The Fujifilm X-T5 overview is my try to present you suggestions after capturing with the digital camera for five months.
It isn’t a technical overview however slightly a private expertise of how the X-T5 mannequin affected my pictures.
The X-T5 is a stepping stone in my seek for an ideal digital camera for my journey pictures. All of us perceive there isn’t any such factor as a “good digital camera,” however the X-T5 is getting shut for a kind of pictures I do. It took me 15 years, 3 digital camera manufacturers, and a dozen digital camera fashions to get to the purpose the place I wouldn’t have main annoyances in my digital camera.
I switched from Sony to Fujifilm 5 years in the past, getting an X-T2 mannequin. I put collectively an in depth article outlining my reasoning for the switching and my first impressions of Fujifilm X-T2 specifically and the Fujifilm ecosystem on the whole. Fujifilm vs Sony grew to become probably the most fashionable articles on my web site, and even as we speak, it attracts lots of consideration.
X-T2 was and nonetheless is a really succesful digital digital camera however as with every digital camera, it had some shortcomings. And with the X-T5, Fujifilm addressed virtually all of them.
Please word I upgraded to X-T5 from X-T2, and though I’ve expertise capturing with X-T3 and E-X3, in my Fuji X-T5 overview, I primarily examine it to the digital camera I used essentially the most, X-T2.
Design and Ergonomics
Fujifilm X-T2’s distinctive retro design was one of many causes I embraced the X-T sequence 5 years in the past. It provided guide controls, compact dimension, and unprecedented energy over customizations. It checked many of the bins for my journey pictures.
I preferred X-T2 a lot that it prevented me from upgrading to the Fuji X-T4 mannequin. Over two generations, the X-T sequence grew to become bulkier and heavier, beginning to resemble full-frame fashions. I used to be not too excited in regards to the route the Fuji X-T line was progressing.
In 2020 after I determined to not go for X-T4, I even entertained the concept of in search of my subsequent digital camera from one other model.
I assume I used to be not the one one who voiced dissatisfaction, and Fujifilm observed it and corrected its course.
And after I realized that Fujifilm determined to go to the unique roots with the X-T5, I knew instantly that I might stick with Fujifilm.
The Fujifilm X-T5 is corresponding to the dimensions of X-T2. However they made it a bit deeper to accommodate IBIS and an even bigger battery. In accordance with the specs, it’s only 50 grams heavier, even with the a lot larger battery. It additionally has a barely extra pronounced grip.
I’ve no complaints in regards to the ergonomics, however X-T5 feels completely different in my hand. I assume 5 years of muscle reminiscences would let me discover even a tiny change.
AF ON and AEL Buttons
One other small change in physique design that positively impacted my pictures was the redesign and repositioning of AF-L and AF-L buttons. I perceive that the buttons had been redesigned and repositioned already on X-T4, however since I skipped it, it’s a new expertise for me.
Let me clarify.
I exploit the Again Button Focus and Auto Publicity Lock with just about each shot I take.
First, I level the digital camera towards the scene I intend to seize and lock the publicity by urgent the AEL button. Subsequent, I activate the histogram contained in the EVF by urgent the button in entrance of the digital camera and use the publicity compensation to regulate the publicity, making it as vivid as doable with out clipping the highlights. The approach additionally is named ETTR (publicity to the precise).
When I’m finished with the publicity, I handle focus. I used the hyperfocal distance focusing approach to maximise the depth of subject of my panorama photographs. I level the one focus level at hyperfocal distance and press AF-L (AF ON on X-T5) to lock the main target.
Within the remaining step, I recompose and press the shutter.
It would sound very cumbersome, nevertheless it takes me solely a bit time with follow. However it permits me to take correctly uncovered and sharp photographs with 99% accuracy.
On X-T2, the buttons are tiny. Plus, the AF-L button is positioned in such an ungainly place that I by no means used it. I needed to program the Rear Command Dial to lock the give attention to the press and use it as a substitute of the AF-L button.
On X-T5, the AF On and AEL buttons are extra outstanding, tactile, and positioned in the precise locations to make use of when wanting by way of the EVF.
Again to the Future with LCD
A very long time in the past, when capturing with Canon, I noticed that I not solely haven’t any use for articulated screens but in addition despise them. As you’ll be able to think about that I’m delighted that X-T5 went again to the outdated and confirmed 3-way tilt rear display design.
