Fuji X-E2 arrives with worlds fastest Phase Detect AF
Finally! Fuji has just a few hours ago announced the new X-E2 which they tout as having the “fastest phase detect AF in the world”. This is a bold claim because if it is as fast as the Olympus E-M1 then we finally have something here. It appears that they took the technology of the X100s and put in the X-E2, which is something I have been begging them to do ever since the X100s!
So, will this finally make the X-E Series FAST, ACCURATE and RESPONSIVE? My guess is yes because Fuji knew that was their weakness and they knew it had to be improved.
While many criticized me for speaking the truth about the slow and sometimes inaccurate focus of the X-Pro 1 and X-E1 it was something that had to be said, and without myself and many others saying it Fuji would not have made it a point to improve on it so much to the point of now calling it the fastest AF in the world. I bet those same people who attacked me for speaking the truth will now be raving about how much better the X-E2 is over the X-E1 due to being faster with AF.
But the good news is that the Fuji X-E is finally in its 2nd generation with improvements that will make it much more enjoyable to shoot.
I would have liked to see a beefier build and enhanced design but it appears that has stayed the same, and that is OK.
A fast X-E2 = yet another amazing camera release for us to choose from. I should be able to check it out at Photo plus next week and if so expect a hands on report soon after. I will also eventually do a full review of the X-E2 and a comparison with the E-M1 and eventually the A7r 🙂 It is scheduled to ship on November 20th. I am curious to see how it performs with the 35 1.4 in the AF department.
You can pre-order the Fuji X-E2 at B&H Photo at the links below:
Pre-Order the Fuji X-E2 Body Only in Black
Pre-Order the Fuji X-E2 Body Only in Silver
Pre-Order the Fuji X-E2 and 18-55 Kit Zoom – $1399 – Black
Pre-Order the Fuji X-E2 and 18-55 Kit Zoom – Silver
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More details on the new Fuji X-E2:
16.3MP APS-C X-Trans CMOS II Sensor
A large, 16.3MP, APS-C, CMOS image sensor is integrated into the X-E2 to provide high image quality and detail. Using Fujifilm’s unique X-Trans bespoke pixel array, the sensor is designed with a randomized pixel pattern to eliminate the need of an optical low-pass filter for reducing moiré and aliasing. By removing this filter from the design, higher image sharpness is possible. Lens Modulation Optimizer (LMO) factors are also taken into account using the EXR Processor II, which helps to automatically compensate for aberrations and diffraction blur in order to produce images with the utmost inherent sharpness. The image sensor also integrates over 100,000 phase-detection pixels into the sensor’s design for improved autofocus performance without affecting image quality.
The X-Trans sensor also pairs well with the EXR Processor II to provide highly effective noise reduction and a clean signal-to-noise ratio. This enables smoother-looking imagery that becomes especially apparent when photographing in low-light situations with an expanded sensitivity range of ISO 100-25600.
EXR Processor II
Aside from benefitting low-light performance, the EXR Processor II also provides quick performance throughout the entire camera system. The camera start-up time is about 0.5 seconds, shutter lag is about 0.05 seconds, and the shooting interval time is about 0.7 seconds. Additionally, this processing power provides enough speed to capture full resolution images at a continuous rate of 7 fps for up to 28 consecutive frames.
Intelligent Hybrid AF and Enhanced Manual Focus
Intelligent Hybrid AF is a quick, responsive autofocus system that employs both contrast- and phase-detection methods to acquire focus quickly in a wide variety of lighting conditions and shooting situations. Clear focus can be attained in as little as 0.08 seconds to aid in catching fast-paced movement more easily. Three focus modes are available (AF-S, AF-C, and M) for greater control over how the X-E2 achieves sharp focus. When working with autofocus, the AF area is divided into a 49-point matrix in order to gain clear focus of any type of subject matter. Additionally, a built-in AF assist lamp is available for aiding the focus system when photographing in low-light situations.
When working with manual focus, two additional features can be employed for enhanced critical focusing in a more controllable manner. By using the phase-detection pixels located on the imaging sensor, Digital Split Image technology is able to assist in acquiring precise focus through the implementation of four striped focusing aids; akin to a rangefinder focusing method, once these stripes have been lined up, sharp focus can be ensured. Also contributing to manual focus accuracy, Focus Highlight Peaking has been integrated and enables a more objective system of focusing by way of highlighting sharp edges and lines of contrast once they are in focus.
Classic Camera Design
Featuring a body design reminiscent of film cameras, the X-E2 exhibits a meshing of both analog exposure controls along with intelligent automated technologies. The clean and functional body design incorporates physical shutter speed and +/- 3 EV exposure compensation dials that pair well with the manual aperture rings found on many of the XF lenses for intuitive exposure setting selection. Four different buttons are customizable depending on individual needs and an easily-accessible Q Menu provides a one-touch solution to modifying some of the most frequently used camera settings, such as ISO, white balance, and file settings.
For live view monitoring, image playback, and menu navigation, both a bright, clear 2,360k-dot OLED electronic viewfinder and a 3.0″ 1,040k-dot LCD monitor with reinforced glass construction are available.
Full HD Movie Recording
Full HD 1080p video recording is supported in multiple frame rates up to 60 fps with a high bit-rate of 36Mbps. Full-time AF tracking is available during recording with subject tracking capabilities for ensured sharpness when either the subject is moving or if the camera is moving, panning, or zooming. +/- 2 EV exposure compensation is available during recording as well as the use of Film Simulation settings.
