The best medium format camera in 2024: big sensor cameras for experts and pros

The best medium format cameras deliver peerless image quality and that impossible-to-replicate medium format "look". Their large sensors offer depth and dynamic range that outstrip full-frame counterparts in terms of sheer quality.  

For years these cameras had a niche popularity, with a reputation for being impressive on the inside but horribly bulky and impossibly expensive. However, the game has changed.

While Hasselblad gave us the first mirrorless medium format camera, it was arguably Fujifilm that kicked off the revolution by introducing its impressive GFX camera range. Smaller and much more affordable than traditional medium format options, these models started making big-sensor photography more mainstream than it has ever been. Hasselblad then used its magic with modular system cameras to breathe life into old equipment. 

Packing bigger sensors these are some of the highest resolution cameras, and top models like the Fujifilm GFX 100 II or the Hasselblad X2D 100C can easily be used handheld, with better-than-ever ergonomics. 

Gareth Bevan headshot
Gareth Bevan

Gareth is the Reviews Editor at Digital Camera World, and the person in charge of approving all the latest camera-related tech. With several years of experience as a photographer and videographer, shooting for some household names, he has learned a thing or two about cameras and the photography industry. Outside of photography, expect to find him cycling around London, or deep in a Netflix binge.

Best medium format camera: Our top picks

The best medium format camera in 2024

Why you can trust Digital Camera World Our expert reviewers spend hours testing and comparing products and services so you can choose the best for you. Find out how we test.

Best medium format camera overall

(Image credit: Gareth Bevan / Digital Camera World)
Best medium format camera overall

Specifications

Sensor: Medium format
Megapixels: 102MP
Lens mount: Fujifilm GF
LCD: 3.2 inch Tilt-Type Touch LCD, 2.36m-dot
Viewfinder: 9.44m-dot, 0.64-in OLED
Max continuous shooting speed: 8fps
Max video resolution: 8K at 30fps
User level: Professional

Reasons to buy

+
Superb quality...
+
… superfast speed
+
... in a portable body...
+
... for a great price

Reasons to avoid

-
Quite heavy to lift
-
Not the cheapest medium format option

Refining a formula that has worked exceptionally well for Fujifilm, the GFX 100 II continues to bring medium format to the masses by packing a big sensor into a comparatively small body. On the outside, there's not a lot to distinguish the Fujifilm GFX 100 II from any other full-frame mirrorless camera. But on the inside, it's a different story, with a 102MP BSI-CMOS 43.8x32.9mm medium format sensor running the show. 

This is Fujifilm's third-generation 100-megapixel model - and it gives an an impressive upgrade in speed, that makes this a viable option for shooting sports or wildlife. There is an 8fps motordrive setting and a buffer that can shoot bursts of upto 325 shots. 

Unlike the bigger GFX 100, the vertical grip is an optional extra, rather than being built in as standard. Additionally the eyelevel viewfinder is now detachable. Video shooting has also been improved, with this model offering a 8K capture with over 13 stops of dynamic range.

This IBIS isn't quite good enough for on-the-go vlogging or shooting handheld at 1/8sec, but it's still very impressive. Fujifilm's gorgeous film simulation modes also make their obligatory appearance, opening up some fun shooting possibilities and the ability to experiment with different looks.

This is smaller, lighter, and cheaper than any other camera offering 100MP right now. The Fujifilm GFX 100S is an outstanding achievement and an exciting glimpse into the future of medium format.

Read our hands-on Fujifilm GFX 100 II review for more details

Best medium format camera for image quality

(Image credit: James Artaius)
Best medium format camera for image quality

Specifications

Sensor: Medium format
Megapixels: 100MP
Lens mount: Hasselblad X
LCD: 3.6" touchscreen, 2.36m dots tilting
Viewfinder: Electronic, 5.76 million dots
Max continuous shooting speed: 3.3fps
Max video resolution: None
User level: Professional

Reasons to buy

+
Best color science on the market
+
7 stops of image stabilization
+
1TB of internal storage

Reasons to avoid

-
No video functionality

If you're looking for ultimate photographic quality, look no further – the Hasselblad X2D is the definitive still imaging machine. Thanks to the stunning 100MP image sensor and Hasselblad's exceptional Natural Colour Solution technology, simply put I have never seen images as stunning come straight out of any other camera – photos are gallery ready, directly out of the X2D.

