The Hasselblad X2D II 100C is a refined 100-megapixel medium format camera for photographers looking for a lot of detail, color and control. New features include end-to-end HDR, stronger 10-stop image stabilization and continuous autofocus with subject detection. Together with the XCD 2.8-4/35-100E, also referred to as 35-100mm f/2.8-4.0, the camera forms a versatile set for landscape, portrait, street and travel photography.
The Hasselblad X2D II 100C has a 100-megapixel medium format BSI CMOS sensor with 16-bit color and 15.3 stops of dynamic range. For the first time, a medium format camera offers true end-to-end HDR: images are captured in one shot and processed directly in the camera to HDR HEIF or Ultra HDR JPEG. This increases the dynamic range by 3 stops in-camera and up to 4 stops when RAW processing in Phocus. Thanks to the P3 color gamut, the images are fuller and more realistic.
What's new compared to the X2D 100C?
The biggest gain is not in more megapixels, but in speed, stabilization and workflow. The sensor remains at 100 megapixels, with 16-bit color and 15.3 stops of dynamic range. The X2D II 100C adds end-to-end HDR: the camera can process HDR HEIF and Ultra HDR JPEG directly, while RAW files retain more highlight and shadow latitude for later processing in Phocus.
Autofocus has also become more practical. AF-C with deep learning, LiDAR and 425 PDAF zones makes the camera easier to use with people, animals and vehicles. This makes the X2D II 100C more widely usable than the earlier Hasselblad X2D 100C, although this remains primarily a camera for photographers who consciously work with image quality, color and post-processing.
The 3.6-inch OLED touchscreen offers HDR display, 1400 nits brightness and is tiltable (90° up, 43° down). A 5D joystick and eight programmable buttons are provided for quick operation.
A new 5-axis IBIS delivers up to 10 stops of stabilization, eight times more powerful than the previous generation. This enables sharp shots at long shutter speeds, even by hand.
Continuous autofocus (AF-C) is supported by deep learning and 425 PDAF zones with LiDAR. People, animals and vehicles can be tracked accurately, even in low light with the help of an AF-assist beam.
The camera includes a built-in 1TB SSD with very fast read and write speeds, plus a CFexpress Type B slot for expansion. HDR RAW images can be transferred and edited wirelessly on iPhone or iPad via Phocus Mobile 2. This is possible even when the camera is in standby.
The body is finished in matte graphite gray, with a new handle and 7.5% lower weight than the predecessor. The internal structure has been revised for durability and comfort.
Key points
• 100 MP sensor, 16-bit color, 15.3 stops of dynamic range.
• True HDR in one shot.
• 5-axis IBIS with 10 stops of compensation.
• New AF-C with deep learning and LiDAR.
• 1TB internal SSD + CFexpress Type B.
• Wireless RAW workflow via Phocus Mobile 2.
XCD 2.8-4/35-100E zoom lens
The Hasselblad XCD 2.8–4/35–100E is a zoom lens with a full-frame-equivalent range of approximately 28–76mm, making it suitable for landscapes, portraits, street photography and travel. Its maximum aperture of f/2.8 offers creative possibilities in low light and produces natural bokeh.
The strength of this zoom lies mainly in its practical range. Converted to full frame, it covers approximately 28–76mm. That is wide enough for landscapes and reportage, normal enough for street photography and long enough for relaxed portraits. This makes the 35-100E more of an all-round standard zoom than a distinctly specialist lens.
The lens construction consists of 16 elements in 13 groups, including three aspherical and five ED elements. This ensures consistent sharpness and true-to-life colors for the 100-megapixel sensor in the X2D II 100C.
A fast and quiet STM motor with internal focus is used for focusing. In combination with the camera's AF-C, moving subjects can be reliably tracked.
The built-in central shutter offers shutter speeds from 1/4000s to 68 minutes and full flash synchronization at any speed, giving extra freedom for creative lighting.
Despite its brightness and versatility, the lens remains compact at 894 grams and 133 mm in length. Three control rings (focus, zoom and a programmable lens ring) provide direct access to settings.
Availability and prices
The Hasselblad X2D II 100C is available and has a suggested retail price of €7,200. The Hasselblad XCD 35-100mm f/2.8-4.0 is available and has a suggested retail price of €4,800.