An HDMI port enables high definition playback of movies to an HDTV and the inclusion of a 2.5mm input supports the use of an optional external microphone for enhanced sound quality.
Built-In Wi-Fi Connectivity
Wireless connectivity is built into the camera and allows for instant sharing of images directly to an Android or iOS mobile device. The Fujifilm Camera App allows you to browse the image contents of your camera from your mobile device and transfer both HD videos and up to 30 photos at a time between devices. Sharing of imagery is further expedited by simply pressing and holding the dedicated Wi-Fi button to begin transferring immediately.
Film Simulation Mode and Advanced Filters
Taking advantage of Fujifilm’s vast history in traditional film-based photography, the X-E2 integrates several Film Simulation modes to mimic the look and feel of some Fujifilm’s classic film types. Pulling from their line of transparency films, PROVIA offers natural-looking tones for everyday shooting, VELVIA produces a more dramatic and rich tonality with deeper color saturation, and ASTIA gives less contrast for a softer depiction of skin tones. Mimicking their negative films, PRO Neg. Std. gives smooth image tones that are suitable for accurate color renditions, while PRO Neg. Hi produces a more dramatic feel with the ability to draw color out of a variety of lighting conditions. In addition to the colorful benefits of these Film Simulation modes, there are also monochrome modes that simulate the look of traditional yellow, green, and red black and white contrast filters. A sepia mode is also available for producing an inherently nostalgic look.
Eight Advanced Filters are also available to creatively enhance the look of imagery, and include: High Key, Low Key, Soft Focus, Toy Camera, Miniature, Pop Color, Dynamic Tone, and Partial Color (Red, Orange, Yellow, Green, Blue, Purple).
Other Camera Features
An in-camera RAW converter lets you record your images in 14-bit RAW and process them prior to computer-based editing procedures. This process enables you to modify the exposure, white balance, and other controls directly through the menu interface. Additionally, for more thorough processing of files, RAW File Converter software is included for RAW image processing on your computer.
Multiple exposure mode gives you the ability to overlay imagery in-camera. When working in this mode, subsequent exposures can be paired and the final appearance can be previewed on the LCD or in the EVF before making the final exposure.
Motion panorama mode allows you to record expansive views up to 360° wide in a seamless, sweeping manner.
A built-in Super Intelligent pop-up flash provides additional illumination to imagery for photographing in dark conditions. Additionally, a hot shoe is available for use of optional external flashes.
Four different auto bracketing modes are available: Dynamic Range, Film Simulation, AE, and ISO Sensitivity.
The included NP-W126 battery enables approximately 350 frames to be recorded per charge.
Interesting thread! I am currently using an EM-1 which I have had for 2 weeks now. I ordered the new 12-40 2.8 lens, the 17mm 1.8 and just put in an order for the 25mm Panasonic/Leica 1.4. After taking the camera on vacation last week and shooting my step daughters birthday today, I must say, that while the build quality and auto focus have been impressive, the IQ is just not there. My images are soft, and the dynamic range of the images is lacking compared to my Canon 7d and my Sony Nex-6. Both of these cameras produce much better and realistic colors than the Olympus, especially in lower light settings. I am beginning to believe that the Micro 4/3 sensor is just too small to compete with the APS-C sensors.
I decided today that I will be returning the EM-1 and gear in exchange for the Fuji XE2 with a couple of lenses. I still admire photos I had taken with my old Fuji X100, where the colors just popped, the WB was dead on and skin tones were perfect. Unfortunately, the autofocus marred my experience with that camera and I sold it, although I still miss it.
I always respect Steve’s reviews, but I can’t agree with his assessment of IQ on the EM-1. I really wanted to. I invested almost $4,000 in gear that I am now returning.
Reviews are calling the XE2 an X100s and XE1 combined. I’m hoping the camera lives up to that reputation, because I really miss that Fuji IQ, especially when shooting JPEGs.
Steve,
Did you ever get a chance to do a full review of the Fuji X-E2? I like your reviews of cameras like this, because you talk about usability, rather than marketing material.
I remember once upon a time, the little X100S lived up to the Fuji hype. I would be interested in hearing if the X-E2 does the same.
Well said Nick, I couldn’t agree more. I’m torn between XPro 1 and A7r right now.
Much of what people mean when they talk about image quality is extremely subjective. You tend to like images that match your own taste, and prefer cameras that make those images. You can get some idea what people’s opinions are worth to you by looking at their photographs. In other words, If I love a person’s photographs I am more likely to agree with their opinions about the image quality produced by a specific camera. If I think they have lousy taste, I will disregard their opinions. The same is true of camera design and ergonomics to some extent; a camera that seems perfect to one person may drive another person batty. You have to give cameras a proper try to figure this out. For me the XPro 1 is a great tool because it has helped me think more deeply about the images I make with a camera. Using it I slow down and become more engaged with the fine points of capture. This helps me make a much higher percentage of images that I feel good about. Someone else might have a very different reaction to the same camera, so it’s not for them. I think photographers get a bit too wrapped up in the machinery of photography. This is easy to do, since cameras are such delightfully complex and magical gadgets, however it is worth keeping in mind that the same set of personal issues applies when choosing what pencil to use to make a drawing. You just need to find a pencil that suits your tastes and make great drawings. It is a big waste of energy to worry about what other people think of your pencil, or to spend a lot of energy telling other people that your pencil is the best. They can look at your drawings and decide for themselves.
