REVIEW: Converting the X100 - Adding a TCL-X100 to the Perfect Travel Camera

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Earlier this year Fujifilm announced that they had developed a tele conversion lens for the X100 / X100S that would turn the Fujinon 23mm f2 lens into a 33mm (50mm equivalent) by multiplying the focal length by 1.4x.  I already own the wide angle converter (WCL-X100) that converts the focal length to 19mm (27mm equivalent) and the addition of the TCL-X100 completes, what is for me,  the perfect lightweight travel camera kit. 

 I decided  to take the X100 and the converters down to Dunbar Harbour to demonstrate the differences between the three focal lengths now available on the X100.

19mm - WCL-X100

23mm - no converter

33mm - TCL-X100

As can be seen from the images above, the difference is not dramatic but then this it is not meant to be.  
X100 with TCL-X100 Tele Conversion Lens fitted
When using the X100 I tend to choose the focal length I will be using and then leave that lens on the camera for the duration mainly because the method for changing the lens is a bit long winded when compared to a lens swap on the X-Pro1 or X-T1.  Let me explain -

 To swap from the standard 23mm to the new TCL-X100 involves unscrewing the lens hood adapter from the front of the 23mm lens and then screwing on the converter.  Once that is done you need to go into the camera menu and select 'Conversion Lens' and then select 'Wide', 'Tele' or 'Off' depending on what lens you are using.  Then you are ready to shoot.
The menu on the X100
The Fireware on the X100 needs to be updated to V2.10 to be able to select the TCL-X100 in the menu but this is available as free download from the Fujifilm website HERE

 One thing though, if you forget to select the correct converter in the menu the results are still excellent, as can be seen from the image taken at the qualifying press conference in Texas last weekend.  The only downside is the camera data says this shot was taken with the 23mm lens, not the 33mm.

Qualifying press conference for the FIA WEC 6 Hours of CoTA in Texas taken on the X100 + TCL-X100
Conclusion
The TCL-X100 increases the flexibility of the X100 / X100S / X100T by giving the photographer an extra focal length option without weighing down the camera bag.  The good news is that both the WCL-X100 and TCL-X100 is compatible with all three variants of the X100 so you don't need to but a new converter should you wish to upgrade to a later model.

 To be able to take one camera, two further focal length options, the small EF-20 flash and a spare battery and memory card in one small camera bag is perfect on some of the trips I take.  The X100 has never been a compromise between size and quality and the original X-Series photo machine still continues to be my 'go-to' camera when I want to travel light and be a little stealthy. 
Here are three more comparison shots between the three focal lengths and for more information on the TCL-X100 CLICK HERE

19mm - WCL-X100

23mm - no converter

33mm - TCL-X100
The Fujifilm Finepix X100 with the standard 23mm f2 lens

The Fujifilm Finepix X100 fitted with the WCL-X100 wide conversion lens
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Comments

  1. Anonymous12 October 2014 at 19:33

    Thank you for sharing your impressions and your pictures !
    Any comments about the speed and accuracy of the AF with the TCL mounted in the original X100?

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Macsport13 October 2014 at 19:51

      Thanks for the comment. I have found that the AF is the same with the converters fitted as it is with the standard 23mm f2 lens. The AF on the X100 isn't the quickest in the world, certainly not up to X-T1 standards, but it was improved with the V2.0 firmware upgrade. I have no issues with the AF apart from in very low light where is struggles to lock.

      Delete
    2. Anonymous14 October 2014 at 20:28

      I have the original X100 and I was hesitating to buy the TCL because of some reviews that pointed worst AF performance with the teleconverter adapter. Now I can buy it in confidence.

      Many thanks !

      Delete
  2. shanewarner26 January 2021 at 14:19

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    ReplyDelete

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