Fujifilm X-E5 Review: Refined Rangefinder Styling

There’s a lot to love about this plucky little mirrorless camera. Plus, I’ve included a mini-review of the new Fujifilm XF 23mm f/2.8 R WR lens, which will ship as a kit lens for the X-E5.

Read on to discover why the X-E5 is likely to become a classic entry in the Fujifilm stable.

Fujifilm X-E5 Specs

• Sensor – 40.2MP (APS-C) X-Trans CMOS5 HR
• Processor – X Processor 5
• ISO – 125~12800 (64-51200 Extended Output)
• Viewfinder – 0.39-inch 2.36 million dots OLED Color Viewfinder
• LCD – 3.0 1.04 million dots inch Tilt-Type Touch Screen Color LCD Monitor
• Stabilization – 5-axis IBIS (up to 7 stops)
• Focus – 425 point Intelligent Hybrid AF (TTL contrast AF / TTL phase detection AF)
• Max Shutter – 1/4000 MS 1/8000 ES
• Movie Recording – 6.2K 29.97p
• Storage – UHS-II Single Slot
• Flash – None
• USB – USB Type-C (USB3.2 Gen2x1)
• Battery Life – Approx. 400 frames/45min. (6.2K 29.97p) NP-W126S Li-ion.
• Weight – 445g (0.98lb) with battery and memory card
• Dimensions – 124.9 x 72.9 x 39.1mm (4.9 x 2.87 x 1.53″)

Build & Appearance

Before we discuss the build quality, let’s appreciate the Fujifilm X-E5’s appearance, styling, and aesthetics.

I’ve shot with the Fujifilm X-E4 since it launched in March 2021 and was instantly drawn to its minimal, rangefinder styling and compact form.

The new Fujifilm X-E5 takes all those special design cues from the previous generation and elevates them to new heights of industrial design.

The X-E5 looks stunning with or without the new Fujifilm XF 23mm f/2.8 R WR pancake prime lens! It’s clearly an upgrade from the previous entry and also draws inspiration from other Fujifilm rangefinders such as the X100 and X-Pro ranges.

Let’s take a tour around Fujifilm’s latest mirrorless offering, beginning with the top plate – a divine example of Fujifilm’s engineering prowess!

Machined from a single block of alloy, the top plate houses an equally precise machined shutter speed dial, exposure compensation dial, and Film Simulation dial with a small window to view settings.

The top also houses a hot shoe with a tight-fitting cover, an ON/OFF toggle with the shutter release on top, and a single customizable function button.

The front of the X-E5 is minimal with the Fujifilm X Mount, lens release button, customizable command dial, and a toggle for custom functions, including the built-in digital teleconverter for effortless zooming (cropping of sensor).

Fujifilm’s minimalism continues on both sides of the X-E5. The right side is bare, and the left side houses the focus mode select switch, EVF diopter wheel, a single panel to house the USB-C HDMI-mini, and a 3.5mm mic port.

The Fujifilm X-E5’s rear offers sparse but essential controls. The rear of the top plate houses the Drive/Delete, Play, and AEL/AFL buttons, plus a second customizable command dial.

Below that, the 3.0 Tilt-Type Touch Screen Color LCD Monitor sits flush against the body, making it look like a fixed rather than a tilting display.

To the right is a single Q button for the Quick Access menu, plus a Focus/Menu toggle, Menu/OK button, and a Display/Back button.

I must say that every element of the Fujifilm X-E5 feels premium and is a step up from past generations of the rangefinder series.

From an industrial design perspective, the X-E5 melds cutting-edge technology with classic design principles. Furthermore, it’s the sort of camera that deserves attention, admiration, and praise for harnessing retro film camera styling.

Ergonomics & Handling

For a compact rangefinder-style mirrorless camera, the Fujifilm X-E5 is well-balanced and lightweight. It weighs just 445g (0.98lb) with a battery and memory card.