Employing hybrid phase detect autofocus, Hasselblad's latest mirrorless marvel has the fast and robust AF system it deserves – and it also boasts a stunning seven stops of in-body image stabilization, which is unprecedented for a medium format camera, making this a truly hand-holdable device that can shoot whatever, wherever.

In addition to a 5.76 million dot viewfinder, which enables you to see every ounce of detail in your 100MP shots, the camera supports CFexpress B cards but also boasts 1TB of internal storage. No more scrambling around for cards!

The asterisk is that the X2D does not shoot video in any way, shape, or form. Honestly, though, nobody buys a medium-format camera to vlog with, so this should be the farthest thing from your mind. Take one look at the image files it produces and you will be in love, just like we were when we tested this beauty.

Read more: Hasselblad X2D 100C review for more details

Most affordable medium format camera

(Image credit: Future)
Best budget medium format camera

Specifications

Sensor: Medium format (43.8 x 32.9mm)
Megapixels: 51.4MP
Lens mount: Fujifilm G
LCD: 3.2" touchscreen, 2.36 million dots
Viewfinder: 0.5" OLED, 3.69 million dots
Max continuous shooting speed: 3fps
Max video resolution: 1920x1080 (Full HD)
User level: Professional

Reasons to buy

+
Ergonomic body and controls
+
Relatively affordable
+
Impeccable image quality

Reasons to avoid

-
Sluggish AF vs. other mirrorless
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No 4K video
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Heavy for long handheld use

Fujifilm is continuing its tradition of portability and affordability in its medium format cameras, making the GFX50S II one of the most tempting propositions yet. It's the fifth model in the GFX series and on paper, there doesn’t seem to be a huge difference between the Mark II and its predecessor – It reuses the 51.4MP sensor from the original GFX 50S, but it's housed in the more compact body of the GFX 100S, and Fujifilm have added in-body image stabilization worth 6.5 stops - a first for a GFX model. 

What's more, you get all this at a cheaper price point than the original GFX 50S, making the GFX 50S II a seriously compelling option for photographers switching to medium format. When we reviewed the Fujifilm GFX 50S II, we reckoned it was the next vital step for medium format in becoming truly mainstream, and we still think that's the case – it brings you that incomparable medium format look, for a price that's comparable to full frame. 

Read our full Fujifilm GFX 50S II review for more details

Best medium format camera with a retro-feel

(Image credit: Rod Lawton / DCW)
Best retro-styled medium format camera

Specifications

Sensor: Medium format
Megapixels: 50MP
Lens mount: Hasselblad X
LCD: 3.2-inch touchscreen, 2.36 million dots
Viewfinder: None (optional extra)
Max continuous shooting speed: 1fps
Max video resolution: 2.7K at 30p
User level: Professional

Reasons to buy

+
Low cost for a modular system
+
CFV II 50C fits the old 500CM

Reasons to avoid

-
Screen hard to see in bright light
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AF is slow and noisy

Hasselblad 907X 50C might share the same 50MP resolution and range of XCD lenses as the X1D and X2D, but it enjoys a clever modular design. Along with the CFV II 50C digital back which handles the image capture, there's a new 907X body that's so thin it looks like a lens adapter. This is the physical and electronic bridge between the digital back and the lens, but what's really impressive is that the CFV II 50C can breathe new life into your old Hasselblad 500cm (if you're lucky enough to have one) as it'll take the place of the film back. 

There's a large 3.2-inch tilt-angle touchscreen at the rear, but no EVF, while the AF performance can bit a touch sluggish. The quality of the finish though, including the lovely black leatherette trim and chrome edging, is classic Hasselblad, while the results are gorgeous. As we said in our review, the Hasselblad 907X 50C is a slow and awkward tool, but it's one designed for considered, careful use, and provides a gateway into a modular system for a fraction of the cost you might expect. 

Many may be better served by the X1D II 50C or a Fujifilm GFX camera, but this incredible feat of camera engineering is a winner as far as we're concerned. 

