	Jun 2013	699	-		Fujifilm X-M1
	Nikon Z6« »	5.3 in	4.0 in	2.6 in	23.8 oz	310	Y	Aug 2018	1,999			Nikon Z6
	Nikon 1 V3« »	4.4 in	2.6 in	1.3 in	13.4 oz	310	n	Mar 2014	799	-		Nikon 1 V3
	Nikon 1 J4« »	3.9 in	2.4 in	1.1 in	8.2 oz	300	n	Apr 2014	549	-		Nikon 1 J4
	Nikon 1 V1« »	4.4 in	3.0 in	1.7 in	13.5 oz	350	n	Sep 2011	799	-		Nikon 1 V1
	Panasonic G9« »	5.4 in	3.8 in	3.6 in	23.2 oz	400	Y	Nov 2017	1,699			Panasonic G9
	Panasonic GH5« »	5.5 in	3.9 in	3.4 in	25.6 oz	410	Y	Jan 2017	1,999			Panasonic GH5
	Panasonic GX1« »	4.6 in	2.7 in	1.5 in	11.2 oz	320	n	Nov 2011	699	-		Panasonic GX1
	Pentax KP« »	5.2 in	4.0 in	3.0 in	24.8 oz	390	Y	Jan 2017	1,099			Pentax KP
	Sony A7 III« »	5.0 in	3.8 in	2.9 in	22.9 oz	610	Y	Feb 2018	1,999			Sony A7 III
	Sony A77« »	5.6 in	4.1 in	3.2 in	25.8 oz	470	Y	Aug 2011	1,399	-		Sony A77
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Note: Measurements and pricing do not include easily detachable parts, such as interchangeable lenses or optional viewfinders.

The price is, of course, an important factor in any camera decision. The retail prices at the time of the camera’s release place the model in the market relative to other models in the producer’s line-up and the competition. The V2 was launched at a markedly lower price (by 58 percent) than the X-H1, which puts it into a different market segment. Normally, street prices remain initially close to the MSRP, but after a couple of months, the first discounts appear. Later in the product cycle and, in particular, when the replacement model is about to appear, further discounting and stock clearance sales often push the camera price considerably down.

Sensor comparison

The imaging sensor is at the core of digital cameras and its size is one of the main determining factors of image quality. A large sensor will tend to have larger individual pixels that provide better low-light sensitivity, wider dynamic range, and richer color-depth than smaller pixel-units in a sensor of the same technological generation. Furthermore, a large sensor camera will give the photographer more possibilities to use shallow depth-of-field in order to isolate a subject from the background. On the downside, larger sensors tend to be more expensive and lead to bigger and heavier cameras and lenses.

Of the two cameras under consideration, the Fujifilm X-H1 features an APS-C sensor and the Nikon 1 V2 an one-inch sensor. The sensor area in the V2 is 68 percent smaller. As a result of these sensor size differences, the cameras have a format factor of, respectively, 1.5 and 2.7. Both cameras have a native aspect ratio (sensor width to sensor height) of 3:2.

In terms of underlying technology, both cameras are build around CMOS sensors.

With 24MP, the X-H1 offers a higher resolution than the V2 (14.2MP), but the X-H1 nevertheless has larger individual pixels (pixel pitch of 3.92μm versus 2.86μm for the V2) due to its larger sensor. Moreover, the X-H1 is a much more recent model (by 5 years and 3 months) than the V2, and its sensor will have benefitted from technological advances during this time that further enhance the light gathering capacity of its pixels. Coming back to sensor resolution, it should be mentioned that the X-H1 has no anti-alias filter installed, so that it can capture all the detail its sensor resolves.

The resolution advantage of the Fujifilm X-H1 implies greater flexibility for cropping images or the possibility to print larger pictures. The maximum print size of the X-H1 for good quality output (200 dots per inch) amounts to 30 x 20 inch or 76.2 x 50.8 cm, for very good quality (250 dpi) 24 x 16 inch or 61 x 40.6 cm, and for excellent quality (300 dpi) 20 x 13.3 inch or 50.8 x 33.9 cm. The corresponding values for the Nikon 1 V2 are 23 x 15.4 inch or 58.5 x 39 cm for good quality, 18.4 x 12.3 inch or 46.8 x 31.2 cm for very good quality, and 15.4 x 10.2 inch or 39 x 26 cm for excellent quality prints.

The Fujifilm X-H1 has a native sensitivity range from ISO 200 to ISO 12800, which can be extended to ISO 100-51200. The corresponding ISO settings for the Nikon 1 V2 are ISO 160 to ISO 12800 (no boost).

Since 2007, DXO Mark has published sensor performance measurements that have been derived using a consistent methodology. This service assesses and scores the color depth ("DXO Portrait"), dynamic range ("DXO Landscape"), and low-light sensitivity ("DXO Sports") of camera sensors, and also publishes an overall camera score. The adjacent table reports on the physical sensor characteristics and the outcomes of the DXO sensor quality tests for a sample of comparator-cameras.

