Fujifilm X-H2S Review – Pro-Grade Hybrid Powerhouse!

Hybrid photography and videography applications are essential for professional visual creatives working to a client’s brief of mixed media.

The Fujifilm X-H2S delivers a pro-grade platform that combines the best of Fujifilm’s X series technology while specifically catering to videography needs.

Let’s dive into the full review and discover what Fujifilm has in store.

Fujifilm X-H2S Specs

Let’s take a look at the pro-grade specs of the Fujifilm X-Hs2.

• Sensor – 26.1MP APS-C X-Trans Stacked BSI Sensor
• Processor – X Processor 5
• Maximum resolution – 6240 x 4160
• Photo ISO – Auto 160-12,800 (Expands to 80-51200)
• Video ISO – Auto 160-12,800 (Expands to 160-25,600)
• Video – 4K 120p, 6.2K 30p, FHD 240p 10-Bit Video
• Viewfinder – 0.39″ 5.76m Million Dot EVF
• LCD – 3.0″ 1.61 Million Dot Free-angle Tilting Touchscreen Color LCD Monitor
• Sub-monitor – 1.28″ LCD Status Display
• Stabilization – 7-stop 5-axis Sensor-Shift
• Focus – 425 point Intelligent Hybrid AF (TTL contrast AF / TTL phase detection AF)
• Max Shutter – 1/8000 MS 1/32000 ES
• Storage – CFexpress Type B & SD UHS-II Card Slots
• USB – USB 3.2 / 3.1 Gen 2
• Battery Life – NP-W235 up to 720 frames
• Weight – 1.5lb (660g) with battery and memory card
• Dimensions – 5.4 x 3.7 x 3.3″ (136.3 x 92.9 x 84.6mm)

The Fujifilm X-H2S is a flagship digital mirrorless camera ideal for professional content creators who demand outstanding image quality plus comprehensive videography tools.

Unlike the 40MP X-T5, a flagship photography camera, the X-H2S optimises a lower resolution 26.1MP APS-C X-Trans Stacked BSI image sensor to deliver pro-level videography output.

Powered by the Fujifilm X Processor 5 (a processor now appearing in almost all current-gen Fujifilm X and GFX cameras), the X-H2S is a mirrorless powerhouse in its own right!

Fujifilm’s X-H2S features 5-axis image stabilization, producing up to 7 stops of additional light in slow shutter speed situations. It also boasts an impressive ISO range in stills and an even greater range in video.

While the Fujifilm hybrid mirrorless body is an excellent stills camera, it shines in the videography department thanks to a full-size HDMI port, independent 3.5mm headphone and mic ports, a free-angle tilting touchscreen, and impressive video performance.

The X-H2S can record silky smooth 4K 120p, ultra-high definition 6.2K 30p, and slow-mo FHD 240p, all with 10-bit recording.

Build & Appearance

Fujifilm X-H2S

I still recall the first time I saw and held the Fujifilm X-H1 shortly after its release.

At the time, all Fujifilm X Series cameras, such as the X-T, X-E, and X100, featured retro styling with minimal front grips. No Fujifilm X Series camera has featured a deeper grip, much like those on Sony mirrorless and old-school DSLRs.

Fujifilm’s flagship hybrid camera is considerably different in many ways to other X Series cameras – if anything, it has more in common with the GFX series.

The front of the camera is minimal, with the metal X Series lens mount front and centre. On either side is a single, customizable function button, and the PC Sync port with cover is on the top right.

Fujifilm X-H2S

Of course, the show’s star is the large and deep front grip, which has a single customizable command dial below the shutter button/ On/Off toggle.

The right side of the camera body houses the weather-resistant panel for the CFexpress Type B and SD UHS-II card slots and a 2.5mm remote port.

On the left side, multiple panels hide the full-size HDMI port, independent 3.5mm headphone and 3.5mm mic ports, plus a single USB-C charging port.