To celebrate its 80th anniversary, Hasselblad came out with the 907x Anniversary Edition Set. This special edition is an absolutely gorgeous version of the 907X in Lunar Grey rather than chrome, packaged alongside a matching 30mm f/3.5 lens. It's an absolutely gorgeous set, and it also retails at about $15,000, so you do have to really want it. They've only made 800 of them, so act fast.

Read our full Hasselblad 907X 50C review 

Best affordable 100MP medium format camera

(Image credit: Rod Lawton/Digital Camera World)
Best value 100 megapixel camera

Specifications

Sensor: Medium format
Megapixels: 102MP
Lens mount: Fujifilm GF
LCD: 3.2-inch two-axis tilt touchscreen, 2.36 million dots
Viewfinder: 0.5-inch 3.69 million dot EVF, 0.8x magnification
Max continuous shooting speed: 5fps
Max video resolution: 4K at 30fps
User level: Professional

Reasons to buy

+
Incredible value for a 100MP camera
+
Portable

Reasons to avoid

-
Out-classed by the similar, but more expensive GFX 100 II

Fujifilm have three 100-megapixel models in its GFX range - and that is really confusing for those who have to pick the right one for them. Quite simply, the GFX 100 II is the best all-rounder - and the one with the best technology, with a speed of operation that puts it a class another its older siblings when it comes to shooting stills or video.

We can make a case for the oldest GFX 100 - as this is the one with the built-in vertical grip. This gives improved handling straight out of the box - and also the best battery running time.

So where does this leave the GFX 100S? It would be easy to dismiss - but up until very recently it was our favorite medium format camera overall. And today it is still a fantastic big-sensor for most users. And what it does have in its favor is its price - it is   substantially cheaper than its two 100-megapixel siblings. It costs more than the GFX 50 II - but if you need the extra value, the 100S a bargain - and particularly so since the its recent price drop.

Read our full Fujifilm GFX 100S review for more details

Best medium format camera for handheld shooting

(Image credit: Future)
Best medium format camera for handling and battery power

Specifications

Sensor: Medium format
Megapixels: 102MP
Lens mount: Fujifilm G
LCD: 3.2-inch touchscreen, 2.36 million dots
Viewfinder: EVF, 5.76 million dots
Max continuous shooting speed: 5fps
Max video resolution: 4K at 30fps
User level: Professional

Reasons to buy

+
Incredible resolving power
+
Built-in vertical grip improves handling and battery life

Reasons to avoid

-
Still expensive by regular standards
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In-body stabilization isn't foolproof

The GFX 100 is expensive compared to regular cameras, but in the world of medium format photography (sensors larger than 35mm full frame), it's a positive bargain. 

It was a groundbreaking camera that changed our expectations about what medium format cameras can do. Its 100-megapixel resolution challenged our own testing procedures, its in-body stabilization was a medium format first, and its hybrid AF (thanks to a recent firmware update) is a huge step forward. 

It's a much more practical proposition for handheld photography than the Hasselblad 907x, though more expensive too. We gave the GFX 100 a glowing review when we tested it – but of course, it has since been eclipsed by its real rival, Fujifilm itself, namely the stunning GFX 100 II at our #1 spot (and by the GFX 100 II, which is almost half the price). But outshines its siblings for handling, as it has a big vertical built into the design as standard - which aids handheld use, particularly with longer lenses - and also means you get a longer battery running time that some pros will really cherish.

Read our full Fujifilm GFX 100 review for more details

Best "affordable" Hasselblad medium format camera

(Image credit: James Artaius / Digital Camera World)
The most affordable Hasselblad camera

Specifications

Sensor: Medium format
Megapixels: 50MP
Lens mount: Hasselblad X
LCD: 3.6" touchscreen, 2.36m dots tilting
Viewfinder: Electronic, 3.69 million dots
Max continuous shooting speed: 2.7fps
Max video resolution: 2.7K
User level: Professional

Reasons to buy

+
Impressively lightweight yet robust build
+
Stunningly detailed imagery

Reasons to avoid

-
Leisurely autofocus

Very similar to the X2D, this 2021 model offers the advantage that it is cheaper, as makes do with a 50-megapixel sensor. The autofocus is not as good, however - but at least you do get the ability to shoot video.

