23mm (35mm in full-frame equivalent) has always been my favorite walk-around focal length. So, whenever I’m not testing lenses, the X100VI is usually the first camera I reach for.
With the release of the new XF23mm f2.8 WR, we now have three different 23mm options from Fujifilm. That really shows just how popular this focal length is, and Fujifilm clearly knows it, giving us more choices to fit different shooting styles and budgets.
XF23mm f2.8 WRXF23mm f2.8 WR
Intro
Back in 2022, a community poll on a rumors forum showed strong interest in a compact 23mm pancake lens. I was one of the photographers who voted for it. Over the years, bits and pieces of rumors kept surfacing, and I found myself always hoping the day would finally come. Now, in 2025, Fujifilm has delivered. The long-awaited pancake lens arrived alongside the X-E5 at the X-Summit in Shanghai.
At first glance, you’ll immediately notice how small and lightweight this lens is. Weighing just 90 grams, it’s only slightly heavier than the XF27mm f2.8 WR (84 grams). In terms of size, its dimensions are 61.8mm x 23mm, almost identical to the XF27mm. In reality, both lenses are very close to each other, basically the same in size and weight. This also means this 23mm pancake won’t add any bulk to your camera setup.
It also takes tiny 39mm filters, which is great for filter users. The metal build feels premium, exactly what we’ve come to expect from Fujifilm—no compromises here.
The aperture ring is another highlight. It delivers that satisfying, tactile click with every turn, something Fujifilm shooters will definitely appreciate.
Image Quality
When it comes to Fujifilm, image quality is rarely in question. Whether the lens is marketed as budget-friendly or premium, their standards remain high.
This pancake is no exception. At wide-open, the images are sharp with excellent contrast. Chromatic aberration and vignetting are virtually unnoticeable, which is impressive for a compact lens like this.
The lens uses a DC coreless motor for autofocus. In most cases, it’s quick and accurate, even in low-light conditions. It’s not quite as snappy as Fujifilm’s other two 23mm lenses, but still very reliable.
That said, I did encounter two instances in a row where the autofocus confirmed (green box lit up), but the final shot was back-focused. Oddly, this happened outdoors in bright sunlight. After those two occasions, everything went back to normal, and I haven’t been able to reproduce the issue.
Something surprised me in this department. I wasn’t expecting something so compact and yet able to deliver a much closer focusing distance at 20cm. It is impressive that the image quality holds up beautifully with crisp detail and punchy contrast.
As of now, this lens is bundled as the kit option with the X-E5. The price difference between the X-E5 body only and the kit with this lens is about USD 200 / SGD 300.
If purchased separately, the lens is expected to retail at USD 499 / SGD 599. Availability seems to vary by region—here in Singapore, for instance, it’s not yet being sold standalone.
Others
The lens doesn’t ship with a square hood, but it does include a small round hood. It’s more for basic protection than style, but it gets the job done.
This lens is aimed at photographers who value compactness above all else. While you can certainly mount it on cameras like the X-T5 or X-H2(S), I think it pairs best with Fujifilm’s smaller bodies, such as the X-M5, X-E series, or X-Txx series.
The XF23mm f2.8 WR may not be the brightest lens in the lineup, but it’s the compact street photography lens that many Fujifilm users have been waiting for, and Fujifilm has finally delivered. Now that we have the long-anticipated 23mm pancake, I can’t help but wonder what Fujifilm’s next pancake lens might be. Will it be a 35mm, or maybe a 50/56mm? What do you think?
X-M5 with XF23mm f2.8 WR
Thank you for reading.
Disclaimer: 1. All the shots taken here are shot by me. 2. Most of the shots are straight out of the camera with some shots edited via In-Camera Raw Processing. 3. The opinions are based on my experience. If there is any mistake, please kindly drop me a message and I will gladly make the amendment. 4. I reserve ownership of these images, if you wish to use my images, please notify me.
If you like my works, please follow me on either one of the 2 Instagram accounts:
Fujifilm X-E5 is the newest camera in the X-E series and of course in the Fujifilm X series family as well. There was a saying that this series has been a lot of ups and downs with speculation about this series been axed. But it survived everytime and always been refining and Fujifilm always trying yo positioning it better.
Fuji X-E5
Intro
The X-E series has always been considered the little brother to the X-Pro line. Designed to be a more affordable option for photographers who love the rangefinder style but can’t justify the X-Pro’s price, the X-E models traditionally came with slightly lower specs and a plastic build.
Looking back at the Fujifilm X-E series, one thing that immediately stands out is how the design language has evolved. Earlier models carried a softer, curved body shape, but with the newer iterations, Fujifilm has shifted toward a sharper, more refined blocky look.
Interestingly, the X-E1, the very first in the lineup, was actually a bit larger and taller than the brand-new X-E5, yet it still managed to be much lighter thanks to the plastic built body.
The X-E4 was where Fujifilm took a bold leap into minimalism. Some photographers appreciated the stripped-back approach, while others felt it went a little too far. The X-E5 continues along that same minimal design path, but with a few thoughtful additions that make it feel like Fujifilm listened to the feedback.
The shutter, however, doesn’t feel heavy at all. In fact, it’s gentle and refined compared to earlier models, giving the camera a pleasing shooting experience.
A welcome return is the flip-up LCD display. I don’t take selfies often, but the flip-up screen is perfect for capturing low-angle shots.
What’s been brought back? The hand grip. While it’s not the chunkiest grip you’ll find, the small front and rear bumps do improve handling compared to the gripless X-E4. It’s still not perfect, many will likely want an additional grip accessory, but the difference is noticeable and very welcome.
What’s been added? From the front, you’ll now spot a focus mode selector, a control lever, and a function button, small but meaningful upgrades for usability. Around the back, the “Q” button has been moved into the same position as the X100VI, and Fujifilm has also added a rear command dial. These tweaks make the X-E5 feel more versatile without cluttering the minimalist design.
Focus Mode SelectorPlacement of the “Q” button is the same as X100VI
If you’ve shot with previous X-E cameras, one of the first things you’ll notice when picking up the X-E5 is the weight. At 445g, it’s the heaviest in the series (most predecessors hovered around 350g). But with that extra heft comes a sense of sturdiness, thanks to its solid aluminum build.