To summarize, there are not any dramatic modifications in design and ergonomics in X-T5, however all of them are welcome. I couldn’t spot any negatives thus far.
Picture High quality
Once I realized that Fujifilm X-T5 could be geared up with a 40MP sensor, I used to be initially very skeptical.
After capturing for therefore lengthy with APS-C cameras, I used to be satisfied that 24-26MP sensors had been a candy spot for crop sensor cameras. A better megapixel depend wouldn’t profit however would possibly even jeopardize picture high quality.
My concern was that tiny pixels of the 40MP sensor would negatively impression the dynamic vary and improve the noise stage by way of all the ISO vary.
Plus, I used to be not too excited to cope with larger RAW information.
However as soon as once more, Fujifilm proved me mistaken. The brand new X-T5 40MP sensor is a big leap ahead in comparison with older 24MP and 26MP Fujifilm sensors.
Sharpness and Particulars
I switched from Sony to Fuji primarily due to the unprecedented picture high quality and the excessive stage of element that Fujifilm X-Trans sensors produce. I used to be shocked that photographs taken with X-T2 had been sharp and even usable at 100% magnification.
Since I didn’t count on a lot from the brand new 40MP sensor, I hoped to get a minimum of the identical stage of picture high quality corresponding to X-T2. To my shock, the brand new X-T5 sensor exceeded all my expectations.
The brand new sensor produces a lot cleaner, sharper photos with distinctive ranges of element. The RAW photos taken at ISO 125 are usable even at 200% magnification.
It’s unbelievable.
I really like the brand new 40MP X-Trans sensor.
Dynamic Vary
I can not precisely measure the brand new sensor’s true dynamic vary, however what I’ve is expertise coping with digital photos as an expert graphic designer and photographer. Plus, I course of RAW photographs every day.
Based mostly on my commentary, the dynamic vary of the X-T5 sensor is on par with the X-T2 when capturing at ISO 200 and up. However X-T5 produces a wider dynamic vary when capturing at a base ISO of 125. Since X-T2 has no native ISO decrease than 200, it’s in all probability not a good comparability.
But when I needed to summarize, the X-T5 produces a wider dynamic vary on the base ISO.
And since most of my photographs are taken at base ISO, it’s a huge optimistic for my pictures.
New RAW Compression Choice
Fuji X-T2 has two RAW compression choices: Uncompressed and Lossless Compressed. The Uncompressed file dimension is round 50MB; add Lossless Compressed is about 28MB.
After analyzing each variations, I couldn’t see the distinction in high quality, even at 800% magnification. I didn’t see the explanation to make use of uncompressed RAWs, and for five years, I’ve been capturing with the Lossless Compressed possibility.
Now, Fujifilm added one other compressed possibility. Subsequent to the Uncompressed and Lossless Compressed, now we have a Compressed choice.
The brand new compressed possibility produces the next file sizes:
- Uncompressed – 87MB
- Lossless Compressed – round 45MB
- Compressed – round 29MB
As earlier than, I’m sticking to the Lossless Compressed possibility. However I might not hesitate to make use of the Compressed possibility if I’m pressed on area on the reminiscence card as a result of it nonetheless produces excellent RAW photos.
Noise and Low Gentle Efficiency
Since I take most photographs at base ISO, low gentle efficiency is just not vital for my pictures. Most of my high-ISO photos are household photographs.
However what I can say about low gentle efficiency based mostly on my observations is it’s on par with my outdated X-T2.
However the stage of digital noise is completely different.
Throughout all the ISO vary, X-T5 produces a lot much less digital noise. Basically, the RAW photos taken with X-T5 are cleaner.
It’s particularly noticeable at decrease ISO.
When you may have underexposed areas within the shadows and attempt to get well them in Lightroom, you get some stage of digital noise, even at base ISO. The X-T5 is completely different. You get little or no nostril at decrease ISO (125-400) even after aggressive shadow restoration.
While you shoot at excessive ISO (1600-3200) you’ll be able to see picture degradation however with a a lot decrease digital noise stage. And whenever you mix X-T5 excessive ISO photographs with AI Denoise noise discount in Lightroom, you find yourself with extraordinarily clear and sharp photographs with a excessive stage of element.
