Fujifilm Redesigns X-E3

2017.09.07

Fujifilm introduced today a new mirrorless for their X-E series with a completely redesigned layout unlike anything on the market. The X-E-3 revealed today proves that they can take risks and are not afraid to break even their own molds!

The new Fujifilm X-E3 is part of the rangefinder-style series of X-mount mirrorless digital cameras. This latest model features the same 24 megapixels APS-C X-Trans CMOS III sensor with built-in Phase-Detect AF as the X-T20. X-Trans sensors require no anti-alias filter to avoid moire thanks to a unique 6x6 pseudo-random color-filter-array. This CMOS allows a high-speed read-out to continuously capture full-resolution images at 14 FPS when using an all-electronic shutter. With a mechanical one, speed remains at a very respectable 8 FPS. This is the only Fujfilm APS-C sensor to be capable of recording 4K Ultra-HD video.

For a mid-range mirrorless camera, Fujifilm packed the X-E3 with features. It offers an ISO 100-51200 sensitivity range, when expanded and shutter-speeds of 1/32000s to 30s, plus Bulb exposures for up to one hour. There are obviously full-manual controls, plenty of WB options, including Custom WB and 4 metering modes, including Spot and Average. Bracketing can capture up to 9 shots.

Aside from now having dual control-dials, all the ergonomic changes are on the back. The X-E3, like other members of the series, has a large EVF with Eye-Start Sensor at the upper-left corner of the body. This is a 0.39" EVF with 24 megapixels, 0.62X magnification and 100% coverage. Buttons have been rearranged with now dedicated AE-L and AF-L buttons and oddly separated Playback and Delete buttons. Whether this causes inefficiency in use remains to be seen.

The dramatic and serious risky change is the replacement of the standard 4-way controller with an 8-way joystick. While being somewhat redundant on most cameras that have both, this is the probably the first mirrorless in history not to have a 4-way controller. The real loss in this change is that the 4-way controller often serves as 4 customizable buttons. In the Fujifilm X-E3, this is replaced by different swipes on the rear touch-screen. It is hard to see how this is not a terrible idea. Even in the introduction video by Fujifilm, smudges get smear across the screen with each swipe. Plus, this cannot work with gloves on for those who shoot in cold weather. Also, anything on the touchscreen is prone to accidental activation.

The Fujifilm X-E3 is scheduled to ship later this month for $899 USD or $1149 CDN. Adorama and B&H Photo are already accepting pre-orders, including international orders. Order yours from these links to get the same great price as everyone else while helping support Neocamera.

• Digital Camera