Fujifilm X-A2 Review

One of the most remarkable examples of recent technological achievement is Fujifilm’s X-series of tiny system cameras. Even the company that makes them appears to have been caught aback by how popular they have become.

Models such as the Fuji X-T1, X-E2, and X-Pro1 have become particularly appealing to amateur photographers as a result of their mix of a vintage design aesthetic, classic controls, a muscular build, and outstanding image quality.

Fuji also provides the X-M1 and the X-A1, which have since been replaced by the X-A2, evaluated in this article, to appeal to photographers with less expertise. The only difference between the X-M1 and the X-A1 is that they employ different sensors in their respective designs.

Unlike the X-A1 and X-A2, which contain a standard APS-C format CMOS sensor, the X-M1 utilizes Fujifilm’s proprietary X-Trans CMOS sensor, which has the same APS-C format as the Fujifilm X-Pro 1 and Fujifilm X-E1.

See: Best Lenses for Fujifilm X-A2 | Best Memory Cards for Fujifilm X-A2

This indicates that in contrast to the sensors of previous Fujifilm X-series cameras, the X-A cameras’ sensors are equipped with both an anti-aliasing filter and a Bayer pattern primary color filter. It is typically possible to record more detail by omitting the anti-aliasing or low-pass filter; however, the differences are generally subtle compared to the shooting circumstances that occur in the real world. It is possible to reduce the price of the camera by switching to a CMOS sensor that is more commonly used.

Fujifilm X-A2 Features

The X-A2 has many of the same capabilities as its predecessor, the X-A1. Fuji, for example, has decided to go with the same 16.3-megapixel APS-C size (23.6mm x 15.6mm) sensor and the EXR Processor II image processing engine as its predecessor. Additionally, this is the same engine found in the X-M1 automobile.

This indicates that the sensitivity range of the X-A2 is the same as the sensitivity range of the X-A1, which is ISO 200 to ISO 6400 in the normal mode, with JPEG-only expansion options adding ISO 100, 12,800, and 25,600.

The maximum shooting rate has remained the same at 5.6 frames per second (fps), and it can capture up to 30 JPEG files or ten raw files (or both raw and JPEG files).

As with the previous model, there is no built-in viewfinder, so users must compose their shots using the screen on the rear of the camera. The screen on this smartphone is still 3 inches and has 921,000 dots, but its upward tilting movement range has been expanded to 175 degrees, making it much simpler to frame selfies.

In addition, when the screen is angled upward so that it can be viewed from in front of the camera, the X-A2 immediately changes to employing Face Detection and the new Eye Detection AF mode, both designed to focus on your eyes automatically.

Fujifilm X-A2 Firmware

In line with other recent Fuji introductions and firmware upgrades, the X-A2 has the new Classic Chrome Film Simulation mode in addition to the previous collection: Provia (standard), Velvia (vivid), Astia (muted), Sepia, and Black-and-White. These modes allow the user to customize the appearance of JPEG images.

These modes may be utilized when shooting raw files simultaneously as JPEGs, allowing you to have a ‘clean’ file for post-capture processing in addition to the JPEG with the effect already applied to it.

In addition, there is a selection of Advanced Filter settings, including Toy Camera, Miniature, Pop Colour, High Key, Low Key, Dynamic Tone, Soft Focus, and numerous other possibilities for Partial Color. Even if the raw data recording has been configured in the past, the camera will only record JPEG files if these modes are selected.

Fujifilm X-A2 Build Quality

The body of the X-A2 looks identical to that of the X-A1 and the X-M1, which is consistent with Fuji’s pattern of recycling camera bodies. The new camera has a very modest increase in thickness due to the rise in the tilting bracket of the screen. The X-A2 is somewhat heavier than the model it replaces, coming in at 300 grams (10.6 ounces) without any attachments included; nevertheless, this difference of 20 grams (0.7 ounces) is unlikely to be seen while held in hand.

