Fujifilm has unveiled its long-awaited consumer-friendly X-T50 APS-C mirrorless camera. X-T30 and X-T30 II. The new model retains key features of the outgoing model, including light weight and generous hand controls. Meanwhile, it adds a higher-resolution 40.2-megapixel sensor, 6.2K 30p video, and other features. X-T5 and other new models. However, it also has a significantly higher price than the X-T30 and an unusual new dial that could be controversial.
The X-T50 is similar to the slightly heavier X-T30 II, with a relatively thin and light 438 gram (15.45 oz) body. However, instead of the previous model’s shooting mode dial, Fujifilm introduced a dedicated film simulation dial with eight preset modes (Acros, Nostalgic Negative, Classic Neg and others), three dedicated slots for other built-in simulations, and a custom slot. for user-made simulations.
The company likely believes that sales of the X100 V and VI have increased due to the popularity of TikTok and movie simulations with impressive sets. However, users may find that changing shooting modes (burst, single shot, etc.) is more difficult than before.
One key feature missing from the X-T30 was in-body stabilization, but with the X-T50, Fujifilm has introduced a five-axis system with seven stops of shake reduction that adds no weight. This will make it a better tourism and street photography camera, as handheld shooting is possible at shutter speeds of up to 1/4 of a second. It will also make the X-T50 more useful for video.
Unfortunately, the rear 1.8 million-dot display still only flips up/down and doesn’t dim, so it won’t be great for vlogging. Another highlight is the NP-W126S battery (about half the battery in the X-T5), which is remarkably small given the higher-resolution sensor and improved video capabilities.
With the same sensor as the X-T5, X-H2 and X100 VI, you can expect similar image quality and speeds, up to 13fps bursts with the electronic shutter. Autofocus performance will likely be on par with the X100 VI, which is pretty good, but not great. Fujifilm hopes the main attraction will be its film simulations, which allow creators to shoot Instagram-ready shots straight from the camera.
Like the X-100 VI, the X-T50 is surprisingly capable at video with 6.2K up to 30p and 10-bit F-Log2. So again, it’s a shame that it doesn’t have a flip-out screen, as vloggers and content creators might prefer a larger form factor and interchangeable lenses than the X100 VI.
Fujifilm also introduced the Fujinon XF16-50mmF2.8-4.8 R LM WR (24-75 or more in full-frame terms). It’s a compact, lightweight and decently fast kit zoom ideal for the X-T50. Although it costs $700 on its own, it’s an even better deal if bought in a set.
The X-T50 is on pre-order now for $1,400 (body only) or $1,800 with the XF16-50mm. That’s $500 more than the launch price of the X-T30 II, and just a few hundred bucks. Less than the X-T5. I’m not sure the extra features justify such a big jump, but given the runaway success of the Fujifilm X100 series, it should make sure people pay for it.
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