X100T vs X-Pro2 - size and ergonomics question

IvoryRing wrote:

I've been interested in the X100 series for a long time, and having recently missed a photo op because of having nothing better than my cell phone with me (as all my digital cameras are a lot bigger) -- so I started looking seriously at a decent 'have it with me every day' camera. I've shot large, medium and 35mm for the majority of my history. By a long shot the majority of my shots have been on Nikon, both film and digital. What may be of some significance is that the camera I feel really 'fits' me well ergonomically is either my FM2 or my FM3a (close enough not to make a difference).

I have an X100T on rental this weekend, as I wasn't certain I'd be comfortable living with just the 23mm fixed lens. I also wasn't entirely sure if I would like the Hybrid viewfinder.

My conclusions - I'm 'ok' with 23mm so far, but haven't shot it enough to form a strong opinion about that yet. I'm happy with the viewfinder - more so than I thought I would be, and frankly I really like that it's switchable from Optical to Electronic.

The problem I'm having with making a connection with the X100T is that it's an in between size for me. It's not small enough to fit in the pocket, making me worried about really 'have it with me every day. And now to the core of it - while I might like a grip on the right side, the bigger problem is the left side - my left hand just can't find a comfortable place and I don't feel comfortable with either the aperture or focus ring placement.

Given that - for those of you that have used both an X100 series and the X-Pro series (1 or 2) - are the left hand side ergonomics with the X-Pro spaced out more compared to the X100? Looking at pics, it does look like the X-Pro is bigger on the 'left side of the lens', and of course X lenses will be perched somewhat further out. Does this translate to a 'bigger feel' compared to X100 'cramped feel' in that area?

Hello IvoryRing.

First let me state that I do not own an XT-series camera, but I do own an X-Pro2, thus, my comments are based on handling the X-Pro2, but only from the specs of the XT100.

Firstly, despite similarities like the sensor, OVF/EVF, certain ergonomics (integrated ISO within shutter speed dial), etc., this is really an apples-to-oranges comparison, simply because the X-Pro2 is an interchangeable lens camera and the XT100 obviously is not.

Secondly, (again, this is my opinion based on specs), the X-Pro2 is built to a more robust standard, being weather-sealed, and targeted at enthusiast, semi-rpo, or professional use. I alos think that the viewfinder (OVF/EVF) of the X-Pro2 is slightly larger than that of the XT100.

As for "Left-side ergonomics", the X-Pro2 is a nice size for two-handed operation, and seems perfectly designed for good handling with the nice variety of superb Fujinon XF lenses, from the 27mm f/2 "pancake" style lenses all the way up to the larger 50-140, or 100-400 zooms, and everything in between. Some folks report that the XT-series (XT-1, XT-2) "handles" the zooms better, while the X-Pro2 is more "suited" to the smaller primes, but I respectfully disagree with that assessment, realizing that this is really a subjective matter of preference. That said, the OVF of these cameras do work better with shorter primes, since the longer lenses (90mm and up) tend to obscure a portion of the OVF, simply by virtue of the physical palcement of the viewfinder in relation to the lens.

I might suggest going to a store that has both bodies, and handle them using the same len(s) on each, and see which body style works best for your needs. Good luck!