The Fujifilm X-E3 updates the X-E2s, with a 24.3-megapixel sensor, a 3inch touch-screen, 4K video, a new body design, and updated controls. Let’s find out how this mirrorless camera performs and feels in the hand.

Fujifilm X-E3 Features

The Fujifilm X-E3 features the same 24.3mp X-Trans CMOS III APS-C sensor as the Fujifilm X-Pro2, X-T2 and X-T20, with an ISO speed of ISO100 - ISO51200. The sensor features phase detection Auto Focus (AF), with an updated AF algorithm to give a fast AF speed of 0.06sec, as well as faster AF tracking, thanks to a faster X Processor Pro image sensor. There are 91 or 325 AF points available, and the phase detection focus points cover 50% side to side, and 75% top to bottom.

The X-E3 records 4K (UHD) video, at 30, 25, 24, 23.98fps, at 100mbps, with a limit of 10 minutes for each video. FullHD video is recorded at frame rates up to 60fps, with a 15-minute limit for each video. On the side is a 2.5mm microphone socket if you want to connect an external microphone.

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Wi-Fi and Bluetooth are built-in, with Bluetooth being new to Fujifilm cameras, and this will allow automatic low-power connection. Once connected to a smartphone or tablet, Wi-Fi is used to transfer the images (JPEG only, full size or 3mp). The latest version of the Fujifilm Remote App will allow automatic pairing, using Bluetooth.  

The X-E3 is the most compact X mount camera with a built-in viewfinder, and in a bold move Fujifilm has removed the 4-way controller on the back, replacing it with a “joystick” type control (8 direction focus lever), and a touch-screen. You can use this joystick to set the focus point or use the touch-screen. The 3inch touch-screen has 1040K dots. The touch-screen can also be switched off, and gestures can be used to access controls. The new design gives a larger area on the back of the camera to aid grip.

Like other X series cameras, this model features a top shutter speed dial, exposure compensation dial, and with XF lenses you can set the aperture on the lens. This gives the camera the feeling of using a traditional camera. The exposure compensation dial now features a C setting so you can set the exposure compensation +/-5EV. An optional grip is available, the MHG-XE3, to give improved handling with larger lenses.

As expected with a Fujifilm camera, film simulation modes are included, as well as a grain effect. There’s also an Advanced SR (Scene Recognition) Auto mode so that you can simply point and shoot.

There are 25 lenses from Fujifilm currently, including a new XF 80mm f/2.8 1:1 macro lens, with 2 more on the roadmap. There are also a number of other lenses from Zeiss, and Samyang available.

Compared to the X-E2s, X-T20, and X-Pro2:

*XPro2 is weather-sealed. ** 8fps mechanical shutter, up to 14fps with electronic shutter

Key Features

• 24.3mp APS-C X-Trans CMOS III sensor
• X-Processor Pro image engine
• 3inch Touch-screen, 1040K dots
• 0.39inch 2.36m-dot OLED EVF, 0.62x magnification
• 91/325 AF points
• 8fps continuous shooting - 14fps with electronic shutter
• 4K video, 30fps, 10min limit for each video (supports HDMI out)
• ISO100 to ISO51200
• Wi-Fi, Bluetooth built-in
• In-camera raw conversion
• External flash included (GN11, ISO200)
• Magnesium alloy body
• Available in black or black and silver

Fujifilm X-E3 Handling

The X-E3 is smaller than the X-E2s, but with an improved grip, thanks to the removal of buttons on the back of the camera, which gives plenty of space for your thumb to hold onto the camera. The front grip feels good, and has also been redesigned, and is large enough to provide a solid hold on the camera. The aluminium dials feel extremely well made, and the camera has a premium feel thanks to the top and bottom is made out of magnesium alloy. 

To access settings that you would have normally accessed using the 4-way controller, you can swipe up/down/left/right on the screen to get to the settings. Whilst this may not be as intuitive as labelled buttons on a 4-way controller, it doesn't take long to get used to this. You can also use the Q (Quick) menu to get to most settings, and this and "MyMenu" can be customised with your favourite settings.

The joystick can be used to move the focus position, scroll through the menus, and go through the options available. There's a front and rear command dial, which can be pushed in. You can use the touch-screen to select different options when using the Q menu. The menus are neatly laid out, with clear sections, as well as video options being in its own menu. However, you can't use the touch-screen to scroll through the menus and need to use the joystick.

We go through the menus and options in the video below:

When using the EVF - The touch-panel AF can be set to use the whole screen, or specifically the left or right of the screen. This feature will be added to the X-T20 with the upcoming firmware update, in Late November.

The EVF is sharp and clear with good colour reproduction, and thanks to an eye-detection sensor will automatically switch on when you hold the camera up to your eye. There is dioptre adjustment, and a rubber surround, making it comfortable to use. If you use your left eye, then you'll need to be careful not to smudge the screen with your nose. 

You can choose between having 91 or 325 phase detection AF points. You can also select what focus point to use, using the touch-screen, or the joystick. The screen looks good, with a gapless design, and viewing angles are very good. The shutter is quite quiet, and you can switch to the electronic shutter if you want to shoot completely silently.

Battery life - Battery life is rated at 350 shots according to Fujifilm results, which is a fairly typical amount for a CSC / Mirrorless camera. The camera uses the same battery as a number of other Fujifilm X cameras.