One of the most distinctive design touches on the X-E5 is the new film simulation dial built into the top plate window. Traditionally, that little window displayed film count, and now, it tells you which film simulation you’re using. A subtle but clever nod to the good film days, and of course, the Instax cameras.
Film simulation dial
The dial itself comes with 10 film simulation slots: 6 fixed presets and 4 that can be customized. (For comparison, the X-M5 offers 12 slots.) FS1 to FS3 can be assigned to any simulation you like, including your own recipes. The final slot, labeled “C” for Custom, lets you quickly change simulations on the fly using the front command dial.
Sensor and Processor
The X-E5 is equipped with the familiar 40MP X-Trans CMOS 5 HR sensor alongside the powerful X-Processor 5. It is the same combination found in Fujifilm’s X-H2, X-T5, X-T50, and even the X100VI.
40 megapixels might feel like overkill if your main goal is to share photos on social media, but having that level of resolution opens up plenty of creative possibilities, from large prints to detailed cropping. It’s a thoughtful move by Fujifilm, and one that photographers will no doubt appreciate.
40 megapixels image quality is superior. Pairing the right lenses help to optimize the best image quality Fujifilm offers. If you pair up with the Fujifilm older generation of lenses or other third party lenses, you might notice some levels of softness if you are the picky one.
For those who have experienced the X-Processor 5, you already know the kind of performance it delivers. This is the very same processor powering the flagship GFX100 II, and it brings that same level of speed and refinement into the X series. When paired with Fujifilm’s latest generation of lenses, the results are nothing short of outstanding, showcasing some of the best performance Fujifilm has to offer.
That said, the eye-AF tracking performs well by Fujifilm’s current standards. It sticks onto the subject most of the time, though every now and then it might wander off a little. When I put it side by side with my X-T5, the focusing feels slightly slower (both running on default settings). But honestly, it’s not a deal breaker for me.
Similar to all other latest series of X-Series camera bodies, it is equipped with 7 stops of compensation. In short, the IBIS in this camera works impressively well.
When it comes to battery, I am prepared and expecting that NP-W126S to be the battery model and we all know how small the battery capacity this model can be.
According to CIPA rating, it is about 300 shots. But based on my usage with everything in default, I managed to squeeze about 480 shots. And that including transferring 50 shots from the camera to the phone. This result of mine shared similarity with the X-T50.
In my opinion, the number of shots seems to be good enough for a 2-3 days travel occasion and probably a good one day coverage for photowalks. If you think the battery is not good enough, I will suggest getting another 1 to 2 spare batteries as the battery is quite pocketable and compact. Alternatively, standby a PD powerbank to charge via the USB-C to extend the juice whenever needed.
Feedback
Like all the rest of the X-E series that come before it, it does not equipped with Dial Lock Release like the X-T5. This lock is so beneficial because it can prevent accidental dial changes. I encountered this when my camera is place inside the bag and probably some movement has pushes the dial without noticing.
Wish to have a dial lock on the shuttle speed dialFuji X-E5 with XF23mm f2.8
There hasn’t been any upgrade to the Electronic View Finder (EVF) or the rear LCD display and they are still at 2.36 million dots and 1.04 million dots respectively. I do wish Fujifilm had pushed a little further in this area, especially to better justify the price increase.
This new generation comes in at a noticeably higher price than the previous one. The body alone is priced at 1599 USD, and in Singapore, it’s going for 2099 SGD. To put things in perspective, the last model was launched at 1449 SGD back in 2021.
Even after adjusting for inflation, which would bring that number closer to 1700 SGD, the new price still sits quite a bit higher. Whether that premium is worth paying really depends on what photographers feel they’re getting out of it.
When it comes to the Fujifilm X-E5 and X100VI, the comparisons never seem to end. Which one is better? Why choose this over that? Which camera really gives you the most value? The debates go on, often shaped by personal preference and bias. That’s completely fair, and I respect that.
From my perspective, both cameras serve different purposes and are designed to meet the unique needs of each photographer and shooting experiences. There’s really no right or wrong choice here. What matters most is understanding your own shooting style and priorities. Once you’re clear about what you need, picking the right camera becomes a much simpler decision. It might sound straightforward, but in reality, finding the right one often takes a bit more time and consideration.
The X-E5 has a little trick up its sleeve, a classic display mode in the electronic viewfinder. It’s an interesting addition that feels like a nod to nostalgia for senior generations users, while also giving younger generations a taste of the past.
Who is this for?
If you are interested in jumping into Fujifilm ecosystem and find that price of the X-E5 price is too steep, there are other models available, for instance, X-M5.
Fujifilm is always about the overall user experience from using the gear, to click the shutter and the final results in front of your eyes. Each camera user experience is different somehow and finding the right one is always a challenge.
If possible, give it a try in your nearest camera store or better recommendation is to rent it out for a week or two with a few lenses to try. The later one is a costly option, but probably a better one than rush buy.
Conclusion
The X-E series has always held a special charm for me. I still keep my X-E3 around, and while I regret missing the chance to pick up the X-E4 before Fujifilm suddenly discontinued it, I wasn’t willing to pay inflated resale prices. So when the X-E5 was announced, it was an easy decision. I knew I had to get it.
Thanks to the ripple effect from the viral X100V video, Fujifilm cameras have been attracting attention well beyond the photography community. And naturally, the X-E5 has also found its way into the spotlight.
Yes, the X-E5 is the most expensive model in the X-E lineup so far, but in my opinion, it’s also the best one yet. I absolutely enjoy the shooting experience this rangefinder-style body offers—it’s a completely different vibe compared to my X-T5. As I’ve said before, every camera has its own purpose, crafted to meet the specific needs and styles of different photographers. The X-E5 is no exception, and that’s exactly what makes it so special.
Fuji X-E5 with XF23mm f.28 kit lens
Thank you for reading.
Disclaimer: 1. All the shots taken here are shot by me. 2. Most of the shots are straight out of the camera with some shots edited via In-Camera Raw Processing. 3. The opinions are based on my experience. If there is any mistake, please kindly drop me a message and I will gladly make the amendment. 4. I reserve ownership of these images, if you wish to use my images, please notify me.
