The world of photography is no stranger to innovation, but some releases manage to shift expectations entirely. Hasselblad, a legendary name synonymous with precision and uncompromising image quality, has done just that with its newest flagship—the Hasselblad X2D II 100C. Officially announced in late August 2025, this successor to the X2D 100C comes equipped with two headline-making features: LiDAR-assisted autofocus and end-to-end HDR imaging. Together, these enhancements make the camera a groundbreaking step forward for medium-format mirrorless systems.
For professionals and enthusiasts alike, the X2D II 100C is not merely an incremental update; it’s a bold attempt to bridge the gap between ultimate image fidelity and modern usability. Let’s dive into what makes this new model a game-changer.
Design and Build
Hasselblad’s minimalist design philosophy remains intact, but the X2D II introduces subtle refinements that improve ergonomics and user experience. The camera body is slightly lighter than its predecessor—around 7.5% less weight—making it more comfortable to carry during extended shoots.
A new textured grip adds extra security in hand, while the inclusion of a joystick control is a long-awaited upgrade for easier focus point adjustment. Photographers no longer have to rely solely on the touchscreen to move their focus point, which speeds up workflow. Additionally, a customizable button lets users assign key functions, making the shooting process more personalized.
Sensor and Image Quality
At its core, the X2D II retains the 100-megapixel backside-illuminated CMOS sensor that powered the original X2D 100C. This sensor is capable of delivering 16-bit color depth and an impressive 15+ stops of dynamic range. The real difference, however, lies in how the new camera processes and displays this information.
The standout feature is end-to-end HDR imaging. The X2D II is the first medium-format camera to capture HDR images, process them internally, and allow HDR preview on its display. With a 1,400-nit OLED screen, photographers can now view their shots in HDR brightness and contrast directly on the camera—no external devices required. This feature ensures more accurate representation of highlights, shadows, and midtones during review, drastically reducing guesswork in the field.
Autofocus Revolution: LiDAR Meets Medium-Format
One of the biggest criticisms of medium-format cameras has been their sluggish autofocus systems. Hasselblad has addressed this head-on by introducing LiDAR-assisted autofocus, coupled with 425 phase-detection AF points.
LiDAR technology, commonly associated with autonomous cars and advanced drones, allows the camera to measure distances with extreme precision. Combined with the improved autofocus algorithm, this gives the X2D II faster and more reliable focusing, even in challenging lighting conditions.
The new AF-C mode (continuous autofocus) enables subject tracking, a feature previously missing from Hasselblad cameras. With built-in subject recognition, the X2D II can now identify and track people, vehicles, cats, and dogs. While it may not rival high-speed sports cameras in terms of subject-tracking accuracy, this addition significantly broadens the camera’s versatility.
Stabilization: Power to Shoot Handheld
Handheld shooting in medium-format photography has often been a challenge due to camera shake and large sensor size. The X2D II tackles this with a five-axis in-body image stabilization (IBIS) system capable of compensating up to 10 stops of shake reduction.
This improvement means photographers can achieve sharp handheld images even at shutter speeds previously considered impossible for medium-format. Real-world tests have shown clear results with exposures as long as two seconds without a tripod. For landscape, travel, and handheld portrait photographers, this makes the X2D II vastly more practical than its predecessor.
Storage and Workflow
Workflow integration has also received attention. The X2D II retains the impressive 1TB internal SSD that made the first model unique, while also offering a CFexpress Type B slot for additional storage. This dual solution allows high-speed data transfer and flexibility for professionals managing large RAW files.
For on-the-go photographers, Hasselblad’s Phocus Mobile 2 app has been optimized to handle HDR images directly on iPads and iPhones. This allows seamless previewing, editing, and exporting of HDR-capable files, cutting down the time between capture and delivery.
Performance in Practice
Early hands-on impressions of the Hasselblad X2D II 100C highlight a significant usability boost over the original model. The joystick has made focus adjustments quicker, while the OLED screen’s brightness and HDR preview capabilities give photographers more confidence in evaluating shots outdoors.
Image quality remains breathtaking. Colors are rendered with Hasselblad’s signature natural tones, skin looks lifelike, and landscapes show immense detail across the tonal range. The addition of HDR ensures richer highlight recovery and smoother transitions, which particularly benefits high-contrast scenes like sunsets, urban cityscapes, or interiors with bright windows.
Autofocus speed and accuracy are much improved, though it’s important to note that this camera still prioritizes deliberate, precise shooting over high-action scenarios. Continuous shooting is capped at around 3 frames per second, which makes it less suitable for sports or wildlife action but perfectly adequate for studio, portrait, and landscape work.
Price and Availability
Perhaps the most surprising element of the launch is the pricing. The Hasselblad X2D II 100C is priced at $7,399, which is about $800 less than its predecessor at launch. This aggressive pricing strategy positions Hasselblad more competitively against rivals like Fujifilm’s GFX line, offering professionals a compelling reason to upgrade.
The camera is scheduled to begin shipping in late September 2025, with pre-orders having already started. Alongside the camera, Hasselblad also introduced the XCD 2.8-4/35-100E lens, a versatile zoom equivalent to 28–76mm in full-frame terms, priced at $4,599. Additional accessories include the Vandra 20L backpack and a set of 86mm filters.
Who Should Buy the X2D II 100C?
Ideal Users:
- Portrait Photographers: Exceptional color rendering and skin tones make it perfect for studio and lifestyle shoots.
- Landscape Photographers: The dynamic range, HDR processing, and stabilization allow for more creative freedom in natural light.
- Commercial Photographers: High-resolution output is ideal for billboard, magazine, and advertising work.
Less Ideal Users:
- Sports and Action Photographers: The limited burst rate and AF tracking speed will not compete with specialized action cameras.
- Videographers: The camera does not offer video recording, making it unsuitable for hybrid shooters who require both stills and video.
Market Positioning
Hasselblad’s X2D II 100C positions itself as a serious tool for image purists. It doesn’t try to be a jack-of-all-trades but instead doubles down on its core strengths: resolution, color science, and now, improved usability. The addition of LiDAR autofocus and HDR workflows elevates it beyond traditional medium-format expectations, while the reduced price makes it more accessible to professionals seeking a step up in image quality.
By targeting photographers who prioritize still images over video, Hasselblad is carving out a niche for itself in a market increasingly dominated by hybrid cameras. For those who see photography as an art form rather than a multimedia production, the X2D II stands as one of the most compelling options available.
Conclusion
The Hasselblad X2D II 100C is more than an upgrade; it’s a statement. By combining LiDAR-powered autofocus, end-to-end HDR, and best-in-class image stabilization, Hasselblad has addressed longstanding criticisms of medium-format cameras while staying true to its heritage of image quality.
This is not a camera for everyone—it won’t replace high-speed sports bodies or serve video creators. But for portraitists, landscape shooters, and commercial professionals, it is a dream machine. The lowered price point only sweetens the deal, making it a landmark release in the world of photography.
In short, the X2D II 100C reaffirms Hasselblad’s reputation as a brand for those who demand nothing but the best, while making the experience of shooting medium-format more practical and versatile than ever before.