Many modern cameras cannot only take still pictures, but also record videos. Both cameras under consideration have a sensor with sufficiently fast read-out times for moving pictures, but the X-H1 provides a higher video resolution than the V2. It can shoot video footage at 4K/30p, while the Nikon is limited to 1080/60p.

Feature comparison

Beyond body and sensor, cameras can and do differ across a range of features. The two cameras under consideration are similar with respect to both having an electronic viewfinder. However, the one in the X-H1 offers a substantially higher resolution than the one in the V2 (3690k vs 1440k dots). The table below summarizes some of the other core capabilities of the Fujifilm X-H1 and Nikon 1 V2 in connection with corresponding information for a sample of similar cameras.

One feature that is present on the X-H1, but is missing on the V2 is a top-level LCD. While being, of course, smaller than the rear screen, the control panel conveys some of the essential shooting information and can be convenient for quick and easy settings verification.

The reported shutter speed information refers to the use of the mechanical shutter. Yet, some cameras only have an electronic shutter, while others have an electronic shutter in addition to a mechanical one. In fact, both cameras under consideration feature an electronic shutter, which makes completely silent shooting possible. However, this mode is less suitable for photographing moving objects (risk of rolling shutter) or shooting under artificial light sources (risk of flickering).

The Fujifilm X-H1 and the Nikon 1 V2 both have an intervalometer built-in. This enables the photographer to capture time lapse sequences, such as flower blooming, a sunset or moon rise, without purchasing an external camera trigger and related software.

Concerning the storage of imaging data, both the X-H1 and the V2 write their files to SDXC cards. The X-H1 features dual card slots, which can be very useful in case a memory card fails. In contrast, the V2 only has one slot. The X-H1 supports UHS-II cards (on both slots), while the V2 can use UHS-I cards.

Connectivity comparison

For some imaging applications, the extent to which a camera can communicate with its environment can be an important aspect in the camera decision process. The table below provides an overview of the connectivity of the Fujifilm X-H1 and Nikon 1 V2 and, in particular, the interfaces the cameras (and selected comparators) provide for accessory control and data transfer.

It is notable that the X-H1 has a hotshoe, while the V2 does not. This socket makes it possible to easily attach optional accessories, such as an external flash gun.

Studio photographers will appreciate that the Fujifilm X-H1 (unlike the V2) features a PC Sync socket, so that professional strobe lights can be controlled by the camera.

The X-H1 is a recent model that features in the current product line-up of Fujifilm. In contrast, the V2 has been discontinued (but it can be found pre-owned on eBay). As a replacement in the same line of cameras, the V2 was succeeded by the Nikon 1 V3. Further information on the two cameras (e.g. user guides, manuals), as well as related accessories, can be found on the official Fujifilm and Nikon websites.

Review summary

So what conclusions can be drawn? Is the Fujifilm X-H1 better than the Nikon 1 V2 or vice versa? Below is a summary of the relative strengths of each of the two contestants.

Reasons to prefer the Fujifilm X-H1:

• More detail: Offers more megapixels (24 vs 14.2MP) with a 30% higher linear resolution.
• Maximized detail: Lacks an anti-alias filter to exploit the sensor's full resolution potential.
• Better image quality: Features a larger and more technologically advanced imaging sensor.
• Richer colors: The sensor size advantage translates into images with better, more accurate colors.
• More dynamic range: Larger sensor captures a wider spectrum of light and dark details.
• Better low-light sensitivity: Larger sensor produces good images even in poorly lit environments.
• Better video: Provides higher definition movie capture (4K/30p vs 1080/60p).
• Better sound: Can connect to an external microphone for higher quality sound recording.
• More detailed viewfinder: Has higher resolution electronic viewfinder (3690k vs 1440k dots).
• Easier setting verification: Features an LCD display on top to control shooting parameters.
• More detailed LCD: Has a higher resolution rear screen (1040k vs 921k dots).
• More flexible LCD: Has a full-flex screen for odd-angle shots in portrait or landscape orientation.
• Fewer buttons to press: Is equipped with a touch-sensitive rear screen to facilitate handling.
• Faster shutter: Has higher mechanical shutter speed (1/8000s vs 1/4000s) to freeze action.
• Easier travel charging: Can be conveniently charged via its USB port.
• Better sealing: Is weather sealed to enable shooting in dusty or wet environments.
• Sharper images: Has hand-shake reducing image stabilization built-in.
• Better lighting: Features a hotshoe and can thus hold and trigger an external flash gun.
• Faster data transfer: Supports a more advanced USB protocol (3.0 vs 2.0).
• Easier file upload: Has wifi built in for automatic backup or image transfer to the web.
• Better studio light control: Has a PC Sync socket to connect to professional strobe lights.
• Greater peace of mind: Features a second card slot as a backup in case of memory card failure.
• Faster buffer clearing: Supports a more advanced SD data transfer standard (UHS-II vs UHS-I).
• More modern: Reflects 5 years and 3 months of technical progress since the V2 launch.

