Fujifilm X-E3 vs Fujifilm X-series cameras
Solving the confusion
Let me solve some confusion and misconceptions between the X-E3 and other Fujifilm X-series cameras.
The way Fujifilm has cleverly conceived its X-series, its latest mirrorless cameras are all fitted with the same CMOS III X-Trans sensor.
More precisely, the Fujifilm X-Pro2, X-T2, X-T20 and X-E3 all have the same APS-C “X-Trans CMOS III” sensor, on 24M effective pixels. The different cameras have a different physical body but the same intelligence.
Think of it this way, they are a range of cameras who look different on the outside but are the same on the inside. It’s a little like the same person wearing different clothes — some days with more layers and pockets, some days stripped to the skinny in summer wear.
For example, the X-T20 has got the tilt screen whereas the X-E3 doesn’t.
The X-T2 has got an ISO dial button on the top left, the X-E3 doesn’t. But it has a touch screen with shortcuts which you can use to change ISO. However, the X-T2 doesn’t have a touch screen.
Another example, perhaps an easier comparison- Between the X-T2 and X-T20, there is a $1100SGD price difference. You are paying primarily for the larger electronic view finder.
When people pose the question: Which camera is better?
They really mean : which camera produces a better photographic result?
But in the age of mirrorless cameras, that’s a blind question to ask, given that the sensors and software of these cameras are of equal standing. It is not more difficult for a camera company to install the same software technology in all of their cameras, and there is no reason not to do so in view of value for money for its consumers.
The difference now, is in the physical hardware. A bigger, better leather grip? A tilt-screen? A larger Electronic Viewfinder? A joystick? A touchscreen?
The real question to ask is — How you would like to operate a camera?
If you know that answer, you will know which physical forms you prefer, and how much you are willing to spend for your gear.
This comes down to design and form — Form factor and how you would like to use your cameras.
I’m a dials kind of person. I like everything to be in my face at one glance. I prefer to turn dials then navigate the touch screen. And I shoot manual. So alot of the Q button functions, Drive functions (except for film simulations) are not of priority usage to me. I don’t need them everyday, and only for specific occasions
Therefore, the X-T2 is my workhorse, because it presents the 3 main elements of photography in old school physical dials — the ISO on top left, shutter speed dial on top right, aperture on the lens ring. Super no-brainer. Can change settings with eyes closed and while crossing the road planning my attack on next street subject.
Now back to the newly launched X-E3 whose tagline is MINIMALISM. What is that?
After having the camera for over a month, I asked Fujifilm if they would consider the X-E3 as an X-Pro20 — which doesn’t exist of course, but I feel that’s 80% what it is. A Rangefinder baby.
