The Fuji X-T1 was released in 2014 to celebrate Fujifilm’s 80th anniversary, but the X-T1 (and X-E1) led to a mirrorless camera revolution. As someone who was never satisfied with the design elements of popular DLSR cameras, I immediately understood a design similar to the classic 35mm SLR camera could have its advantages and be more of a flexible, all-around camera. And that’s precisely what the X-T series became for me.
The X-T4 was released when the X-T3 was just over a year old, but the X-T3 sales continued to be strong. I was not too fond of the flip-out style LCD on the X-T4. I don’t take selfies, and I don’t make videos. I was not too fond of the focus on video features. I hated almost everything about the X-T4. The X-T3 was Fujifilm’s top-selling camera of all time. It was only recently discontinued.
On 2 November, Fujifilm announced the X-T5, the latest iteration of their X-T line of cameras. Based on what I have read, the X-T5 will be a hit with photographers like me. To me, the X-T5 is a return to the original design intent of the X-T1, a digital camera inspired by the designs of a classic top-end 35mm film SLR.
I print my images poster size. The 26 megapixels in my X-T3 can get the job done (I use the Raw Details or Super Resolution feature in Adobe Lightroom), but the 40 megapixels in the X-T5 will mean that I don’t have to use software to compensate.
During the Spring, I take a lot of bird photographs, especially of migratory Warblers. It remains to be seen if the faster focus of the X-T5 will improve focus on the lenses, namely the XF100-400mmF4.5-5.6 R LM OIS WR and XF150-600mmF5.6-8 R LM OIS WR. Any improvement in focusing speed will help with photographing fast-moving birds. The addition of IBIS also helps but isn’t crucial. I have very steady hands.
I don’t need or want the battery pack. I’m not too fond of the bulk.
I "Just got to have Nostalgic Negative", though. 🙂
I will upgrade from my X-T3. Ritchie Roesch already preordered his. I will be spending $1700 minus whatever I sell my X-T3 for.
Read some first impressions from photographers I trust.
But whatever technical features a camera has, means nothing if it’s not a piece of gear that you WANT to pick up and shoot with. The X-T5 stays true to the heritage of the X-T line, maybe even more than its predecessor, the X-T4. The classic dials, the sturdy but compact body and the elegant lines inspire me to shoot more and better. ~ Bert Stephani
... while still photography and video have, for all intents and purposes, merged these past years, filming remains a craft that, ultimately, requires its own set of dedicated features and tools. With the recent X-H2S, Fujifilm has created exactly that kind of no-compromise, hybrid shooter.
And now, the X-T5 gets to reclaim its soul. ~ Patrick La Roque
I expect Jonas Rask to do his usual "long read" experience report soon.
I bit. I’m now just using the X-T5
and my trusty X100V. I’m not sure I really need 40mega pixels but it will be the norm eventually. It’s like computer storage ?
Hi David, I didn’t need 26 megapixels when I bought the Fuji X system. But I wanted it, and I found a way to use it. I’m sure you will find a way to use those 40 megapixels. But I think you will need more computer storage for all those incredible images you make.
I am delaying my purchase until the spring holidays. I have another significant acquisition, the XF150-600mmF5.6-8 R LM OIS WR, coming up next month.
@khurtwilliams that's true.
@khurtwilliams yup. I’m using the X-Pro2 with the XF27 WR at the moment and it’s good but I’ve been wanting the X100V since it was announced and moving to 40 MP will finally make me buy it.
Fuji certainly knows how to activate the G.A.S. 🤣
@mangochutney if I had the budget for two digital cameras I would get the 100V. Someday. I’ll make do with an X-T body and the XF27mmF2.8 R WR.
@khurtwilliams man, I’m happy for you. Been thinking of getting one, too but I will attempt to abstain and wait for the X100V successor.
I’ve always lusted after the Sony RX-1 R II but could never justify the spend. The next X100 with a 40 MP sensor will be bought instantly.