The second-gen Hasselblad X2D II 100C does the seemingly impossible: improving on near perfection, this 100MP medium-format digital camera takes the lineup to the next level.
When the original X2D 100C appeared in 2022, critics were wowed by its superb Scandinavian design, cutting-edge tech and incredible image quality. At this price point and with its limitations (it remains a stills-only camera), this X2D II 100C clearly isn’t for everyone. But for those who embraced the first one, the next-gen model will be hard to resist.
Serving as the new flagship of the Hasselblad X System, the X2D II now offers AF-C continuous autofocus, Hasselblad Natural Colour Solution with High Dynamic Range (HNCS HDR) and 5-axis 10-stop in-body image stabilization. And that’s not all.
Autofocus upgrades
The new AF-C mode is a first for Hasselblad. It’s powered by deep learning algorithms to detect and track humans, animals and vehicles throughout the capture sequence. AF-S mode is now enhanced with LiDAR for faster, more accurate focusing, and a new AF illuminator improves AF performance in low light.
In addition to the existing spot focus mode, the X2D II 100C now features expand spot, custom and wide modes as well.
HDR improvements
HNCS HDR represents another first. It goes beyond the conventional brightening of shadows and compressing of highlights to preserve details, delivering a three-stop increase in dynamic range for in-camera output and up to four when processing RAW files in Phocus.
These vibrant and deeply detailed HNCS HDR images (captured in-camera as HDR HEIF or Ultra HDR JPEG files) can be viewed directly on the camera’s built-in 1400-nit touchscreen (that’s a 75% boost in peak brightness over its predecessor, by the way) or on any HDR-capable device.
You can also apply HNCS HDR processing to RAW files using the Phocus Mobile 2 app, showcasing your images in their full brilliance with true colours and tones through to the final stages of your workflow.
Enhanced stabilization
Hasselblad’s engineers have retooled the stabilization system from top to bottom, including its hardware, structure and algorithms. The resulting 5-axis 10-stop IBIS represents an industry first, with eight times the stabilization of this camera’s predecessor.
As a result, Hasselblad says, you can now shoot handheld for several seconds worry-free as well as capture long exposures without the need for a tripod.
View Hasselblad X2D II 100C Pricing and Availability at Vistek
Finishing touches
Using an advanced new finishing process, the camera sports a subtle but stylish graphite-grey matte coating with classic black lettering. And thanks to a newly optimized internal structure, this model weights 7.5% less than the original X2D 100C. For additional comfort and an extra measure of control, it also boasts an ergonomically redesigned grip.
The camera’s launch is accompanied by the new Hasselblad XCD 35-100mm f/2.8-4 standard zoom lens. Compatible with Hasselblad X System and 907X cameras, it boasts three-times optical zoom and trademark flagship E Series optical excellence, along with an advanced stepping motor for highly responsive focusing performance. It’s a welcome addition and perfect match for the X2D II 100C.
X2D II 100C Features
- 100MP medium-format BSI CMOS sensor
- 5-axis 10-stop in-body image stabilization
- Phase detection autofocus
- 1TB built-in SSD
- 15-stop dynamic range
- 16-bit colour depth
- Hasselblad Natural Colour Solution with High Dynamic Range (HNCS HDR)
XCD 35-100mm f/2.8-4 Features
- f/2.8-f/32 (f/4-f/32) aperture range
- 3x optical zoom and flagship E Series optical excellence
- Advanced stepping motor for responsive focusing performance
- 16 elements in 13 groups (including 3 aspherical and 5 extra-low dispersion elements)