My conclusion is new X-T5 sensor handles digital noise in another way in a really optimistic approach.
IBIS (In Physique Picture Stabilization)
IBIS is one other facet of pictures I modify my opinion drastically about.
Up to now, I took most of my journey photographs utilizing tripods. And I didn’t really feel the necessity for IBIS in my pictures. My place was that IBIS makes the digital camera bulkier, dearer, and fewer dependable, with minimal advantages for my model of pictures.
What modified my thoughts was the effectiveness of Fujifilm lens stabilization. I noticed that my 2 essential lenses (Fuji 10-24mm and 18-135mm) allowed me to take sharp photographs at a a lot decrease shutter velocity.
To alter my outdated habits, I deliberately began leaving my tripods at residence, making an attempt to study to take higher handheld photos. The entire expertise liberated me, permitting me to be extra artistic with the composition. I didn’t have to hold a full-size tripod all over the place, particularly throughout lengthy and demanding hikes.
Now with the X-T5, I can take my handheld journey even additional due to the effectiveness of its IBIS. I don’t suppose it’s efficient as much as 7 stops, as Fujifilm claims, but when I needed to estimate, it’s rock strong as much as a minimum of 5.
When capturing with X-T2, I extensively used the Auto ISO function, making an attempt to not go under 1/80s of shutter velocity with my dealt with panorama photographs.
Now capturing with X-T5, I hardly use Auto ISO in any respect. I set my ISO dial to 125 and really feel comfy capturing at broad angles as much as 1/6s. It’s liberating.
I plan to proceed lowering tripod use and focus on handheld strategies. I noticed that if I need to blur water in my landscapes, it’s simpler and sooner to take two photographs at completely different shutter speeds handheld and mix them in Photoshop later than organising the tripod.
To summarize, the IBIS (in-body picture stabilization) in X-T5 is frightening efficient and not a ineffective function for my pictures.
Battery Life
For me, the most important shortcoming of switching to mirrorless methods was poor battery life. X-T2 was not an exception. Through the years, I’ve realized many tips for extending the battery life in my mirrorless cameras and remembering to cost and produce a minimum of 3 batteries throughout my travels.
I keep in mind throughout my journey to Utah, after an hour of climbing, I noticed I had left spare batteries within the automotive. I needed to hike again.
Now with the X-T5, it appears like I’m again in my outdated DSLR days. I stick one battery within the digital camera, which is nice for a minimum of a day. I common from 580 photographs to 600 photographs per cost.
The one unfavourable right here is the digital camera doesn’t include a charger. It’s worthwhile to spend one other $100 for a spare battery and charger.
Wi-fi Connectivity
I think about the Fujifilm Distant App the weakest level of all the Fujifilm ecosystem. It’s comprehensible since Fuji is just not a software program firm.
I used to be so excited after I switched from Sony to Fujifilm to lastly have the ability to geotag all my photographs on the time of seize. However I noticed later that X-T2 would tag all the photographs with the identical coordinates of the placement the place you activated the app. Whether or not you stroll for 5km or drive for 100km, you’re going to get the identical geotagging as the unique location.
The implementation of geotagging in X-T2 was totally ineffective.
Now with the newest distant app together with X-T5, the geotagging works flawlessly. Lastly, I can get pleasure from automated geotagging with out even enthusiastic about it.
Once I import new photographs into Lightroom and bounce to the Map module, all photos are robotically mapped to the precise areas.
Geotagging is a crucial function for my pictures. Now I can pinpoint the precise location of my journey photographs with out losing any time.
In addition to geotagging, I don’t use different options of the Fujifilm Distant App.
Autofocus Accuracy
Fujifilm has been lagging behind Sony and Canon regarding Autofocus system efficiency and accuracy for years. The brand new X-T5 was supposed to scale back the hole. However I’m not the precise individual to present you an knowledgeable evaluation of X-T5 autofocus enhancements. Typically, I shoot static scenes, manually choosing some extent to give attention to.
However even I can see the substantial progress.
One in all my favourite lenses is Fujifilm 35mm f1.4. It is without doubt one of the oldest Fuji lenses. I prefer it for the distinct photos it produces, nevertheless it has an outdated focusing system. The focusing motor may be very noisy and gradual and tends to hunt consistently, making an attempt to focus in low-light situations.
