At Wilkinson Cameras, we've had our hands on one of the most intriguing camera releases of the year: the Fujifilm X half. Designed to feel like a half-frame film camera but with digital convenience, the X half is Fujifilm's boldest nod to nostalgia yet. But is it all style over substance or a legitimate creative tool for a new generation of photographers?

Let's take a closer look at what makes this camera so different, who it's for, and whether it's worth adding to your kit.

What Is the Fujifilm X Half?

The Fujifilm X half is a compact digital camera featuring a fixed 32mm equivalent F2.8 lens and a vertically oriented 1-inch, 17.74MP back-illuminated CMOS sensor. It's JPEG-only - no RAW files here - and it's built for simplicity, creativity, and that sweet, film-like aesthetic.

What stands out is how it changes your approach to photography. With its faux film advance lever, 2-in-1 image and video pairing, and a range of Fujifilm film simulations, the X half slows you down and encourages a more thoughtful, playful process.

Who Is It For?

This isn't your typical spec-driven shooter. The Fujifilm X half is aimed at:

  • Gen Z film lovers
  • Casual creators
  • TikTok and Instagram users
  • Anyone craving an alternative to smartphone photography

If you're drawn to the tactile joy of photography and film-style experimentation or want something more stylish and fun than your phone, this camera is for you. But if you're a pixel peeper or need full manual control and RAW editing, you may want to look elsewhere.

Shooting Experience: Delightfully Retro

Despite its compact size (just 240g!), the X half feels solid and surprisingly refined. The camera features an optical viewfinder, a dual-screen touch interface, and a cold shoe for accessories. You can't add an external mic or flash, but you can mount a small LED light or smartphone holder.

Features we loved:

  • Film Camera Mode: Choose between 36, 54, or 72 shots per roll, wind your fake lever between shots, and say goodbye to digital previews.
  • 2-in-1 Stills & Video: Pair a still and video into a single frame, ideal for visual storytelling on social media.
  • Diptych Mode: Create instant two-image collages for more creative narratives.

The X half also includes 13 film simulations (such as Classic Chrome and Acros) and 19 built-in filters, making this camera perfect for those who love shooting in-camera with little to no editing afterwards.

Watch Our Full YouTube Review

If you'd like to see the Fujifilm X half in action, check out our video review where Olivia and Kaine take it around Liverpool, test out all the key features, and share their honest thoughts.

 

What You Need to Know

Here are some pros and cons after extensive use:

Pros

  • Compact and stylish, perfect for on-the-go creators
  • Excellent battery life (up to 880 shots per charge using the optical viewfinder)
  • Lovely in-camera colours with Fuji's film simulations
  • Fun and creative features (like diptych and 2-in-1 modes)
  • Easy pairing with the dedicated X half app

Cons

  • JPEG only – no RAW files for post-processing
  • Slow autofocus, not ideal for action shots
  • Limited video resolution (1080p max, vertical format only)
  • No external mic input

If you're planning on a full day of shooting, grab an extra Fujifilm NP-W126S battery, just in case.

Pricing and Bundles

The X half starts at £699 (body only), or you can grab one of our exclusive bundles:

These bundles offer great value, letting you turn digital memories into physical prints with ease.

Alternatives to Consider

If the Fujifilm X half sparks your interest, but you're not quite sure it's the one, consider these compact and creative alternatives:

  • Fujifilm X100VI – A fixed-lens APS-C powerhouse with classic styling, hybrid viewfinder, and RAW capability for serious photographers who still want that Fujifilm charm.
  • Fujifilm GFX100RF – A medium format option for professionals wanting ultimate image quality and creative control in a new, more compact body.
  • Canon G7 X Mark III – A YouTuber favourite with a flip-up screen, external mic input, and solid Full HD/4K video performance.
  • Ricoh GR III – A street photography legend with a large APS-C sensor in a truly pocketable form.
  • Sony CyberShot RX100 VIIA – Ideal for travellers who want premium compact performance and versatile zoom.
  • Panasonic Lumix TZ99 – A travel zoom compact with a vast range and plenty of manual control.
  • Canon PowerShot V1 – A vlogging camera designed with content creators in mind, including a built-in mic and smart features.

Final Thoughts

The Fujifilm X half isn't for everyone, but for the right person, it could be the most fun they've had with a camera in years. If you value creative freedom, a slower pace, and nostalgic aesthetics over technical perfection, it might just be your perfect everyday shooter.

Visit your local Wilkinson Cameras store or browse online here to try it for yourself. Check out some examples taken by Olivia & Kaine below!