Fujifilm X-T3 with XF18-55mm Fujifilm - Review 🏆

The Fujifilm X-T3 is the company's flagship APS-C mirrorless camera that was released in 2018. It features a 26.1MP X-Trans CMOS 4 sensor and X-Processor 4 image processor to deliver high-resolution images and fast performance.

The X-T3 succeeds the popular X-T2 model and brings with it several improvements. Key highlights include better autofocus, improved video capabilities, and higher ISO performance. The camera has a classic design reminiscent of vintage film SLRs along with plenty of physical dials and controls.

Overall, the X-T3 aims to be a versatile all-rounder for enthusiasts and professionals. It combines advanced imaging capabilities with an old-school shooting experience. The camera is part of Fujifilm's high-end X-series lineup designed for experienced photographers.

Build Quality and Design

The Fujifilm X-T3 features a durable, weather sealed body made of magnesium alloy that feels solid and provides confidence when shooting in tough conditions. The design draws inspiration from classic film SLR cameras, with physical dials for shutter speed, ISO, exposure compensation and drive modes.

The dials lend the camera a retro aesthetic while providing intuitive tactile control over key exposure parameters. The ISO dial in particular stands out, with a locking button that must be held down to turn it, preventing accidental changes. The shutter speed and exposure compensation dials also have satisfying click stops that make it easy to dial in settings while looking through the viewfinder.

Overall, the build quality is excellent with tight tolerances between parts and a high-end feel. Buttons provide positive feedback and the handling experience mirrors Fujifilm's heritage of finely crafted cameras. Photographers who appreciate traditional manual controls will love the X-T3's no-nonsense approach to physical dials and buttons.

Another excellent product to pair with the X-T3 is the Fujifilm XF23mmF2 R WR lens. This compact, lightweight lens features fast and silent autofocus, making it ideal for street photography. Its weather-resistant construction matches the X-T3, providing a reliable option for shooting in various conditions. The lens offers sharp image quality and beautiful bokeh, enhancing your photographic capabilities with the X-T3.

Image Sensor and Processor

The Fujifilm X-T3 features a 26.1MP APS-C X-Trans CMOS 4 image sensor and X-Processor 4 quad-core CPU. This updated sensor and processor combination provide excellent image quality with fast performance.

The sensor uses Fujifilm's unique X-Trans color filter array design, which mimics film grain and eliminates the need for an optical low-pass filter. This allows the sensor to capture sharper fine details without moire and false colors. The backside illuminated structure also improves light gathering efficiency for cleaner images, especially at high ISOs.

The X-Processor 4 quad-core CPU provides the processing power to enable fast continuous shooting up to 11 fps with the mechanical shutter, 30 fps with the electronic shutter, and 4K/60P 10-bit video recording. It also enables advanced AF tracking and Face/Eye Detection capabilities. The combination of the new sensor and processor allow the X-T3 to deliver outstanding image quality and speed.

An excellent complement to the X-T3 is the Fujifilm XF50mmF1.0 R WR. This lens is renowned for its exceptionally wide f/1.0 maximum aperture, delivering beautiful bokeh and exceptional low-light performance. Its advanced optical design ensures sharpness and clarity across the frame, making it an ideal choice for portrait and low-light photography. Weather-resistant sealing offers protection against dust and moisture, allowing photographers to confidently use it in challenging conditions. The lens' high-quality construction and design align perfectly with the X-T3's capabilities, enhancing overall image quality.

Autofocus Performance

The X-T3 features a hybrid autofocus system with 425 phase detection points and 425 contrast detection areas. This combination enables incredibly fast and accurate autofocus performance.

The phase detection points cover nearly the entire frame, with only the extreme edges uncovered. This extensive coverage means you can reliably track subjects anywhere within the frame. The autofocus is also sensitive down to -3EV, allowing it to lock focus in very low light conditions.

For still photos, the autofocus acquires focus in as little as 0.06 seconds. It can accurately track subjects moving at up to 11fps when using the mechanical shutter, or 30fps when using the electronic shutter. This makes it well-suited for photographing fast action like sports or wildlife.

The autofocus algorithms have been improved to better track erratic subject movement, maintaining a lock even when the subject quickly changes direction or speed. Face and eye detection also help the camera quickly focus on people within the frame.

Overall, the X-T3 delivers class-leading autofocus performance that makes it a great choice for action photography or any situation requiring fast, reliable focusing.

Video Capabilities

The Fujifilm X-T3 is a very capable video camera, offering impressive specs for both video professionals and enthusiasts. It can record high quality 4K video internally, with support for 60fps at a high bitrate.

One of the standout video features is the ability to record 4K video at up to 60fps with 10-bit color depth when using the H.265/HEVC codec. This allows for smooth, detailed 4K footage for slow motion playback. Most other cameras in this class are limited to 30fps 4K.

