It’s about time for an X-Trans upgrade in the Fujifilm X-Series
As was widely publicized when Fujifilm launched their new X-H 1 a while back, their current X-Trans sensor technology dates back to the launch of the X-pro 2. It is a fine sensor, and the X-Processor Pro which accompanies it is solid as well. But in today’s world tech moves fast and three years is a long time. So we can probably expect the next generation of X-Trans to be coming soon. As such, I wanted to take a minute to talk about some of the things on my X-Trans IV wish list.
My X-Trans IV Wish List
Before I really get into what I want for the next generation of Fujifilm cameras I want to take a moment and mention something I do not want. What tops that list is a lot more resolution: the current state at 24MP is plenty and the Fujifilm RAW files at that resolution are already huge. I simply don’t want or need more resolution. Luckily the current reports peg a small jump to 28MP on the next X-Trans sensor, so I am not super worried about this happening.
Ok, so let’s move on to what I would like to see (and this really doesn’t have a ton to do with the sensor or processor directly). The number one thing I would like to see in the next generation would be a new battery. Sony has proved it is possible with their switch to the new z batteries. When asked about this at the X-H1 launch, Fujifilm said they wanted to make sure the battery was compatible with the other Fuji cameras, which is a noble idea, but when that battery is as weak as it is, sometimes you have to make the hard decision.
Another thing I would like to see is a sensor capable of faster readout and better video frame rates. Fujifilm has come a long way with their video capabilities and AF performance, but they can and need to do better if they wish to continue to compete. A sensor capable of faster readout can have AF algorithms that more accurately track their subjects, and are able to display the images live with little to no blackout. In terms of video, it would be great to shoot 4K at 120FPS, or at least 60FPS.
Some of this has to do with the battery, some with the processor and some with the sensor, but one other serious upgrade the X-Series needs is in terms of heat management. That comes from a couple areas, namely; the design of the sensor/processor/battery and other heat producing elements of the camera, and the heat dissipation technology used to keep those components cooler. Fujifilm needs a sensor and processor that can handle extended shooting of stills and video without getting too hot. It is better if they stay fairly cool naturally, but upgrading their heat sinks is an idea as well (sort of like they did with the X-H1). Honestly, this needs to be a priority.
On the results side of the question, I think Fujifilm needs to investigate improving the moiré performance on its cameras. The X-Trans technology is supposed to be better about controlling moiré, yet I’ve experienced some atrocious moiré in my stills at times, and in terms of video performance it pops up even more often. Not only is this embarrassing because of the claims about moiré that Fujifilm has made, but also because it is just bad compared to other cameras out right now.
These are just some of the more pressing things I would like to see addressed with Fujifilm’s next generation. These thoughts are based on my experience with the X-Pro 2 as my primary camera as well as my experience using the other X-Trans III based cameras like the [amazon_textlink asin=’B0759GN2WL’ text=’X-E3′ template=’ProductLink’ store=’thephobl-20′ marketplace=’US’ link_id=’e410df0c-498c-11e8-91be-c1ac0aaf0bcc’] and [amazon_textlink asin=’B079PTRNKK’ text=’X-H1′ template=’ProductLink’ store=’thephobl-20′ marketplace=’US’ link_id=’ebe4810b-498c-11e8-91a6-83ba991ea3e0′]. How about you? What areas do you think Fujifilm can improve the X-Series in their next generation? Leave a comment below and join in the discussion!