The Fuji’s ergonomics are just different than others but it’s hard to argue they’re better or worse than another, because it’s totally subjective on the user. The Fuji cameras are very good at putting the basics right in your hands: shutter speed, aperature control, exposure comp, with some customizable buttons as well. Simple and straighforward. In the race to offer “the most” and “the best,” I find their approach really refreshing.
When did the X-E1 have unaccurate focus? I’ve had mine since Feb. and not had any issues with that. Slower? Maybe. No slower than a D800 with a 24-70 which I use as well. I think most criticize a camera for somethng they’ll never use it for. Just because it’s inadaquate for 15% of shooting it’s no good for all. Gear heads. It’s nice that its faster but I’ll still be using it for a long time regardless.
You are completely right…I feel the same way about my XPro1. Funny that those around here who live with manual focus from their Leicas make such a big deal about AF speed.
I think the ergonomics of the XE-1 are excellent. I tried the OM-D EM-5 and although I wanted to like it the camera was too small and and felt disorganized. Maybe the EM-! will be better.
E-M1 is the best mirrorless camera ergonomic wise on the market.
I have not tried the EM-1 yet but I expect it to be less fiddly than the EM-5 which for me is too small. To a certain extent this is subjective. For me, as soon as I picked up the XE-1 it felt just right.
I have the X-E1 and E-M5 and I have to say the X-E1 images look better and seem to have better dynamic range. But from what I’ve read, the E-M1 IQ is much improved. So maybe the Fuji doesn’t have such an advantage any more. Has anyone seen images from the EM1? The button layout of the EM5 always drove me crazy, but looks improved on the EM1. So it’s tempting to go with the EM1 instead of the Fuji.
The E-M1 has a more natural color signature than the Fuji as well as being MUCH MUCH faster in operation, MUCH better build and feel, MUCH better video, MUCH better lens selection, etc etc. The improvement in IQ over the E-M5 is not huge but there. Due to no AA filter and better ISO performance.
I ever found the X-E1 to be wanting in the C-AF arena, in fact I found it significantly better than the G3/G5/OMD in similar situations…http://www.flickr.com/photos/harry_s/sets/72157634005095926/
“…Zeiss glass, mounted on a Metabones adapter. I get faster aperture and full frame, with an image quality that has few rivals…”
Interesting setup. Would love to see those results.
Zeiss M mount glass is awesome….but wide angle Zeiss glass absolutely sucks on the XPro/E1…think smeared, soft as butter outer third of the frame.
I own an X-E1 and an EM5 and can say that without question, the X wins in IQ, sorry Steve. I have adapters for both that allow me to put the same Rokkor glass on both for an Apples to Apples comparison. People who suggest they are comparing sensors and use different glass frustrate me no end as the glass is a contributing variable no matter how you factor it.
What is quite correct is that they are both excellent cameras and both lend themselves brilliantly to different styles and genres of photography. So, know your style and need and buy accordingly. This is also advise I read Steve giving all the time, but in his own words of course 🙂
Still one of my fave sites Steve, thanks for all your efforts!
Enjoyed reading all these comments. Wit new cameras coming thick & fast, I’m having a blast picking up heavily discounted models. Must be my Scottish ancestry 🙂 Scored a brand new Nikon V1 kit yesterday for $140 and a few weeks back a brand new x100 black for $880. I used to be on the new camera treadmill, but with companies like Fuji giving tremendous loyalty to customers, I don’t need to upgrade at full price.
AMAZING NEWS :
FUJIFILM LAUNCHES SIGNIFICANT FIRMWARE UPDATE FOR THE ORIGINAL X100
New firmware v2.0 delivers focus peaking, faster AF and improved close-up focus
Mississauga ON, October 18, 2013 – FUJIFILM Canada today announced a new firmware v2.0 update that dramatically improves the performance of the original FUJIFILM X100, the first model in the premium X-Series line of digital cameras.
Since its release in March 2011, Fujifilm has received meaningful feedback from X100 photographers throughout the world and this firmware upgrade reflects many of their requests. This new firmware update delivers improved autofocus and manual focus, as well as other convenient features for users who apply the update.
“Photographers around the world have trusted their images to Fujifilm and the X-Series, and this new firmware update is concrete evidence that we are not only listening to our customers, but also working hard to improve our products on a continuing basis,” says Greg Poole, Vice President, Imaging and Recording Media Products, Fujifilm Canada.
Key Features of New X100 Firmware v2.0
Improved Auto Focus
Approximately 20% faster AF speed and enhanced focus distance compared to the previous firmware version
Close-up focus distance shortened by 30% before needing to switch to macro mode
Improved Manual Focus
New Focus Peaking function assists in manual focusing by enhancing the outline of the subject in high contrast
Improved focusing via the EVF or LCD when using wide apertures
Improved Operability
The camera start-up time has been shortened by approximately 0.2 seconds.*1
Pressing the AF button now toggles the focus area selection screen and the area of your choice can be selected
The X100 firmware v2.0 update will be available on October 18, 2013.
Hi Steve, what do you make of the firmware Update for the X100?
Seems to resolve a lot of the problems people had with it. I never was that disappointed with the X100’s focusing. Only manual focus bothered me, but that seems to be cured now
I still think my X-E1 that I had produced some of the most brillant JPEG files right out of the camera. Loved the Fuji color more than any other camera I’ve owned.
I was lucky enough to play with a pre-production XE2. Auto focus seemed to be about as fast as my x100s – certainly not any slower. More impressively, the camera just feels more polished as a whole. I didn’t get to use a memory card, but I would expect IQ to be the same as the rest of the X-trans line. I happen to really like the sensor.