If you like my works, please follow me on either one of the 2 Instagram accounts:
It’s been 11 years since the X-M1 was unveiled. Although many fans of the X-M series have little hope for its future and may believe that this series has come to an end, suddenly, the rumor mills start to share bits and pieces that the X-M series is being reignited. Today, Fujifilm skips the numbers 2 to 4 and decides to name this X-M1 successor as X-M5. It makes sense as we are into the 5th generation of the X-Trans sensor, hence, the “5” in the X-M5.
Fujifilm X-M5
Intro
The Fujifilm X-M5 was announced together with XF16-55mm f2.8 MK II and XF500mm f5.6 in the X Summit Clay Studio 2024. From the announcement, it is stated that X-M5 is the smallest X-series, even smaller than X-E4. What are the pros and cons of being the smallest? Is there anything been compromised? I’m sure it has but can we accept them?
Fujifilm X-M5
The X-M5 is clearly aimed at vloggers, especially the new young generation of vloggers with limited budgets. But it is also a great tool for young photographers. In this blog, I will share my experience with this camera from a photographer’s point of view.
Before I proceed further, I would like to mention all the lenses that I have tested with it.
The camera features a rangefinder-style design and is incredibly compact—smaller than its predecessor, the X-M1. According to the official specs, the X-M5 is 5mm shorter in length, 1mm thinner in depth, and maintains the same 67mm height. However, it is slightly heavier, weighing 355 grams compared to the X-M1’s 330 grams.
The build quality is decent for an entry-level camera, with a plastic body that feels solid, though you can tell it’s made of plastic when you hold it. As for handling, it’s not the most comfortable for larger hands like mine. The camera is so small it fits in my palm, so for a more secure grip, I prefer using an additional grip or holding the lens instead of the body.
The shutter sound is loud for a small and compact camera. Not an issue to me but I do prefer the shutter sound from the X-T5 (or maybe I have gotten used to it).
It comes with 3 command dials (film simulation dial, mode dial, and rear command dial) and 1 front command dial. Quite a number of dials for an entry-level camera.
The film simulation dial is first introduced in X-T50. I know there has been a lot of feedback about this dial since its introduction, and I agree it to a certain point. But this is actually beneficial to photographers who are not similar to Fujifilm and it’s film simulations. Changing the film simulations via the dial and witnessing the change of colors can allow new photographers to get hold of the film simulations, find one that they love the most, and enjoy the Straight-Out-Of-Camera end results.
If you have noticed, out of the 4 dials, 2 dials are fixed. That said, we have left with 2 dials that are available to customize (such as exposure compensation control, ISO control, and aperture control for those lenses that do not come with an aperture ring) to suit our shooting behavior.
Oh yes, I like the less stiff, tactile feedback from the rear command dial. Personally, I prefer this to the one on the X-T5.
Sensor and Processor
Like the X-S20, it comes with an X-Trans 4 CMOS sensor and X-Processor 5 combination. Is this a bad combination? No. In fact, it is probably my preferred combination. I explained in the X-S20 post that I preferred 26 megapixels over 40 megapixels. The resolution is a sweet spot for my memory space and storage space since I hardly do photo cropping.
Having X-Processor 5 actually does help battery efficiency and focusing performance. More on these later. But do note that the base ISO is 160 and not 125 as that can only be found in the X-Trans 5 HR sensor.
Image Quality
I have no complaints about the image quality here. If the image quality from this sensor is poor, I guess it won’t be the flagship sensor for X-T3 and X-T4. I am glad that Fujifilm decided to keep this sensor and extend its longevity further.
The autofocus algorithm seems to improve quite a lot. The eye-AF tracking is more sticky and picking up the subject is faster than my X-T5 with the firmware 2.03 (I’m lazy, don’t judge me).
I can feel that my hit rates has gone higher than before and more reliable.
The camera uses the NP-W126S battery. Will it offer poor battery life? From my experience with the X-T50, I was able to get around 550 shots before the battery drained. With this camera, I managed to capture about 530 shots, which meets my expectations and is better than the CIPA rating of 330 shots. If you find the battery life insufficient for a full day of shooting, it’s a good idea to carry one or two spare batteries.
Every camera isn’t perfect, and there is always room for improvement. X-M5 is not exceptional.
I name a few of them as I deem them more important to me.
The screen resolution is low by today’s standard (at 1,040,000 dots). It has the same screen resolution as the X-T3 which was first announced in 2018 and even worse than the X-E4 (at 1,620,000 dots). I’m not saying low screen resolution is terrible but sometimes it gives me a little bit of wrong judgment.
I was surprised that Fujifilm did not release an optional hand grip like they did for X-E4. But this is not an issue, as many third-party accessory makers are making one for X-M5.
The “Q” Quick Menu button is positioned between both the mode dial and the rear command dial and it is a pretty small button. This gives me a problem to press the “Q” button as I have a pretty big finger. I wonder why they do not include the “Q” button beside the AEL/AFL button. Oh yes. the playback and AEL/AFL button can be bigger.
Finally, the absence of an EVF (Electronic Viewfinder) is likely the most common complaint from Fujifilm users. I can relate, as I missed having the EVF when reviewing my shots or shooting in bright sunlight. It would be great if Fujifilm could offer an external EVF as an optional accessory, as I believe most X-M5 owners would gladly purchase one.
Price Point
At 800 USD, this is the most affordable interchangeable X camera released, and it took the crown from X-E4, which was once the cheapest X camera ( priced at 850 USD).
While the X-M1 features a built-in pop-up flash, the X-M5 replaces it with a film simulation dial. Is this change worthwhile? Personally, I think it’s a great trade-off. The film simulation dial not only benefits newcomers but also makes it easier for me to switch between my favorite film simulations. While the “Q” button also lets me change film simulations, having a dedicated dial provides a more tactile, hands-on experience.
Oh yes, this is probably the best affordable camera to experience 20 film simulations with 8 film simulations allocated on the dial with 3 presets available. I remember my X-T3 had only 16 film simulations and that’s it.
The last one is the mechanical shutter, where X-M5 can only go as fast as 1/4000s, whereas 1/8000s on X-T5.
Who is this for?
Like I mentioned earlier, this camera is aiming at vloggers with limited budget. But that does not mean this is not a capable camera by any means. It is a very decent entry level camera which using very capable sensor and processor.
