FUJIFILM TCL-X100 | X100v @ 50mm

INTRO
There hasn’t been a whole lot in my life that has been as pleasing as shooting with the Fujifilm X100v. I even owned the Leica Q not long ago and sold it because I still prefer my X100v. I prefer the RAW files from my Fujifilm cameras and actually just downright think it’s a better camera.

FUJIFILM TCL-X100 LENS
I snagged a used copy of this lens for $280 from Samy’s Camera in Lost Angeles. Brand new they will go for about $350 and it’s quite difficult to find these days. Mine shipped quickly and it’s rarely left my X100v since it arrives. The build quality is sturdy and very much resembles and matches the X100V (silver, in my case). I found it incredibly easy to attach directly to my thread mount with a few simple twists and it also is a cakewalk to remove and store when not in use.

PERFORMANCE
I was certainly a little weary about the autofocus feeling sluggish but I was quickly proven wrong. Frankly, I’ve never owned a teleconverter or had a need for one. The speed with the conversion lens attached is identical to operating without it. I found no issues with hunting and identifying a subject was a breeze.

AESTHETIC + SIZE
So here’s this big question: Does it ruin the aesthetic of the compact Fujifilm X100v? Is it too big? As you’ll find in the video, I couldn’t disagree more. My experience with professional cameras has mostly been conceived with huge DSLR-style bodies and fairly massive lenses, however, some folks just want a tiny pocketable-ish camera so you may beg to differ. For me, this Fujifilm X100v with the TCL-X100 attached still felt wildly manageable, compact, and clean. If you’re on the fence about this purchase it certainly shouldn’t hinder you from making the next steps. I quite enjoy the scale with the lens attached and find it to be a far more exciting “accessory” compared to a lens hood, thumb grip, etc.

SHOULD I BUY THE TCL-X100 LENS
Yes. No doubt. The only real downside of the X100 series cameras in my opinion is the fixed lens. It’s an otherwise perfect camera. One can rest assured that Fujifilm took this into account. Fujifilm has been so kind to create both a 28mm and 50mm adapter lens, it’s officially perfection, folks.

Find a copy of it and enjoy the ride. Follow me on social media and don’t forget to shoot me a DM. Always love chatting about cameras + gear.

- Blake Pope

Follow me on social.

Be sure to like and subscribe 🤝