Best Medium Format Cameras to Choose in 2024

By Tati Taylor 10 days ago, Cameras & Lenses

Film and digital medium format cameras with unmatched level of details.

top 3 medium format cameras

Medium format cameras are known for their exceptional image quality, which is why they are favored by portrait, street and fine art photographers. Olaf Sztaba uses a Fujifilm camera, while Angelo Ferrillo among others prefers Leica.

The larger sensor size of such cameras for photography allows them to capture more light, resulting in images with less noise and grain. And because of their wider dynamic range, you can capture more detail in both the shadows and highlights of your photos.

Top 12 Medium Format Cameras in 2023

IMAGE NAME FEATURES
medium format digital camera fujifilm gfx50s ii
Fujifilm GFX50S II
MOST AFFORDABLE
  • Mirrorless
  • 51.4MP
  • Video resolution: 1080p
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medium format digital camera hasselblad x2d 100c
Hasselblad X2D 100C
BEST QUALITY
  • Mirrorless
  • 100MP
  • Not suitable for video
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medium format digital camera fujifilm gfx 100s
Fujifilm GFX 100S
FOR BEGINNERS
  • DSLR
  • 102MP
  • Video resolution: 4K
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medium format digital camera pentax 645z
PENTAX 645Z
IMPROVED AUTOFOCUS
  • DSLR
  • 51.4MP
  • Video resolution: Full HD
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medium format digital camera fujifilm gfx 50r
Fujifilm GFX 50R
FULL HD VIDEO
  • Mirrorless
  • 51.4MP
  • Video resolution: 1080p
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medium format digital camera leica s3
Leica S3
OPTICAL VIEWFINDER
  • DSLR
  • 64MP
  • Video resolution: 2160p
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medium format digital camera fujifilm gfx100
Fujifilm GFX 100
MOST AFFORDABLE
  • Mirrorless
  • 102MP
  • Video resolution: 4K
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medium format film camera fujifilm ga645zi
Fujifilm GA645Zi
PARALLAX ADJUSTING
  • SLR Film
  • Format: 6×4.5
  • Shutter Speeds: 2 sec to 1/700 sec
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medium format film camera hasselblad 500cm
Hasselblad 500cm
FOR LANDSCAPES
  • Film
  • Format: 6×6
  • Shutter Speeds: 1 sec to 1/500th of a sec
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medium format film camera mamiya 645
Mamiya 645
FOR TRAVEL
  • SLR Film
  • Format: 6×4.5
  • Shutter Speeds: 8 sec to 1/500 sec
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medium format film camera rolleicord iii
Rolleicord III
FOR ANY LIGHTING
  • TLR
  • Format: 6×6
  • Shutter Speeds: 1 to 1/500 sec
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medium format film camera bronica sq-ai
Bronica SQ-Ai
FOR LONG EXPOSURES
  • SLR Film
  • Format: 6×6
  • Shutter Speeds: 16 sec to 1/1000 sec
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Both film and digital medium format cameras are known for producing high-resolution images, which is great for professional photographers. They also have a smaller size compared to DSLRs, making them more portable. Consider your budget, the genre of photography you're into, and the lens selection available for the camera.

I should mention that medium format cameras can be quite pricey, especially if you're buying them new. So, don't overlook the option of purchasing a used model.

1. Fujifilm GFX50S II

Most affordable
fujifilm gfx50s ii medium format camera

Type: Mirrorless | Megapixels: 51.4MP | Viewfinder: 0.5" OLED | Shooting speed: 3fps | Video resolution: 1080p

  • ✚ Sensor with excellent light-capture capabilities
  • ✚ Tilt-able LCD screen
  • ✚ In-body image stabilization
  • Wide selection of GF lenses
  • Not designed for speed shooting
Rating

The Fujifilm GFX50S II boasts a massive image sensor, which means you'll capture incredible levels of detail and tonality. Thanks to the stabilization system, you can confidently shoot handheld in various conditions, without worrying about blur ruining your shots.

The Fujifilm camera has user-friendly interface. It sports a 3.2'' LCD screen that can tilt on two axes, making it easier to shoot from different angles. The screen is touch-sensitive, allowing you to focus and capture images with a tap.

medium format camera fujifilm gfx50s ii image

A drive button on the rear of the camera and virtual controls for ISO, Shutter Speed, and Exposure Compensation on the top-panel make it more convenient to use the camera in Live View. The inclusion of film simulation modes on the top-panel is a neat touch too.

