Fujifilm has announced the return of the X-E camera line with the brand new X-E5. Along with the X-E5, Fujifilm has introduced a new pancake lens for the system, the highly requested XF 23mm F2.8 WR pancake lens. Launched as an optional camera kit, the X-E5 marks the return of Fujifilm’s interchangeable rangefinder-style digital camera, utilizing the company’s newest technology. Fujifilm was kind enough to send us a First Look at a pre-production copy for testing.
My first Fujifilm Camera was an X-E4, so when I heard that Fujifilm was bringing back the X-E, I was really excited to see what had changed since they discontinued the line nearly two years ago. The X-E5 uses the 40.2 megapixel X-Trans 5 HR sensor and the X-Processor 5, which is the same combination inside the X-T50, X100VI, X-T5, and X-H2. Fujifilm has also added in-body stabilization (IBIS) for the first time in the X-E camera system. The addition of IBIS opens up incredible opportunities for shooting in new environments and conditions that you may have been apprehensive about undertaking in the past.
Fujifilm decided to pair the X-E5 with the Fujifilm XF23mm F2.8 WR Pancake lens. This lens has been one of the most requested and sought-after lenses for the Fujifilm X system, and it truly is the perfect pairing for the X-E5. The lens was enjoyable to shoot with, quick to focus, very compact, and weather resistant, which is everything you can hope for in a Fujifilm pancake lens.
I had the camera for about five days, and anytime I went out for a walk or went out for a drive, it was right next to me. The size made it very easy to travel and explore; it never got in the way, and it was easy to stuff into a bag or even a pocket with the pancake lens. The camera has a similar size and form factor to the X100VI but has the additional massive benefit of interchangeable lenses. On a few occasions when I needed a bit more reach, I was very happy to be able to pull out a longer lens. On the few occasions I didn’t have access to a longer lens, I was able to use the digital teleconverter to get a 2x zoom. With the 40 megapixel sensor, even fully zoomed in, I still had a lot of information to work with. One of my favorite aspects of this camera is its power and versatility. It is a perfect camera if you want the size of the X100 but are interested in using Fujifilm’s 30+ X mount lenses. I would even say it would make a great backup camera for those using the X-T5 or X-H2 who want something smaller but don’t want to compromise on power.
Comparison of Digital Zoom
One of my favorite aspects of Fujifilm cameras is their color quality and dedication to a film-like shooting experience through the design and film emulations. With the release of the X-E5, Fujifilm added a dedicated film emulation dial, making it quick and easy to adjust your emulation on the go. The best part of the dial is the three spaces on it for setting your Customizable Film Simulation. The dedicated dial made it so easy to shift between the different emulation and custom settings I use while shooting. Along with the new film emulation dial, Fujifilm has created a design for the rangefinder EVF on the camera called Simple View. The Simple View is a really unique effect; essentially, it changes the look of the viewfinder image to closely replicate analog SLR viewfinders, with your exposure information being displayed on the bottom of the screen in red analog characters and an exposure needle on the right side of the screen. This feature really added a new, fun, more analogue-like feel to my shooting experience.
The Fujifilm X-E5 is an impressive and fitting return to the line. The new XF23 Pancake lens is the perfect companion to the camera, and even though I was only using a pre-production model of the camera, I was super impressed by it. I loved that the camera is so small and portable, but doesn’t lack any power when compared to the X-T5 or X-H2. There was never a moment when I felt limited by the camera’s abilities; it was always ready for whatever I wanted to throw at it. I can see this camera being perfect for existing X100VI shooters who love the size and versatility of the system but are looking for a little bit more or are curious about the other excellent lenses that Fujifilm has to offer.
Camera Spec Rundown:
- 40.2 megapixel X-Trans 5 HR Sensor
- X-Processor 5
- IBIS (first time in an X-E Camera)
- 7 stops at the center and 6 stops at the edge stabilization
- Rangefinder style EVF
- A newly dedicated film emulation dial is on the top plate with space for personalized emulations.
- Includes a toggle function switch on the front of the camera.
- Digital Tele-Converter with 1.4x and 2x
- Viewfinder includes a new Simple View option, which emulates an analog SLR finder with exposure info at the bottom and a needle on the right.
- XF23mm f2.8 R WR Lens
The Fujifilm X-E5 and XF23mm F2.8 are available at Camera West stores. We invite you to visit one of our locations to see it for yourself or contact us online if you’re interested in learning more.
Test Photos:
