Fujifilm X-M5 vs X-T5 Autofocus Test: No Competition, the X-M5 Wins Hands Down

Pal2Tech was one of the guys, who addressed the latest Fujifilm 5th generation gear autofocus issues in his videos.

That’s why he was particularly interested to test the autofocus of the Fujifilm X-M5 versus the one of the Fujifilm X-T5.

You can see with your own eyes his comparison in the video above (just click and it will start at the right point).

This is what Pal2Tech has to say about:

  • the focus square on the X-M5 was able to keep with up with him (moving fast around the yard) in a noticeable way
  • when he starts to run, the X-T5 box is behind him whereas the X-M5 autofocus box is sticky on his face
  • when jumping into frame, the X-M5 locks focus faster than the X-T5
  • when moving very very fast all over the frame like crazy, the X-M5 locked focus better than the X-T5
  • he track running dogs and and people, and it keeps up with them fairly reliably
  • the X-T5 would not have nailed that many images in that order in AF-C for stills
  • tracking cars the X-M5 handled very well. Every shot was in focus
  • tracking bicycles also worked very well
  • the autofocus performance is great and definitely better than the X-T5, even before the X-T5 experienced the AF issues with the May firmware
  • Pal2Tech is very impressed by what he saw and he hopes firmware updates will come with same AF to other models

Look guys, Chris from Pal2Tech did put lots of effort into this test.

It’s up to you now to trust him, or maybe trust YouTubers who did not hold the X-M5 in their hands for a single second and looked hours of launch videos to find 2 seconds in which the AF of the X-M5 failed.

Is it at Sony and Canon level?

Well, I feel confident to say very likely not. But according to the most in depth test we could see so far, it is the best autofocus Fujifilm has yet offered on any its cameras.

It seems to be a step into the right direction.

SmallRig X-M5 Accessories Solve Two Problems with the Fujifilm X-M5

SmallRig has just released a range of accessories for the Fujifilm X-M5:

These accessories solve two problems we can encounter on the Fujifilm X-M5.

First, its very compact size, which may be uncomfortable for those with medium or large hands—something some early reviewers mentioned. Fujifilm’s design philosophy was clear: make the X-M5 as small as possible, knowing it can always be expanded with accessories.

Second, the tripod mount is positioned very close to the battery door, making it impossible to access the battery while mounted on a tripod and even blocking the battery door when a simple Anchor Mount is screwed on it as demonstrated by Thomas B. Jones in his X-M5 video.

SmallRig’s accessories, like cages and plates, solve these issue.

For those looking to bulk up the camera for better handling, SmallRig’s options (and other forthcoming accessories from other brands) offer a practical solution. But if you prefer to keep it ultra-compact, as the X-M5 was designed, you might choose to work with its original form (which is what I personally would do).

If I was a vlogger, the one accessory I’d likely consider is the windshield for the microphones. It would help me make the most of the X-M5’s new three-microphone setup and hopefully allow me to rely on the built-in mics as much as possible, reducing the need for external microphones.

Fujifilm X-M5 has Better Autofocus than X-S20, but New Firmware is Coming REPORT (+VIDEO)

 

It’s difficult to gauge how well the autofocus of the Fujifilm X-M5 truly performs.

Why?

The real issue is that performance depends on which Beta firmware version reviewers are using.

In the lead-up to launch, Fujifilm frequently updates the firmware for pre-production models, sometimes even multiple times a day.

So, someone testing the camera in mid-September may have significantly different results from someone testing it in mid-October.

And since reviewers aren’t able to re-test everything after every update, any autofocus performance assessment right now should be taken with a grain of salt, as it’s unclear which firmware version was used.

So we can come to a situation in which some might claim that the X-M5’s autofocus is on par with other X series cameras, while others might say it offers the best autofocus performance of any X series camera.

With that disclaimer out of the way…

** CLICK HERE to Read the Rest of the Article **

Fujifilm X RAW Studio and Tether App Support Added for Fujifilm X-M5

 

Fujifilm X RAW Studio ver.1.25.0 – download here
The software update Ver.1.25.0 incorporates the following issue:

  1. Applicable model for the “FUJIFILM X RAW STUDIO” is added.
    Applicable model : FUJIFILM X-M5

Fujifilm Tether App ver. 1.31.0 – download here
The software update Ver.1.31.0 incorporates the following issue:

  1. Applicable model for the “FUJIFILM TETHER APP” is added.
    Applicable model : FUJIFILM X-M5

Pre-orders

Fujifilm X-M5 vs X80: Has the X80 Dream Just Been Shattered?

