This retro Fujifilm compact camera feels like film – but it's (usually) too expensive. The Fujifilm X Half has finally dropped to a palatable price

Fujifilm X Half camera held in a hand.

The Fujifilm X Half is a retro digital camera made to feel like film – but as much as I was enamoured with the little camera when I first picked it up, I think it's too expensive. Or, at least, it usually is – A $200 discount is making the retro compact camera a much better buy.

The Fujifilm X Half is a digital compact camera that’s made to feel like film. For starters, it has the Fujifilm film simulation that’s made cameras like the X100VI so popular, along with a “film” advance lever. But, the X Half also has a film mode that comes with the film-like anticipation of seeing the photos.

(Image credit: Future / Gareth Bevan)

(Image credit: Future / Gareth Bevan)

(Image credit: Future / Gareth Bevan)

(Image credit: Future / Gareth Bevan)

I tried out the Fujifilm X Half at a recent photography show, and I was immediately charmed by the tiny retro compact camera – it’s smaller than it looks from the photos. But, I also thought it was a bit too pricey, as the camera lacks some pro-level features like RAW photos, and it still retails for $849 / £699 / AU$1,349.

I think the list price on the X Half is too steep, but a temporary price drop finally puts the retro camera at a price that feels just right for its list of features.

In the US, the price has just dropped by $200 to $650. The camera is also discounted in the UK, where it’s now £499, and in Australia, where it’s $899.

US Deal

• Not quite right? Browse more Fujifilm holiday deals in the US

UK Deal

• Not exactly what you are looking for? Browse the best Fujifilm holiday deals in the UK.

Australia Deal

I think the Fujifilm X Half price is too steep, but the discount brings the compact camera to a price that better matches its feature set.

Buy it if you want a tiny retro camera that feels more like film.
Avoid it if you want features like RAW files or want a sensor larger than the 1-inch size.

At list price, the X Half is too expensive, but at a 20 to 33 percent discount (depending on where you live), it’s my first choice for a retro compact camera without X100VI-level prices.

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Not looking for retro vibes? I also highly recommend the OM System TOUGH TG-7, a waterproof compact camera. Or, browse the best retro cameras.