Now when connected to X-T5, the lens acts in another way. It’s a lot sooner to focus and snappier, even in poor situations.
Video Efficiency
Sadly, I’ve no suggestions for you regarding video seize specs and efficiency.
I exploit X-T5 completely for pictures functions. I by no means even as soon as change the digital camera to video mode.
Throughout my travels, I exploit GoPro as a video digital camera. Separating video and photograph duties makes the method sooner with fewer problems.
Lenses and Equipment
The lens I exploit most frequently is Fujinon 10-24mm. It’s an excellent wide-angle lens with glorious picture high quality, well-built, and efficient picture stabilization.
My second most used lens is Fujinon 18-135mm. Although I prefer it, I used to be in search of alternate options due to its shortcomings:
- It’s huge and heavy
- 18mm is just not broad sufficient on the broad finish
- When it’s hanging on the leash behind my again, the entrance ingredient tens to increase underneath its weight
I needed to check it in opposition to the Fujinon 16-80mm for a very long time, however I by no means had an opportunity to do it.
This time I made a decision to go for it. As a substitute of shopping for an X-T5 physique solely, I received the equipment, getting the digital camera and 16-80mm lens collectively.
I had time to check 16-80mm for five months, and I can see it’s on par in picture high quality with 18-135mm. I made a decision to promote 18-135mm and preserve the 16-80mm. It’s smaller and lighter; 16 mm on the broad finish is rather more helpful than 18mm, and I’m prepared to lose 50mm on the lengthy finish.
Many fellow photographers counsel I get 16-55mm f2.8 to switch 18-135mm, however it will not work for me. The 16-55mm is huge and heavy and doesn’t have picture stabilization. Plus, I don’t want an f2.8 aperture since I take most of my photographs within the vary of f8-f11.
Thumb Grip
If I had to decide on just one accent for my Fuji X-T5, it will be the thumb grip.
Although the Fujifilm X-T5 has a compact physique, it isn’t light-weight. It weighs 557g. However because it doesn’t have a deep greep, it feels unbalanced. And it takes pointless effort to deal with it.
The thumb grip fixes the problems by distributing the burden between 4 fingers and the thumb. For me, it’s a sport changer regarding ergonomics.
Fast Launch Plate
Since I’m a hybrid photographer capturing handheld and on a tripod, I wanted a quick-release plate to make it comfy to hold the digital camera on a leash and mount it on a tripod in seconds.
It took me in all probability a yr to search out the common common quick-release plate that I preferred, and it occurred to be the most affordable I attempted.
Sadly, you can’t get it from Amazon or B&H, however it’s nonetheless obtainable on AliExpress. It value solely $10.
The Negatives of Fujifilm X-T5
I don’t see too many points in X-T5 that negatively have an effect on my pictures.
- In all probability the most important shortcoming that separates X-T5 from being a very skilled digital camera is a shallow buffer. In case your pictures will depend on steady capturing, you in all probability want to contemplate the Fujifilm X-H2 and X-H2s.
- The digital camera doesn’t include a devoted charger. However you’ll be able to nonetheless cost the battery contained in the cameras.
- There is no such thing as a battery grip obtainable for X-T5
- The X-T5 is made in China. I assume Fujifilm needed to transfer manufacturing from Japan to remain aggressive. However it allowed them to maintain the identical value of the T-X sequence for 7 years.
Fujifilm X-T5 Evaluation | Conclusion
My first impression was that the Fujifilm X-T5 mannequin was not a revolutionary replace however slightly incremental. However after capturing with it for five months, I feel it’s greater than a boring refresh.
Fujifilm improved picture high quality by introducing a brand new high-resolution sensor distinctive to APS-C cameras.
Fujifilm managed to enhance IBIS, making it simpler and compact.
Fujifilm diminished the digital camera dimension in comparison with the earlier mannequin (X-T4).
Combining the brand new sensor and processor allowed the digital camera to make use of extra subtle auto-focus algorithms. And with such a contemporary and highly effective duo, there’s loads of room for autofocus enhancements by way of firmware updates.
From my perspective, the Fujifilm X-T5 is the best journey digital camera. It’s sturdy, weather-sealed with professional-level options, and produces excellent photos.
And truthfully, I’m struggling to give you my wishlist for the subsequent XT mannequin.
