In the ever-evolving world of professional photography, few brands command as much respect as Hasselblad. Known for their iconic medium format cameras that have captured everything from lunar landscapes to high-fashion editorials, Hasselblad has once again pushed the boundaries with the release of the Hasselblad X2D II 100C. Announced in August 2025, this new iteration builds on the success of the original X2D 100C, introducing groundbreaking features like continuous autofocus, enhanced in-body stabilization, and true end-to-end HDR capabilities. If you're searching for a Hasselblad X2D II review that dives deep into its specs, performance, and real-world applications, you've come to the right place. This article explores why the Hasselblad X2D II 100C could be the best medium format camera on the market, helping photographers achieve unparalleled image quality and creative freedom.
As a successor to the X2D 100C, the Hasselblad X2D II specs include a 100-megapixel BSI CMOS sensor, but with significant upgrades that address previous limitations. Priced at $7,399 for the body only, it's not just a minor refresh—it's a refined tool designed for professionals who demand the highest standards. Whether you're a landscape photographer, portrait artist, or studio pro, this camera promises to elevate your work. Let's break it down step by step, from design to performance, and see how it stacks up against competitors like the Fujifilm GFX 100S II.
A Brief History of Hasselblad's X System: Setting the Stage for the X2D II 100C
Hasselblad's journey into mirrorless medium format began with the X1D in 2016, a camera that revolutionized portability in the segment. The X2D 100C, launched in 2022, took things further with a 100MP sensor and in-body image stabilization (IBIS). However, it lacked continuous autofocus and advanced HDR, areas where full-frame rivals were gaining ground. The Hasselblad X2D II 100C addresses these gaps, embodying Hasselblad's commitment to innovation while honoring their Scandinavian design heritage.
This new model isn't just about specs; it's about usability. Hasselblad has optimized the internal structure, reducing the body weight by 7.5% (excluding battery and card) for better handling during long shoots. The graphite grey matte coating with black lettering adds a premium, durable finish that's both aesthetically pleasing and practical.
Design and Build Quality: Ergonomics Meet Elegance
At first glance, the Hasselblad X2D II 100C retains the minimalist, ergonomic design that fans love. Measuring 148.5 x 106 x 74.5mm and weighing around 895g (body only), it's compact for a medium format camera, making it ideal for travel and fieldwork. The weather-sealed body ensures reliability in challenging conditions, from dusty deserts to rainy urban streets.
Key design enhancements include a 3.6-inch OLED touchscreen with 2.36 million dots and a peak brightness of 1400 nits, perfect for HDR previews in bright sunlight. The screen tilts up to 90 degrees and down to about 43 degrees, aiding low-angle and overhead shots. A new 5D joystick allows precise focus point selection and menu navigation, complemented by haptic feedback for confirmation— a boon for gloved hands or quick adjustments.
Hasselblad has added two more customizable buttons, bringing the total to eight, letting users tailor controls to their workflow. The 0.79x magnification electronic viewfinder (EVF) with 5.76 million dots offers a clear, immersive viewing experience. Overall, the build screams luxury, with tactile dials and a refined grip that feels natural in hand.
The Heart of the Beast: 100MP Sensor and Image Quality
The Hasselblad X2D II specs revolve around its 44 x 33mm 100-megapixel back-side illuminated (BSI) CMOS sensor, which delivers 16-bit color depth and an astonishing 15.3 stops of dynamic range. Native ISO starts at 50, ensuring clean images even in low light. Hasselblad's Natural Color Solution (HNCS) continues to shine, producing true-to-life colors that pop without oversaturation.
Image quality is where the X2D II truly excels. In real-world tests, landscapes captured with the XCD 90mm f/2.5 V lens show incredible detail, from fine textures in rocks to subtle gradients in skies. The sensor's ability to handle high contrast scenes is unmatched, thanks to improved noise reduction via Hasselblad Natural Noise Reduction (HNNR) for RAW files. Photographers can expect files with approximately 281 trillion colors, making post-processing a dream in software like Phocus.
Compared to the original X2D, the II model offers better highlight recovery and shadow detail, reducing the need for bracketing in harsh lighting. Sample images from coastal scenes at f/16 and 2.2-second exposures (handheld, thanks to IBIS) demonstrate razor-sharp results with minimal noise at ISO 50.
Autofocus Revolution: From Single-Shot to Continuous Tracking
One of the most anticipated upgrades in the Hasselblad X2D II review is the autofocus system. The original X2D was limited to single autofocus (AF-S), but the II introduces continuous autofocus (AF-C) powered by deep learning algorithms. It detects and tracks subjects like humans, vehicles, cats, and dogs, using 425 phase-detection autofocus (PDAF) zones—up from 294 in the predecessor.
A built-in LiDAR sensor aids in fast, accurate focusing, even in low light, with a new AF illuminator doubling as a self-timer indicator. Focus modes now include "Expand Spot," "Custom," and "Wide," giving more flexibility. In practice, AF-C performs well for slow-moving subjects, like walking portraits or wildlife at a distance, at up to three frames per second. However, it's not optimized for fast action sports, where full-frame cameras like the Sony A1 might edge it out.
Real-world testing shows impressive hit rates for dog portraits at f/2.5 and 1/160s, with sharp eyes and natural bokeh. Compatibility requires firmware updates for select XCD lenses, but once set, it's a game-changer for medium format.