The Fujifilm X-M5 is incredibly compact.

In fact, it’s so small that it raises the question: does this crush our hopes of ever seeing a Fujifilm X80?

During the launch videos yesterday, I noticed a size comparison between the Fujifilm X-M5, X70, and X-E4 in a FujiFanboys video which you can see here (camerasize.com hasn’t added the X-M5 to their database yet). The comparison shows that the X-M5 is nearly the same size as the X70 and only slightly heavier (340g vs. 355g).

The X-M5 also offers interchangeable lenses, which is both an advantage and a drawback—it still requires a lens, making the overall setup larger.

For the X-M5 to match the portability of the X70, Fujifilm would need to expand its pancake lens lineup. Currently, they only have the XF18mmF2 and XF27mmF2.8, and while the XF18mmF2 is a pancake, it’s almost twice the length of the XF27mmF2.8 (40.6mm vs. 23mm).

Given the current lens options, a Fujifilm X80 with an 18mmF2.8 lens would still be unbeatable in terms of portability, with the added flexibility of the WCL-X70 conversion lens.

However, if Fujifilm could update the XF18mmF2 to a more compact version or release an XF18mmF2.8 pancake lens, it could spell the end for any remaining hope for an X80.

At this point I do not know what Fujifilm’s plans are in this regard. I have no rumors about any XF18mmF2 refresh nor of an X80. But let us know in the comments what you think about it and if you’d prefer Fujifilm to invest now in a XF18mmF2 successor or in an X80.

10 New Features of the Fujifilm X-M5 – and Some Coming to X-T5 & Co via Firmware

The Fujifilm X-M5 has just been launched.

And quite surprisingly for being the most affordable MILC camera of Fujifilm, it comes packed with a bunch of new features that even Fujifilm’s highest end cameras don’t have.

Some of those features will come via firmware update to other models for sure, some we can hope for, but others are hardware features available only on the Fujifilm X-M5 so far.

So let’s quickly run thorugh them:

  1. Manual Focus range customization
    You can set the rotation reach from 60 up to 900 degree individually for each lens. This will come via firwmare to other models. – see screeshot here from this video
  2. New Menu Interface in Vlog Mode
    Vlog mode has now a new interface (with more options and new features) that makes it easier to use – see screenshot here. There is also a zoom slider on the LCD – see screenshot here taken from this video
  3. Three micorphones
    the X-M5 is equipped with three microphones, allowing you to choose between capturing sound from all directions or focusing on either the front or rear mic, depending on your needs. Alternatively, you can use both the front and rear mics simultaneously, which is perfect for interviews where you want to record audio from both the person filming behind the camera and the person in front
  4. 4K LG (Long Play)
    4K with 1.18x crop for longer record times
  5. Vertical Recording Mode
    It’s there, it’s new. You can film Full HD with it. The advantage is that you do not need to flip your camera to record vertically, hence it is more comfortable to hold in your hands when filming
  6. Cable Connection with X App
    connect camera via cable to phone for fast transfer of files larger than 4GB to X App
  7. Recording Timer
    Set a timer (30 / 60 seconds) and then record vertical video
  8. Bit Rates Expansion
    New lower bit rates offered such as 25 mbps or even 8 mbps to generate smaller files
  9. Green Frame
    when you record video in slow motion mode, the recording frame turns green (instead of red). This helps to avoid to erroneously record in slow motion – see screenshot here from this video
  10. Steady-State Noise Reduction
    steady-state noise reduction function reduces noise that continues to sound at a certain frequency, such as the noise from an air conditioner.
  11. New portrait enhance mode
    you can set it from strong to weak. Not completely new, as it was available on older Xacti cameras like X-T200 and X-A7

BONUS 1

  • USB-C Powering even with empty battery
    I’m not entirely certain about this, but maybe you can help me out. The X-M5 can be powered via USB-C, as seen on other cameras, but it seems it can continue to operate even when the battery is completely drained. Normally, when the battery is empty, you have to wait for it to charge a bit before the camera can run on USB-C power again. The original concept was that if the power cable was accidentally unplugged, the battery would still have enough charge to keep the camera running and save your files. However, with the X-M5, it seems that’s no longer necessary—if powered via USB-C, the camera will keep running continuously, even with a fully drained battery. But on the other hand, if you are for example in an live talk online and you use the X-M5 as webcam, you prefer to have the camera running even without battery rather than switching off

BONUS 2

  • Good Bye Black Box
    We are used to get our X gear shipped in black boxes. Well, that’s no longer the case with the X-M5, which will come in brown boxes (see here the screenshot taken from this video). I wonder if that’s the new color for all Fujifilm X gear going foward

FIRMWARE BONUS

  • Aperture switch
    That’s a feature of the Fujinon XF16-55mmF2.8 II and allows for smooth brightness transition when adjusting aperture. It works now already on X-M5 but a firmware update will come to make it work with other cameras – quick example in this video

Anything else that you noticed? Feel free to let us know in the comments.

