Last Updated on 11/16/2016 by Anthony Thurston
Fujifilm is riding a good wave right now as interest in the company’s x-series cameras is higher than ever since the release of its latest flagship offering in the new X-T2. But clearly, not everyone is interested in or can afford a camera like the X-T2, so we wanted to break down the x-series real quick and talk about the available options, an why you may like one over another.
The X-E2 and X-E2s
Starting at the bottom (not counting the unreleased X-A3), in terms of pricing, we have the X-E2/X-E2s. Fujifilm refreshed, kind of, the X-E2 earlier this year with the X-E2s, a camera that was a very minor upgrade over the X-E2 (which is why I am talking about both in the same section). The X-E line is Fujifilm’s entry-level rangefinder styled camera, with the primary difference between it and an X-Pro series camera being no optical viewfinder, just the EVF.
X-E2/2s Highlights
- Great Battery Life
- Pretty quick AF
- Uses Fujifilm’s older 16MP sensor
What we thought in our review: “In all honesty, I have very mixed feelings about the Fujifilm X-E2s. It’s not at all a bad camera–in the hands of any capable professional it’s going to help them create wonderful images. But to be brutally honest here, it seems like Fujifilm held themselves back.” Read the full review
Who should get one?
Those looking to get into the Fujifilm system on the cheap but still get a quality camera for portraits, landscapes, street and who have an affinity for that rangefinder style will love the X-E2s. If you’re interested you can buy one now over on Amazon for $699.
The X-T10
One step above the X-E2/2s is the X-T10, the equivalent camera on the SLR-styled side of the X-Series. The X-T10 is virtually a slightly cut down X-T1 with no weather sealing, and a slightly different body shape. It has great battery life, AF on par with the X-T1, and an extra dial over the X-E2/2s.
X-T10 Highlights
- Great Battery Life
- Pretty quick AF
- SLR-style
- great shadow recovery in RAW files
- Uses Fujifilm’s older 16MP sensor
What we thought in our review: “Fujifilm took a great deal from its award-winning X-T1 and put it in a smaller package for a consumer that can’t reach for fruit as high. The result: a really kick ass camera.” Read the full review
Who should get one?
If you are looking for a step up from the X-E2/X-E2s then your next best bet is the X-T10, which offers an slr-styled body, and a few more creature comforts. However, if you can swing the budget, I would honestly say to go with an X-T1, which right now is only $100 more than the X-T10. That said if you’re interested you can buy one now over on Amazon for $799.
The X-T1
Fujifilm’s most popular and sought after X-series camera to date, the X-T1 offers the vintage style and performance that put Fujifilm on the map. Sure, the X-T2 is now the top dog, but thanks to some aggressive Fujifilm price cuts the X-T1 is now one of the best deals available to APS-C mirrorless shooters.
X-T1 Highlights
- Great Battery Life
- Pretty quick AF
- SLR-style
- Weather Sealing
- Quality build
- Uses Fujifilm’s older 16MP sensor
What we thought in our review: “It’s got the right mix of vintage design and contemporary technology. Granted, the sensor is the same as the X-E2’s, but that isn’t a problem. The X-series is a much-lauded system, and the X-T1 is its strongest player.” Read the full review
Who should get one?
If you are looking for the best that the previous generation of X-Series had to offer, than you need to look no further than the X-T1. This is a workhorse mirrorless camera that will stay out of your way and provide some incredible imaging results. If you’re interested you can buy one now over on Amazon for $899.
The X-T2
Fujifilm’s new refresh of the X-T flagship is nothing short of spectacular, coming very close to closing that gap between DSLR’s and mirrorless. The X-T2 addresses many previous complaints about the old Fujifilm cameras, with significantly improved video performance, an AF joystick, and more.
X-T2 Highlights
- Decent Battery Life
- Very Fast AF with Great Tracking
- SLR-style
- Weather Sealing & Quality build
- Uses Fujifilm’s New 24MP Sensor
- Has the Acros Film Simulation
- Flippy Screen
- AF Joystick
- 4K Video
What we thought in our review: “There is a whole lot to love about the Fujifilm X-T2. It’s got some of the best autofocus of any Fujifilm camera and is very reliable in most situations. The build quality is top notch and that continues to add to its reliability as we found after dropping the camera. The overall ergonomics will appeal to so many people, and then there is the image quality. Overall it’s fantastic.” Read the full review
Who should get one?
Those looking for the absolute best that the X-Series has to offer should set their sights on the X-T2. It is without a doubt Fujifilm’s best camera yet, addressing most issues with the previous generation and bringing in new features as well. If you’re interested you can buy one now over on Amazon for $1799.
The X-Pro2
The rangefinder side of Fujifilm’s dual flagship setup is the X-Pro2, and its known for the special hybrid OVF/EVF and is in most ways equal to that of the X-T2. The biggest differences come in terms of the obvious body design differences, the lack of 4K video and no flip screen.
X-Pro2 Highlights
- Decent Battery Life
- Fast AF with Decent Tracking
- Rangefinder-style
- Weather Sealing & Quality build
- Uses Fujifilm’s New 24MP Sensor
- Has the Acros Film Simulation
- AF Joystick
What we thought in our review: “The camera, which is now holding joint flagship positions with the company’s X-T2, will appeal to those of who were trained on rangefinders. It’s also come a far way from the X Pro 1: with the addition of weather sealing, boosts in ISO performance, a 24MP APS-C sensor up from 16MP, an ISO dial, etc.” Read the full review
Who should get one?
There are a few reason to go with an X-Pro2 over an X-T2 if you are considering the two cameras, the unique rangefinder style if you prefer that will obviously be a reason. As well, the hybrid OVF/EVF is without a doubt an incredible advantage for those who take the time to learn how to use it correctly. Street photographers, portrait photographers, this is a killer camera for your arsenal. If you’re interested you can buy one now over on Amazon for $1549.