Fujifilm X-H2S

Turning our attention to the top plate (who can deny the sublime features of a Fujifilm top plate?), the X-HS2 boasts a single, large PSAM command dial wth seven additional custom slots and a video setting.

The centre of the X-HS2 is home to a raised “mirror box” that houses the EVF and a hot shoe for flash, trigger, and microphone support.

A feature unique to the X-H and GFX range is the inclusion of a 1.28″ LCD Status Display sub-monitor. The secondary LCD monitor is customizable and displays core shooting settings.

To the right of the sub-monitor, just behind the shutter button, are the video record, ISO, and White Balance buttons, plus a spare customizable control button.

Fujifilm X-H2S + XF 70-300mm f/4-5.6 R LM WR OIS

The H-HS2 top plate is similar to the GFX 100S II with the single command dial, sub monitor, and minimal button placement.

The rear of this flagship hybrid shooter continues the theme of minimalism, reflecting Fujifilm’s clean and functional design philosophy.

Its 3.0″ 1.61-million-dot free-angle tilting touchscreen LCD monitor flips and rotates, making it perfect for video monitoring and vlogging from virtually any angle.

It’s not Fujifilm’s highest-resolution screen, but given that most serious content creators will employ an external monitor, its deficit is minimal.

Fujifilm X-H2S

For the EVF, the X-HS2 packs a big, bright, and punchy 5.76 million-dot OLED screen complete with a handy diopter for old eyes like mine.

It’s a gorgeous EVF for composing shots, even better than the 3.69 million-dot screen on the X-T5. It’s an amazing monitor with lots of punch and contrast.

The rear of the hybrid camera also features a directional button layout, key command buttons, a second customizable command dial, and a handy focus level.

Fujifilm’s X-HS2 is built to endure the elements, featuring 79 weather-sealed points and a grime-resistant synthetic exterior.

Ergonomics & Handling

That’s me! Fujifilm X-H2S + XF 500mm f/5.6 R LM WR OIS

While we all love the look of the slimline X System cameras, such as the X-T5 and X100VI, there’s no substitute for a deep and comfortable grip.

It’s all about the grip!

Granted, you can purchase third-party grips and brackets for all Fuji cameras, but having a built-in grip that houses a larger battery is perfect.

Pro photographers, we were calling for an X-series body with pro-grade features and, above all else, a deep grip for larger hands. My good friend and Shotkit writer Athol was an early adopter, and the camera suited him to a T! He has big hands and a big head.

The FujifilM X-H2S continues to (literally) support pro photographers who are looking for a workhorse camera with a deep, ergonomic grip. The camera is a joy to hold for long periods, especially considering the thumb rest at the rear.

Fujifilm X-H2S + XF 70-300mm f/4-5.6 R LM WR OIS

Another big frustration many photographers have is the proximity of the EVF eye-cup to the rear touch screen. All too often, our noses are squished up against the LCD while composing a shot.

The Fujifilm X-HS2 addresses this frustration by leaving a considerable gap between the rear of the eye cup and the touch screen. This minor design consideration enhances the shooting experience.

As a hybrid photography and videography camera, the X-HS2 is equipped with a versatile free-angle tilting touchscreen LCD. You can swing it out to the side and rotate it to match your shooting angle—ideal for everything from low-angle stills to vlog-style video.

It’s also handy to flip the screen 180º for more effective vlogging and composition.

Overall, while the Fujifilm X-HS2 is heavier than most X Series bodies, it’s incredibly comfortable to shoot with.

Focus Performance

Fujifilm X-H2S + XF 500mm f/5.6 R LM WR OIS | 1/2500 SS | 800 ISO | f/5.6

Fujifilm has been listening to the comments sections, as they have persistently worked to address the autofocus performance of new X and GFX camera bodies.

While many will naturally compare the focus performance of the X series with brands such as Sony, Canon, and Nikon, it’s essential to also compare the current generation with those of the past.

