To Split, or Not to Split: Should Fujifilm Merge the X-H2 and X-H2S Into One X-H3?

December 19, 2025
Rumors
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Merging the Lines?

I recently asked you whether you’d prefer a DGO or DCG sensor on future Fujifilm cameras.

But while reading through the comments, something else caught my attention. FR-reader TammyLieJohnes wrote:

But I believe there will be just one Fujifilm X-H3 camera, no ‘S’ and ‘non-S’ model.
It’s going to be stacked 40MP sensor, I hope DCG so we don’t loose so much on e-shutter

That comment raises an interesting and very relevant question: should Fujifilm merge the X-H line into a single flagship model?

Two X-H Cameras, Two Different Philosophies

Right now, Fujifilm’s strategy is clear:

Fujifilm X-H2 – 40MP regular BSI DCG sensor, focused on resolution
Fujifilm X-H2S – 26MP fully stacked DCG sensor, focused on speed

These are not just two versions of the same camera. They are tools designed for very different photographers.

The X-H2 is for those who prioritize detail and resolution. The X-H2S is for those who prioritize speed.

The Temptation to Merge the Lines

Merging the two lines into a single X-H3 could make sense—at least on paper.

To do that properly, Fujifilm would need a sensor that offers:

High resolution
Very fast readout speeds

A partially stacked 40MP sensor sounds like the obvious solution. In theory, it could deliver the best of both worlds.

But sensor technology is never just about theory.

Why I’d Still Prefer Two Separate Cameras

Personally, I’d still prefer Fujifilm to keep the X-H line split.

In my opinion, the best setup would be:

Fujifilm X-H3S – lower-resolution, fully stacked DCG sensor – no DR penalty in electronic shutter
Fujifilm X-H3 – higher-resolution, partially stacked DGO sensor

This way, Fujifilm could continue to serve two clearly defined user groups without compromise.

What I am not fully convinced that a partially stacked sensor as a great universal solution for the X-H line.

The Electronic Shutter Question

In the end, a lot comes down to how X-H2S users actually shoot.

If X-H2S shooters rely heavily on the electronic shutter, then a DGO sensor becomes problematic—especially if it behaves like the one in the Sony A7V, where there is roughly a one-stop dynamic range penalty at certain ISO levels.

For photographers relying on electronic shutter, that’s simply too high a price to pay.

However, if most X-H2S users mainly stick to the mechanical shutter, things look different.

On APS-C, the mechanical shutter already has an advantage over full frame: it’s faster (15 fps on X-H2). That reduces the need to rely on the electronic shutter compared to full-frame cameras in the first place.

In that scenario, merging both lines could start to make sense.

Pushing the Mechanical Shutter Further

It would make even more sense if Fujifilm could push the mechanical shutter speed further—say from the current 15 fps to 18 fps.

That alone could reduce the dependency on electronic shutter enough to justify a merged flagship.

Vote

But now I’m curious: how often do you actually use the electronic shutter on your X-H2S?

And let us know in the survey down below what you’d prefer.

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