Fuji X-M5 . Brightin Star 50mm f1.4 @ 50mm . f1.4 . 1/750″ . ISO 320 . Classic NegativeLeft: Fuji X-M5 . Brightin Star 50mm f1.4 @ 50mm . f1.4 . 1/480″ . ISO 320 . Classic Chrome Right: Fuji X-M5 . SBrightin Star 50mm f1.4 @ 50mm . f1.6 . 1/1600″ . ISO 320 . Classic Chrome
If you are new to photography and attempt to step one step up from mobile photography, I think this is a good camera to buy and take photos with. You will not be disappointed with the results and get to explore the magic of the Fujifilm film simulations.
Conclusion
I do not share the other benefits of the X-M5, and that is the videography portion. I have very minimal videography knowledge, and I do not think I am the right person to share. Nonetheless, this camera comes with a 6.2k open gate recording in 10-bit. This is a huge move for an entry-level camera, or at least I have not encountered one yet from any brand. It also comes with a good-positioned microphone/remote release connector.
The camera’s compact design does come with a few compromises. The handling is not ideal, but this can be improved with an additional grip. The absence of an EVF can be addressed with an optical viewfinder, though it works best with 27mm focal length lenses. The lack of IBIS can be compensated by using lenses with OIS, and Fujifilm offers a solid selection of OIS lenses beyond the kit lens, such as the XF16-80mm, XF80mm macro, and XF70-300mm. That said, I’m personally fine without IBIS, as my shooting style hasn’t changed significantly, and I shot with the X-T2 and X-T3 for a long time without major issues.
Fuji X-M5 . Brightin Star 50mm f1.4 @ 50mm . f1.4 . 1/250″ . ISO 320 . Nostalgic Negative
What I miss the most are the dials found on my X-T5, like the ISO dial and shutter speed dial. I really appreciate those dials because they provide quick access and setup for certain unique shooting situations. As a result, I don’t miss many important moments. That said, I usually preset my camera settings and stick to them most of the time, so I rarely need to adjust the dials during a shoot. As for X-M5, there are options to reconfigure or remap the command settings using the available buttons, so I recommend assigning your most frequently used functions to the buttons you use less often.
Despite these compromises, the X-M5 is still a great camera, offering excellent value for those looking to try Fujifilm. It provides a fantastic introduction to the beautiful film simulations Fujifilm is known for. With the new X-Processor 5 and the improved autofocus algorithm, the autofocus performance and the subject tracking are impressive. Additionally, the X-Trans 4 sensor continues to deliver excellent image quality.
Disclaimer: 1. All the shots taken here are shot by me. 2. All of the shots are straight out of the camera with some edited via In-Camera Raw Processing. 3. The photos are resized to 30% of the original size except for cropped ones. If you wish to see the original file, contact me and I will be happy to share it with you. 4. I reserve ownership of these images, if you wish to use my images, please notify me. 5.The opinions are based on my experience. If there is any mistake, please kindly drop me a message and I will gladly make the amendment.
The XF18-55mm f/2.8-4 is undeniably one of the most standout lenses in Fujifilm’s X-mount lineup. Even Chris and Jordan of Petapixel agreed too. It is also my very first lens with my very first X-Mount camera.
XF16-50mm f2.8-4.8
So Fujifilm has given us it’s successor: XF16-50mm f2.8-4.8 R LM WR. Do you think it is a worthy one?
Intro
The long-waited premium kit lens was announced together with the X-T50 at the X-Summit Sydney 2024. The focal lengths (in full frame equivalent) is 24mm to 75mm and it is no stranger to us. This focal length was first ever introduce to us in 2013 in a form of XC16-5mm f3.5-5.6 OIS (version II was updated in 2015).
XF16-50mm f2.8-4.8
As stated in the name of this lens, the aperture value is variable throughout the lens. This means it’s maximum aperture is f2.8 at 16mm and f4.8 at 50mm.
Before I dive in further, I want to extend my thanks to Ms. Carmen, Marketing Manager at Fujifilm Singapore, for lending the XF16-50mm for review. As of the publication of this review, the lens unit has been returned to Fujifilm Singapore.
Design and Build Quality
When I first saw this lens at the launch event, I was impressed by its size. Visually, it is very similar to the XF18-55mm in size. In terms of built quality, it is the same as the new generation XF lenses. Solid and well-built.
XF16-50mm f2.8-4.8
At 240 grams, it feels light on the hand, and due to its compact size, it is easy to hold too. Here comes the first thing that I like about the lens. It is internal zoom, which means it does not protrude when I zoom in and also does not feel “lost balance” when I use the lens at tele. Fujifilm has developed several internal zoom lenses, such as the XF8-16mm f2.8, XF18-120mm f4, and XF150-600mm f5.6-8. Another benefit of having internal zoom is for videographers but I am not about the small aperture value at 50mm.
It comes with an Aperture Mode Switch, which allows the photographer to choose if he/she wants to control the aperture by himself/herself or leave it to the camera to decide for you.
A little bit more about the aperture ring. Unlike Fujifilm prime lenses, it does not have aperture values labeled on the ring. It is simply a “controller” that continues to rotate regardless of whether it has reached its maximum or minimum aperture value, in either direction (clockwise or counterclockwise). The aperture ring is clicky and less stiff than the one on the prime lenses. Anyway, you need to take note of the aperture value before you shoot as you might accidentally rotate the aperture ring without noticing.
This lens is designed to resolve the X-Trans CMOS sensor 5 HR and I think Fujifilm keep their promise.
As a zoom lens, the image quality from this lens is pretty great. It has good sharpness and contrast across all focal lengths. Vignetting is well-controlled and chromatic aberration is nowhere to be seen. This is what I have expected from Fujifilm.
However, the rendering of the background/off focus blur varies as you zoom. That’s because it is a variable apertures lens. But it is still able to give a good amount of separation between the off-focus and subject. This is normal for a variable zoom lens as oppose to prime lens.
As for sun star, it is there if you need it in your shot but the result is not the finest one out there in the market.