About the X-Pro 1. Since the latest firmware, the auto system is much improved in both accuracy and speed. Fuji does such a great job with their firmware releases and its one of the reasons I really enjoy my X cameras.
On Leica. I just have real hard time enjoying anything from them other than the lenses. The M8 was such a flawed camera. And my M9 had troubles from day 1 (cracked sensor, rangefinder calibration, etc…). And while my M240 seemed a little more polished, I just couldn’t learn to love the files. They didn’t feel special to me… I think Leica makes incredible glass. I don’t think they really GET how to make a great digital camera.
Which brings me to the new Sony bombshell. I love the idea of this camera. I would so love to have a sub-$2500 full frame for my Leica glass. It would be a dream. Here’s what scares me though:
Photography is a very tactile thing for me. I like cameras that make sense from a usability perspective. And that’s one of the reasons I really like the Fuji X-line. The menu system is simplistic, the body is clean, the buttons are well placed, etc… I know Sony can make great electronics, but can they make a great camera? Shooting with a NEX of any variation feels more like shooting with a computer than a camera and it completely kills the creative process for me.
That said, on paper the a7r is a dream. I’m getting one and crossing my fingers it feels like a camera and not a gadget!
I read on another site that the x lenses have to be updated to tack advantage of the phase detect AFC tracking, the only lense to take advantage of it out right now is the 23mm just a FYI
I would love to see a xe2 review with the new 23mm 1.4 !!
I’d be all over this if not for the fact that …
1) auto focus speed doesn’t matter much to me, I used manual focus M-lenses most of the time and …
2) I need to replace my Pentax K-5 and am likely to throw my money at the K-3 right now …
3) My XE1 still works great and doesn’t self-destruct the minute a new model comes out* 😀
*of course, if I had the funds, I’d probably still buy one anyway! LOL
Hopefully those 3″ LCD justify me to upgrade my XE1 …. Ehemmm ….
Fuji X-Pro 2 will be full frame…
Unlikely, but anything is possible. Again, would mean all new lenses need to be made, from scratch.
Hi Steve: As Always Thanks for speaking the truth-Good to know about shutter lag and update on 2 Gen. Don’t waste your Good energy on Camera envy But as I like to term for US independent artists on a ltmited budget (Leica thread mount AV joke)
I’m still (Oh another PUN) assuming that PanaLeica will also include Wi-Fi and Film imitation of past 35mm Analogue-Kodack-Illford-Agfa-T-Max clour slide I always experienced great results with Fuji colour with flash-auto-manual settings for 18% grey scale colour reproductions. I used a sekonic delux studio 2 with mostly Pentax (Good enough for David Baily-Highly recommend his hardcover book of his career retrospective (based on Blow Up with David Hemmings) Poor mans Nikon-made 35mm cost effective and light weight mid sixties Bailys shot of a model in a short skirt with stuffed squirll.
I’m waiting for a drop in price when 3-4 generation of Full frame becomes affordable.
I don’t need a D700-I got a D200 for 150. CDN from a NYC photographer photo-pass networking a while back with mostly EU Nikon mounts adapters-M42 lens thru second hand
stores-A great method to aquire quality glass optics on a budget.
Any other sites B-Sides Ebay to buy lens Used film-D bodies.
Please keep this great site up and from the bottom of my bath-darkroom much T-Rex Tanks for all the passionate folks all over the world willing to share Photography info.
Biker Leica Nikon
Paul
Circle
A full frame xpro makes more sense from a business perspective than developng a third or fourth APS-C x series camera…a $1600 xpro2 with a crop sensor will be redundant for fuji…what will set it apart from xe2? Full frame is coming from fuji!
For anyone, was the original X-100 inaccurate and slow in its AF? I’m thinking of picking one up used. Slow is one thing but inaccurate is a deal breaker.
Hai, according to my experience of using x100 twice (silver n black), the x100 quite often missfocus if i can say its back focus almost 30%~40%, i suggest u to move on to x100s directly … I never had an issue with XE1 regarding missfocus issue so far … Thx
I had both..
I bought the x100 when it first came out. It was quirky and the AF was a bit slow, but at the time there wasn’t a lot of competition for that camera. Yes, sometimes AF missed but for me it was only a minor issue.
I bought the x100S about 2 months ago and was very excited after everything I had seen online. Much improved AF speed, accuracy, and they had supposedly gotten rid of most of the quirks. *I sent it back.* Maybe my expectations were too high, or there are just more options available now, but the x100S had just as many, if not more, quirks than my original x100. The AF was noticeably faster, but it still missed often, and back-focused about a third of the time. It also could not focus on the sky. This may sound strange, but the one I had was incapable of focusing on the sky unless there was a big cloud for it to lock on to. Not sure if this is all x100s or just the one I had, but my x100 did not have this problem.
My two cents.
Its kinda strange that your X100s have those miss focus problems, i have quite a few friends upgraded from X100 and they never experiencing problems like you mentioned above. Have you ever send it back to Fuji for checkup ? Hopefully it wasnt bcoz of prduction failure, sounds alot like X100 problems …
You could very well be right that I just had a bad x100S because everything I have read about it says it is a near perfect camera and much better than the x100. I never sent it to Fuji, I just returned it to where I had purchased it from. I really did not want to hassle with it. I wish I had just kept the x100 for now and waited for the next iteration of the RX1/R.
