Fujifilm X-H1 vs Sony RX1

The Fujifilm X-H1 and the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX1 are two enthusiast cameras that were officially introduced, respectively, in February 2018 and September 2012. The X-H1 is a mirrorless interchangeable lens camera, while the RX1 is a fixed lens compact. The cameras are based on an APS-C (X-H1) and a full frame (RX1) sensor. Both cameras offer a resolution of 24 megapixels.

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

Headline Specifications

Fujifilm X-H1		Sony RX1
Mirrorless system camera		Fixed lens compact camera
Fujifilm X mount lenses		35mm f/2.0
24 MP, APS-C Sensor		24 MP, Full Frame Sensor
4K/30p Video		1080/60p Video
ISO 200-12800 (100-51200)		ISO 100-25600 (50-102400)
Electronic viewfinder (3690k dots)		Viewfinder optional
3.0" LCD, 1040k dots		3.0" LCD, 1229k dots
Fully flexible touchscreen		Fixed screen (not touch-sensitive)
14 shutter flaps per second		5 shutter flaps per second
In-body stabilization		No shake reduction
Weathersealed body		Not weather sealed
310 shots per battery charge		270 shots per battery charge
140 x 97 x 86 mm, 673 g		113 x 65 x 70 mm, 482 g

Going beyond this snapshot of core features and characteristics, what are the differences between the Fujifilm X-H1 and the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX1? 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 Sony RX1 are illustrated in the side-by-side display below. The two cameras are presented according to their relative size. Three consecutive views from the front, the top, and the rear side are shown. All width, height and depth measures are rounded to the nearest millimeter.

If the front view area (width x height) of the cameras is taken as an aggregate measure of their size, the Sony RX1 is considerably smaller (46 percent) than the Fujifilm X-H1. It is worth mentioning in this context that the X-H1 is splash and dust resistant, while the RX1 does not feature any corresponding weather-sealing.

The above size and weight comparisons are to some extent incomplete and possibly misleading, as the RX1 has a lens built in, whereas the X-H1 is an interchangeable lens camera that requires a separate lens. Attaching the latter will add extra weight and bulk to the setup. You can compare the optics available for the X-H1 and their specifications in the Fujinon X Lens Catalog.

Concerning battery life, the X-H1 gets 310 shots out of its NP-W126S battery, while the RX1 can take 270 images on a single charge of its NP-BX1 power pack. The battery packs of both cameras can be charged via USB, which can be very convenient when travelling.

The adjacent table lists the principal physical characteristics of the two cameras alongside a wider set of alternatives. If you want to switch the focus of the display and review another camera pair, just select a new right or left comparator from among the camera models in the table. Alternatively, you can also move across to the CAM-parator tool and choose from the broad selection of possible camera comparisons 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
	Sony RX1«	4.4 in	2.6 in	2.8 in	17.0 oz	270	n	Sep 2012	2,799	-		Sony RX1
	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
	Nikon Z6« »	5.3 in	4.0 in	2.6 in	23.8 oz	310	Y	Aug 2018	1,999			Nikon Z6
	Nikon D5300« »	4.9 in	3.9 in	3.0 in	16.9 oz	600	n	Oct 2013	799	-		Nikon D5300
	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
	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 RX1R II« »	4.4 in	2.6 in	2.8 in	17.9 oz	220	n	Oct 2015	3,299			Sony RX1R II
	Sony A3000« »	5.0 in	3.6 in	3.3 in	14.5 oz	470	n	Aug 2013	329	-		Sony A3000
	Sony RX1R« »	4.4 in	2.6 in	2.8 in	17.0 oz	270	n	Jun 2013	2,799	-		Sony RX1R
	Sony A77« »	5.6 in	4.1 in	3.2 in	25.8 oz	470	Y	Aug 2011	1,399	-		Sony A77
	Sony NEX-7« »	4.7 in	2.6 in	1.7 in	14.1 oz	430	n	Aug 2011	1,349	-		Sony NEX-7
Convert to Metric
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 manufacturer’s suggested retail prices give an idea on the placement of the camera in the maker’s lineup and the broader market. Usually, retail prices stay at first close to the launch price, but after several months, discounts become available. 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. Then, after the new model is out, very good deals can frequently be found on the pre-owned market.