Most professionals will choose function over style every time, but the Hasselblad X1D feels like it's aiming at a very different, design-conscious market. It's a much more minimal 'statement' camera than the less-expensive Fujifilm GFX 50S, despite sharing the same dimensions and sensor specs.  The Hasselblad lenses, however, are superb, as is the image quality – especially the dynamic range. 

When we tested the Hasselblad X1D II 50C  it came with with a host of performance and operational improvements, including faster startup, a larger, higher-resolution rear screen and an improved electronic viewfinder compared with the original Hasselblad X1D. The leisurely contrast-based autofocus remains, though, and while the image quality is quite superb – you can thank the sensor and Hasselblad's excellent lenses for that – this is not a camera that likes to be rushed. It is still, however, beautiful to handle and, frankly, to look at!

Best medium format camera for DSLR lovers

(Image credit: Future)
Best medium format DSLR camera

Specifications

Sensor: Medium format
Megapixels: 51MP
Lens mount: Pentax 645AF2
LCD: 3.2", 1,037,000 dots
Viewfinder: Prism type
Max continuous shooting speed: 3fps
Max video resolution: Full HD at 30fps
User level: Professional

Reasons to buy

+
Large sensor with big pixel count
+
Tilting Live View-enabled screen

Reasons to avoid

-
Heavy and bulky (over 1.5kg without lens)
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It was good, but at nearly 10 years old it is showing its age

The year 2014 was a long time ago in the digital camera market, and that's when the Pentax 645Z was launched. Revolutionary for its time, the 645Z is solidly built and weatherproof, easy to use, and at the more affordable end of the medium format camera market. On top of this, the images are excellent, even by current standards. 

Replacing the older Pentax 645D, the 645Z has a Sony CMOS sensor at its heart and has had its resolution boosted from 40 to 51 million pixels. The maximum shooting speed sounds modest at 3fps, for up to 10 raw images or 30 highest quality JPEGs, but this is fine for a medium format camera. 

With the same AF system as found in Pentax’s own K-3, the camera boasts 27 AF points, 25 of which are the more sensitive cross-type, enabling it to capably work down to the equivalent of -3EV. The only worry with the 645Z is that things move slowly in the Pentax world, so it's hard to predict what lenses and upgrades might come in the future. 

Read our full Pentax 645Z review for more details

Best medium format camera for landscapes

(Image credit: Digital Camera World)
Best for medium format camera for landscape photographers

Specifications

Sensor: Medium format
Megapixels: 151
Lens mount: Phase One XT
LCD: 3.2-inch
Viewfinder: N/A
Max continuous shooting speed: N/A
Max video resolution: N/A
User level: Professional

Reasons to buy

+
Very compact and portable
+
Optional mono digital back

Reasons to avoid

-
Incredibly expensive
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Limited lens range

The Phase One XT is an extraordinary camera. Phase One doesn't want to call it a 'technical' camera, or a 'field' camera, but that's the closest description. It's an extremely compact modular system that takes the same IQ4 digital backs as the Phase One XF system but is designed for portability and travel.

It has its own built-in lens movements for perspective correction and relies on the LCD display on its digital back for composing images. It also uses its own lens mount and lenses, so the purchase cost of the XT itself is just the start. 

We've been hands-on with the Phase One XT, and it's a remarkably streamlined camera for something with this much resolution. It's not going to be for everyone, but landscape and architectural shooters who want a lot of resolving power in a field-ready kit are going to absolutely fall in love with it. 

Read our Hands on: Phase One XT for more details

Best medium format camera for Leica fans

(Image credit: Future)
Best Leica medium format camera

Specifications

Sensor: Medium format
Megapixels: 64MP
Lens mount: Leica S
LCD: 3", 921,600 dots
Viewfinder: Pentaprism type with illuminated LCD bar
Max continuous shooting speed: 3fps
Max video resolution: 4K at 24fps
User level: Professional

Reasons to buy

+
High resolution
+
Splash and dust-resistant construction

Reasons to avoid

-
Luxury price tag
-
Modest burst shooting speed

We tried the Leica S3 as far back as Photokina 2018 and thought it was wonderful... but we had to wait until March 2020 for it to become officially available. It's essentially the size of a conventional DSLR, but this latest iteration boasts a 64MP sensor measuring 30x45mm, bettering the Fujifilm GFX 50S II and 50R in terms of headline resolution, if not the GFX 100 or GFX 100s. 