Since it comes with a Linear Motor, I am not expecting a poor autofocus performance from this. I was not disappointed. Although it is not as instantaneously focused and locked onto the subject as fast as the prime lenses, it is still pretty decent for a zoom lens. The autofocus is snappy across all focal lengths. Even when it is under a low-light situation, it’s performance is slightly poor but still very good for day-to-day use.
What I like about this lens is the MFD. It comes with a fixed 24cm. Meaning the MFD does not change when you change your focal length. This also means that this lens is capable of shooting at a close-up of an object. It is even closer than Sigma 18-50mm at 50mm (which is at 30cm).
However, the lens optics do exhibit some loss in image quality, leading to softer and less contrasty results. But it looks fine if you don’t pixel-peeping.
Price Point
It is priced the same as the XF18-55mm (currently not in stock in B&H) at 699 USD. Do you think the price is steep? I think it is a little steep for a kit lens but on second thought, it is a premium one. That’s probably explain why.
Yes if your camera is not equipped with In-Body Image Stabilization (IBIS). Unless you are fine with higher ISO under low-light situations, you might struggle to take steady shots at 50mm due to low shutter speed.
No, if your camera is already equipped with the IBIS like the X-H2S, X-H2, X-T5, X-S20, etc., then the IBIS will help out for steady shots at low shutter speed.
Who is this for?
This is a good lens for a beginner to pick up and it is a very versatile lens that covers most genres. It’s also beneficial for photographers to identify their most frequently used focal length before delving into more specific options.
Also, it is good for travelers who prefer to keep their setup as light as possible and as minimal as possible; like pairing up with the new camera, X-T50.
Conclusion
It is a small and also an all-propose lens. During my testing period, it is delightful to use together with the X-T50. However, is it timed correctly for its launch? I’m uncertain. Nowadays, there are plenty of third-party lenses available, such as the Sigma 18-50mm and Tamron 17-70mm. The XF16-50mm might face tough competition in winning over photographers’ favor.
Having said that, I am not saying it is a bad lens to pick up. I would advise photographers who are interested to visit a camera store and try it out before deciding which lens suits them best. The XF16-50mm is a good replacement for the XF18-55mm but it doesn’t hold the same place in my affection that the XF18-55mm does.
XF16-50mm f2.8-4.8 with lens hood
Thank you for reading.
Disclaimer: 1. All the shots taken here are shot by me. 2. Most of the shots are straight out of the camera with some shots edited via In-Camera Raw Processing. 3. The opinions are based on my experience. If there is any mistake, please kindly drop me a message and I will gladly make the amendment. 4. I reserve ownership of these images, if you wish to use my images, please notify me.
If you like my works, please follow me on either one of the 2 Instagram accounts:
Many are aware that the X-T30II, released in 2021, is not a true successor to the 2019 X-T30, and there have been no indications of a potential upgrade in this mid-range category during these years. At one juncture, I even considered the possibility of this series being discontinued.
Fujifilm X-T50Fujifilm X-T50
Now, the much-anticipated X-T50 has finally arrived. Does it represent a significant improvement over the X-T30?
Intro
X-T50 is the fifth iteration of the X-T double-digit series. It was announced at the X Summit Sydney 2024 in May.
X-T(xx) series has always been the little brother of the X-T(x) series. They share something similar, but also something different to set them apart. This is no different for this generation. But the gap is sort of getting closer.
Before continuing, I want to extend my thanks to Ms. Carmen, Marketing Manager at Fujifilm Singapore, for lending the X-T50 for review. As of the publication of this review, the camera unit has been returned to Fujifilm Singapore.
Design, Build Quality, Handling & The Shutter…
X-T50 still gives a nostalgic feel like its predecessors but takes a different camera design approach. The camera is more rounded now and has a deeper hand grip design. Some photographers might dislike it, but I love this design.
With the deeper hand grip design, the ergonomic handling is way better than its predecessors. I remember I felt that I always needed an additional hand grip to make myself feel more secure in those days. Just to let you know, my little pinky still hanging out but the handling now feels more secure with this X-T50.
Having said that, mounting bigger lenses like XF70-300mm or XF56mm f1.2 WR still has the common problem of heavier lenses over the camera body which makes the balancing of the camera handling experience off. I suggest getting an additional hand grip for better balancing. If you are using compact lightweight lenses, it handles perfectly fine.
It has a 2-way tilt screen (like the X100V/VI) with 1.84 million dot resolution and a 2.36 million dot electronic viewfinder (EVF). A little disappointed with the EVF as it still uses the same resolution as the X-T30II but is still usable. On the bright side, it has improved 3-inch screen resolution from 1.04 million dot resolution.
(In comparison to X-T5, it is 3-way tilt 3-inch screen with 1.84 million dot resolution and 3.69 million dot resolution EVF.)
As compared to X-T5, the mechanical shutter seems to be “heavier” in the X-T50. Probably due to the size of the camera body, I can feel the shutter movement more than the X-T5. It is not a deal breaker for me but just my observation.
Sensor and Processor
The X-T50 comes with the X-Trans CMOS sensor 5 HR and the X-Processor 5, which shares similarities with X-H2, X-T5, and X100VI. I think I do not need to explain how good is it with this combination.
While the image quality is subjective to the lenses I have mounted on, it is the same as what I have expected from the X-Trans CMOS sensor 5 HR and the X-Processor 5.
The image quality is exceptionally great if you pair up with the new generation of Fuji lenses. In short, you will not be disappointed with the results.
Performance
In general, the performance is pretty close to its elder sibling. The tracking system behaved the same. I have no issue with eye-AF tracking, train tracking, and bike training during my test. They pick up and lock up as they should be.
Not surprised that Fujifilm implemented the IBIS but what surprised me is that Fujifilm did not skim down on the IBIS compensation. The IBIS in the X-T50 shares the same 7-stops of compensation like the latest X-H2S, X-H2, X-T5 and X-S20.
In layman’s terms, the IBIS works very well. If you read about it in my other reviews. It can achieve similar results with a similar lens setup. In my daily life, I do not encounter any blurred results unless it is intended.
Battery Life
While it still uses the NP-W126S battery instead of the bigger NP-W235 battery, I managed to squeeze about 550 shots on average. (In my test, I switch on the camera to shoot, switch off when not in use, and transfer about 50 photos.) According to CIPA, it is about 305 shots.
