Medium format cameras have long been associated with high-end commercial work and fine art photography, often out of reach for most due to their cost and complexity. However, recent technological advancements and market shifts have made medium format more accessible to enthusiasts and professionals alike. In this article, we examine some of the best medium format camera deals currently available on Amazon, discussing their features, design philosophies, and practical applications.
What is Medium Format, and Why Does It Matter?
Before exploring the individual cameras, it’s essential to understand what “medium format” means. Traditionally, medium format refers to film formats larger than 35mm (e.g., 65 mm film), and in the digital age, it typically denotes sensors that are physically larger than full-frame (36mm x 24mm) sensors.
The key advantages of medium format cameras include:
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Larger sensor area: Better dynamic range, color depth, and noise performance.
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Shallower depth of field: For a given field of view and aperture.
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Greater detail and resolution: Useful in large-scale prints or detailed commercial work.
However, medium format systems often involve trade-offs:
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Size and weight: Usually bulkier than DSLRs or mirrorless full-frame cameras.
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Slower operation: Less suited to fast-paced genres like sports.
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Cost: Historically very expensive, though this is changing.
Why Amazon Is a Smart Place to Shop for Medium Format Cameras
While dedicated camera retailers remain essential, Amazon offers several practical advantages when shopping for medium format cameras:
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Competitive Pricing: Amazon often features deals from multiple sellers, including discounts on models like the Fujifilm GFX 50S II or GFX 100S, especially during sales events.
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New and Used Options: The platform includes listings for both new and used gear, including harder-to-find models like the Pentax 645Z, giving buyers more flexibility in price and condition.
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Buyer Protection: Amazon’s return policies and customer service offer peace of mind, especially compared to smaller or overseas sellers.
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Convenient Access: Fast shipping, centralized user reviews, and a familiar interface make Amazon an efficient and accessible place to compare models.
While it’s not the only option, Amazon is a practical marketplace—especially for those who want a wide selection, buyer support, and potential savings. Below you can find a list of selected medium format cameras that are sold on Amazon right now.
Note: Prices, availability, and user ratings on Amazon can fluctuate daily and may vary depending on your country or regional store. Always check the listing details carefully before making a purchase decision.
Fujifilm GFX 100S
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Sensor: 102MP BSI CMOS (43.8 x 32.9mm)
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Price on Amazon: $4,599
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Review Average: 4.7/5 (108 reviews)
Overview
The GFX 100S represents a major step in making ultra-high-resolution medium format photography portable and semi-affordable. It features a stabilized 102MP sensor capable of producing exceptionally detailed images, with 16-bit RAW output and an advanced autofocus system.
Who It’s For
This camera suits commercial photographers, fine artists, and landscape photographers who prioritize image quality and plan to print large. It’s also compact relative to other medium format cameras, making it usable in fieldwork.
Limitations
Despite its advances, the GFX 100S isn’t optimized for action or wildlife. Autofocus, while improved, still lags behind Sony or Canon’s high-end offerings. Also, the files it generates are massive, requiring powerful hardware and large storage solutions.
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Fujifilm GFX 50S II
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Sensor: 51.4MP CMOS
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Price on Amazon: $3,800
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Review Average: 4.8/5 (79 reviews)
Overview
The GFX 50S II is a compelling gateway into medium format photography. It uses the older 51MP sensor but adds in-body image stabilization (IBIS), a feature previously absent in this price range for medium format.
Who It’s For
Photographers seeking the color science and dynamic range of medium format without investing over $4,000 will find the GFX 50S II appealing. It’s particularly useful for portraiture, still life, and studio work.
Limitations
Its sensor is not backside-illuminated (BSI), which means it may underperform in low-light situations compared to the GFX 100S. The autofocus system is also more dated, and video capabilities are limited.
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Hasselblad X2D 100C
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Sensor: 100MP BSI CMOS
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Price on Amazon: $8,199
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Review Average: Not yet rated
Overview
Hasselblad’s X2D 100C is a stunningly designed camera that blends Scandinavian industrial design with cutting-edge image quality. With a 1TB internal SSD, Phase Detection AF, and in-body stabilization, it competes closely with the GFX 100S.
Who It’s For
This is a camera for those who appreciate build quality and workflow integration (especially with Hasselblad Phocus software). It’s ideal for professional photographers doing archival work, fashion, or architecture.
Limitations
It’s the most expensive camera on this list, and the native lens ecosystem is small and costly. While it excels in controlled environments, it lacks the adaptability of some Fujifilm systems. The user interface is beautifully minimal—but that may not appeal to everyone.
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Pentax 645Z
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Sensor: 51.4MP CMOS
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Price on Amazon (via third-party seller): $2,189 (used)
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Review Average: 4.8/5 (32 reviews)
Overview
The 645Z is a DSLR medium format camera from an earlier era of digital photography, but it still holds up surprisingly well. With rugged weather-sealing, dual card slots, and excellent image quality, it remains a favorite among outdoor and studio photographers alike.
Who It’s For
Those who prefer an optical viewfinder and the tactile feel of a DSLR will enjoy the 645Z. It’s especially viable for photographers who don’t need the latest tech but want to experience medium format at a relatively low price.
Limitations
The camera is heavy and slow by modern standards. Its autofocus is primitive, and the LCD and menu system feel outdated. Furthermore, Pentax’s medium format lens options are limited compared to Fujifilm.
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Final Thoughts: Choosing the Right Medium Format System
There is no universally “best” medium format camera—only what fits your needs, workflow, and budget. If you’re new to medium format, the Fujifilm GFX 50S II is the most accessible option. If you’re coming from a DSLR background, the Pentax 645Z may feel familiar. For professionals needing maximum detail, the GFX 100S or Hasselblad X2D 100C are natural choices—but only if your workflow justifies the cost. Here’s a quick comparative snapshot:
| Camera | Sensor MP | Price | Stabilization | Notable Strength |
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| GFX 100S | 102MP | $4,599 | Yes | Resolution + Compactness |
| GFX 50S II | 51MP | $2,799 | Yes | Affordability + Entry Point |
| X2D 100C | 100MP | $8,199 | Yes | Build Quality + SSD |
| Pentax 645Z | 51MP | $2,189 | No | Rugged DSLR + Value |
Conclusion
Medium format is no longer a niche reserved for the elite. With competitive pricing and evolving technology, cameras like the GFX 50S II and GFX 100S offer compelling reasons to explore larger sensors. Yet it’s important to recognize that medium format is not inherently better—it’s different. It’s about matching tools to vision, and knowing what each system can (and cannot) do. Whether you’re capturing 100MP landscapes or studio portraits with subtle tonal gradations, today’s medium format offerings on Amazon reflect a new era of accessibility and choice.