The X-A2, in contrast to many other entry-level cameras, has a metal body that gives the impression of being quite sturdy and follows the same uncluttered, modest style as the other cameras in Fuji’s X-series. The resemblance to the X-E2 and X-Pro1 is unmistakable, even though this model appears to have fewer sharp corners.

The control layout of the X-A2 is also very similar to that of the X-A1. The only significant difference is that the shortcut to the Macro focusing control located on the left navigation key has been replaced with a shortcut to the self-timer because the Macro AF control is now handled automatically by the camera.

Fujifilm X-A2 Performance

When I took up the brand new kit lens to mount on the X-A2, my stomach did a little flip since it has a very light and plasticky feel, which is quite different from most of Fuji’s previous lenses for the X-series of cameras. On the other hand, I am relieved to report that the lens works far better than it feels. It can produce images that are crisp and rich in detail.

The X-A2 cannot capture raw files at an ISO setting of 100; nonetheless, the JPEGs it creates appear to be extremely high quality and include a respectable amount of information. Our resolution charts demonstrate that increasing the ISO to 200 results in a minor improvement to the degree of detail captured and enable the recording of raw file formats.

The raw files contain a little more detail than the JPEGs that were recorded simultaneously, but there is also a faint pattern of luminance noise apparent when viewed at 100 percent. In addition, Chroma noise, sometimes known as colored speckling, can be seen in some areas of raw files taken at ISO 400 when viewed at 100% with all noise reduction turned off. However, the JPEGs captured concurrently with the standard settings appear artifacts-free.

Fujifilm X-A2 ISO & Noise

As is customary, the amount of noise in raw files grows as the camera’s sensitivity increases. By ISO 3200, speckling may be seen in some regions of raw files when all forms of noise reduction are off and the file size is set to A4 paper. On the other hand, the JPEGs appear clean at A3, but when seen at 100%, certain sections have a painterly quality.

Although there is a slight lack of information in some spots, the JPEG version of the photos taken at ISO 6400 looks fine when viewed at A3 size. When the raw data are processed with care, it is possible to generate pictures with more detail and acceptable noise levels.

Fujifilm X-A2 Dynamic Range

However, this is something we have noticed with other Fuji cameras, which is a consequence of their relatively high mid-tone contrast. Our lab tests indicate that the X-JPEGs A2s do not have an imposing dynamic range, but this is something that we have noticed with other Fuji cameras.

This contrast helps the JPEGs appear bright and clear and gives them their recognizable “Fuji” appearance, which many people enjoy. However, when compared, the raw files have a far more extensive dynamic range and appear to have a flatter overall appearance. This indicates that they provide a significant deal of leeway for making tone adjustments after the image has been captured and that, if necessary, extra detail may be coaxed out of the shadows and the highlights.

Fujifilm X-A2 Exposure

Overall, the X-automated A2’s white balance mechanism perfectly adjusts the image’s white balance. In most cases, it can capture the atmosphere of a picture without imparting a noticeable color tint. However, a couple of my photographs that I took in a setting with intense sunlight and shade appear slightly colder than I would want.

When I was shooting with the X-A2, my go-to setting was the new “Classic Chrome” Film Simulation mode. I find the somewhat subdued warm tones that Fuji cameras generate when using this mode appealing, and it was also my favorite option. The “Provia” preset, the default or standard option, is an excellent all-around choice since it produces colors that are pleasing to the eye and have an appropriate amount of saturation. When you change the filter to ‘Velvia,’ the saturation and contrast of the image are both increased.

Fujifilm X-A2 Image Quality

The Fujifilm X-A2 is capable of producing photographs of exceptional quality. It captured noise-free JPEG photos at ISO 100 up to 6400, with only a little noise at ISO 12800 and more noticeable noise along with a small desaturation of color at the fastest ISO 25600 setting, which is an astounding performance for a camera with an APS-C sensor. The RAW files were also very high quality, providing useable photographs over the whole ISO range (200-6400).