The camera measures a near-pocketable 124.9 x 72.9 x 39.1mm (4.9 x 2.87 x 1.53″). With either the new pancake XF 23mm f/2.8 or the older pancake XF 27mm f/2.8, you could easily fit the camera/lens combo into a larger jacket pocket.

Interestingly, the X-E4 is a straight-sided camera with no front grip or rear thumb rest. As a result, Fujifilm also sold branded L-plates with a built-in front grip and a neat alloy thumb rest that slotted into the hot shoe.

While the new X-E5 isn’t accompanied by additional hardware to optimize comfort, the latest entry features a small front grip (more of a bump) and a similarly small rear thumb rest.

Despite the perceived size of these new features, the camera is still incredibly comfortable to grab, hold, and shoot with.

However, if you intend to drop some seriously large Fujifilm glass on the X-E5, like the massive XF 500mm f/5.6 R LM OIS WR super-telephoto prime lens, you’ll need to consider a deeper third-party grip option.

Given the camera’s heritage, it’s no surprise that each of the command dials, customizable wheels, buttons, and toggles offers good feedback and tactile use.

Everything is within reach, resulting in you focusing on the shot rather than fiddling about with complex menus.

The Fujifilm X-E5 features a standard Fujifilm X and GFX menu layout that’s easy to master for newbies and familiar for seasoned shooters.

Fujifilm’s latest entry features a new Classic Display Mode for EVF layout that removes clutter from view and delivers a film-camera aesthetic when shooting.

The EVF is a bright 0.39-inch 2.36 million dots OLED Color Viewfinder with a small but comfortable rubber eyecup, diopter, and sensor that turns the LCD off when the camera is brought up to the eye.

The rear LCD is a reasonable 3.0″ 1.04 million dots inch Tilt-Type Touch Screen Color Monitor that’s not great in bright light.

However, I celebrate Fujifilm retaining the same tilt-type screen as found on the X-E4, as it allows for easy shooting down low and up high.

Overall, the Fujifilm X-E5 is a comfortable camera to shoot with, provided you’re working with some of the smaller zooms and primes from the range.

Anything bigger and that small grip won’t support comfortable shooting.

Focus Performance

Fujifilm X-E5 & XF 23mm f/2.8 R WR | 1/1000 SS | f/9 | ISO 800

Fujifilm’s X-E5 boasts the brand’s flagship image sensor, processing engine, and 5-axis image stabilization.

Focus performance depends on the camera just as much as the focus motors driving the X mount lens of choice.

The Fujifilm X-E5 offers fast and incredibly accurate focus performance through a range of customizable and standard focus modes.

Fujifilm’s X Processor 5 and X Trans 5 HR image sensor are of known quantity and represent the best and fastest focusing system from the brand.

Along with standard focusing modes, the X-E5 also packs AI-powered subject detection and tracking for birds, wildlife, vehicles, and people.

The 425-point Intelligent Hybrid AF (TTL contrast AF / TTL phase detection AF) focusing system is fast and efficient, and optimizes performance and output from this compact camera.

Low Light Performance

Fujifilm X-E5 & XF 23mm f/2.8 R WR | 1/125 SS | f/8 | ISO 250

One of the big headlines from the Fujifilm X-E5 launch was the inclusion of a 40.2MP CMOS image sensor and 5-axis image stabilization.

As with Fujifilm’s workhorse and flagship cameras, the X-E5 can master low-light shooting thanks to the 7-stop performance of the in-body image stabilization.

As a result, you can shoot in low light settings or at much slower shutter speeds even with a non-stabilized lens and retain excellent image sharpness and detail.

No more camera shake and no more image blur!

To further support low-light photography, the X-E5 offers a standard ISO range of 125~12800 and an extended output of 64-51200.

With all that in mind, I found the X-E5 had no issue shooting in low light at higher speeds and with a lower ISO than I would typically dial in. Impressive low-light performance, to say the least.

