Fujifilm has unveiled the X-E5, a new mirrorless digital camera that combines a compact body with features aimed at a wide range of photographers.
The X-E5 is the latest addition to Fujifilm’s X Series and weighs approximately 445g, offering portability for everyday use. The camera is powered by a 40.2MP back-illuminated X-Trans CMOS 5 HR sensor paired with the high-speed X-Processor 5, which the company states delivers “exceptional results in a range of shooting scenarios, from spontaneous street photography to carefully composed portraits.”
For the first time in the X-E series, the X-E5 introduces a five-axis in-body image stabilisation (IBIS) mechanism. According to Fujifilm, this provides “up to 7.0 stops of stabilisation in the centre of the frame (6.0 stops on the periphery). Whether shooting handheld in low light or on the move, users can enjoy sharper, more stable images.”
Design and handling
The camera debuts a new top plate made entirely from machined aluminium. The company describes this as giving “crisp edges with smooth curves to deliver a refined, tactile feel in hand.” The X-E5 also includes a “Classic Display” mode, which provides a “clean viewfinder with key information placed subtly at the bottom of the frame.” Fujifilm states that this design choice is aimed at helping “creators stay in the moment.”
The overall design continues with other classic elements, including a rope-type shoulder strap and a tapered rear on the top plate for comfort and improved operability. The Film Simulation dial is another new feature, and it includes a “precision-cut indicator window that minimises the gap between dial and body for an exact finish.” The dial allows users to individually set and save Film Simulation and image quality settings to three FS positions.
“Refinement is central to every aspect of X-E5’s design. For example, the viewfinder and diopter adjustment control fit flush with the body. By refining vertical and horizontal elements, the design preserves the essence of a traditional camera while exuding a sophisticated presence.”
Viewfinder and shooting experience
The X-E5 offers a “retro and minimalist ‘Classic Display’ mode for the EVF, inspired by the old film cameras. The information on the EVF has been simplified as much as possible. Combined with a body style that allows you to operate the dials and the lever with one hand, you can immerse yourself in image making with the camera to your eye.”
The camera introduces a Surround View function that displays the area outside the shooting range as a semi-transparent or line pattern, according to the chosen aspect ratio. Fujifilm says “users can easily switch between these two modes using a lever, providing a shooting experience that is similar to an OVF, even though it is an EVF.” A control lever on the front adds customisable options, including switching view modes, changing aspect ratios, and adjusting digital teleconverter magnification.
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echnical features
The company highlights improvements to the gyro sensor and a new algorithm for increased responsiveness to camera shake. “Thanks to the latest technologies, the camera realises 5-axis compensation performance of up to 7.0 stops at the centre and 6.0 stops at the periphery. The compact body is equipped with powerful image stabilisation, allowing for comfortable shooting across a wide range of scenarios.”
A digital teleconverter function provides 1.4x and 2.0x zoom levels. With the high-resolution sensor, Fujifilm says users can “zoom with minimal loss of image quality, making it versatile for a wide range of shooting scenarios.” The rear monitor can tilt and flip up to 180 degrees for varied compositions, including selfies, and the camera supports 6.2K/30P video recording with tracking autofocus.
Sensor and autofocus
The fifth generation X Series sensor is described as the “back-illuminated 40.2 megapixel ‘X-Trans CMOS 5 HR’ sensor.” Fujifilm states, “The latest image processing algorithms deliver high resolution while maintaining a high signal-to-noise ratio.” The improved sensor allows ISO 125 to be used as normal sensitivity and offers fast shutter speeds up to 1/180,000 second via the electronic shutter.
Autofocus is powered by an AI-based subject detection system developed through deep learning technology, which can detect a wide range of subjects, including “animals, birds, cars, motorcycles, bicycles, airplanes, trains, insects, and drones.” The company claims the predictive algorithm “provides high tracking performance for moving subjects and high precision AF in low-contrast environments.”