2. Hasselblad X2D 100C

Best image quality
hasselblad x2d 100c medium format camera

Type: Mirrorless | Megapixels: 100MP | Viewfinder: Electronic, 5.76 million dots | Shooting speed: 3.3fps | Video resolution: None

  • ✚ Offers wide dynamic range
  • ✚ Improved autofocus system
  • ✚ Leaf-shutter mechanism
  • ✚ Versatile shooting styles
  • Lack of eye-AF
  • No video recording
Rating

The Hasselblad X2D 100C boasts a large 3.6-inch touch display that not only shows you the camera status, but also allows for easy navigation through the menu system. This mirrorless camera provides stunning image quality, with incredible depth of tone and a whopping dynamic range.

The X2D can lock onto subjects in under half a second. This is a game-changer, especially for fashion photographers who need precise focus and tracking on moving subjects.

medium format camera hasselblad x2d 100c image

One particularly impressive aspect is the leaf-shutter mechanism. Unlike other medium format digital cameras that use mechanical shutters, the X2D opts for an electronic leaf-shutter. This means a shorter shutter lag, super-fast flash syncing, and reduced chances of mirror bounce and vibrations during exposures.

3. Fujifilm GFX 100S

For beginners
fujifilm gfx 100s medium format camera

Type: DSLR | Megapixels: 102MP | Viewfinder: 0.5” 3.69 million dot EVF | Shooting speed: 5fps | Video resolution: 4K

  • ✚ Excellent image quality
  • ✚ Responsive autofocus system
  • ✚ Compact and lightweight
  • ✚ Impressive low-light performance
  • Lack of video stabilization
  • High price
Rating

If you're someone who requires top-notch image quality, the Fujifilm GFX 100S won't disappoint. With its medium format sensor, it delivers stunningly sharp and detailed images, with smooth tonal transitions from shadows to highlights.

What sets the GFX 100S apart from its competitors is its smaller and lighter body. Most 100MP cameras tend to be bulkier and heavier, but Fujifilm managed to create a more compact and portable option.

medium format camera fujifilm gfx 100s image

When it comes to shooting clips, this video camera truly shines. It allows videographers to capture cinematic footage with shallow depth of field and impressive low-light performance.

4. PENTAX 645Z

Improved autofocus
pentax 645z medium format camera

Type: DSLR | Megapixels: 51.4MP | Viewfinder: Prism type | Shooting speed: 3fps | Video resolution: Full HD

  • ✚ Incredible levels of detail and resolution
  • ✚ Ergonomic design
  • ✚ Weather-sealed construction
  • ✚ Effective noise reduction
  • Buffer cleaning may take some time
  • Limited availability of lenses and accessories
Rating

One of the main characteristics of PENTAX 645Z is its sensor size, which is more than twice as large as a full-frame imager. This means that it can capture incredible levels of detail and resolution, even at higher sensitivities.

Another advantage of this Pentax camera is its dual Secure Digital card slots, which can support up to 64GB of storage. This allows for flexibility in storing and organizing your files.

medium format camera pentax 645z image

The medium format camera's maximum ISO sensitivity and enhanced noise reduction capabilities also provide effective low-light performance.

5. Fujifilm GFX 50R

Full HD video recording
fujifilm gfx 50r medium format camera

Type: Mirrorless | Megapixels: 51.4MP | Viewfinder: 0.5" OLED | Shooting speed: 3fps | Video resolution: 1080p

  • ✚ Affordable for a medium format camera
  • ✚ Good vibrant colors
  • ✚ Wide range of compatible lenses
  • ✚ Weather and dust- resistant
  • Not really comfortable to hold
  • Clumsy touchscreen interface
Rating

One of the standout features of Fujifilm GFX 50R is the large LCD monitor on the back, which offers comfortable eye-level viewing. The clarity, resolution, and vibrant colors you get from this cheapest medium format digital camera are unmatched by smaller formats.

The X-Processor Pro image processing engine is another standout feature. It brings out the best in the large format sensor, providing beautiful film simulation modes, fast startup and shutdown times, accurate autofocus, minimal shutter release time lag, excellent noise control, and a wide dynamic range.

medium format camera fujifilm gfx 50r image

It even has the capability to record Full HD video with audio, and you can connect an external microphone for better sound quality.

6. Leica S3

With optical viewfinder
leica s3 medium format camera

Type: DSLR | Megapixels: 64MP | Viewfinder: Pentaprism type | Shooting speed: 3fps | Video resolution: 2160p

  • ✚ Durable construction
  • ✚ High resolution
  • ✚ Ability to shoot 4K video
  • ✚ Wide connectivity options
  • Limited brightness of the display
  • Expensive
Rating

The Leica S3 is definitely geared towards professionals who demand exceptional image quality and are willing to invest in a high-end piece of equipment.

One of the standout features of this Leica camera is its impressive 64MP sensor, which allows for extreme details and an incredible dynamic range of 15 stops. This means you can capture images with stunning tonal separation between shadows and highlights. The camera's sensitivity is also worth mentioning, as it allows you to shoot in low-light conditions without the need for flash.

medium format camera leica s3 image

Another advantage is the camera's ability to capture cinema 4K videos. The quality of the recordings is top-notch, thanks to the use of 4:2:2 color subsampling. It's a great option for those who want to add a cinematic touch to their videos.