In-Body Image Stabilization: Up to 10 Stops of Shake Reduction
Handheld shooting in medium format just got easier with the Hasselblad X2D II 100C's 5-axis IBIS, rated at up to 10 stops— a massive leap from the 7 stops in the X2D 100C. Tested with the XCD 3.5/120 Macro lens, it allows safe shutter speeds up to eight times longer under CIPA standards.
In low-light scenarios, this means sharp images at 2.2 seconds handheld, as seen in sample urban night shots. Landscape photographers will appreciate the freedom to shoot without a tripod in dawn or dusk conditions. The system works seamlessly with XCD lenses, applying in-camera corrections for distortion and vignetting.
Critics note that while impressive, battery drain increases with prolonged IBIS use, with a CIPA rating of 327 shots per charge. Still, for most pros, this is a worthwhile trade-off for the stability it provides.
HDR Capabilities: Pioneering End-to-End Workflow
Hasselblad claims the X2D II is the first medium format camera with true end-to-end HDR, and it delivers. Using HNCS HDR, it captures HEIF or Ultra HDR JPEG files with embedded gain maps for enhanced highlights and shadows, offering up to three extra stops of dynamic range over standard JPEGs.
The 1400-nit touchscreen previews HDR in real-time, and Phocus Mobile 2 allows editing on iPhones or iPads. It's limited to P, S, or A modes (not manual, to preserve creative intent), and works best in high-contrast scenes like sunsets or interiors with bright windows.
Quotes from reviews highlight its realism: "HDR can make it feel less like you're looking at a photo, and more like you're looking through a window." RAW files can be processed with HDR effects in Phocus, exporting as Ultra HDR JPGs for compatibility.
User Interface, Controls, and Connectivity
The interface is intuitive, with a clean menu system navigable via touchscreen or joystick. Haptic feedback and customizable buttons streamline operations. Storage includes a 1TB internal SSD with read/write speeds up to 2850/2370 MB/s, plus a CFexpress Type B slot—enough for over 4,000 RAW + JPEG pairs.
Connectivity shines with Phocus Mobile 2 for wireless transfers, remote control, and HDR editing. No video recording keeps it focused on stills, a deliberate choice for purists.
Real-World Performance: Putting the X2D II to the Test
In fieldwork, the Hasselblad X2D II 100C excels in deliberate photography. Portrait sessions yield stunning skin tones and detail, while landscapes benefit from the sensor's resolution. AF-C handles moving subjects adequately for weddings or events, but fast wildlife might require patience.
Battery life holds up for a full day of shooting, though spares are recommended. The camera's weather sealing proved reliable in light rain, and the EVF's clarity aids composition in bright light.
Comparisons: Hasselblad X2D II vs Competitors
Against the Fujifilm GFX 100S II ($5,499), the X2D II offers superior IBIS (10 vs 8 stops) and native HDR, but lacks video and bursts at 7fps. The GFX has more lens options and is cheaper, making it appealing for budget-conscious users.
Compared to the Sony a7R V ($3,898), the Hasselblad's medium format sensor provides better depth and color, but Sony wins in speed and versatility. For Phase One users, the X2D II is more portable and affordable.
| Feature | Hasselblad X2D II 100C | Fujifilm GFX 100S II | Sony a7R V |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sensor | 100MP Medium Format BSI | 102MP Medium Format | 61MP Full-Frame |
| IBIS | 10 stops | 8 stops | 8 stops |
| AF | Continuous with Subject Detection | Continuous with AI | Advanced AI Tracking |
| HDR | End-to-End Native | SDR HEIF/Video | HDR Video/Stills |
| Price | $7,399 | $5,499 | $3,898 |
| Video | No | Yes (8K) | Yes (8K) |
This table highlights the X2D II's strengths in stills quality over versatility.
Pros and Cons of the Hasselblad X2D II 100C
Pros:
- Exceptional image quality with 100MP sensor and 16-bit color.
- Revolutionary 10-stop IBIS for handheld freedom.
- Continuous AF and subject detection for dynamic shooting.
- True HDR workflow with in-camera processing.
- Premium build and intuitive controls.
- Lower price than predecessor ($800 less).
Cons:
- No video capabilities.
- Battery life could be better (327 shots CIPA).
- Limited lens compatibility for full AF-C.
- Higher cost than some competitors.
- Not ideal for high-speed action.
Pricing, Availability, and Who It's For
The Hasselblad X2D II price is $7,399 body-only, available now from authorized dealers like B&H Photo and Hasselblad's official store. Kits with lenses like the new XCD 35-100mm f/2.8-4 start higher.
This camera is perfect for professional photographers in studios, landscapes, or portraits who prioritize quality over speed. If you're upgrading from the X2D 100C, the improvements justify the investment. For beginners, consider entry-level medium format options first.
Conclusion: Is the Hasselblad X2D II 100C Worth It?
The Hasselblad X2D II 100C is a masterpiece that finally delivers on the promise of medium format mirrorless excellence. With its enhanced AF, superior IBIS, and innovative HDR, it sets a new benchmark for 2025. While not for everyone due to its price and focus on stills, it's a must-have for those seeking the ultimate in image fidelity.
If you're ready to invest in the best Hasselblad X2D II specs and performance, this camera will transform your photography. For more details, check out official sources and hands-on reviews.