I was disappointed in the “s” for a number of reasons. It was still way too buggy/quirky, and like I eluded to earlier, I was able to accept this with the x100 but not the s. The one I received also had a power/shutter button that had a little bit of play when turning it on. It was just a bit loose so it would move when you switched the camera on. Not a big deal, only it felt cheap and like it might eventually break. I also found it very annoying that Fuji was lazy enough to continue to included that ridiculous charger the second time around. I mean seriously, that is just lazy and they should be embarrassed to include that with a $1300 camera. From that little plastic piece to the bulky power cord. The deal breaker for me though was ultimately the AF, but the general sloppiness of the firmware and the package as a whole definitely contributed to my decision to sent it back.
you’re right, i just got an Xe2 and it won’t focus on the sky! I wonder what else it doesn’t focus on? Made me a little concerned about my recent switch from OMD EM5. The IQ is definitely better with the XE2 though.
Steve,
I notice that there is a new manual focussing method with this camera. I find the focus peaking method good (on the NEX-7), but there are a lot of situations where it fails. Is there a way for these cameras to use a simple focus confirmation dot when using third party lenses? That would be the most sure way of guaranteeing focus. I ask this because if manual focusing was a bit more foolproof, a lot of these mirrorless cameras would become more attractive as the lens selection would open up significantly.
Dave
When I saw the title I was very happy then 5 seconds later I remember there was a FF Sony mirrorless coming in December.
Still waiting for a new X-pro 2. Fuji released so many cameras in so little time, but all of them have qualities and flaws. I really hope for them, that their flagship serie (Xpro) will bring all the great features from all those releases without the flaws. The X-pro1 was definitely a promising “rangefinder”…
X-Pro 1 was not a rangefinder nor even close to being one though. Was just a normal digital camera shaped like a classic RF. Not sure what the X-Pro2 will bring but it has to be fantastic because Sony is leading the way right now, no question.
I agree that the X-Pro 2 has to be fantastic, and it should come with a full frame sensor. in my opinion, the X-E2 should have been released last Spring, and the X-Pro 2 should have been released yesterday, instead of the X-E2 ~ Fuji is lagging behind. I, also, agree that the A7r is groundbreaking and the sensor will likely be fantastic, but it is lacking high-quality, native, fast primes and the design is really questionable, some may even say ugly. For the Sony to be great, they need to design a full set of fast primes that are reasonable in size. Not everyone wants to shoot with manual focus lenses; and using DSLR lenses on them is not optimal, though I did consider using Canon L glass on it for a second, just because of the sensor and my L glass collecting dust.
In my opinion, if Fuji stops sleeping, they are one company that could possibly design a full frame mirrorless camera with a set of fast primes that are reasonable in size and of high quality. Unfortunately, since they are dependent on using Sony sensors, like most others, they will not likely be able to provide the market with such a camera until late next year – apparently they have to wait 6 months to purchase the sensors in the A7/A7r. Thus, the X-Pro 2 will not likely come out for a while, or it will just come with similar features as the X-E2, which would be too little of an improvement, in my opinion.
Although I don’t love the design, I am very impressed that Sony has pushed ahead and designed a full frame mirrorless system camera. Perhaps this will mark a watershed in the camera market. It would be much more interesting though if others start doing the same.
X-Pro-2, FF maybe not. I do not think Fuji is going to make the Fujion lens they have designed obsolete. Maybe a APS-H. I will bet they will go the way of Cannon. Less MP, more of an all around camera. I bet ya, the Sony 24 MP focus faster and is better in low light the 36MP. To me Max MP is not always better.
Back again about lens, Fuji, I feel will not abdandone the the lens they have already designed.
I agree.
I’m not sure that saying the XE2 being as fast as the X100s is that good is it? Check out this DigialRev video that compared the autofocus speed of the Canon EOS M to the X100s and the Pen EP5 – no contest.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wwZDStFUixQ
Scroll forwards to 2 1/2 mins.
Looks great – maybe at last even Steve will like it 😉
If it performs well of course I will 🙂 But I will not be buying it as I prefer M 4/3 as a whole and with the new Sony coming, no need for the X 🙂 Still, I am happy to see Fuji “speed it up”.
I think this is nothing more then a transition model. Just something new to show in a Photoplus that is going to be certainly dominated by Sony. I’m still stay with my x-e1 and x100 waiting for something really news. Full frame fuji with lenses line as good as actual xf series? Better evf in hybrid viewfinder for x-pro2? Probably. I hope fuji is working on this way
I think that Fuji fixed a lot problems with the last firmware update for the X-E1. It’s like having a totally different camera. Love the focus peaking to using an adaptor and my PK lenses. Especially the 50mm F1.4. Super sharp when fully open. Love it xxx
You have to agree, Fuji is one of, if not the best at frimware upgrades.
they can also release a fully functional product… that way they don’t even need to release firmwares to correct the issues… Fujis are the only cameras in the mirrorless world with bad AF (except eos M, but that’s just a Canon toy). Nikon 1 are amazingly fast, Olympus are super fast as well, the new panasonic GX7 is probably as fast as the EM-1, pentax of course, Sony Nex are wonderful from the start, even Samsung!
So no escuses now, if everyone can pull out very good AF performance, I don’t see why bother to say Fuji has got a OK AF and they will improve it through firmwares… In the mean time, the AF is “shit”, I’m sorry. I love Fuji for a lot of stuffs, but I hate their AF…
With all these great cameras coming out right one after another I’m sure those who step into the mirrorless world for the first time will have a hard time choosing :).