Sensor comparison

The size of the imaging sensor is a crucial determinant 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. Moreover, a large sensor camera will give the photographer more control over depth-of-field in the image and, thus, the ability to better isolate a subject from the background. On the downside, larger sensors are more costly to manufacture and tend to 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 Sony RX1 a full frame sensor. The sensor area in the RX1 is 132 percent bigger. As a result of these sensor size differences, the cameras have a format factor of, respectively, 1.5 and 1.0. Both cameras have a native aspect ratio (sensor width to sensor height) of 3:2.

Technology-wise, both cameras are equipped with CMOS (Complementary Metal–Oxide–Semiconductor) sensors.

Even though the RX1 has a larger sensor, both cameras offer the same resolution of 24 megapixels. This implies that the RX1 has a lower pixel density and larger individual pixels (with a pixel pitch of 5.96μm versus 3.92μm for the X-H1), which gives it a potential advantage in terms of light gathering capacity. It should, however, be noted that the X-H1 is much more recent (by 5 years and 5 months) than the RX1, and its sensor will have benefitted from technological advances during this time that at least partly compensate for the smaller pixel size. 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 X-H1 has on-sensor phase detect pixels, which results in fast and reliable autofocus acquisition even during live view operation.

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 Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX1 are ISO 100 to ISO 25600, with the possibility to increase the ISO range to 50-102400.

Consistent information on actual sensor performance is available from DXO Mark for many cameras. This service determines an overall sensor rating, as well as sub-scores for low-light sensitivity ("DXO Sports"), dynamic range ("DXO Landscape"), and color depth ("DXO Portrait"). The following table provides an overview of the physical sensor characteristics, as well as the sensor quality measurements for a selection of comparators.

Many modern cameras cannot only take still pictures, but also record videos. The two cameras under consideration both have sensors whose read-out speed is fast enough to capture moving pictures, but the X-H1 provides a higher video resolution than the RX1. It can shoot video footage at 4K/30p, while the Sony is limited to 1080/60p.

Feature comparison

Beyond body and sensor, cameras can and do differ across a range of features. For example, the X-H1 has an electronic viewfinder (3690k dots), which can be very helpful when shooting in bright sunlight. In contrast, the RX1 relies on live view and the rear LCD for framing. That said, the RX1 can be equipped with an optional viewfinder – the FDA-EV1MK. The following table reports on some other key feature differences and similarities of the Fujifilm X-H1, the Sony RX1, and comparable cameras.

One feature that is present on the X-H1, but is missing on the RX1 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, the X-H1 is one of those camera that have an additional 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 has 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.

The X-H1 writes its imaging data to SDXC cards, while the RX1 uses SDXC or Memory Stick PRO Duo cards. The X-H1 features dual card slots, which can be very useful in case a memory card fails. In contrast, the RX1 only has one slot. The X-H1 supports UHS-II cards (on both slots), while the RX1 cannot take advantage of Ultra High Speed SD 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 Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX1 and, in particular, the interfaces the cameras (and selected comparators) provide for accessory control and data transfer.

It is notable that the X-H1 offers wifi support, while the RX1 does not. Wifi can be a very convenient means to transfer image data to an off-camera location.

Studio photographers will appreciate that the Fujifilm X-H1 (unlike the RX1) 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 RX1 has been discontinued (but it can be found pre-owned on eBay). As a replacement in the same line of cameras, the RX1 was succeeded by the Sony RX1R. Further information on the two cameras (e.g. user guides, manuals), as well as related accessories, can be found on the official Fujifilm and Sony websites.

Review summary

So what is the bottom line? Is the Fujifilm X-H1 better than the Sony RX1 or vice versa? The listing below highlights the relative strengths of the two models.