I understand that it is not an impressive number based on today’s standards. But battery is always not an issue in my opinion. The batteries are not bulky or difficult to keep inside my camera bag so I always bring 3 – 4 batteries everywhere I go.
Feedback
40 megapixels provides ample resolution, especially for RAW files, which is substantial. Looking ahead, I hope Fujifilm considers offering photographers the option to choose between small, medium, and large resolution settings for RAW files, similar to what they currently offer for JPEGs.
At $1399 USD, it competes in a price range where other brands offer cameras with larger sensors, which is worth considering.
However, I always advise photographers to thoroughly research their purchase because they’re investing in a system, not just a brand. Consider not only the initial camera cost but also the investment in lenses and their availability. It’s important to focus on what lenses are currently available from both the manufacturer and third-party suppliers, rather than relying on future promises or aspirations.
The X mount system has evolved significantly, offering a wide range of lens options today, including a variety of third-party offerings.
Others
There are a few more things that set the X-T50 and X-T5 apart and here are some of them. The first one is a single SD card slot against dual. The second one is X-T50 comes with a pop-up flash while X-T5 doesn’t has one. The last one is the mechanical shutter, where X-T50 can only go as fast as 1/4000s whereas 1/8000s on X-T5.
NP-W126s battery slot and SD card slotThe Pop-up FlashMic-in port, USB-C port and mini-HDMI port
There is one very bold change that I did not mention earlier and it is the Drive mode dial. It has been replaced by the new Film Simulation dial. While I am not sure if everyone loves this new change, I enjoy using it. It gives me an instantaneous switch of film simulations at ease.
I know we can switch film simulations via the “Q” function, but switching the film simulations via the dial is an enjoyable process.
The Film Simulation Dial
The dial also has three additional custom/programmable FS positions, allowing you to assign to Pro Negative, Eterna, standard Monochrome, and Sepia film simulations. For “C” function, basically allows you to control the film simulations via the “Q” function and also allows you to use your customized film simulations.
One small feature that further endears me to the camera is its design: the “play” button is noticeably more prominent than the “delete” button. This not only makes it easier to distinguish between the two but also enhances the satisfaction of pressing the buttons.
Lastly, it does not come with the 4 ways selector buttons.
Who is this for?
It is a good mid-range camera. If you are holding on to the first three generations of this series (X-T10, X-T20 and X-T30), I think X-T50 is a good upgrade. No doubt it is priced higher than the predecessors, but I think it is a good investment for years to come. Oh yes, you can continue to use the same NP-W126S battery.
If you are new to photography and want to use Fujifilm as your camera, the X-T50 is a good camera to allow you to explore. Although the X-T30II is still in the available in the market, I believe that the X-T50 is a better investment to choose from.
Conclusion
I initially believed it might share the same configuration as the X-S20, but that assumption proved incorrect. Fujifilm has not compromised on the internals; instead, they’ve maximized the potential of this sensor and processor, offering more photographers the opportunity to experience it.
In my view, the X-T50 stands out as a capable mid-range camera for photography. Its compact size and only weighs slightly over 440 grams makes it ideally suited for use with compact to mid-size lenses, which, in my opinion, generally fulfills the needs of most photographers.
Thank you for reading.
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Disclaimer: 1. All the shots taken here are shot by me. 2. All of the shots are straight out of the camera with some edited via In-Camera Raw Processing. 3. The photos are resized to 30% of the original size except for cropped ones. If you wish to see the original file, contact me and I will be happy to share it with you. 4. I reserve ownership of these images, if you wish to use my images, please notify me. 5.The opinions are based on my experience. If there is any mistake, please kindly drop me a message and I will gladly make the amendment.
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This is the 3rd of the abovementioned series. To be honest, I actually took the shots with both Sigma 23mm and XF23mm in October last year but it slipped my mind to share it. Recently, someone on the FB page asked about the comparison between these 2 lenses. From there, then I recall I had done that and started to dig around my hard drive.
Left: Sigma 23mm f1.4 Right: XF23mm f1.4 WR
Of course, like the past 2 posts, this comparison is not scientific, nothing technical or chart board to take reference and compare. All the photos are taken in my house.
Left: Sigma 23mm f1.4 Right: XF23mm f1.4 WR
The comparison is simple. Shoot at the respective lens’s Minimum Focus Distance (MFD), approximately 50cm and 100cm. Apertures range from wide-open, f2.8, and f4.
For a note, the MFD for the lenses are as of below: Sigma 23mm – 25cm XF23mm – 20cm
At MFD, XF23mm performs better in terms of sharpness at wide open and closer MFD. On the other hand, Sigma 23mm is a little bit softer at wide open but gets better from f2.8 and f4.
For 50cm and 100cm, the Sigma 23mm is a little bit softer at wide open as compared to the XF23mm. Otherwise, all other aperture values for Sigma 23mm are pretty on par with the XF23mm. If you don’t compare both directly, the Sigma 23mm is good.
In terms of value for money, I think Sigma is the better choice. You can save money on other lenses or accessories. If you are looking for the best of the best at this point, then the latest XF23mm will be your only choice in the market. What do you think?
Left: Sigma 23mm f1.4 Right: XF23mm f1.4 WR
Thank you for reading.
Disclaimer: 1. All the shots taken here are shot by me. 2. All shots are straight out of the camera. 3. The opinions are based on my experience. If there is any mistake, please kindly drop me a message and I will gladly make the amendment. 4. I reserve ownership of these images, if you wish to use my images, please notify me.
This is the second of the above-mentioned series. I have recently tested the Viltrox 27mm and much earlier with the TTArtisan variant and the Fuji variant. So in the name of fun, I am trying to compare the image quality among the 3.
From left to right: XF27mm, Viltrox 27mm, TTArtisan 27mm
Of course, this comparison is not scientific, nothing technical or chart board to take reference and compare. Photos are taken in my house.
The comparison is simple. Shoot at the respective lens’ Minimum Focus Distance (MFSD), at approximately 50cm and 100cm. Apertures range from wide-open, f2 (only applies to Viltrox), f4, and f5.6.
