If you want to buy the Fujifilm X-T50 then you’ll have a dilemma. You have two Fujifilm camera competitors that can be more attractive. Fujifilm X-T30 II comes in a smaller size and is more portable and still has great image quality. And for $300 more you can get a fully packed workhouse of a camera like Fujifilm X-T5 which is still a portable camera.
Which Fujifilm X-T camera to buy? I’ll try to answer this question.
Introduction
My review talks about the newly launched Fujifilm X-T50 and its position between the Fujifilm X-T5 and Fujifilm X-T30 II. I’ll analyze its features, design, usability, and how it compares with its counterparts.
By the end, you will have a clear understanding of which camera suits your needs best.
Design and Build
The Fujifilm X-T50 boasts a sleek, rounded design that is attractive and functional. It is smaller than the Fujifilm X-T5, making it a more portable option.
Despite its compact size, the Fujifilm X-T50 does not compromise on build quality, offering a sturdy and reliable camera body.
Size Comparison
- Fujifilm X-T50: Smaller and lighter, ideal for travel.
- Fujifilm X-T5: Larger, more robust, suitable for professional use.
- Fujifilm X-T30 II: Sits in between, offering a balance of portability and functionality.
Key Features
The X-T50 comes with a variety of features aimed at both novice and experienced photographers. Here are some highlights:
In-Body Image Stabilization (IBIS)
The X-T50 includes a seven-stop IBIS, which is a significant advantage for handheld shooting in low-light conditions and with longer lenses.
Fujifilm X-T5 has similar IBIS and X-T30 II has no IBIS.
IBIS could be a reason for many users to upgrade to X-T50 or X-T5.
Sensor
- Fujifilm X-T50: 40.2-megapixel sensor, providing high-resolution images.
- Fujifilm X-T5: Shares the same sensor as the Fujifilm X-T50 so 40.2 mega pixels X-Trans CMOS 5 sensor
- Fujifilm X-T30 II: Lower resolution (26.1 Mpx), but still offers excellent image quality.
Fujifilm X-T50 Film Simulation Dial
One of the most intriguing features of the Fujifilm X-T50 is its film simulation dial. However, there are limitations to its functionality.
You have 20 simulations that you can choose from, including Reala Ace.
But on the film dial, you have only 8 fixed simulations and 3 customizable simulations FS1, FS2, and FS3.
Current Functionality
The dial allows users to switch between different film simulations, such as Reala Ace, Acros, Provia, Velvia, Color Chrome, etc. However, it only changes the JPEG profiles, not the detailed film recipes that are made by you, by the community like FujiXWeekly, or even my film simulation recipes.
Potential Improvements
For this feature to be truly revolutionary, Fujifilm needs to update the firmware to allow users to set custom film recipes.
This would enable photographers to have more creative control over their image processing directly from the camera.
Fujifilm X-T50 Camera Colors vs Fujifilm X-T5 vs Fujifilm X-T30 II
- Fujifilm X-T5 comes just in two colors: silver and black
- Fujifilm X-T30 II comes in three colors also: sliver, black, charcoal
I like the charcoal color, but the lenses that you put on your Fujifilm camera are just black and silver!
Fujifilm X-T50 vs X-T30 II vs, X-T5 Ergonomics
Buttons and Controls
Fujifilm X-T50, as Fujifilm X-T30 II, and Fujifilm X-T5 have plenty of buttons, providing quick access to essential settings. The layout is intuitive, making it easy for users to navigate the camera’s features.
The Grip
- The grip of Fujifilm X-T50 is improved. And fore sure it’s better compared to X-T30 II but not as good as X-T5
- Fujifilm X-T30 II needs a thumb grip to be paired with bigger lenses – the thumb grip is doing wonders
- Fujifilm X-T5 has a good grip in general – I didn’t feel the need to add an extra grip
Battery Life
One of the notable drawbacks of the X-T50 is its battery life. In economy mode, it is rated for around 400 shots, but in real-world usage, especially in boost mode, it is likely to be significantly lower.
This makes carrying extra batteries essential for extended shoots or travel.
EVF of X-T50 vs X-T30 II vs X-T5
- Fujifilm X-T50 and Fujifilm X-T30II have the same EVF
- Fujifilm X-T5 has a better EVF, bright and big
Autofocus and Performance
Fujfilm X-T50:
- Fujfilm X-T50 Autofocus: The X-T50’s autofocus system is the same as Fujifilm X-T5
- Burst Rate: It offers a decent 8 fps continuous shooting speed with mechanical shutter – suitable for casual sports and action photography. But on the Fujifilm X-T50 specs page I can see only 5fps.