Arguments in favor of the Fujifilm X-H1:

• Maximized detail: Lacks an anti-alias filter to exploit the sensor's full resolution potential.
• Better video: Provides higher definition movie capture (4K/30p vs 1080/60p).
• Better live-view autofocus: Features on-sensor phase-detection for more confident autofocus.
• Easier framing: Has an electronic viewfinder for image composition and settings control.
• Easier setting verification: Features an LCD display on top to control shooting parameters.
• 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.
• Faster burst: Shoots at higher frequency (14 vs 5 flaps/sec) to capture the decisive moment.
• Less disturbing: Has an electronic shutter option for completely silent shooting.
• Easier time-lapse photography: Has an intervalometer built-in for low frequency shooting.
• More flexible: Accepts interchangeable lenses, so that lens characteristics can be altered.
• Longer lasting: Can take more shots (310 versus 270) on a single battery charge.
• Better sealing: Is weather sealed to enable shooting in dusty or wet environments.
• Sharper images: Has hand-shake reducing image stabilization built-in.
• 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 Ultra High Speed (UHS-II) SDXC cards on both slots.
• More modern: Reflects 5 years and 5 months of technical progress since the RX1 launch.

Reasons to prefer the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX1:

• Better moiré control: Has an anti-alias filter to avoid artificial patterns to appear in images.
• More detailed LCD: Has a higher resolution rear screen (1229k vs 1040k dots).
• Ready to shoot: Has an integrated lens, whereas the X-H1 necessitates an extra lens.
• More compact: Is smaller (113x65mm vs 140x97mm) and will fit more readily into a bag.
• Less heavy: Has a lower weight even though it has a lens built in (unlike the X-H1).
• Easier fill-in: Has a small integrated flash to brighten shadows of backlit subjects.
• More heavily discounted: Has been around for much longer (launched in September 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 (21 : 7 points). However, the pertinence of the various camera strengths will differ across photographers, so that you might want to weigh individual camera traits according to their importance for your own imaging needs before making a camera decision. 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 Sony RX1 place the cameras among the top in their class? Find out in the latest Best Mirrorless Interchangeable Lens Camera and Best Prime Lens Compact Camera listings 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 says little about, for example, the shooting experience and imaging performance of the X-H1 and the RX1 in practical situations. User reviews, such as those found at amazon, can sometimes inform about these issues, but such feedback is often incomplete, inconsistent, and biased.

Expert reviews

This is why hands-on reviews by experts are important. The following table reports the overall ratings of the cameras as published by some of the major camera 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
	Sony RX1«	-	79/100	4/5	4.5/5	4.5/5	Sep 2012	2,799	-		Sony RX1
	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
	Nikon Z6« »	-	-	4.5/5	4.5/5	5/5	Aug 2018	1,999			Nikon Z6
	Nikon D5300« »	+ +	79/100	4.5/5	4.5/5	4.5/5	Oct 2013	799	-		Nikon D5300
	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
	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 RX1R II« »	-	82/100	-	o	4.5/5	Oct 2015	3,299			Sony RX1R II
	Sony A3000« »	+	-	4/5	4.5/5	4/5	Aug 2013	329	-		Sony A3000
	Sony RX1R« »	-	-	4/5	o	4.5/5	Jun 2013	2,799	-		Sony RX1R
	Sony A77« »	91/100	81/100	-	4.5/5	5/5	Aug 2011	1,399	-		Sony A77
	Sony NEX-7« »	+ +	81/100	4.5/5	5/5	5/5	Aug 2011	1,349	-		Sony NEX-7
Notes: (+ +) highly recommended; (+) recommended; (o) reviewed; (-) not available.

The above review scores should be interpreted with care, though. The ratings were established in reference to similarly priced cameras that were available in the market at the time of the review. Thus, a score needs to be put into the context of the launch date and the launch price of the camera, and comparing ratings of very distinct cameras or ones that are far apart in terms of their release date have little meaning. Also, kindly note that some of the listed sites have over time developped their review approaches and their reporting style.

Other camera comparisons

Did this review help to inform your camera decision process? In case you are interested in seeing how other cameras pair up, just make your choice using the following search menu. Alternatively, you can follow any of the listed hyperlinks for comparisons that others found interesting.

Specifications: Fujifilm X-H1 vs Sony RX1

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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