Pre-Orders

LIVE BLOG: Fujifilm X-M5, XF16-55mmF2.8 II and XF500mmF5.6 Reviews and Pre-Orders Now

Fujifilm X Summit Launch Blog
(refresh for latest updates)

Now Real:

Pre-Orders

Official Fujifilm Info

First Looks

  • BH Explora – FUJIFILM Announces Creator-Friendly X-M5 Camera and X Series Lenses
  • gizguide – X-M5 introduction
  • thephoblographer – Fujfilm launches X-M5 and new lenses

Pre-Orders

↓ Launch Videos ↓

** CLICK HERE to Read the Rest of the Article **

Fujifilm Launches Mirrorless Digital Camera “FUJIFILM X-M5”

FUJIFILM X-M5 Mirrorless Digital Camera
– The lightest model in the current X series
– Equipped with a full range of functions for both stills and video
– Perfect for everyday photography

October 14, 2024

TOKYO, October 14, 2024 – FUJIFILM Corporation announces the global launch of the “FUJIFILM X-M5” (X-M5), from middle of November 2024. The X-M5 will be the latest model in the X Series, offering outstanding image quality, compact and lightweight body.

The X-M5 weighs approximately 355g*1, making it the lightest*2 camera in the X series. The X-M5 is equipped with a full range of functions, including subject detection AF that can detect moving objects such as animals and cars using AI, and 6.2K/30P movie recording function, making it possible to shoot both still images and movies.

The X-M5 is the ideal camera for a wide range of users, from first-time digital camera users to photography enthusiasts, with a compact size that makes you want to carry it with you every day and a wealth of shooting functions, while maintaining the high-quality appearance that is the hallmark of the X series, further expanding the joy of photography.

The X-M5 is equipped with the back-illuminated 26.1-megapixel “X-Trans™ CMOS 4”*3 sensor and the “X-Processor 5” high-speed image processing engine, enabling high-quality shooting. The dial is located on the top surface for switching between “Film Simulation” modes, which allows users to enjoy various color tone expressions as if they were changing photographic films. Combined with the AUTO mode on the mode dial, even first-time digital camera users can easily enjoy the richly colored image creation that is unique to Fujifilm.

In addition, powerful digital image stabilization, a high-performance built-in microphone, and in-camera SD card recording at 6.2K/30P 4:2:2 10bit support comfortable video recording. The newly added “9:16 Short Video Mode” in “Vlog Mode” makes it easy to shoot the vertical videos that are popular on social media.

*1 Including battery and memory card
*2 For current X series models.
*3 X-Trans is a trademark or registered trademark of FUJIFILM Corporation.

1. Product features
(1) Compact and lightweight body and product design that makes you want to enjoy shooting

▪ It weighs approximately 355g and measures approximately 111.9mm in width, 66.6mm in height, and 38.0mm in depth. The extremely lightweight and compact body for a mirrorless digital camera makes it easy to carry around and enjoy photography every day.
▪ Despite its compact size, the camera has the high-quality appearance of the “X series”. Symmetrically placed dials on the top surface of the warship section highlight the beauty of the camera.

▪The Film Simulation dial is conveniently placed on the lek shoulder of the top face. Users can easily switch between a total of 20 Film Simulation modes according to the subjects and scenes, making it easier to enjoy a variety of color tones in both still and moving images.
▪ The top right features a mode dial. In AUTO mode, the camera automatically recognizes the optimal shooting mode for the scene, allowing even first-time digital camera users to easily capture high-quality stills and videos.

(2) Equipped with a high-performance sensor and high-speed image processing engine to achieve high image quality and high-performance AF

▪ The X-M5 is equipped with the back-illuminated “X-Trans™ CMOS 4” sensor with approximately 26.1 megapixels and the latest high-speed image processing engine “X-Processor 5”. This allows for high image quality photography with low power consumption.
▪ The camera features the subject detection AF, developed with deep learning technology, in addition to the existing Face / Eye AF. AI is used to add the ability to detect animals, birds, cars, motorcycles, bicycles,
airplanes, trains, insects and drones*4
▪ The latest AF predictive algorithm provides high tracking performance for moving subjects and high precision AF in low-contrast environments.

