The release of Hasselblad’s second-generation mirrorless camera, the X1D II 50C, comes three years following the X1D. In that time, the company has managed to extract the core components of what made its first-generation camera a success. The X1D II 50C’s sleek design, 50-megapixel resolution, and medium-format sensor all hearken back to the initial incarnation of the model. However, the latest edition builds on that foundation by offering a larger touchscreen, a higher resolution viewfinder, and a USB-C cable that allows photographers to tether the X1D II 50C to their iPads.
Although Hasselblad has been able to make marked improvements, it has managed to price the newest model at $5,750, about $2,200 less than the first, effectively putting the company in a better position to compete with rivals, namely Fuji.
The USB-C cable to iPad tether is a first for any medium-format camera on the market. This allows for expedited image transfers for iPad users to quickly and reliably import their shots onto their tablets. The first X1D had received critical user feedback for long start up times and lagging responses. Addressing these issues, this camera offers a start up time that’s 46% quicker, continuous shooting that is 35% faster, and a live frame rate that has been increased by 62%. That enhanced live frame rate is displayed on a radiant 3.6-inch touchscreen display with an improved resolution, powered by an EVF with 55% more pixels at its disposal. Hasselblad used the announcement of the X1D II 50C to also unveil the XCD 3,5- 4,5/35-75 Zoom Lens, the newest addition to its X System of lenses.