Not enough of an upgrade I fear for me to get rid of my X-E1.
If I was looking to continue as a working pro, I would not even gotten rid of my DSLR gear. For what I need my camera(s) to do now, my X100S and X-E1 can do the job. Having never been much for G.A.S. (kept my last DSLRs (Nikon D2H) for a decade), I am in agreement with you, Ian. These two cameras will last me for what I am looking to do for the rest of my life.
I’m sure the AF will be fast but not EM1 fast, in the small print they are covering themselves off by saying fastest 4/3inc sensor or larger. But boy these improvements are necessary, some of the gaps should not have been gaps in the first place but this looks like a far more mature camera. Steve I totally agree with your “flat image” observations about Fuji X, have you any idea why they are flat, given its still a repeating colour array just over a wider pattern. Is it just immaturity of RAW converters or the way Fuji have set up the cameras.
Try doing some actual prints from the Fujis instead of making comments based on web presentation. I see depth to the images from both my X100S and X-E1. I have not done any prints (yet) from my Fujis but can see possibilities of prints as I work on them.
Are we spending too much time making criticisms/comments based strictly on web views? I still love to hold and view actual prints over the web. I guess I am just too much old school. Everything these days is about what you can see on your tablet or phone. Sorry, just not my idea of viewing photographs. Make the prints!!! I am currently repainting the interior of my home and had to remove all the photographs from the walls. The house really takes on a sterile feel without images that make me happy. Looking at images online can be great for some inspiration but going to a gallery to see prints on the walls gives a whole new experience especially for folks that are growing up in the digital age. One of the first exhibitions I ever saw was in Washington, DC, in the mid-1980s of some monster prints by Ansel Adams. What a rush!
Do we need to start thinking in analog/tactile terms again to really see what an image can be?
I have made many prints from the X100, X100s and 2 from the X-Pro 1 and a few from the RX1R and Monochrom Leica as well. Also a few from Micro 4/3. Put them all together and you could not tell what came from what but the most pleasing color is from the Olympus and Sony RX1. If I study them, the most depth comes from the RX1R and Monochrome. My X prints are no better than my Olympus prints. I am talking 20X30.
I feel if skin tones are cut above with the Fuji, I am not the only one that feels this way. The large the sonsor, the better the image all around. Fuji has the best JPEGs.
I should have been a bit more careful to use 16×24 as it’s too small to make any difference. Being a 35mm DSLR owner, I also shoot a lot with Canon sRAW1 and my raw file is between 12-14MB. At that file size, I can edit and make 20x30in print with great quality and almost no noise. I could argue that the same 14MB obtained from OM-D5 or D1 would be as good as that. These days, prints that are larger than 24×36 is affordable so if you feel MFT is good enough, then stick with it.
Another factor that most mirrorless owners are sort of forget is the depth of field factor. I’m shooting a lot of portraits so my aperture setting for 35mm camera is rarely smaller than f/3.2. Only when I shoot group of 4 or more people, than I use f/4 or f/5.6. Therefore, high quality prime and fast lenses at f/1.4 –> 2.8 are a must. Can I get a fast lens f/1.4 in MFT? Impossible because the almost equivalent aperture would have been half of that, meaning f/0.7 (duh?). A fastest MFT lens is f/0.95 but that’s no so fast ~f/1.9 in 35mm term.
Are there any chances to have the digital split image manual focus as a firmware update for the XE1?
I don’t think so, pixels for phase detection are needed like on the x100s.
Well dont get your hopes up just yet. Ming Thein have used it (a pre production unit) and he says it is just borderline sufficient in terms of AF and quite laggy overall, not as fast as the EM5 or EM1 🙁 But that wasnt the final firmware so we’ll see. Personally i love my x100s and had high hopes for the XE2 but i might just go the M43 route instead..
Phew! That’s kinda comforting, I was wondering if I was too quick to pre-order my EM1 =\
+1!
I will wait the real life test about the AF! I’ve got a X100s which I love but the AF is not so fast.
I was thinking about a switch from micro4/3 to xe2 in order to get the old school ergonomic that I appreciate on the X100s but when I use my OMD EM5 the AF is super blazzing fast and almost flawless , the 5axis IS is nearly magic too, so I think micro 4/3 is going to stay…
Moreover I will appreciate a silent shutter like on the x100s ( nikon v1 and pany gx7 ) but it’s not a very common feature. ( for my taste the OMD em5 shutter is even to noisy so …)
the old school ergonomic as you called it is just amazing and is one of the selling point of the whole Fuji system. look at the essay discussing it here:
http://www.luminous-landscape.com/essays/an_appeal_for_divergence_and_simplicity.shtml
I am still deciding between the m43 and the Fuji (Sony FF is out fo the table for the lens bulkiness) but now the real tool is Fuji. It is already fast enough, has great colors out of camera (great for me, much better than Oly). It is not sealed though…but this means cheaper and lighter. Yes. X-E2 is just lighter than E-M1…some call it “hollow”…..physically it is called lighter 😉
I hope I do not sound harsh here but this silliness about all this auto focus speed is just ridiculous. Ming Thein uses Leicas which have NO auto focus whatsoever. I have taken thousands of photos with my X Pro over a year or so in every lighting condition imaginable, and EXCEPT in very low contrast situations its focus is pretty much instant and accurate. I own a Voigtlander Nokton 1.5 which does not auto focus at all and I just set my viewfinder to 3X magnification and get critically sharp photos. I shot 640 photos at a wedding 2 weeks ago and 3 times the camera missed focus when using auto focus. And those were in very low incandescent light. As to the 60 macro it is slow in macro mode when 6 inches or so away. But macro requires precise focus when depth of field is less than an eighth of an inch or so. I ALWAYS focus in manual with macro photography. In normal use such as street or portraits the 60 focuses quickly and spot on. Expecting fast accurate focus in macro mode just reveals a lack of understanding of what they are asking the camera to do. This camera is not for sports or action photography..it won’t track fast action. Neither will a Leia M9. Ask Ming how fast the auto focus is on his M9 with the Planar 100mm macro attached. The X Pro isn’t perfect, but talk of slow inaccurate focus is nonsense. Buy whatever you want, there are MANY wonderful cameras which are capable of extraordinary results. For ME I could not care less about the X Pro 2-3-4-5 or 6. What I now have is a tool which exceeds my capabilities as a photographer.
