X-T5 x Jakub Cejpek

X-T5: 40 megapixels in the classic body

I have a soft spot for the Fujifilm’s X-T model range. X-T1 was one of the first Fujifilm mirrorless camera that I tried back in 2014, and even the first generation impressed me so much that I purchased one for myself and eventually gave up on full frame DSLR completely. It has been long time since then and many innovations have been developed.

Beloved retro style

After another 8 years and many successful camera models, Fujifilm introduces the fifth generation of the X-T series, and I was given the opportunity to the test it in the field. X-T5 represents quite a major evolution, but its appearance still remains far from flamboyant. There is still the same Fujifilm retro look with classic ISO, time, and EV dials. At first glance, it can be simply mistaken with the cameras from previous generations.

Return of the tilting LCD

I set out to test the new camera in the high mountains, as always. It is a well-known fact that the first impression can be made only once. In that aspect, X-T5 earned its points. All control buttons and dials are in place and hadn’t there been the new badge in the front, it could be easily mistaken with the X-T3 model. The tilting LCD has returned to the newest model! Meanwhile, I have almost got used to the fully articulated display, but the original system still suits me far better. The tilting LCD it easier to use when the microphone it connected, it is centred with the viewfinder and above all, I can operate it with my gloves on.

40 megapixels with stunning details

There is nothing more to say about the exterior, let’s take a look inside. There are quite a few new features. The crucial part is the new X-Trans™ CMOS 5 HR 40-megapixel sensor supported with the X-Processor 5. This combination results in the best quality Fujifilm has ever gained from APS-C sensor. I am fairly impressed with the details. The higher resolution certainly isn’t achieved at the expense of the quality of the image, which remains excellent. In case you aim for larger prints, need significant cropping, or just want to enjoy the image with all its details, you will be amazed. The sensor of new X-T5 is obviously stabilised with IBIS up to 7 EV.

Even higher resolution than we hoped for

For the first time in the X-T series, there is the Pixel Shift Multi Shot function available. It allows you to merge 20 RAF files into one 160-megapixel DNG image. I am quite happy with this new feature. I won’t use it every day, but it is very helpful for those extraordinary images, typically landscapes or architecture shots. You will need a tripod and some extra time, but this is the way how to get the very most out of the new sensor.

Quality lens is a must

The new, high-resolution sensor can only perform at its best when paired with quality lenses. Not all of them are able to transfer so many details. While the fantastic XF 90/2 delivers even better image than before, my beloved zoom lens XF 10-24/4 is struggling in some cases. When in doubt, check the list of Fujinon lenses recommended for the new 40-megapixel sensors.

Unprecedented autofocus

The second best innovative feature is, in my opinion, the new autofocus, especially its subject detecting and tracking abilities. X-T5 uses significantly improved algorithms based on deep learning technologies, which result in precise autofocus even when working with shallow depth of field. This seems like incredible progress to me and suddenly the X-T4’s autofocus feels totally

The list of innovations goes on

There are some more improvements I would like to briefly mention. The base sensitivity has been lowered to ISO 125, which is a great add-on to the 40-megapixel sensor. Electronic shutter enables you to shoot with unimaginable 1/180000 second, and you can shoot continuously up to 15 fps. X-T5 is powered by the same batteries as the previous model and data is stored via dual SD card slots – both suits me very much.

Video functions don’t stay behind

Even though X-T5 is mainly focused on photographers, its video features have also been improved. You can record in 6.2K @ 30 fps, in various formats and with bitrate up to 360 MB/s. The 6.2K resolution uses 1,23 crop factor, which can be a disadvantage when a wide angle is needed, but it can help with detail shots. In my case, the video features and performance of X-T5 are more than sufficient for all my personal and commercial projects. I must also mention the brilliant subject detection once more, which allows you to rely on the autofocus even when recording complicated situations.

Sophisticated evolution

As for myself, X-T5 is currently the best camera from Fujifilm’s range to suit my needs. It is no burden even for more demanding events and it delivers unrivalled performance compared to its size and weight. Like the previous model of the X-T series, it represents a versatile tool for both stills and videos. Now more sophisticated than ever. I find all the innovations in the new X-T5 beneficial and in some cases even profound. I believe it will help me capture stunning mountain landscapes in even greater detail.