Image Quality

Fujifilm X-E5 & XF 23mm f/2.8 R WR | 1/1000 SS | f/8 | ISO 500

As mentioned earlier, the Fujifilm X-E5 is packing some serious horsepower!

The flagship-level sensor, processor, and IBIS work harmoniously with Fujifilm’s renowned colour science to capture impressively sharp images.

Moreover, the RAW image files offer greater flexibility given the pixel density, dynamic range, and ability to crop in, either in camera (via the teleconverter) or later when post-processing your files.

Given that Fujifilm has marketed the new X-E5 and XF 23mm f/2.8 R WR lens together, it’s fair to highlight the combined performance and image quality outcomes.

See below for a mini-review of the new XF 23mm f/2.8! Despite its pancake form, the new 23mm is a sharp, fast lens that perfectly balances with the X-E5 and delivers excellent image outcomes.

Of course, the X-E5 is compatible with the 45 X Series prime and zoom lenses and countless other third-party options.

JPEG images straight out of the camera are detailed and sharp, offer excellent tonal values, and showcase Fujifilm’s 90-year history with optics, film, and camera science.

Having shot with the X-E4 for four years, I was instantly blown away by the image quality from the X-E5.

While I’ve tested and reviewed other Fujifilm mirrorless cameras with the same sensor and processor, the image outcomes still caught me off guard.

Fujifilm X-E5 Sample Images

Here are some sample images I took using the Fujifilm X-E5 and the new pancake XF 23mm f/2.8 R WR lens.

Fujifilm X-E5 & XF 23mm f/2.8 R WR | 1/125 SS | f/2.8 | ISO 400

Fujifilm X-E5 & XF 23mm f/2.8 R WR | 1/250 SS | f/8 | ISO 500

Fujifilm X-E5 & XF 23mm f/2.8 R WR | 1/250 SS | f/8 | ISO 500

Fujifilm X-E5 & XF 23mm f/2.8 R WR | 1/125 SS | f/2.8 | ISO 800

Fujifilm X-E5 & XF 23mm f/2.8 R WR | 1/160 SS | f/4 | ISO 640

Fujifilm X-E5 & XF 23mm f/2.8 R WR | 1/160 SS | f/8 | ISO 3200

Fujifilm X-E5 & XF 23mm f/2.8 R WR | 1/100 SS | f/8 | ISO 800

Fujifilm X-E5 & XF 23mm f/2.8 R WR | 1/500 SS | f/8 | ISO 250

Fujifilm X-E5 & XF 23mm f/2.8 R WR | 1/125 SS | f/5.6 | ISO 1600

Fujifilm X-E5 & XF 23mm f/2.8 R WR | 1/250 SS | f/8 | ISO 250

Fujifilm X-E5 & XF 23mm f/2.8 R WR | 1/60 SS | f/8 | ISO 3200

Fujifilm X-E5 & XF 23mm f/2.8 R WR | 1/125 SS | f/2.8 | ISO 800

Overall Performance

One of the reasons I love Fujifilm cameras so much is that I can dial in my settings with the top-plate control dials before I even turn the camera on. 

Assessing a potential composition and dialing in shutter speed, exposure compensation, and even a film sim quickly enhances the overall shooting experience.

The new X-E5 continues Fujifilm’s tradition of blending leading-edge technology with retro-inspired film camera thinking.

While the Fujifilm X-E5 looks classy and even a little sexy (actually it’s very sexy), it hides some impressive performance under the hood!

Keep in mind that this little compact interchangeable lens X Series body packs a 40.2MP sensor, a powerful flagship processor, and pro-grade features such as IBIS, high-res video, and more.

With your key settings already dialed in on the body and lens, the camera quickly powers up and is ready to capture your creative vision in milliseconds.

Focus performance is as good as it gets for a current-gen Fujifilm camera, and with the upgraded performance, low-light photography is assured.