The Fujifilm X-H2S delivers fast, reliable, and feature-packed focus performance on par with the performance of the flagship X-T5.

Fujifilm’s X-H2S boasts the brand’s best 425-point Intelligent Hybrid AF (TTL contrast AF / TTL phase detection AF) focusing system.

It’s impressive how far the system has come as it now affords pro-grade features, including Continuous-Servo AF, Manual Focus, and Single-Servo AF.

Beyond that, the hybrid system, powered by the X Processor 5, harnesses deep learning AI algorithms to drive subject detection and tracking in stills and video. Subject detection includes cars, planes, trains, motorcycles, horses, dogs, and cats.

It’s also essential to add that autofocus performance is also determined by the quality of the lens.

Of course, the system also boasts a reliable, fast, sticky eye detection and tracking option.

Low Light Performance

Regardless of shooting video or stills, the Fujifilm X-H2S offers a vast ISO range with photo mode, affording a standard 160-12,800 range and an 80-51200 expanded range. As for videography, the standard ISO range is 160-12,800, and the expanded range is 160-25,600.

Thanks to the sensor performance and X processor, the X hybrid delivers up to 14 stops of dynamic range while delivering a broad sensitivity range.

It’s an impressive low-light system, even when shooting in video mode. The onboard 5-axis IBIS and video stabilization allow optimal low-light performance, even in the most challenging conditions.

Image Quality

Fujifilm X-H2S + XF 500mm f/5.6 R LM WR OIS | 1/1000 SS | 200 ISO | f/5.6

In a world where we hunger for ever-greater numbers of megapixels, Fujifilm has found balance in a lower-resolution hybrid image sensor.

The Fujifilm X-H2S delivers excellent image quality regardless of the shooting conditions and lighting.

The proven X Processor 5 delivers 64-bit processing speeds three times faster than those of the previous generation X-T camera.

Combined with the 26.1MP APS-C X-Trans Stacked BSI sensor, the image quality is sublime, with excellent levels of detail, color reproduction, and outstanding dynamic range.

Speaking of color, a Fujifilm camera review wouldn’t be complete without mentioning the baked-in film simulations. The X-H2S features an impressive assortment of color preset designs that mimic the look of classic Fujifilm analog film stock.

The X-H2S includes Provia, Velvia, Classic Chrome (my favorite), Classic Neg (my second favorite), and Eterna Bleach Bypass, ideal for grading stills and videos.

Image quality is also greatly aided by the superior level of sharpness obtained even when shooting in slower shutter speeds.

The 5-axis image stabilisation delivers excellent low-light flexibility and ensures critically sharp images every single time.

Fujifilm X-H2S Sample Images

Here are some sample images I took using the Fujifilm X-Hs2 with an XF 500mm f/5.6 and an XF 50mm f/2 lens.

Fujifilm X-H2S + XF 500mm f/5.6 R LM WR OIS | 1/800 SS | 200 ISO | f/5.6

Fujifilm X-H2S + XF 500mm f/5.6 R LM WR OIS | 1/160 SS | 200 ISO | f/13

Fujifilm X-H2S + XF 500mm f/5.6 R LM WR OIS | 1/250 SS | 400 ISO | f/5.6

Fujifilm X-H2S + XF 500mm f/5.6 R LM WR OIS | 1/2500 SS | 800 ISO | f/5.6

Fujifilm X-H2S + XF 500mm f/5.6 R LM WR OIS | 1/250 SS | 400 ISO | f/5.6

Fujifilm X-H2S + XF 500mm f/5.6 R LM WR OIS | 1/125 SS | 1250 ISO | f/5.6

Fujifilm X-H2S + XF 500mm f/5.6 R LM WR OIS | 1/400 SS | 200 ISO | f/5.6

Overall Performance

Fujifilm X-H2S + XF 70-300mm f/4-5.6 R LM WR OIS

There’s no denying that the Fujifilm X-H2S is a pro-grade powerhouse capable of some truly impressive outcomes.