One of the best comments I have yet read on this site. Spot on.
+1
Why on earth we need those super AF if at the end, the image quality is not there … So many friends around me had EM5 with those blistering focus and many of PanaLeica lenses, but after a few weeks they always agree that their image quality cant be compare to what Fuji produce so far, and they sell it to purchase Fuji whatever type is. Just my 2cents …
I disagree. I chose the E-M1 overt the Fuji and the IQ is amazingly good. I prefer it to the Fuji without question.
I had an EM5, and its plain as day the IQ is good but not as good as a XE-1 Shot processed from Photoninja, sorry Steve but it aint. maybe on a jpg-jpg basis but not after processing a RAW file, that X-trans can bring an incredible amount of detail out of the files.
People have different taste about anything and i cant disagree with your opinion Steve, but what came out of my thinking is how could those small sensor of 4/3 can outbeat 1.5 apsc sensor in terms of image quality, IQ, DynamicRange and noise level ? I always shot jpeg and never had a need to do postprocesing on my XE image so far … Especialy Fuji’s colour is sooo calm and really a joy to have …. Just my 2 cents.
I think when you have a sensor that several photographers have already stated produces results almost as good as a 5D MKIII or D800 in key IQ factors, it’s much too hopeful to expect ANY micro four thirds sensor to reach the IQ of the X-Series cameras.
There’s a rumor kicking about that Fuji plans an X100 camera next year (X200) with a full-frame X-Trans sensor. Personally, it sounds a bit unlikely to me ― for a host of reasons ― but you never know.
If they do, however, it’ll shake things up in the industry quite a bit.
Good for consumers, though. 😉
Had both, sold the OM D and kept the Fuji. Better lenses and better Image Quality with Fuji in my opinion too.
I had all 3. Stared with an X-E1 sold it because at launch time terrible raw support, purchase EM5, liked it but even at base ISO blue sky’s showed notice unless I shot ETTR, not the end of the world. Then Iridient developer started supporting X-Trans and I tried it on my original x-E1 raw files. Wow night and day turned the X-E1 into a high quality image. Sold my EM5 and picked up a X-E1 again and haven’t looked back.
I have an X-E2 on order now. Yeah the Sony A7 is tempting, yet I had wished fo the 24MP version had no Aa filter, I think 36MP is overkill for my needs and one will only see a advantage of 36MP with very expensive native FE mount lenses, not adapted Leica Glass. I will probably go Sony when there are more native FE Zeiss primes which will take at least a year.
In regards to the wonderful Steve Huff, I do agree with m that the new EM1 is probably the best all around ILMC out there very good at everything excellent lens line up, yet for me looking for top IQ at base ISO at F5.6-F8 shooting landscapes where AF performance means nothing to me, I like the Fuji, of course I would have like to have seen weather sealing but yet for a $999 body I think it pretty damm good
APS-C sensor is physically beat MFT by a 1000 miles. If you disagree, Steve, show us photos of a MFT system that is close or match Fuji’s quality. I never seen a MFT review/blog site that displays any high quality images shot and large enough to do enlargement print at 16×24 (I don’t want to use 24×36 to embarrass s.o) by MFT. Most of the times, all I found are a large volume of snapshots, badly taken by not-so-good photographers.
On the other hands, take a look at these pros: David Hobby, Zack Arias, who have shot with Fuji X100s, X-Pro1 or even X-M1 and see the photos yourselves. Why are these pros using Fuji, hmm, good question right?
http://confessionsxl.com/blog/review-fujifilm-x100s/
http://zackarias.com/for-photographers/gear-gadgets/fuji-x100s-review-a-camera-walks-into-a-bar/
http://zackarias.com/for-photographers/gear-gadgets/fuji-x100s-follow-up-review-life-without-dslrs/
http://www.luminous-landscape.com/reviews/cameras/fuji_x100s_review___fallinin_love_all_over_again.shtml
I can show side by side prints at 16X24 and you would not be able to tell what took what and as for the pros you mentioned ,I have seen their Fuji work and stand by my comments. I have always said the X100 is a superb camera, stellar. The X bodies, not so much due to usability reasons, not IQ reasons. Also, the X trans is not for everyone, to me it falls flat, even in the work of those “pros”. Not talking their skills, but the sensor output.
Yes thats for YOU and how you shoot which i havent said a word about, feel free to continue with your x-pro1 i wont harass you i promise. For my part the only camera i own is a x100s which i enjoy and have used for the past 7 months or so. I have no lenses att all so whatever system i choose i have to start from scratch. And i am not going to switch system as soon as something newer and fancier comes out, so i want to get a camera system that i can live with for many years without being annoyed every time i use it. And yes i have tried the XE1. So i rather have a camera with really good AF then merely ok, rather a camera that is fast and efficient then sluggish. But as stated he tried a pre production unit so it might change.