For a note, the MFD for the lenses are as of below: Viltrox 27mm – 28cm XF27mm – 34cm TTArtisan 27mm – 35cm
In my opinion, Viltrox seems to be the better one in overall performance out of the 3 and it also has a very usable MFD. Of course, better image quality comes with some sacrifice: weight and price. It is selling at a retail price of 549 USD as compared to XF27mm at 399 USD and TTArtisan 27mm at 159 USD. So which one will you get? Image quality over everything? or Striking a balance between image quality and weight? or Getting the best value?
Thank you for reading.
Disclaimer: 1. All the shots taken here are shot by me. 2. All shots are straight out of the camera. 3. The opinions are based on my experience. If there is any mistake, please kindly drop me a message and I will gladly make the amendment. 4. I reserve ownership of these images, if you wish to use my images, please notify me.
If you like my works, please follow me on either one of the 2 Instagram accounts:
I can still remember the Fuji X-S10 surprised the world when it was announced back in 2020. The SLR-style mirrorless camera not only surprised the Fuji community but also gained unexpected popularity from outside the Fuji community. It was a successful product. 3 years later, Fujifilm introduced the successor, X-S20, to the world. Is it attractive for the community again?
Fuji X-S20 with XF23mm f1.4 WR
Fujifilm takes a good approach to introduce its new camera in the X-Summit Bangkok and I think it is a good move. Bangkok is one of the most popular cities for tourism and this is probably one of the best Fuji cameras for travel they are possibly the best match to showcase everything.
Fuji X-S20 with XF30mm f2.8
I also take the opportunity to bring the review unit to Bangkok and try to experience the X-S20 the same way Yuji Igarashi San and Mr. Ekkarat Punyatara have in the X-Summit (sort of).
Fuji X-S20 with XF30mm f2.8
Before I continue further, I would like to thank Ms. Carmen, Marketing Manager of Fujifilm Singapore, for arranging and loaning the X-S20 for review. By the time this post is online, the camera unit had returned back to Fujifilm Singapore.
Over here, I am sharing my opinion from a photographer’s point of view. That’s because I am not a videographer and I have limited knowledge about videography. Pardon me.
Design, Build Quality, Handling & The Shutter…
The overall design of the X-S20 is almost identical to the X-S10 with just a little change in length (127mm against 126mm), and a deeper hand grip. But what changes the most is the internal parts. First thing, it has upgraded the X-Processor to the 5th generation while keeping the X-Trans 4 sensor. Secondly, the battery has been upgraded to NP-W235. It is a great move because there was quite a lot of feedback about the NP-W126 battery life. Lastly, improvements on the ports and buttons.
The build quality gives a premium feel and does not feel like a polycarbonate-built camera, which I think is great. Unfortunately, it does not come with weather-sealed. I guess we can look forward to its successor. At 491 grams (including battery and memory card), this camera is light to carry (but also subject to what lenses you are mounting it with).
I have a big hand and my little pinky is left out with this camera but I love holding this X-S20 handgrip. I remember that mounting big lenses on the X-S10 may leave very little room space for the finger to hold the grip. With the new slightly longer and slightly slimmer grip than the X-S10, this X-S20 is more comfortable and better with the big lenses.
As for the shutter, it does not have the same satisfying mechanical shutter feedback as the X-T5 but it is just fine. Nothing to shout about.
Do note that the X-S20 is not a weather-sealed/resistance camera, if you come across heavy rain, snow, etc., do protect your camera.
Sensorand Processor
Is it a disappointment to have the old X-Trans 4 sensor? Not for me. This is a very capable sensor and it does not show its “age” just yet. I love the 26 megapixels resolution as it is a very good sweet spot for me. Yes, I do have the X-T5 and I thought 40 megapixels would make my photography life a happier one. Not quite meaningful for me after all as I don’t have a cropping habit, I do not print, and lastly, 40 megapixels resolution is quite taxing to my hard disk space.
Having a new processor, X-Processor 5, co-exist with the sensor is a good move. It actually helps to lower power consumption, improve battery life, and also helps to improve overall performance like auto-focus speed and tracking algorithm. I think it is a win-win situation.
For a note: since it is using the X-Trans 4 sensor, the base ISO is ISO 160 and not the ISO 125 like the one found in the X-Trans 5 HR sensor.
Image Quality
The pros and cons of the X-Trans 4 remain the same in this X-S20. While the image quality is much dependent on the glass we put in front of the sensor, I have no complaints about it if I used a premium Fuji prime lens.
Personally, I love the color produced by this sensor. I have no idea why but the film simulations such as the Classic Chrome and the Classic Negative seem to be better than the one found in X-Trans 5. Again it’s a personal feeling towards it.
The performance of the camera is associated with the lens it is paired with. In my course of testing, the camera works just fine and performs decently well. The camera has no issue with the third-party autofocus lenses I have on hand. (Anyway I am not expecting something weird.)
When comes to autofocus tracking, I can feel that it is more sticky to the subject than I had with the X-S10 and the autofocus tracking is also capable of tracking an object pretty far away. My guess is that the new processor provides a good improvement over here.
IBIS
With the rating at 7.0 stops, I have no scientific way to prove if the IBIS is 7 stops effective. It is also 1 stop improvement over the predecessor’s 6 stops. In layman’s testing, I am about to handheld with my XF23mm f1.4 WR at approximately 1 second.
Of course, I do have hits and misses due to my shaky hands but I think IBIS helps to reduce the motion blur caused by shaky hands and the camera shakes when I do the shutter press. If you have a more steady pair of hands, I think it will perform even better. Do note that a high shutter speed will not automatically activate the IBIS function.
Battery Life
Yuji Igarashi San took up the challenge to take over 1000 shots with the X-S20 in the X-Summit Bangkok. 1000 shots is a high benchmark for Fujifilm and I am not doubting Yuji San’s challenge will fail. At the end of the X-Summit, he shared that he had taken 1033 shots with 1 bar of battery left.
So I am very curious over here how many more shots can I take with 1 full bar of battery? So in my Bangkok trip, it took me about 2.5 days to use up one NP-W235 battery and I have a total of 1394 shots. That’s a whopping 40% more than what Fujifilm has claimed in the X-Summit.