*4 Set the Subject Detection Selng to “BIRD” when you want to detect insects and to “AIRPLANE” when you want to detect drones.

(3) 6.2K/30P video recording and other extensive video func^ons

▪ The X-M5 can record 6.2K/30P 4:2:2 10-bit video onto an SD card inserted in the camera, and also supports extensive video functions including 4K/60P and 1080/240P capability.
▪ The camera is equipped with powerful digital image stabilization. It is effective not only for minor camera shake but also for large shaking that occurs when shooting video while walking.
▪ For the first time in our digital camera lineup, three built-in microphones are equipped. You can choose from four microphone directivity options: surround, front, back, or front & back, depending on the situation. The camera is also the first to feature a steady-state noise reduction function, which reduces noise that continues to ring at a certain frequency, such as air conditioning noise.
▪ Vlog mode allows users to change shoo^ng conditions intuitively by touching the LCD. Improvements in the number and placement of icons make video recording even more intuitive. In addition, the new “9:16 short movie mode” allows users to easily shoot vertical videos popular on various social media and smoothly share the captured content.
▪ New bit rates of 8 Mbps and 25 Mbps have been added to the bit rates that can be selected in the “Media Recording Settings” when shooting video. This shortens the transfer time to external devices such as
smartphones, and contributes to shortening the ^me required to upload captured video directly to social media.

2. optional accessories

Cooling Fan “FAN-001″*5 (already on sale)
▪ This cooling fan can be attached to the rear panel of the camera body without a cable, supporting long hour shooting and video recording in a high-temperature condition. The power can be supplied to the fan from the camera body
Tripod Grip “TG-BT1″*6 (already on sale)
▪ This grip enhances mobility and camera’s hold while adding tripod functionality. Users can comfortably take self-portraits and low angle shots, where it is normally difficult to hold the camera in position. As a tripod, the TG-BT1 can be used for a wide range of love fujiru mors applications from group shots to tabletop still.
*5 Compatible models are FUJIFILM X-M5, FUJIFILM X-H2S, FUJIFILM X-H2, and FUJIFILM X-S20.
*6 Compatible models are FUJIFILM X-H2S (Ver.3.00 or later), FUJIFILM X-H2 (Ver.1.2 or later), FUJIFILM X-T5 (Ver.1.00 or later), FUJIFILM X-T4 (Ver.1.70 or later), FUJIFILM X-T3 (Ver.4.50 or later), FUJIFILM X-S20, FUJIFILM X-S10 (Ver. 2.60 or later), FUJIFILM X-T30 II (Ver. 1.20 or later), FUJIFILM X-T30 (Ver. 1.50 or later).

Fujifilm X-M5, XF16-55mmF2.8 II and XF500mmF5.6 Preorders Start Oct.14 at 10:00 AM New York Time

this is a rendered page, not real page. The real product page will be online Oct.14 at 10AM New York time
this is a rendered page, not real page. The real product page will be online Oct.14 at 10AM New York time

Some are contacting me and ask me: when exactly will it be possible to preorder the gear that will be announced on soon?

Well, in the Fujifilm world it usually works like this: there is the X summit and 1 hour after the X summit started pre-orders are open.

This means:

  • X Summit starts at 9AM New York time
  • Pre-orders start at 10AM New York time

Down below you’ll find the links to several stores in which you can pre-order the gear on October 14 at 10AM New York time. But of course there is always also your local store to check out, too.

And no, these are not real product pages of BHphoto, just renderings I did of what you’ll very soon see there. But they serve as a reminder of the prices in USD we expect for each new gear. We also have the price in € and £ here.

this is a rendered page, not real page. The real product page will be online Oct.14 at 10AM New York time
this is a rendered page, not real page. The real product page will be online Oct.14 at 10AM New York time
this is a rendered page, not real page. The real product page will be online Oct.14 at 10AM New York time
this is a rendered page, not real page. The real product page will be online Oct.14 at 10AM New York time

Fujifilm X-M5 vs. XF16-55mm F2.8 II vs. XF500mm F5.6 – Which Excites You Most? VOTE NOW!

So guys, now that you have seen the following

I was wondering if there is one piece of gear that interests you more than the other and if there is any you even might consider purchasing.

Feel free to let us know by dropping your votes in the survey and your thoughts in the comments.

I am most excited about...

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I will probably buy...

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