7. Fujifilm GFX 100

For various photography genres
fujifilm gfx 100 medium format camera

Type: Mirrorless | Megapixels: 102MP | Viewfinder: EVF | Shooting speed: 5fps | Video resolution: 4K

  • ✚ Deliver highly detailed images
  • ✚ Impressive video specs
  • ✚ Designed for handheld shooting
  • ✚ Ability to use a wide range of lenses
  • Noise at higher ISOs
  • Some issues with stabilization
Rating

One of the standout features of the Fujifilm GFX 100 is its ability to shoot handheld and off of a tripod. This makes it a dream camera for fashion photography, high-end portraits, product photography, and landscapes. The large image sensor plays a huge role in producing those detailed and beautiful images.

This medium format camera has some great features like flaps that cover the various ports, a dedicated button for recording HD video, and a large LCD display on the back for quick settings changes. However, I must admit, the nine unlabeled buttons on the camera can be a bit overwhelming at first.

medium format camera fujifilm gfx 100 image

The GFX 100 performs exceptionally well in low-light situations. With a native ISO range of 100 – 12,800, it offers minimal noise at higher ISOs. However, there is some noticeable noise when you go above ISO 3200.

8. Fujifilm GA645Zi

Automatic parallax adjusting feature
fujifilm ga645zi medium format camera

Type: SLR Film | Format: 6×4.5 | Shutter Speeds: 2 sec to 1/700 sec | Battery: 2xCR123a 3V lithium battery

  • ✚ Easy to use for beginners
  • ✚ Accurate autofocus
  • ✚ Built-in flash
  • ✚ Reliable built-in light meter
  • Loud and annoying focusing
  • Slow shutter lag
Rating

If you're a film shooter who doesn't want to fuss around with complicated settings, then Fujifilm GA645Zi might just be your best friend. It's got a simple point-and-shoot system that's easy to master, so no steep learning curve here.

The autofocus and auto exposure metering are spot-on accurate, saving you the trouble of focusing manually or jotting down settings. Plus, it records the date and camera settings right on the film margins.

medium format camera fujifilm ga645zi image

This film camera also packs in some handy features like automatic rewind at the end of a roll, and a nifty last shot warning that beeps in the viewfinder when you're down to your final frame. The viewfinder is user-friendly with a bright and well-designed data display.

9. Hasselblad 500cm

Ideal for landscape and wildlife
hasselblad 500cm medium format camera

Type: Film | Format: 6×6 | Shutter Speeds: 1 sec to 1/500th of a sec | Battery: 100% mechanical

  • ✚ Portable
  • ✚ Built for tough environments
  • ✚ Convenient modular design
  • ✚ Synchronized film advance lever
  • Can be difficult to handle
  • Some noisy clicking sound at slower speeds
Rating

One of the main characteristics of the Hasselblad 500cm is its size. It's big enough to feel substantial in your hands, which gives it a professional feel, but it's also small enough to make it portable. So, whether you're shooting in the studio or exploring the great outdoors, this medium format camera is a great companion.

medium format camera hasselblad 500cm image

Another great feature of the Hasselblad 500cm is its modular design. You can easily swap out the film back or finder for another, giving you more flexibility in your photography. Speaking of film, this camera features a leaf shutter and an A12 film back, which allows you to produce 12 6x6 negatives on 120 roll film.

10. Mamiya 645

Good for travel
mamiya 645 medium format camera

Type: SLR Film | Format: 6×4.5 | Shutter Speeds: 8 sec to 1/500 sec | Battery: 6V silver oxide battery

  • ✚ Durable
  • ✚ Simple controls
  • ✚ Multiple exposure mode
  • ✚ Affordable
  • Some lenses may experience flare
  • First generation model does not have interchangeable backs
Rating

One of the standout features of the Mamiya 645 is its lightweight and durable build. This makes it a great camera to take with you on the go, especially for travel film photography. Additionally, the Mamiya 645 offers a wide range of lenses that deliver excellent sharpness, giving you the ability to capture stunning, high-quality images.

medium format camera mamiya 645 image

Another great thing about the Mamiya 645 is its modular system. This means that you have the flexibility to choose from various viewfinders, focusing screens, and backs to customize the camera to your shooting style and needs. You can even add different winders and grips for added convenience.