Left: 1340 shots with 1% battery left. Right: A total of 1394 shots taken with one NP-W235 battery (shot was taken after the battery replaced)
In case someone wonders, my usage behavior is that I will turn off the camera after each use and on again. The term “use” is usually about 1-3 shots. I also use the X-app to transfer approximately 50 shots over a span of a 2.5-day period. While I believe not everyone has the same behavior as me, I suggest you consider changing to another fully charged battery when you hit between 900-1000 shots. Unless you are as adventurous as me, I think this is a safer benchmark for everyone to use.
While there is not much “fault” that I can find with this camera throughout the test, there is one thing that I wish that Fuji would consider implementing a focus mode button like the one found in X-H2 and X-H2S (the fn3 button default setting). I know there is a “Q” function for quick access, but having the focus mode button at the bottom right corner would allow the photographer to access the focus mode even faster.
Another thing I wish to feedback on is the joystick. Since the X-S20 does not have the directional buttons like the X-T5, I hope the successor will come with a bigger joystick for navigation.
Others
The Electronic View Finder remains the same as its predecessor at 0.62x magnification and 2.36 million dot resolution. It is good enough to use but we always hope to have something bigger and better.
Like the X-S10, it comes with a built-in flash which is a nice gesture and good to have for “just in case” situations when one needs it.
In case you are a film simulation lover like me, X-S20 has the latest Nostalgic Negative film simulation. It’s a nice touch to have the newest (but not so new) film simulation integrated into this camera.
In my testing, I did encounter a high temperature warning just once and that was under the 11 a.m. sun. I understand that such a thing might happen for a camera that compacts. Anyway, there is a FAN-001 accessories that is meant for videography purposes for X-H2S and X-H2, it works on X-S20 as well.
Lastly, there is a compact charging brick included in the package, along with the typical accessories like a camera strap and USB-C cable. I do know that the packages vary across countries and regions. So the one that you received might not have the charging brick.
Who is this for?
If you are a new photographer or attempting to switch to a new system or get a second camera system, I think this is one of the best cameras for photographers to enter into Fujifilm and access their rich lens choices (including a lot of third-party lenses). But this upgrade might not be sufficient enough for the X-S10 photographers to upgrade.
X-S20 is lightweight and capable camera. The upgrade in X-S20 is positive and considerably huge. They introduce quite a fair bit of improvement for the camera, but what I love the most is the NP-W235 battery and the brand new X-Processor 5 plus X-Trans 4 sensor. This is a new combination and this also shows how capable the combination of the processor and the battery can be. 1000+ shots are just incredible.
With the right lens, holding the X-S20 is a joy. It does not strain my waist after one whole day of holding it around. Nothing is more important than traveling comfortably with a powerful compact camera like it.
With the success of this X-S20, I hope that the X-T30II and X-E4 successor will continue with this combination.
Fuji X-S20
Thank you for reading.
Disclaimer: 1. All the shots taken here are shot by me. 2. Most of the shots are straight out of the camera with some shots edited via In-Camera Raw Processing. 3. The opinions are based on my experience. If there is any mistake, please kindly drop me a message and I will gladly make the amendment. 4. I reserve ownership of these images, if you wish to use my images, please notify me. 5. The camera firmware is 1.1.
If you like my works, please follow me on either one of the 2 Instagram accounts:
02 June is a public holiday, a day to celebrate Vesak Day, and it is also a day to witness the launch of Fujifilm X-S20 and XF8mm f3.5 in Singapore.
Last year, Fujifilm held the launch of the X-H2S at Monti At 1-Pavilion Italian Restaurant and Rooftop Bar. This year Fujifilm holds the launch event at KOMA at Marina Bay Sands.
There was a long queue of guests waiting to get registered and enter the restaurant. There are some photographers who signed up for their camera sensor cleaning and will have to pass their cameras to the Fujifilm staff before entering the event.
After walking past the torii, we are greeted by a big iconic bell of KOMA.Left: William Chua, X-Photographer, with model Right: Host presenting X-S20 and XF8mm f3.5Iwata San and Mindy Tan, X-PhotographerThe invited photographersThe X-Series Lenses
The X-S20 and XF8mm f3.5mm. Probably the best combo for vloggers.
Not forgetting to take the food photography
Photo taken with X-S20Photo taken with X-S20The Instax Link Printer!And finally to have my photo taken and printed by the Instax Link Printer!
As the title suggests, please take this comparison with a pinch of salt. It’s just for fun and nothing too technical to share and discuss. This is something I did not try before but there is always a first time.
First thing first, why compare these 2 lenses? My reason is simple. They are approximately the same size and same price range (approximately 150 USD different) for brand new. Some might suggest why not compare the Sigma 18-50mm with the XF 16-55mm instead. In my opinion, they are not the same size and you can buy 2 of the Sigma 18-50mm lenses and have some cash left. To cut things short, they are in a different league.
Here we go.
Left: Sigma 18-50mm f2.8 @ f2.8. Right: XF 18-55mm f2.8 – 4 @ f2.8. Shoot at approximately 50 cm. Both at 18mm.
Left: Sigma 18-50mm f2.8 @ f2.8. Right: XF 18-55mm f2.8 – 4 @ f2.8. Shoot at 30 cm. (XF 18-55mm minimim focus distance). Both at 18mm.Sigma 18-50mm @ f2.8 @ 18mm . minimum focus distance @ 12.1 cm
Left: Sigma 18-50mm f2.8 @ f2.8 @ 50mm. Right: XF 18-55mm f2.8 – 4 @ f4 @ 55mm. Shoot at approximately 100 cm.
Sigma 18-50mm f2.8 @ f2.8 @ 50mm. Shoot at approximately 100 cm.
In conclusion: Despite having 5mm shorter than the Fuji, Sigma has more versatility. All thanks to the capability of shooting at a much closer Minimum focus distance at both wide and tele ends. As for image quality, I think they come in quite close together. What do you think? Are you willing to sacrifice the aperture ring and the metal build lens to opt for a Sigma 18-50mm f2.8?
Thank you for reading.
Disclaimer: 1. All the shots taken here are shot by me. 2. All shots are straight out of the camera. 3. The opinions are based on my experience. If there is any mistake, please kindly drop me a message and I will gladly make the amendment. 4. I reserve ownership of these images, if you wish to use my images, please notify me.
If you like my works, please follow me on either one of the 2 Instagram accounts:
Alwin Kok 