Professional and seasoned enthusiasts will appreciate the overall speed and performance of the hybrid mirrorless system.

The capabilities, speed, and power of the X Processor 5 aren’t a mystery—it’s in almost every current-gen X and GFX series body. The point is that it’s a known quantity and is in all Fujifilm cameras for a reason—reliability.

The 64-bit processing speed delivers optical autofocus, subject detection, and tracking performance. It also enables fast 6.2K video recording with higher bitrates, including ProRes 422 HQ and ultra-high-speed 240p full HD.

When shooting with the Electronic Shutter, the Fujifilm X-H2S punches out up to 40fps with a 140 consecutive uncompressed RAW file buffer.

Of course, you can extend the capabilities and output of the Fujifilm X-H2S with the Fujifilm VG-XH Vertical Grip to add two additional high-capability NP-W235 batteries.

Videographers looking to extend the performance and recording times can also add Fujifilm’s FAN-001 cooling fan.

Video Performance

In 2024, I was fortunate enough to be involved in a Fujifilm Australia event featuring local musician Cap Carter. The event, HIDDEN, was a live performance featuring Cap and his band as they wrote and performed several pieces in his urban style.

While I wasn’t hands-on with the X-H2S (I was busy shooting with the new X100VI and X-T5), much of the event was filmed on Fujifilm X-H2S and GFX 100S II cameras.

A pair of pro-grade videographers recorded the live event and produced the video above. I’ve included it here so you have a first-hand example of the camera’s videography capabilities.

Looking at the Fujifilm X-H2S video specifications, there’s much to be impressed by.

The X-H2S internally records 4:2:2 10-bit in DCI/UHD 4K at up to 120p and Full HD at up to 240p. It also records in a pro-grade, open-gate 3:2 6.2K setting suitable for anamorphic and cinematic applications.

Fujifilm’s hybrid flagship supports a range of codes, including H.265, and three tiers of ProRes: the high-bitrate 422 HQ, the standard 422, and the more compressed 422 LT.

Thanks to effective power and heat management, the X-H2S can record continuously at all frame rates and resolutions for up to 90 minutes.

How I Tested the Fujifilm X-H2S

Fujifilm X-H2S + XF 500mm f/5.6 R LM WR OIS

I tested the Fujifilm X-H2S over a two-week period while also testing and reviewing the XF 500mm f/5.6 super-telephoto prime (check out our full review of the 500mm here).

I also paired the X-H2S with several Fujifilm prime lenses, including the XF 50mm f/2, XF 27mm f/2.8, XF 23mm f/2, and XF 16mm f/2.8.

I shot all images in RAW and edited them later using Adobe Lightroom.

While I shot most images with the huge XF 500mm f/5.6, I still found it an incredibly comfortable camera to carry and control with a Lucky Straps wrist strap.

Alternatives to Fujifilm X-H2S

Fujifilm X-T5 + XF 56mm f/1.2 R WR

Fortunately, if you’re looking for a hybrid videography and photography camera, you’re spoiled for choice.

All camera brands have learned that pro photographers, videographers, and content creators demand high-quality video output from current-gen models.

Sony, Canon, Nikon, and Lumix all offer pro-grade, class-leading hybrid cameras to optimise the creative potential of brand loyalists.

If you want to stick to the Fujifilm ecosystem, there’s much to choose from.

If you’re looking for a photography-centric yet powerful Fujifilm camera, the Fujifilm X-T5’s capabilities and output are hard to ignore.

The X-T5 is the flagship photography camera boasting a 40.2MP X-Trans CMOS 5 HR image sensor, X Processor 5 brains, 5-axis image stabilization, and significant heritage from the Fujifilm X-T range.

Regarding video performance, the X-T5 produces 6.2K 1.23x (native) crop or sub-sampled 4K full-width video.