Fujifilm X-T5:
- Fujfilm X-T5 Autofocus: The X-T5 autofocus is good from the latest firmware and it’s the same as
- Burst Rate: It can shoot up to 15 frames per second using the mechanical shutter
Both cameras can focus to an incredible -7EV in low-light!
Fujifilm X-T30 II:
- Fujfilm X-T30 II has the old AF system of X-T4, X-PRO3, X100V, X-E4 that is ok in any normal condition
- Burst rate: Fujifilm X-T30 II burst rate is better than X-T50 – its 8 frames per second compared to X-T50
My opinion is that for the momentt the differences are pretty small for family, travel and street photography regarding the AF system of these three cameras.
Video Capabilities
Regarding videography and filming, the only camera that I would buy to use for videography is Fujifilm X-T5. Fujifilm X-T30 II and Fujifilm X-T50 have a small battery and a small body. For 4k video they will overheat fast!
Remember that Fujifilm is selling a cooler for Fujifilm X-S20 a dedicated camera for filming!
Fujifilm X-T50 vs. X-T5 vs. X-T30 II Price and Value
Cost Comparison
- Fujifilm X-T30 II: The most affordable option, offering great value for beginners: $999 🛒see offers for Fujifilm X-T30 II from Amazon here.
- Fujifilm X-T50: Priced higher than the X-T30 II but lower than the X-T5: $1399 🛒see offers for Fujifilm XT-50 from Amazon here.
- Fujifilm X-T5: Higher price, justified by its advanced features and durability: $1699: 🛒see offers for Fujifilm X-T5 from Amazon here.
Value Proposition
The X-T50 offers a balance of advanced features and portability, but its high price compared to the X-T30 II. The X-T5, with its comprehensive feature set, remains a strong contender for those willing to invest more.
Fujifilm X-T50 vs. X-T5 vs. X-T30 II Travel and Portability
Fujifilm X-T50 as a Travel Camera
The X-T50’s lightweight design makes it an excellent choice for travel. However, its battery limitations and lack of weather sealing may be concerns for some travelers.
Comparison with Fuifilm X-T5 and Fujifilm X-T30 II
On Fujifilm X-T5 you have weather sealing and also dual SD cards, plus a big battery – this is great for travel!
- X-T50: Lightweight, good for casual travel photography.
- X-T5: More durable, weather-sealed, and better for professional travel photography.
- X-T30 II: Affordable and portable, a great option for beginners and hobbyists.
- Buy Fujifilm X-T5 from Amazon here.
- Buy Fujifilm XT-50 from Amazon here.
- Buy Fujifilm X-T30 II from Amazon here.
Fujifilm X-T50 vs. X-T5 vs. X-T30 II Lens Compatibility
The X-T50 performs well with Fujifilm’s larger lenses, thanks to its IBIS and balanced design. However, the X-T30 II, with a thumb grip, also handles larger lenses comfortably.
Fujifilm X-T50 & XF 16-50mm F2.8-4.8 R LM WR Lens Kit Lens Performance
The X-T50’s kit lens, the XF 16-50mm F2.8-4.8 R LM WR Lens is well-made, dust-resistant, and capable of resolving the 40-megapixel sensor’s detail. However, its aperture range of f/2.8 to f/4.8 limits its performance in low light situations.
I advice get a prime lens that resolves the 40 MP sensor. For Fujifilm APS-C sensor I do prefer the f1.4 lenses.
Conclusion
Best Use Cases
- Fujifilm X-T50: Ideal for users who already have an Fujifilm X-T5 and want a secondary body with similar resolution but more portability.
- Fujifilm X-T5: Best for professionals needing a durable, feature-rich camera with the best specs and with weather sealing.
- Fujifilm X-T30 II: Great for beginners and those looking for an affordable entry into Fujifilm’s system.
Fujifilm X-T30 II has the sensor of Fujifilm X-100V and X-PRO3 and it will be compatible with all the Fujifilm lenses: old Fujifilm lenses, new Fujifilm lenses, manual focusing thrid party lenses (like Pergear 25mm f1.7).
The Fujifilm X-T50 is a compelling camera with many strengths, including its design, IBIS, and high-resolution sensor.
However, its high price and some incomplete features, like the film simulation dial (that should have been a film recipe dial), may limit its appeal.
For those looking for a travel-friendly camera with advanced features, the Fujifilm X-T50 is a strong contender, but the Fujifilm X-T5 and Fujifilm X-T30 II remain excellent alternatives depending on specific needs and budget.
Where to buy
Support my work and if you want to buy something from Amazon, please use my affiliate links for no extra cost for you:
- Buy Fujifilm X-T5 from Amazon here.
- Buy Fujifilm XT-50 from Amazon here.
- Buy Fujifilm X-T30 II from Amazon here.