This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links, we may earn a commission at no additional cost to you.
The Fujifilm X-M5 is a versatile mirrorless camera that stands out for both still photography and video recording, making it particularly attractive to content creators. At its core, the X-M5 features a 26.1MP back-illuminated X-Trans CMOS sensor, which is well-regarded for excellent image quality, vibrant colour reproduction, and strong low-light performance. It also includes a powerful AI-assisted autofocus system, capable of recognising subjects like animals and vehicles, which ensures sharp and accurate focus even in challenging conditions.
Design and Build
Weighing just 355g, the X-M5 is the lightest model in Fujifilm’s X-series line-up, making it highly portable. It features a classic retro design with a faux-leather finish and well-positioned dials for quick access to shooting modes and the brand’s signature Film Simulation settings. The camera comes in both black and silver finishes, offering a sleek aesthetic that appeals to both modern and traditional tastes. The fully articulating touchscreen display makes it perfect for vlogging, though its lower resolution (1.04M dots) is a step down compared to higher-end Fujifilm models like the X-S20.
Technical Specifications
- Sensor: 26.1MP X-Trans CMOS 4 (APS-C)
- Video: 6.2K/30p open gate recording, 4K/60p, FHD at 120p
- Recording Formats: 12-bit ProRes RAW/BMD external recording, 4:2:2 10-bit internal recording
- Autofocus: AI-enhanced subject detection
- Connectivity: USB-C, microHDMI, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth
- Battery Life: Approx. 440 shots in economy modeStuffT3.
Performance
The X-M5 excels in both photo and video performance. Its 6.2K open gate video recording supports 10-bit 4:2:2 colour, making it an excellent choice for filmmakers who want high-quality footage. It also offers 4K at 60p and full HD at 120p for slow-motion capture, perfect for creative videographers. However, the camera lacks in-body image stabilization (IBIS), so users may need optically stabilized lenses for smoother footage when handheld.
The camera’s AI-enhanced autofocus is quick and reliable, locking onto subjects effectively, which is a boon for vloggers and action shooters alike.
User Experience
With a new user interface tailored to vloggers, the X-M5 offers quick access to a 9:16 vertical video mode and shortcuts for settings like product priority autofocus, making it easy to create content for platforms like Instagram or TikTok. The flip-out touchscreen and dual mic/headphone jacks enhance its vlogging capabilities. However, some compromises, like the absence of an EVF and the relatively low-resolution display, may be noticeable for more experienced photographers
Value for Money
Priced around £799, the X-M5 is one of the more affordable entries in the mirrorless market, offering great value for both photographers and videographers. It competes with other entry-level models like the Sony A6700, which offers comparable autofocus performance but at a higher price point. Compared to Fujifilm’s own X-S20, the X-M5 offers similar image quality but lacks advanced features like UHS-II card support, which may affect performance in burst shooting.
Conclusion
The Fujifilm X-M5 is an excellent hybrid camera for content creators seeking a balance between high-quality video and stills at an affordable price. While it makes some trade-offs, like the absence of IBIS and an EVF, its lightweight design, powerful video capabilities, and advanced autofocus make it a strong contender in its price range. If you’re primarily shooting handheld video, stabilized lenses or a gimbal will be crucial for getting the most out of this camera. Overall, the X-M5 is ideal for budding vloggers or photographers looking to step up from smartphone cameras
For more perspectives on the X-M5, why not check out Stuff, PetaPixel, TechRadar, or T3?