Hasselblad X1D-50c review

A radical mirrorless medium format camera

Digital Camera World Verdict

The X1D needs to be used at a slightly slower pace than full-frame rivals, but the payback is spectacular image quality and a rewarding shooting experience. The clean design is matched by an equally efficient set of controls, and the two lenses we tested are just as impressive. The Hasselblad X1D has certainly set the bar very high indeed.

Pros

  • +

    Good controls with simple layout

  • +

    Razor sharp images

  • +

    High resolution electronic viewfinder

Cons

  • -

    Slow start-up time

  • -

    No in-body or lens stabilisation

  • -

    Lacks speed of smaller format SLR

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Introduction

Hasselblad is best-known for its professional medium-format camera systems – and their £20K+ price tags – but the X1D is a radical new step. Its mirrorless design means it’s a fraction of the size of a regular medium-format camera, and scarcely larger than a 35mm full-frame model. And while it’s a long way from cheap, its price puts a Hasselblad within the reach of more professionals and well-heeled enthusiasts.

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