The pictures were soft right out of the Fujifilm X-A2 when the sharpness setting was set to default. For the best results, you should do further sharpening in an application such as Adobe Photoshop; alternatively, you may modify the setting directly in the camera. The night image turned out quite well. The camera’s maximum shutter speed of 30 seconds was sufficient for most after-dark shots, and the Bulb mode enabled considerably longer exposures if necessary.

While the Dynamic Range settings gradually increase the quality in the shadows and highlights, the Film Simulation options harken back to a different period in photography. Before you even take the picture, you’ll have some creative control over your JPEGs thanks to the Advanced Filters.

Fujifilm X-A2 Specs

Body type	Rangefinder-style mirrorless
Max resolution	4896 x 3264
Other resolutions	S: (3:2) 2496 x 1664 / (16:9) 2496 x 1408 / (1:1) 1664 x 1664
Image ratio:h	1:1, 3:2, 16:9
Effective pixels	16 megapixels
Sensor photo detectors	17 megapixels
Sensor size	APS-C (23.6 x 15.6 mm)
Sensor type	CMOS
Processor	EXR Processor II
ISO	Auto, 200-6400 (expandable to 100-25600)
Boosted ISO (minimum)	100
Boosted ISO (maximum)	25600
White balance presets	6
Custom white balance	Yes
Image stabilization	No
Uncompressed format	RAW
JPEG quality levels	Fine, Normal
Autofocus	Contrast Detect (sensor)Multi-areaCenterSelective single-pointTrackingSingleContinuousFace DetectionLive View.
Manual focus	Yes
Number of focus points	49
Lens mount	Fujifilm X
Focal length multiplier	1.5×
Articulated LCD	Tilting
Screen size	3″
Screen dots	920,000
Touch screen	No
Screen type	175-degree upward-tilting TFT LCD
Live view	Yes
Viewfinder type	None
Minimum shutter speed	30 sec
Maximum shutter speed	1/4000 sec
Aperture priority	Yes
Shutter priority	Yes
Manual exposure mode	Yes
Subject/scene modes	Yes
Built-in flash	Yes (Manual pop-up flash)
Flash Range	7.00 m (at ISO 200)
External flash	Yes
Flash modes	Auto, instant on, flash off, slow synchro, rear-curtain synchro, commander
Continuous drive	5.6 fps
Self-timer	Yes (2 or 10 secs)
Metering modes	MultiAverageSpot
Exposure compensation	±2 (at 1/3 EV steps)
AE Bracketing	±1 (3 frames at 1/3 EV, 2/3 EV, 1 EV steps)
Resolutions	1920 x 1080 (30p), 1280 x 720 (30p)
Format	H.264
Microphone	Stereo
Speaker	Mono
Storage types	SD/SDHC/SDXC card
USB	USB 2.0 (480 Mbit/sec)
HDMI	Yes (mini-HDMI)
Microphone port	No
Headphone port	No
Wireless	Built-In
Wireless notes	802.11b/g/n
Remote control	Yes (Wired or via smartphone)
Environmentally sealed	No
Battery	Battery Pack
Battery description	NP-W126 lithium-ion battery & charger
Battery Life (CIPA)	410
Weight (inc. batteries)	350 g (0.77 lb / 12.35 oz)
Dimensions	117 x 67 x 40 mm (4.61 x 2.64 x 1.57″)
Orientation sensor	Yes
GPS	None

Fujifilm X-A2 Verdict

Even though it is Fujifilm’s most basic compact system camera (CSC), the X-A2 features a body made of aluminum and a high-quality feel in hand.

Additionally, it is compatible with Fuji’s ever-expanding selection of high-quality lenses even though it does not feature the renowned X-Trans CMOS sensor found in other X-series CSCs, the 16.3-megapixel APS-C format CMOS sensor and the EXR Processor II engine put in a respectable performance and are capable of providing photos of high quality.

Fujifilm X-A2 Pros & Cons