Fujinon TCL-X100 II - Hands-On Mini Review: Build, Size & Why It’s Worth It

Fujinon TCL-X100 II

 

Fujinon TCL-X100 II

There’s something special about the Fujinon TCL-X100 II. If you’ve spent any time shooting with the Fujifilm X100V or any of its siblings, you already know the magic of that compact 23mm lens. But sometimes, 35mm equivalent just isn’t tight enough. That’s where the Fujinon TCL-X100 II comes in and surprisingly, it manages to expand your shooting options without breaking the minimalist, almost vintage-inspired experience of the X100 system. This isn’t just an accessory. It feels like an extension of the camera itself.

The Fujinon TCL-X100 II is a lens attachment specifically made for Fujifilm’s X100 series cameras. It’s a fun way to add something new and exciting to an already fun and exciting camera system. This lens comes in silver or black to match the aesthetic of your X100. It screws onto the front of the camera and changes the native 35mm full frame equivalent focal length of the camera to a 50mm focal length which in my opinion makes the X100 much better at shooting portraits. However, there are some quirks in the lens you need to be aware of before you buy it. This post will talk about the physical attributes of the lens if you’re looking for more of an optical review with image samples check out this post next.

 

LENS SPECS

Release Date: 2018
Format: For Fujifilm X100 Series Cameras
Mount: X100 Screw Mount
Filter: 62mm
Aperture Blades: -
Aperture Range: -
Min Focus Distance: 0.5m
Lens IS: No
Weight 180g
Optical Design: 4 elements in 3 groups

 

Price

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First Impressions & Design Philosophy

Fujifilm X100VI + TCL X100-II + Tiffen Star Filter

The Fujinon TCL-X100 II is one of those rare pieces of gear that feels like it was always meant to exist. Designed specifically for Fujifilm’s X100 series cameras, it transforms the native 35mm full-frame equivalent field of view into a tighter, more versatile 50mm perspective, arguably one of the most useful focal lengths in photography.

What I love about 50mm is how adaptable it is. It sits right in that sweet spot where you can shoot portraits, street, detail shots, and even everyday documentary-style images without feeling limited. It’s tight enough to isolate a subject, but still natural enough to tell a story. That alone makes the TCL-X100 II a seriously practical upgrade, it expands what the camera can do without changing the way it feels to shoot. And that’s really the key here, it feels right. Available in both black and silver, it matches your camera body perfectly. It doesn’t come across like an accessory or an afterthought. Once it’s mounted, it genuinely feels like part of the camera, as if Fujifilm designed the X100 system with this exact combination in mind from the very beginning.

 

Build Quality & Materials

This is where the TCL-X100 II really shines. The lens features a high-quality metal construction, and it feels exactly how you’d expect a Fujinon lens to feel, solid, dense, and premium. From my experience, it genuinely elevates the tactile experience of using the X100VI. In fact, one of the most interesting things I noticed (and something I mentioned in my original post) is how it changes the balance of the camera. At around 180g, it adds noticeable weight to the front, giving the X100 a more substantial, almost vintage rangefinder feel. Which I really enjoy to be honest.

 

Weather Sealing

Fujifilm made a bonhead choice with their X100V and X100VI cameras. Both cameras are only weather sealed when you screw a filter over the front element. Forcing you to buy additional accessories for an already overpriced camera. But that’s not IMO. Now here is the thing in order to mount the WCL X100-II or the TCL X100-II you need to remove the front filter. And this brings me to the second bonehead movie my Fujifilm: I have checked the interwebs and there is no official literature from Fujifilm stating whether this lens is weather sealed or not, so I can’t tell you it’s weather sealed. However I can say this. I have taken my X100VI out in the rain with the TCL X100-II and WCL X100-II attached to my camera and haven’t had any issues with water getting into the lens or the camera. So “unofficially” yes I would say that, in my experience, these lens attachments keep your camera weather sealed.

 

Size, Weight & Handling

Fujinon TCL-X100 II

When you look at the specs, the Fujinon TCL-X100 II comes in at around 180g with dimensions of approximately 70mm by 46.5mm. On paper, that sounds compact, and in practice, it mostly is. But once mounted, it definitely adds a bit of presence to the front of the camera. It shifts the balance slightly forward, giving the setup a more substantial feel in the hand, which honestly complements the shooting experience quite nicely.

It does mean the camera is no longer pocketable unless you have some nice big hoodie pockets, but and this is the important part, it’s still incredibly easy to carry. I’ve tossed it into small bags, glove compartments and even kept it in a jacket pocket without thinking twice. What I really appreciate is that both the TCL and WCL converters on their own are genuinely pocketable, which adds a layer of flexibility that you don’t usually get with lenses.

I shot a small backyard wedding with the Fujifilm X100V and the TCL, and that’s where this setup really clicked for me. I had the camera around my neck and kept the TCL in my pocket when I wasn’t using it. Being able to quickly reach into my pocket and swap to a tighter focal length made the whole experience feel effortless. It was a simple setup, but incredibly effective, and that’s exactly what makes this lens such a practical addition. I wish all weddings were so easy to shoot. The gear got out of my way and allowed me to focus on creating images wish is all I really want out of my gear.

