Quick answer
Choose Ilford HP5 Plus for its versatility in mixed lighting and push-processing ability, or Delta 100 when you need the finest grain and sharpest detail in controlled light.
Speed and grain: the fundamental trade-off
HP5 Plus is an ISO 400 film, giving you two stops more sensitivity than Delta 100's ISO 100. That extra speed lets you shoot in lower light or use faster shutter speeds, but it comes with a noticeably larger grain structure. Delta 100's slower speed demands more light or a tripod, but delivers extremely fine, uniform grain thanks to its core-shell crystal technology.
If you often shoot handheld in variable conditions—street scenes, indoor available light, or handheld portraits—HP5 Plus gives you the flexibility to keep shooting without a tripod. For studio work, landscapes on a tripod, or any scenario where you can control the light, Delta 100's fine grain and high sharpness reward the extra effort.
Push processing: HP5 Plus's hidden strength
HP5 Plus is designed to respond well to push processing, meaning you can rate it at ISO 800, 1600, or even 3200 and develop accordingly. This makes it a favorite for concert, event, and low-light photographers who need to keep shooting when the light drops. Delta 100 can be pushed, but its base ISO is already low, so you lose the speed advantage that makes push processing practical.
If you know you'll need to push film regularly, HP5 Plus is the more forgiving choice. Its wide exposure latitude also helps when you misjudge the light—a common scenario in fast-paced shooting.
Contrast and tonal range
HP5 Plus is described as a medium-contrast film, making it ideal for mixed lighting and general use. It handles highlights and shadows gracefully, giving you a classic, balanced black and white look. Delta 100's core-shell crystal technology produces very high sharpness and a fine, uniform grain, which translates to crisp, detailed negatives with excellent edge definition.
Your choice here depends on the look you want: HP5 Plus for a traditional, forgiving tonal curve that works in many conditions, or Delta 100 for clinical sharpness and micro-contrast when you have the light to support it.
How to choose between HP5 Plus and Delta 100
- Shooting conditions: HP5 Plus (ISO 400) handles low light, mixed lighting, and handheld shooting. Delta 100 (ISO 100) needs more light or a tripod but rewards you with finer grain.
- Grain and sharpness priority: Delta 100's core-shell crystal technology gives you the finest grain and highest sharpness. HP5 Plus has a classic, more visible grain that many photographers prefer for a traditional look. If grain size is your top concern, Delta 100 is the clear winner.
- Push processing need: HP5 Plus is specifically designed to respond well to push processing. Delta 100 can be pushed but loses its speed advantage and grain benefits. Choose HP5 Plus if you plan to push film regularly.
Product facts
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Ilford HP5 Plus Black and White Negative Film – 120 Roll Film (ISO 400): ISO 400/27° panchromatic black and white negative film with wide exposure latitude and medium contrast, designed for general use and responds well to push processing. You can shoot HP5 Plus in changing light, push it to higher ISOs, and still get usable negatives—ideal for handheld or low-light work.
Ilford HP5 Plus Black and White Negative Film – 120 Roll Film (ISO 400)
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Ilford Delta 100 Professional Black and White Negative Film - 35mm Roll Film, 36 Exposures (ISO 100): ISO 100/21° medium-speed film featuring core-shell crystal technology for very high sharpness and fine, uniform grain. Delta 100 delivers exceptionally sharp, grain-free images when you have steady light or a tripod, making it perfect for detailed subjects like landscapes or studio portraits.
Ilford Delta 100 Professional Black and White Negative Film - 35mm Roll Film, 36 Exposures (ISO 100)
Which film fits your style?
Best for
- Photographers who shoot in variable light and want a versatile, pushable 120 film
- Those who prefer a classic, medium-grain black and white look with wide exposure latitude
Not ideal for
- Photographers who need the absolute finest grain and sharpest detail in controlled light (choose Delta 100 instead)
- Low-light shooters who never want to use a tripod and need the fastest possible film (consider Delta 3200)