I’ve owned or reviewed every X-T camera in the series, and I adore the X-T5 as the culmination of all that’s great about the series —check out our review here!

Fujifilm X-S20 + XF 18mm f/1.4 R WR

If you’re on a budget yet want the best Fujifilm hybrid photography and videography, the Fujifilm X-S20 is for you!

The Fujifilm X-S20 packs a 26.1MP X-Trans CMOS 4 image sensor, X Processor 5, and 7-stop, 5-axis image stabilization. While it’s a more compact offering, it still features a deep ergonomic grip and flippy rotating screen perfect for vlogging.

The X-S20 offers impressive video specs, including 6.2K 30P 4:2:2 10-bit internal recording, 6.2K 30P 12-bit Apple ProRes RAW to ATOMOS HDMI external recorder, and full-width 4K 60p. Be sure to check out the XS20 review here.

Finally, it’s essential to highlight the key differences between this X-H2S and the X-H2. The X-H2 is another hybrid stills/video camera that packs a beefier 40MP APS-C X-Trans BSI image sensor and the capacity to record an impressive 8K 30p, 4K 60p, FHD 240p 10-Bit Video.

The Fujifilm X-H2 retails for around US$2,000.

Value for Money

Fujifilm X-H2S

Value, like beauty, is in the eye of the beholder. Others may regard what I consider great value as so-so – and vice versa.

Putting that aside, the Fujifilm X-H2S retails for around US$2,500, making it the most expensive Fujifilm X Series camera body in the range.

In comparison, the Fujifilm X-T5 retails for around US$1,700 and the Fujifilm X-S20 for around US$1,300.

So why is the Fujifilm X-H2S so much more expensive? Especially when considering the X-T5 packs a 40MP image sensor compared to the 26MP X-H2S.

It’s essential to remember that the Fujifilm X-H2S is a pro-grade hybrid photography and videography camera designed to meet the demands of pro visual creatives.

I’ve worked alongside professional videographers who shoot exclusively with Fujifilm X-H2S cameras and swear by the system.

It’s also critical to remember that when it comes to high-grade video recording, a dedicated lower-resolution image sensor often delivers greater flexibility and quality than higher-megapixel beasts.

To understand and appreciate the X-HS2’s value, you only need to review its core specifications and recording capabilities.

It cranks out 4K 120p, 6.2K 30p, and FHD 240p 10-bit video, internal ProRes 422 HQ and F-Log 2 recording, and ProRes & Blackmagic RAW via HDMI external. It also boasts dual CFexpress Type B and SD UHS-II Card Slots.

Plus, the X-HS2 produces stunning still images while spitting out 40 fps in electronic shutter and 15 fps in mechanical shutter.

Considering the Fujifilm X-HS2’s professional qualifications, the value justifies the cost.

Fujifilm X-H2S Review | Conclusion

The Fujifilm X-H2S is a professional digital mirrorless camera straddling the boundary between masterful stills and captivating video.

Fortunately for pro photographers and videographers, the X-H2S delivers both sides of the brief.

While it’s currently the most expensive X Series camera body, it’s also the most optimized hybrid body in the range.

Fujifilm’s X-H2S is an ideal do-it-all camera that, when paired with the stellar range of Fujifilm lenses, is unstoppable—especially if you add the cooling fan to the equation.

The only element of the X-H2S that needs further attention from Fujifilm is the autofocus performance. Sadly, Fujifilm isn’t a leader in autofocus performance and has committed to improving speed and reliability through firmware updates and future releases.

Having said that, the X-H2S’s overall focus performance is terrific—it’s just not up to the level of brands like Sony and Canon.

Putting that aside, the Fujifilm X-H2S is the number one choice for X Series hybrid content creators working to deliver on professional client briefs.

HIGHLY RECOMMENDED

Fujifilm X-H2S

Pro-grade hybrid camera built for both high-speed stills and cinematic 6.2K video performance.