 

Screw-On Mount Experience

Unlike interchangeable lenses, the TCL-X100 II uses a threaded screw-on mount that attaches directly to the front of the built-in lens. This is one of my favorite aspects. There’s something very analog about it. You physically thread it on, and that action alone reinforces the slower, more intentional shooting style the X100 is known for. That said, it’s not as fast as swapping lenses on a traditional system. Especially since you’ll typically remove the filter adapter ring first then attach the lens. Honestly it’s not the fastest way to switch lense and probably not the best choice for a fast paced shooting situation. When I shot the backyard wedding I had to think ahead and get the lens I wanted mounted before the action happened. No biggie with over 200 weddings shots I understand the flow of the event but it’s just something to think about if you plan on using this setup for any professional work.

 

Smart Camera Integration

One of the most underrated features of this lens is how seamlessly it integrates with the camera. When mounted on cameras the Fujifilm X100V and X100VI, the system automatically detects the TCL-X100 II and adjusts accordingly.

  • Frame lines update

  • Corrections are applied automatically

  • No menu diving required

It’s a small detail, but it makes a huge difference in real-world shooting. However, one thing I found out while testing this lens is that even through the camera adjusts the menu settings to the lens it doesn’t put that info in the EXIF data. So when I popped my images into lightroom I had no idea what image was shot with what lens. It’s a little frustrating. I hope it’s something Fujifilm fixes in firmware.

 

Gear Shots

 
 

Optical Construction (Design Overview)

Without getting into image quality, the design of the Fujinon TCL-X100 II itself is worth highlighting. It features a 4-element, 4-group optical construction that is purpose-built specifically for the X100 series cameras. This isn’t a generic conversion attachment, it’s engineered to work seamlessly with the camera’s fixed lens, which is why it maintains the original rendering characteristics so well. That level of intentional design is what makes the entire setup feel so cohesive, as if the lens and camera were always meant to function together rather than as separate components.

 

Filter Thread & Compatibility

A small but important feature: the TCL-X100 II includes a 67mm front filter thread. That means you can still run:

  • ND filters

  • Polarizers

  • Diffusion filters

For me, that’s huge. It keeps the system flexible and creative, even with the converter attached. You can even attach specialty filters for extra effect. Because the X100 Series camera are all about that vintage look I recommend checking out the Walkingway Retro Filter. It adds a retro film look to your images and combined with the cameras’ built in film presets it’s a pretty amazing combo. Read my post about the retro filter here.

 

Real-World Portability & Versatility

This is where the Fujinon TCL-X100 II really earns its place in my kit. It’s not something I leave mounted all the time, but it’s something I almost always consider bringing with me when I have my X100VI in hand. Because of how compact it is, it’s easy to carry anywhere, whether that’s in a small bag or just tucked into a jacket pocket and when I need it, it’s quick to attach and seamlessly integrates into the system. What I appreciate most is how it expands the capabilities of the X100 without changing the overall experience. It simply makes the camera more versatile, while still preserving everything that makes shooting with the X100 series so enjoyable in the first place. I don’t regret buying this lens at all. It’s been a really nice addition to the kit.

 

Final Thoughts

The Fujinon TCL-X100 II feels less like an optional accessory and more like an essential extension of the X100 system. From its premium metal construction to its seamless integration with cameras like the Fujifilm X100V, everything about this teleconverter is designed with intention. It delivers a highly practical 50mm equivalent field of view while maintaining the compact, minimalist shooting experience that makes the X100 series so popular among photographers.

What really stands out is how effortlessly it enhances versatility without adding complexity. There’s no disruption to your workflow, no steep learning curve just a simple, well-designed tool that expands your creative options. For photographers searching for a compact telephoto solution for the X100 series, the Fujinon TCL-X100 II is one of the best upgrades available. It stays true to the philosophy of the system while unlocking new ways to shoot, making it a smart and highly recommended addition for anyone looking to get more out of their X100 camera.

 

FAQ

Is the Fujinon TCL-X100 II weather sealed?

Officially no, but yes. Fujifilm has not officially stated that the lens is weather sealed. However, I have used both the WCL and TCL in the rain without any issues.

How much does the TCL-X100 II weigh?

It weighs approximately 180g, which adds noticeable front weight to the camera but still compared to other camera gear that’s basically nothing.

Does it affect portability?

Slightly. It makes the camera less pocketable, but it’s still compact enough for everyday carry. I sometimes put the TCL in one pocket and the X100VI in the other pocket and i’m good to go.

Do I need to change settings manually?

No. Cameras like the Fujifilm X100V and X100VI automatically detect the lens and adjust settings. However this is only with the version II of these lenses. With the older lenses you’ll have to have to change setting in your menu to let the camera know you have the lens attached.

Can I still use filters?

Yes, the lens has a 67mm front filter thread, so standard filters work perfectly.

 
Vasko Obscura

Hello I am a photographer, videographer and content creator available for hire. message me through my webpage for more. www.vaskoobscura.com

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