I have used Leicas long before Ming (many many years) and yes, they are wonderful to use this way. But a Fuji X-E1 and X-Pro 1 are not even close to Leica nor can you manually focus a Fuji like a Leica. The Fuji AF has been average at best – most users do not realize this as they have not compared it to the competition, which is much quicker and more accurate. The worst AF in the camera world has been Fuji X Pro and X-E..until now of course.
Steve….many of us didn’t buy an XPro1 for it’s AF. I still shoot DSLR’s so the Fuji is not my only camera….I sold a Leica M8 to fund the purchase of the XPro1. For people in the ‘Leica mindset’, the AF speed is irrelevant. Is it fast??? No. But my experience is that it is usually quite accurate which to me is more important.
Going on ad nauseam about the AF speed is a little tiresome…it’s kind of like people constantly complaining that the Leica M series is manual focus…
Clint….thanks for the wise comment.
English is not my native language but “riculous” and “silliness” seems to be harsh words ?
But no problem with that, you’re right manual focus solve the problem and helps to use the xtrans for the best.
I use a biogon 35mmf2 m mount ( and a few rokkors )and have fun with it, but with only 70cm as a minimum focus point ( i m not very sure of the exact distance) and a focal of 70mm on a micro 4/3 body, it’s not very usefull to take photo of my little 6 month old boy in a not so spacy room, so AF in bad light (indoor + ceiling light) with ,as you said ,poor contrast is important (my beloved X100s without the AF light assistance gives me “red squares” and the electronic ring is not really funny).
Zone focusing is cool,I may consider lenses like the 12mmf2 from oly that got a real manual focus ring + super AF: best of two worlds.
AMEN to that, Cory!
I could not care less about fastest autofocus … since i never use it!
the only reason i switched from the X-PRO1 to the X-E1 a while back was that the latter is better for manual focus.
I got rid of the Fuji lenses (which were actually really good), and stuck with -all manual- Zeiss glass, mounted on a Metabones adapter. I get faster aperture and full frame, with an image quality that has few rivals – sorry, Micro 4/3 is not even close, i have tried many of them and eventually sold them, they are great, but not as great as the Fuji sensor combined with great glass. It is down to individual taste of course, today’s cameras are really very very close in terms of technical capabilities.
My other cameras are a 1958 M2 (cannot find the AF switch on that one!!), and a Leica X1 as my (almost) pocketable carry-everywhere single lens; I sold it once, bought an X2, sold it and got the X1 again – there is something really great about that sensor/lens combination (yes, i use AF on that one, and it doesn’t bother me that it is not faster than the speed of light).
I will happily stick to my X-E1, but kudos to Fuji for continuing with their innovation.
I believe we will see the X-Pro2 in april 2014 which will have better specs than the X-E2 and an X-E3 with similar specs as the X-Pro2, but perhaps with better EVF already, next year.
This is not the camera to get. Wait for the X-Pro2 or X-E3 next year.
1+
I think the game has moved on from single-point AF to C-AF. In your comparisons can you test which mirrorless system has the most reliable C-AF? And how the best compares to the best DSLR?
I have been waiting for this. I set my expectations so high that I never thought Fuji would match them. My EOS gear is fine, if bulky, and I was almost hoping Fuji would bring out am “almost great” product so that I could go back to doing nothing.
Fuji has utterly let me down. This camera seems to meet all my criteria. I’m sold. I want this. I am leaving the SLR world behind. Mirrorless has come of age.
I think I’m in love.
First I cancelled my M order because of the Em1. Then I cancelled that because of the A7R. Now I cancelled that because of the XE2…
😉
You might want to hold off on the XE2 as I believe the preliminary unofficial pre-announcement of the initial XE3 prototype is tentatively scheduled for next Tuesday (possibly…)
Sticking with A7, want that sensor real estate! Selling OM-D and Panasonic 25 1.4…
The DOF you will lose might shock you. For me personally APS-C has also too shallow DOF, the MFT system I had was perfect in that regard. I now have a NEX-6 with APS-C sensor, and I often find I can´t use my lenses wide open in dimly lit scenes because of what the sensor size does to the DOF. This is really something to think about as before you switch from MFT to APS-C 🙂
how could you then live with the small FF sensor factor? the real estate is the medium format. O no…..the real estate is the large sensor format
I just pre-ordered a EM1 for the following reasons:
– Fastest AF
– Image Quality
– Good Low Light Performance
– Wifi Remote Shooting
– Great lenses
Looking at the specs of the X-E2, I should be worried should I? =\
Not at all. You chose wisely.
I’ve been making most of my decision making towards the EM1 base on yours and Robin Wong’s blog, you both seem to love the beast, so I owe it to the both of you for making my switch from my Canon DSLR to a smaller form factor! =)
Andrew,
Nice to see that someone else is also making the jump to a smaller form factor. I sold all my Canon DSLR equipment this week, and I am also looking at the X-E2, EM-1 or the GH3. Can’t decide.
Have they fixed the IBIS and flip out screen?
oh boy oh boy that sounds terrific…
When are we going to see an x-pro 2? Would have expected that before the x-e2.
The X-Pro1 is the premium pro model and Fuji have committed to a much longer release schedule on it (as Canon and Nikon do with their pro models). My guess is that it will be announced for Photokina 2014, so towards the end of 2014.