A Fuji Favorite Gets A Sweet UpGrade
Fuji is on fire right now.
New gear is rolling out fast, and it’s not just more of the same — they’re clearly listening to the broader photographer market. From the quirky-cool X-Half, to the impressive 100 MP GFX 100RF, and now the X-E5 — a seriously welcome upgrade to a fan favorite.
Let’s talk E5:
If you’re like me, you’ve probably got an X100 stashed in your bag whenever you leave the house. It’s compact, capable, and totally dialed for walkaround shooting. But now? The E5 is making a strong case to earn that spot.
This camera slots into the X-Pro family, but with a tighter footprint — still rangefinder-style, but sleeker. And Fuji’s added just enough upgrades to make it feel fresh without losing its lineage.
BTW, for a bit of a retro look, check out the window for the film sim/function dial on the top panel! #vloggingOne of the most exciting bits? That brand-new 23mm f/2.8 pancake lens. Yep, Fuji nailed it on the size and weight. And yes, it’s offered as a kit lens. So you’re getting the convenience of a compact prime and the flexibility of interchangeable glass. Win-win. As you can see from this side view , the depth is very similar to the X100 with a lens shade.
Inside, you’re looking at a 40MP sensor. This uses the same block battery as the X100 series. Fuji also gave us a dedicated dial spot for Film Sim recipes (thank you!). Sure, they’re for JPEGs, but with more sim access baked into the interface, you’re not diving through menus just to get to that perfect exclusive Fuji look., but more likely, that FS recipe you found online and can’t wait to incorporate into your photos. More creative flow, less menu digging.
For your video needs, this will shoot 6.2K/30P resolution. It features a tracking AF function during video recording, plus a 180º tilting LCD for the vloggers out there.
Like the GFX 100RF, there are also options for your viewing, selected by moving a front lever. Still all the info you want, with the ability to see the frame format as selected.
Now, what’s improved from the E4?
- Slightly larger grip (but not overdone — it doesn’t creep up to the top plate).
- More custom options for dials and levers.
- Upgraded IBIS with a max of 7.0 stops.
- And yes, they even toss in a strap, similar to the one from the GFX 100RF kit. Nice touch.
It’s a great blend of this size format with more utility: compact design + pro features + interchangeable lens capability, Fuji quality.
Price-wise? $1,900 for the kit with the 23mm, or $1,700 for the body only. That puts it right in line with the X100 — so it really comes down to your shooting style. Want the fixed 2.0 lens, and a leaf shutter ? Stick with the X100. Want lens flexibility and all the film sim recipes at your fingertips? E5 all day.
I haven’t had it in my hands yet, but you can bet I’ll report back once I do — with side-by-side shots and first impressions.
Stay tuned — this one’s going to be high on a street shooter’s list.
and now, the official word:
Fujifilm Introduces FUJIFILM X-E5 Mirrorless Digital Camera
VALHALLA, N.Y. – June 12, 2025 – FUJIFILM North America Corporation, Electronic Imaging Division, announces the launch of FUJIFILM X-E5 (X-E5) rangefinder-style mirrorless digital camera. X-E5 combines the classic look and feel that has made Fujifilm’s X-E series a sought-after tool among photographers, with an updated design and the latest features X Series has to offer including a customizable Film Simulation (FS) dial, in-body image stabilization, enhanced viewfinder capabilities, and more.
“X-E5 is a masterstroke of elegant design, delivering the perfect balance between form and function,” said Victor Ha, vice president, Electronic Imaging and Optical Devices Divisions, FUJIFILM North America Corporation. “It blends our fifth-generation digital imaging technology with soulful touches of classic design, creating a camera that brings even seasoned users a new way to immerse themselves in our subculture of Film Simulations.”
Main Features:
Lightweight, compact form factor, featuring new Film Simulation dial
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X-E5 is designed to be an everyday carry camera, weighing approximately 445g (approximately 1lb.)1.
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For the first time in the history of FUJIFILM X Series, the top-plate is machined from a single piece of aluminum. The distinct tapered design on the rear of the top plate enhances the metallic texture while improving the operability of the dials, ensuring a seamless and comfortable creative experience. By combining sharp, flat edges with carefully curved surfaces, the top-plate delivers a smooth metallic texture and a high sense of rigidity, offering a premium feel when holding the camera.
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In addition to providing quick access to Fujifilm’s exclusive Film Simulation modes, the FS dial features three additional positions that allow users to create and save their own custom FS recipes to FS1, FS2, or FS3.
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Refinement is central to every aspect of X-E5’s design. For example, the viewfinder and diopter adjustment control fit flush with the body. By refining vertical and horizontal elements, the design preserves the essence of a traditional camera while exuding a sophisticated presence.
New Electronic Viewfinder Capabilities
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Inspired by retro film cameras, the new Classic Display mode2 on X-E5’s rangefinder-style
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X-E5 also has a new Surround View function that displays a black, semi-transparent or outlined area outside the image. While looking through the viewfinder, users can easily switch between these three options using the Control Lever on the front of the camera, providing an image making experience similar to a traditional optical viewfinder.
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The Control Lever offers additional customizable functions including changing aspect ratios and adjusting the digital teleconverter magnification. This ensures exceptional operability and versatility, even with one-handed operation.
Powerful in-body image stabilization (IBIS), digital teleconverter, and video capabilities
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A new IBIS algorithm and upgraded gyro sensor work together to increase responsiveness to camera shake across five axes. This offers a benefit of up to 7.0 stops at the center and 6.0 stops at the periphery3.
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The camera features a digital teleconverter function that allows for 1.4x and 2.0x zoom options. This enables users to crop into the frame with a minimal loss of image quality, for additional creative versatility.
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The rear tilting monitor can be flipped upward and forward facing up to 180 degrees, which can accommodate a wide variety of compositions, from high to low angle, as well as selfies.
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X-E5 is capable of shooting in 6.2K/30P resolution. It features a tracking AF function during video recording, ensuring high-quality and smooth footage.
High-performance sensor and high-speed image processing engine for high-quality images and autofocus (AF)
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X-E5 is equipped with the back-illuminated 40.2 megapixel X-Trans™ CMOS 5 HR sensor. Updated image processing algorithms deliver high resolution while maintaining a high signal-to-noise ratio.
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An improved pixel structure allows light to be recorded more efficiently on the imaging sensor, unlocking ISO 125 as a native sensitivity. On the previous model4 this was only available as an extended option. Additionally, the electronic shutter can be set to a maximum shutter speed of 1/180,000 of a second to achieve highly precise exposure control.
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X-E5 features AI-based subject-detection autofocus, developed using deep learning technology to detect animals, birds, cars, motorcycles, bicycles, airplanes, trains, insects, and drones5.
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