The Leica S3 promises 4K cinema-quality video capture with stereo sound via a built-in microphone or optional accessory mic, a maximum ISO sensitivity of ISO 50,000, and a Live View mode with a 60fps refresh rate. It's such a beautiful thing, but the S3's price means that its appeal has been limited to high-end pros and very well-off Leica enthusiasts.

Might Leica make a medium format mirrorless camera, GFX-style, in the future? It's certainly possible, but we're retaining a healthy skepticism until the day an announcement hits. 

Read our full Hands on: Leica S3 for more details

How to choose the best medium-format camera

When it comes to medium format there are a few things to consider such as if you only use cameras in a studio or work in outside locations too, another is resolution, will 50MP be enough for your workflow, or will 100-megapixel plus result in bigger is better? If I had to choose the best medium format camera for performance, portability, and usability it would be the Fujifilm GFX 100 II. However, if you're looking for the best image quality straight out of the camera, then it has to be the Hasselblad X2D. But, if you're a more traditional, only shoots-in-a-studio photographer then I would be inclined to recommend the Hasselblad H6D-100c.

Medium format sensor sizes

It is worth noting that medium format sensors come in two main sizes: The 'full frame' medium format size is used by Phase One, and in Hasselblad's H-series cameras, and it corresponds closely with the old 645 film format. There's also a smaller size, midway between this and full frame sensors, which is used by the Hasselblad X, Fujifilm GFX, Pentax, and Leica S cameras.

Swipe to scroll horizontally
CameraSensor sizeMegapixels
Fujifilm GFX 50 II43.8 × 32.9mm50
Fujifilm GFX 100/100S/100 II43.8 × 32.9mm100
Hasselblad X2D 100C44 × 33mm100
Hasselblad 907X 50C44 × 33mm50
Leica S345 × 30mm64
Pentax 645Z44 × 33mm51
PhaseOne XF IQ4 150MP53.4 x 40mm150
Row 7 - Cell 0 Row 7 - Cell 1 Row 7 - Cell 2

Medium format lens families

One of the most important things to think about is what lenses you will need with your medium format camera? The range of options available is more restricted with some brands and mounts than with others - and with all, there is less choice on offer than with smaller-format mass-market mirrorless and DSLR cameras. 

The table below gives a snapshot of the lenses in production for the different mounts as of October 2023. But it is worth noting that this doesn't tell the whole story... Pentax only has four in its current catalog, but has made around 30 different lenses over the years, around 15 you can still buy new.

Fujifilm has been expanding its G-mount lens range at speed - with two tilt-shift lenses being launched this year, and a supertelephoto 500mm promised for 2024 - and is one of the few mounts where there are third-party lens options.

Swipe to scroll horizontally
ManufacturerLens mountNumber of lenses in production
FujifilmGF17
HasselbladH12
Hasselblad X14
Leica S10
Pentax6454
Phase OneXF12

How we test medium format cameras

We test camera resolution, dynamic range and noise under scientifically controlled conditions using two key testing tools: Imatest Master and DxO Analyzer. All DSLRs and mirrorless cameras are subjected to these tests and, in some instances, high-end compact cameras.

We use these real-world testing and lab results to inform our comments in buying guides.

1. Resolution (ISO-12233): We use a resolution chart based on ISO-12233 from Applied Image inc to indicate the limit of the camera’s vertical resolution at the centre of the frame. The higher the value, the better the detail resolution.

2. Dynamic range (DxO Analyzer): This is a measure of a camera’s ability to capture detail in the highlights and shadows. We use DxO’s transmissive chart, which enables us to test a dynamic range of 13.3 stops.

3. Noise (DxO Analyzer): We use the dynamic range transmissive chart to analyze the signal-to-noise ratio for RAW and JPG files at every sensitivity setting using DxO Analyzer. A higher value means the signal is cleaner.

Gareth Bevan
Reviews Editor

Gareth is a photographer based in London, working as a freelance photographer and videographer for the past several years, having the privilege to shoot for some household names. With work focusing on fashion, portrait and lifestyle content creation, he has developed a range of skills covering everything from editorial shoots to social media videos. Outside of work, he has a personal passion for travel and nature photography, with a devotion to sustainability and environmental causes.

With contributions from