Yashica FX-D S300: Compact camera combines retro design with EVF and 50MP sensor
The Yashica FX-D series is positioned as a more affordable alternative to the new Fujifilm X Half, which is currently priced at $849 on Amazon. Just like Fujifilm, Yashica combines a retro design with film simulations. The design was inspired by the Yashica FX-3, but there are some modern features such as a flip screen.
The camera can be used like a conventional digital camera. The film advance lever automatically activates the film simulation, while the filter can be changed via a dedicated dial on top of the camera. In this mode, the film advance lever must be operated between photos to create an analog feel. The more affordable Yashica FX-D 100 features a 13MP, 1/3-inch sensor and a zoom lens with a 35mm-equivalent focal length of 25 – 76 mm at an aperture of f/1.6 – f/2.8.
On the other hand, the more expensive FX-D 300 utilizes a 50MP, 1/1.56-inch format sensor and a 24 mm f/1.8 lens with optical image stabilization, which roughly matches the specifications of main cameras on current mid-range smartphones. The FX-D S300 is identical to the FX-D 300, except that the top version has an electronic viewfinder, for which Yashica has not published any technical specifications.
Price and availability
The Yashica FX-D was crowdfunded on Kickstarter and can still be preordered on the corresponding webpage. The Yashica FX-D 100 is currently priced at around $380, while the manufacturer charges roughly $380 for the FX-D 300 and $599 for the FX-D S300.
These prices do not include import fees and a $19 shipping fee. As with all crowdfunding campaigns, there are some financial risks. It should also be noted that products like the Yashica City 200 failed to impress reviewers, so it remains to be seen if the FX-D will actually meet expectations.
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