Fujifilm X-T3, third of its name

And third time is a charm. Just yesterday Canon announced their fullframe mirrorless, Fujifilm just announced the third iteration of the Fujifilm X-T series, the X-T3. This is not a revolution in Fujifilm’s lineup: it is not a switch to fullframe as they do not have to do that, but an improvement.

I bought a Fujifilm X-Pro1 in 2012, pre-ordering it. This was the first generation camera of the series with all its quirks, and back then there was only 3 prime lenses. The X-series lineup is very compelling with many excellent quality and reasonably priced lenses, all in a relatively compact package, thanks to the APS-C sensor size.

Fujifilm X-Pro1 camera
My X-Pro1 setup in February 2017

I haven’t had the chance to see the X-T3 yet. This is based on spec and reviews.

What does the X-T3 brings to the table? It replaces the now 2 years old X-T2, with a wide range of improvements: a newer sensor up to 26Megapixels and a faster processing unit, with faster autofocus. An improved EVF with a faster refresh rate and higher resolution.

New video capabilities make this camera a good contender in the movie camera segment, with native 10bits 4:2:0 internal recording (sadly in HEVC H265), and 4:2:2 on an external recorder. The headphone jack no longer require the battery pack. 4K 30fps no longer crop, only the 60fps is cropped x1.18. The Eterna film simulation found in the X-H1 has been added as well. Sadly the flip out screen found on the X-T100 isn’t part of the upgrade. Fujfilm, pretty please!

Another interesting feature is the sports shooting mode where the captured image is cropped x1.25 allowing the viewfinder can show the outside of the frame, with a burst rate of 30fps.

Hit

  • Added Eterna film profile
  • 1080p at 120fps, 4K in 30fps full frame and 60fps in x1.17 crop
  • new video recording capabilities
  • Mic and headphone jack
  • Two card slots

Miss

  • No flip out screen, unlike the X-T100
  • No in body stabilisation

A welcome update, I’m now holding off to get the X-T3, mainly motivated with my foray into moving pictures.

Cinema5D X-T3 review.