Fujifilm’s X-E5 produces pro-grade image quality even with the compact pancake XF 23mm f/2.8 prime – imagine what you can do with Fujifilm’s Red Badge zoom range?

While the X-E5 cranks out 8fps and 6.2K video, its impressive list of features, functions, and shooting options sings the loudest.

Video Performance

The Fujifilm X-E5 is a powerful, rangefinder-style digital stills camera boasting impressive specs.

Let’s face it, almost every current-gen camera can capture stills and video to an excellent standard. Fujifilm isn’t immune to this trend and has developed the X Processor 5 to include high-res video performance and features.

It would be interesting to see if a brand ever releases a high-end digital photography camera without video performance.

While I would classify the X-E5 as a photography-centric digital camera, it also offers impressive video performance, features, and output.

Fujifilm’s X-E5 combines the might of the X Processor 5 and the 40.2 MP X-Trans 5 HR image sensor to record 6.2K/30p, 4K/60p, and FHD/240p slow motion video modes.

Furthermore, it enables recording in H.265 and H.264 formats with All-Intra or Long GOP video compression.

With a 45-minute battery life at the highest resolution and bit rates (up to 200 Mb/s at all resolutions), the X-E5 offers more than enough to satisfy enthusiast videographers and content creators.

How I Tested the Fujifilm X-E5

I tested the Fujifilm X-E5 over two weeks in and around my home in Melbourne, Victoria (Australia).

Given that the X-E5 is also being released alongside the new pancake XF 23mm f/2.8 R WR prime lens, I only tested the camera with that lens.

During my testing, I explored the streets of South Yarra and Collingwood, capturing street scenes while also checking out the low-light performance in restaurants and shops I stepped into.

Fujifilm XF 23mm f/2.8 R WR (Mini) Review

• Focal length – 23mm (35mm FF equivalent focal length)
• Angle of view – 63.4°
• Maximum aperture – f/2.8
• Minimum aperture – f/16
• Minimum focus distance – 20cm (7.9″)
• Filter size – Ø39mm filter thread
• Lens configuration – 8 elements in 6 groups
• Dimensions – Ø61.8mm × 23mm (2.4″ x 0.9″)
• Weight – 90g (3.2oz)

When announcing the new X-E5, Fujifilm also revealed a new pancake XF 23mm f/2.8 R WR lens available in the same black and silver as the X-E5.

When the brand announced the X-E4 in 2021, they also announced the revamped pancake XF 27mm f/2.8 lens with an aperture ring and weather sealing.

While the X-E5 is not weather-sealed, the little XF 23mm f/2.8 is, and it’s also the third iteration of a 23mm lens from Fujifilm since the launch of the X series.

The Fujifilm XF 23mm f/2.8 R WR is a pancake prime lens with a 35mm full-frame equivalent focal distance and a 63.4° field of view.

Fujifilm X-E5 & XF 23mm f/2.8 R WR | 1/1000 SS | f/2.8 | ISO 400

Its lens assembly comprises 8 elements in 6 groups, including two high-resolution aspherical elements and a fast 11-bladed aperture for creamy background blur.

It’s an impressive offering, given it measures a tiny Ø61.8mm × 23mm (2.4″ x 0.9″) and weighs a minuscule 90g (3.2oz).

The new XF 23mm f/2.8 is a sharp lens with impressive colour and tonal reproduction. It’s ideal for travel or street photography and pairs perfectly with the new Fujifilm X-E5.

For reference, its image quality is on par with the compact Fujifilm XF 23mm f/2 prime lens. It’s a pity they couldn’t have squeezed a wider aperture in for an f/2 outcome.

Alternatives to Fujifilm X-E5

There are two excellent Fujifilm alternatives to the Fujifilm X-E5.

The first alternative is the flagship Fujifilm X-T5, which boasts the same 40.2MP image sensor, X Processor 5, and 5-axis image stabilization.