11. Rolleicord III

For various lighting conditions
rolleicord iii medium format camera

Type: TLR | Format: 6×6 | Shutter Speeds: 1 to 1/500 sec | Battery: No, mechanical camera

  • ✚ Rich tones and smooth gradients
  • ✚ Low rate of mechanical failures
  • ✚ Accurate viewfinder
  • ✚ Reduced blurring
  • Limited number of shots per roll
  • Only manual controls
Rating

The Rolleicord III is a medium format camera that takes 120 film and gives you 12 beautiful 6x6 images per roll. The large film negatives allow a three-dimensional feel that you just can't get with smaller formats.

medium format camera rolleicord iii image

Another advantage of this TLR format camera is the viewfinder. It displays an image that is almost identical to what will be recorded on the film, allowing you to check for proper focus. This is particularly helpful when shooting distant subjects or close-ups, where focus can be a challenge with other formats.

12. Bronica SQ-Ai

For longer exposures
bronica sq-ai medium format camera

Type: SLR Film | Format: 6×6 | Shutter Speeds: 16 sec to 1/1000 sec | Battery: Single 6 volt battery

  • ✚ Modular design allows for customization
  • ✚ Built-in flash
  • ✚ Reliable with advanced electronic engineering
  • ✚ Electronic autofocus system works with all lenses
  • No built-in light meter
  • Risk of damage to lens and body
Rating

The Bronica SQ-Ai is known for its modular design, which means you can customize it to fit your specific needs. One standout feature is its Seiko manufactured electronic shutter, offering speeds up to 1/500 sec. This gives the camera a range that's not matched by many other medium format cameras.

Plus, it supports TTL automatic flash metering and has the option for motor drive, allowing for continuous film advance.

medium format camera bronica sq-ai image

Compared to other cameras, the SQ-Ai is quite affordable, especially when you consider the cost of similar models from Hasselblad. It also allows you to fit more pictures onto a roll of film, saving you money in the long run.

How to Choose a Medium Format Camera?

Medium format cameras, whether digital or film, offer exceptional image quality and unique features. It ultimately comes down to personal preference and the type of photography you want to pursue.

film medium format camera vs digital medium format camera

The medium format film cameras use 120 or 220 roll film, and they're usually built for professional photographers. They come with features that make them perfect for weddings, portraits, and high-end commercial work.

Type of camera. TLR or Twin Lens Reflex is the cheapest kind of "professional" film cameras. One lens is needed for focusing, and the second is directly for shooting. In these cameras, you look through the top of the device to see the image.

SLR or Single Lens Reflex is the most common and accessible among advanced cameras. In such cameras, you can change your lenses, and the choice of lenses depends on the manufacturer.

medium format film

Type of film. There are two medium format film types. 120 film has a paper coating along the entire length and can accommodate 12 frames of 60x60 mm per reel. 220 film does not have a paper coating over the entire length and can accommodate 24 frames of 60x60 mm per reel. Not all medium format cameras are compatible with 220 films. Therefore, I recommend working with the 120 film.

The medium format digital cameras are lightweight, compact, and offer the ability to record 4K video. However, they might not be the best choice for wildlife or extreme sports photography.

medium format camera sensor size

Resolution. Pay attention to the camera sensor. If you're keen on making large prints with incredible detail and minimal noise or grain, go for a digital camera with a high resolution. On the flip side, if you prefer the nostalgic feel of film, opt for a camera with a smaller sensor size and lower pixel count, which still provides excellent image quality.

Additional features. The medium format digital cameras often come with cool features like a tilting touchscreen LCD display and fast continuous shooting speeds. Some even allow you to record 4K video.

Weight and ergonomics. If you take the weight of a medium format camera with a lens, it will be about 4.4 pounds, which is significantly more than the usual weight of a camera. Therefore, choosing such a product, you should pay attention to its convenience as well, because there are more compact and convenient variants, such as Fujifilm GFX 50s, and there is Hasselblad 500cm, which is much larger and not so convenient.

F.A.Q

  • • What is a medium format camera?

It is a DSLR or mirrorless camera that boasts a larger image sensor than traditional 35mm cameras. This larger sensor delivers exceptional image quality and a unique "medium format look" that cannot be replicated. The main disadvantage in price is that these cameras are among the most expensive cameras in the world.

  • • What are some practical applications or genres of photography where medium format cameras excel?

These cameras are often favored by photographers in fashion, product, and high-end portrait photography due to their ability to capture textures and beautiful skin tones. Their larger sensors and high-resolution capabilities make them ideal for capturing intricate details, producing stunning prints, and providing flexibility in post-processing.

  • • What is the difference between a medium format camera and a 35mm camera?

The main advantage of a medium format camera lies in its ability to produce incredibly detailed images. The larger sensor size allows for more pixels, resulting in superior image quality and reduced digital noise at higher ISOs. However, it's important to note that the files produced by medium format cameras tend to be larger and may require more processing time.

Additionally, medium format cameras can be more expensive and may not be compatible with existing lenses, which could be a drawback for photographers with an existing lens collection.

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