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Verdict
As we've mentioned, the Fujifilm GFX 50S isn't a camera designed for speed junkies looking for out-and-out performance, so it's unreasonable to expect it to excel in those areas compared to its smaller-sensor rivals. However, while the GFX 50S's AF performance is very accurate, it could be faster and hunt less – it could be that Fujifilm addresses this via a firmware update.
What firmware updates won't fix, though, are our other two bugbears – the awkward positioning of the exposure compensation control and the limiting flash sync speed of just 1/125 sec. We're sure some portrait photographers will find this latter point frustrating if shooting outdoors.
Those niggles aside, we have to say we're quite smitten with the GFX 50S. If you're prepared to shoot in the slightly more methodical manner that the camera demands, you'll be rewarded with some truly stunning results. Image quality is the best we've seen (unless you're willing to stump up house-deposit levels of cash for a 100MP medium format camera), with shot-saving dynamic range and impressive ISO performance, while the handling and (the majority of) the controls make the GFX 50S a pleasure to shoot with.
The hefty price will mean that many might be better off sticking with their full-frame camera, but for those wanting the ultimate in image quality, the GFX 50S is the camera to pick.
Competition
Hasselblad X1D
The Hasselblad X1D is the GFX 50S's closest rival, and its clean, minimal design is matched by an equally clear and efficient set of controls, and the two lenses we tested are just as impressive as the camera. It's more compact than the GFX 50S, and can flash sync at any shutter speed.
Read the full review: Hasselblad X1D
Pentax 645Z
We loved the medium format Pentax 645Z for its DSLR-style handling and controls, but prices have stayed high since launch, and the arrival of the GFX 50S and X1D, two strong, premium-quality rivals, make the 645Z a hard camera to recommend right now.
Read the full review: Pentax 645Z
Canon EOS 5DS
The EOS 5DS packs in an incredible 50MP full-frame sensor – we haven't seen anything like this in a DSLR before, and the blend of resolution, size and affordability looks unlikely to be beaten any time soon. It’s a terrific camera, but it also demands the very best lenses.
Read the full review: Canon EOS 5DS