Be sure to check out our comprehensive Fujifilm X-T5 review!

The X-T5 is Fujifilm’s flagship photography camera, offering pro-grade performance and outcomes. While it may seem a little odd to recommend a flagship body as an alternative to an enthusiast-level camera, there’s a method to my madness.

The Fujifilm X-T5 currently retails for around US$1,700.00, and the new X-E5 retails for around the same price.

For the same price, you get a pro-level camera with weather-sealing, dual UHS-II card slots, improved video output, greater ergonomics, and comfort.

While the Fujifilm X-T5 was released in late 2022, it’s still an incredible camera even by today’s standards. However, if you don’t need the bells and whistles, the X-E5 is hard to pass.

The second alternative to the X-E5 is the entry-level Fujifilm X-M5. We reviewed it and loved it!

The X-M5 is a compact and lightweight mirrorless camera that measures 4.4 x 2.6 x 1.5″ (111.9 x 66.6 x 38 mm) and weighs just 12.5 oz (355g).

It features a 26.1MP APS-C X-Trans 4 CMOS image sensor, X Processor 5, and incredibly fast autofocus performance.

While the X-E5 and X-T5 can record high-quality video, they are more photography-centric cameras. The X-M5, however, is better suited to videography thanks to its impressive video specs, rotating touch screen, and vlog/content-friendly options.

It’s also important to note that while the X-E5 and X-T5 feature EVFs, the Fujifilm X-M5 does not and only offers a 3.0″ touchscreen.

Value for Money

I often dread writing about the value of a piece of photography gear because the user determines the value of anything. Let me explain.

While manufacturers and the retail market determine a product’s price, its perceived value differs from consumer to consumer. That goes for cameras, lenses, TVs, and cars!

What I consider good value will differ from what others consider good value. Plus, let’s face it, EVERYTHING seems to be going up and costing more these days.

The Fujifilm X-E5 is set to retail for around US$1,700 for the body only (available in silver or black), and the X-E5 with the XF 23mm f/2.8 kit is set at around $1,900.

It’s a great value bundle, as the XF 23mm f/2.8 is expected to retail for around US$500 if purchased separately.

I recommend grabbing it in the X-E5 bundle and, with the US$300 savings, buying two more NP-W126S batteries, a high-quality UHS-II SD card, and a camera bag to keep it all safe.

If you’re looking for an enthusiast-grade mirrorless camera with pro-grade specs, that’s terrific value for money, especially if you pick up the bundle with the X-E5 and XF 23mm.

Yes, it’s currently the same price as the flagship X-T5! But that camera was released almost three years ago, and it’s fair to say that the price of consumer electronics has dramatically increased since then.

Plus, just remember, 40.2MP, IBIS, X Processor 5, and much, much more!

Fujifilm X-E5 Review | Conclusion

I have to say, the X-E5 has impressed me and left me wondering how Fujifilm could ever possibly top or improve the X-E series.

The Fujifilm X-E5 is a considerable leap in every aspect from the humble and fun X-E4. I’ve owned and loved the X-E4 since it launched in early 2021 and have used it as my workhorse body.

It’s compact and lightweight and balances perfectly with smaller Fujifilm primes. Despite its ageing output, it’s a stellar camera.

Fujifilm’s X-E5 takes everything good about the previous X-E camera and elevates it well beyond my expectations, in almost every aspect!

Not only is it a powerful performer, but the refined rangefinder styling and precise design and engineering will make this camera a cult classic.

I am so impressed with the Fujifilm X-E5 that I have already ordered one (black body only) and paid in full.

The Fujifilm X-E5 clearly demonstrates that Fujifilm is all about design and innovation, engineering prowess, and the ability to harness the joy of photography.

Highly Recommended

Fujifilm X-E5

Packing powerful specs, this small and stylish camera delivers impressive image quality and performance.

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