Advantages of the Nikon 1 V2:

• Better moiré control: Has an anti-alias filter to avoid artificial patterns to appear in images.
• More compact: Is smaller (109x82mm vs 140x97mm) and will fit more readily into a bag.
• Less heavy: Has a lower weight (by 395g or 59 percent) and is thus easier to take along.
• Easier fill-in: Has a small integrated flash to brighten shadows of backlit subjects.
• More affordable: Was introduced into a lower priced category (58 percent cheaper at launch).
• More heavily discounted: Has been around for much longer (launched in October 2012).

If the count of individual advantages (bullet points above) is taken as a guide, the X-H1 is the clear winner of the match-up (23 : 6 points). However, the relevance of individual strengths will vary across photographers, so that you might want to apply your own weighing scheme to the summary points when reflecting and deciding on a new camera. A professional wildlife photographer will view the differences between cameras in a way that diverges from the perspective of a family photog, and a person interested in architecture has distinct needs from a sports shooter. Hence, the decision which camera is best and worth buying is often a very personal one.

How about other alternatives? Do the specifications of the Fujifilm X-H1 and the Nikon 1 V2 place the cameras among the top in their class? Find out in the latest Best Mirrorless Interchangeable Lens Camera listing whether the two cameras rank among the cream of the crop.

In any case, while the comparison of the spec-sheets of cameras can offer a general idea of their imaging potential, it remains partial and cannot reveal, for example, the shooting experience and imaging performance when actually working with the X-H1 or the V2. At times, user reviews, such as those published at amazon, address these issues in a useful manner, but such feedback is on many occasions incomplete, inconsistent, and unreliable.

Expert reviews

This is why hands-on reviews by experts are important. The table below provides a synthesis of the camera assessments of some of the best known photo-gear review sites (cameralabs, dpreview, ephotozine, imaging-resource, and photographyblog). As can be seen, the professional reviewers agree in many cases on the quality of different cameras, but sometimes their assessments diverge, reinforcing the earlier point that a camera decision is often a very personal choice.

Review Scores

	Camera Model						Camera Launch (announced)	Launch Price (USD)	Street Price (USD)	Used Price (USD)	Camera Model
	Fujifilm X-H1»	+	86/100	4.5/5	-	4.5/5	Feb 2018	1,899			Fujifilm X-H1
	Nikon 1 V2«	-	-	4.5/5	-	4/5	Oct 2012	799	-		Nikon 1 V2
	Canon 6D Mark II« »	+	80/100	4.5/5	4/5	4/5	Jun 2017	1,999			Canon 6D Mark II
	Fujifilm X-T3« »	+ +	88/100	5/5	5/5	5/5	Sep 2018	1,499			Fujifilm X-T3
	Fujifilm X-Pro2« »	+	83/100	4.5/5	4.5/5	4.5/5	Jan 2016	1,699			Fujifilm X-Pro2
	Fujifilm X-T2« »	+ +	86/100	4.5/5	5/5	5/5	Jul 2016	1,599	-		Fujifilm X-T2
	Fujifilm X-M1« »	+	77/100	4.5/5	-	4.5/5	Jun 2013	699	-		Fujifilm X-M1
	Nikon Z6« »	-	-	4.5/5	4.5/5	5/5	Aug 2018	1,999			Nikon Z6
	Nikon 1 V3« »	-	76/100	4.5/5	3/5	4/5	Mar 2014	799	-		Nikon 1 V3
	Nikon 1 J4« »	-	-	4.5/5	-	4/5	Apr 2014	549	-		Nikon 1 J4
	Nikon 1 V1« »	+	69/100	4.5/5	4.5/5	4/5	Sep 2011	799	-		Nikon 1 V1
	Panasonic G9« »	+ +	85/100	5/5	5/5	5/5	Nov 2017	1,699			Panasonic G9
	Panasonic GH5« »	+ +	85/100	4.5/5	5/5	5/5	Jan 2017	1,999			Panasonic GH5
	Panasonic GX1« »	+	77/100	4.5/5	4.5/5	4.5/5	Nov 2011	699	-		Panasonic GX1
	Pentax KP« »	-	82/100	5/5	-	4.5/5	Jan 2017	1,099			Pentax KP
	Sony A7 III« »	+ +	89/100	5/5	5/5	5/5	Feb 2018	1,999			Sony A7 III
	Sony A77« »	91/100	81/100	-	4.5/5	5/5	Aug 2011	1,399	-		Sony A77
Notes: (+ +) highly recommended; (+) recommended; (o) reviewed; (-) not available.

The above review scores should be interpreted with care, though. The ratings are only valid when referring to cameras in the same category and of the same age. Hence, a score should always be seen in the context of the camera's market launch date and its price, and rating-comparisons among cameras that span long time periods or concern very differently equipped models make little sense. It should also be noted that some of the review sites have over time altered the way they render their verdicts.

Other camera comparisons

Did this review help to inform your camera decision process? If you would like to see a different side-by-side camera review, just make a corresponding selection in the search boxes below. As an alternative, you can also directly jump to any one of the listed comparisons that were previously generated by the CAM-parator tool.

Specifications: Fujifilm X-H1 vs Nikon 1 V2

Below is a side-by-side comparison of the specs of the two cameras to facilitate a quick review of their differences and common features.

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