The X-T3 offers high bitrate recording options up 400Mbps with the H.265 codec, which preserves more detail and minimizes compression artifacts. Professionals will appreciate the ability to record video at a high quality 10-bit 4:2:2 color depth, with popular log profiles like F-Log included.

With its fast sensor readout and advanced processor, the X-T3 supports a number of professional video features like clean HDMI output, a flat F-Log profile, and certain anamorphic recording modes. Overall, it's one of the most capable APS-C sensor cameras for 4K video recording.

Battery Life

The Fujifilm X-T3 comes with the NP-W126S battery which provides enough power for approximately 390 shots per charge when using the rear LCD screen, or 340 shots per charge when using the electronic viewfinder (EVF). This is pretty good battery life for a mirrorless camera, allowing you to shoot for extended periods before needing to swap out the battery. The NP-W126S is also used by other Fujifilm X-Series models so you may be able to share batteries between cameras. Overall the battery life is sufficient for a full day or more of casual to moderate shooting, but you'll want to pack a spare battery or two for heavy usage like an all-day shoot or event. The camera can be charged via USB which is handy for topping up between shots.

Ergonomics and Handling

The Fujifilm X-T3 features an ergonomic and lightweight magnesium alloy body that is weather sealed, making it durable and comfortable to use in various conditions. The textured hand grip provides a secure hold, allowing you to shoot comfortably for long periods.

The physical controls are thoughtfully laid out, providing intuitive access to key settings. Dedicated dials allow quick adjustment of ISO, shutter speed, and exposure compensation, while still allowing full auto and semi-auto operation if desired. This gives the flexibility of full manual controls combined with the convenience of auto modes when needed.

There are also plenty of customizable buttons and dials to tailor the controls to your personal shooting style. The camera is highly responsive with a fast start-up time so you'll never miss a shot. Overall, the X-T3 offers an excellent handling experience for both stills and video shooting.

Image Quality

The Fujifilm X-T3 delivers excellent image quality thanks to its 26.1MP APS-C X-Trans CMOS 4 sensor and X-Processor 4 image processor. Fujifilm's renowned color science produces beautiful colors straight out of camera, especially with the popular Film Simulation modes.

The Film Simulation modes allow you to mimic the look of Fujifilm's classic film stocks like Provia, Velvia and Astia. There's also Classic Chrome which delivers muted tones and high saturation. For monochrome lovers, there are ACROS and Monochrome modes with added grain effects and color filters. The Film Simulations really make a difference and are one of the biggest appeals of Fujifilm cameras.

In terms of resolution, the 26.1MP sensor captures a good level of detail and sharpness. The lack of an AA filter contributes to the sensor's resolving capabilities. Images have a very natural look at low ISOs all the way up to ISO 12800, making this a great camera for everyday shooting. Dynamic range is also very good, providing flexibility for high contrast scenes.

Overall, the image quality of the X-T3 is outstanding. The sensor and processor combo deliver excellent resolution, dynamic range, noise control and beautiful colors straight out of camera. This makes the X-T3 a great choice for landscapes, portraits and general photography.

Connectivity

The Fujifilm X-T3 offers robust connectivity options to facilitate transferring photos and videos as well as remote shooting capabilities.

WiFi and Bluetooth

The X-T3 has built-in high-speed WiFi and Bluetooth connectivity. The WiFi allows you to wirelessly transfer photos and videos to your smartphone or tablet using the free Fujifilm Camera Remote app. It's easy to set up and provides a reliable connection. Bluetooth enables quick pairing with mobile devices.

USB-C

The X-T3 has a USB Type-C port that supports USB 3.1 Gen 1 speeds. This allows for fast transfer of large photo and video files when connected to a computer. The USB-C port can also be used to charge the camera or power it for extended shooting sessions.

Remote Shooting

Using the Fujifilm Camera Remote app with the WiFi connection, you can use your smartphone or tablet to remotely control the X-T3. This allows you to frame shots, adjust settings, and trigger the shutter from a distance. The live view feed is smooth, with minimal lag. Remote shooting expands your creative options.

Pros and Cons

The Fujifilm X-T3 mirrorless camera has many strengths but also a few potential drawbacks to consider.

Pros

• Excellent build quality and durable, weather-sealed body
• Fast autofocus and subject tracking performance
• 4K video up to 60fps with 10-bit internal recording
• Large battery capacity delivers approx 500 shots per charge
• Intuitive handling with ample external controls
• Impressive image quality and color science
• Wide range of connectivity options

Cons

• No in-body image stabilization
• Single SD card slot
• No headphone jack
• Lacks built-in flash
• Menu system can be convoluted
• No touchscreen capability

The X-T3 delivers outstanding image quality in a rugged, high-performance body. It excels at both stills and video capture. The responsive autofocus, generous battery life, and wealth of external controls also make it a pleasure to use. The lack of in-body stabilization and single card slot are perhaps the main limitations. But overall the X-T3 remains highly capable and should satisfy most enthusiast and professional photographers.