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Since the introduction of the X-Pro2, we have been anticipating the release of a successor to the incredibly popular X-T1. In July of this year, we were not disappointed when the Fujifilm X-T2 was revealed.
Fujifilm feels that it now provides photographers with two unique alternatives due to the release of the Fujifilm X-T2 and the X-Pro2. The X-Pro2, with its rangefinder design, is less intrusive and suited to Fujifilm’s line of prime lenses, while the Fujifilm X-T2, with its more SLR-like form, is intended with the brand’s increasing range of fast zoom lenses in mind. Both cameras have their advantages and disadvantages.
The Fujifilm X-T2 has been succeeded by the X-T3, which features a redesigned autofocusing mechanism in addition to an updated sensor with 26.1 megapixels and the ability to record 4K video. However, the Fujifilm X-T2 is still readily available for purchase fresh new.
See: Best Gimbal for Fujifilm X-T2 | Best Lenses for Fujifilm X-T2 | Best Memory Cards for Fujifilm X-T2
Fujifilm X-T2 Mirrorless Digital Camera (Body Only)
- 24.3MP X Trans CMOS III APS-C sensor reduces moiré and false colors to improve image quality and X Processor Pro engine increases response times, achieves faster AF, lower noise and better color
- Dust and moisture resistant body with approximately 63 points of weather sealing; Freeze resistance to 14 Degree Fahrenheit
- 24.3MP X Trans CMOS III APS-C sensor reduces moiré and false colors to improve image quality and X Processor Pro engine increases response times, achieves faster AF, lower noise and better color
- Dust and moisture resistant body with approximately 63 points of weather sealing; Freeze resistance to 14 Degree Fahrenheit
- High precision 0.48 inch, 2.36 million dot OLED viewfinder featuring a magnification of 0.77x and Ultra fast Real Time Viewfinder with a lag time of 0.005sec
- Full HD and 4K 3840x2160 30P/25P/24P shooting (Using a card with the UHS Speed Class 3 or higher)
- Tempered glass 1.04 million dot high-precision 3 Inches tilting LCD monitor with three directional tilt and shutter type is focal plane shutter
The X-T3 has been joined by a more junior option, the X-T30. This alternative features many of the same specifications as the X-T3 and is sold at a comparable price to the X-T2. Therefore, if you are interested in a more modern feature set housed within a slightly more portable body, the X-T30 is worth adding to your potential purchases. Additionally, the X-H1 is now the flagship model in the X-series, a position previously held (jointly) by the X-T2 and the X-Pro2.
Fujifilm X-T2 Features
The use of the same 24.3-megapixel APS-C X-Trans III CMOS sensor that was initially seen in the X-Pro2 in the X-T2 should not come as much of a surprise. With its ingenious filter designed to squeeze out even more information compared to traditional designs, this sensor has given some outstanding results in the X-Pro2, and it is an increase over the 16.3MP sensor in the X-T1 that is very much appreciated.
The sensitivity range ranges from a modest 200-12,800 but can be enlarged to 100-51,200. The good news is that, unlike with the X-T1, shooting in JPEG is no longer required when using the extended range because raw capture is now an option.
The electronic viewfinder of the X-T2 has also been updated. While it has the same 2.36 million-dot OLED display and 0.77x magnification as the one found on the X-T1, it has undergone several revisions that make it far more advanced than its predecessor.
Fujifilm X-T2 Build Quality
As we saw with the X-Pro2, rather than opting for a radically new design with the second-generation model, Fujifilm has elected to take the X-T1 as its starting point, refining and tweaking elements of that design to arrive at what promises to be an even more polished camera. This decision was similar to the one Fujifilm made with the X-Pro2.
The body is still made from magnesium alloy, giving it the same robust and long-lasting sensation as when held in hand. Because the body is additionally weather-sealed at 63 places to protect the camera from dust and moisture, you’ll have a very well-protected setup from the elements when you pair it with one of the expanding numbers of WR (weather-resistant) Fujinon lenses.
Fujifilm X-T2 Autofocus
Skepticism over the autofocus (AF) performance of many mirrorless cameras is one of the challenges that these cameras need to overcome. Regarding moving subjects, the consensus has always been that mirrorless cannot match the speed and sophistication of some of the most modern DSLR systems. This may not be the case for still pictures, but it has always been the case for moving objects.
Even after receiving a significant firmware update to improve its autofocus capabilities, the X-autofocus T1’s system, which was reliable but not particularly outstanding, could not adequately meet the requirements of photographers who frequently photograph things in motion.
Not only does Fujifilm claim that the new technology in the X-T2 has improved the actual autofocus performance compared to the X-T1, but the company also believes that it has achieved significant progress in continuous autofocus and subject tracking.
Fujifilm X-T2 Performance
The TTL 256-zone metering system worked quite well, especially when put to the test by high-contrast scenarios, where it tended to underexpose the image instead of overexposing it as it had done previously. In addition, when utilizing face recognition AF, the metering would indicate a bias toward overexposing the photo for a more pleasing high-key outcome. However, this was not an issue because it meant that highlights could be restored later.
Because the electronic viewfinder (EVF) displays the exposure in real-time, it is feasible to toggle the exposure compensation dial relatively easily. This is especially true if you modify the dial to “C” using the front command dial.
Fujifilm X-T2 Image Quality
The X-T2 uses the same 24.3-megapixel CMOS sensor as the X-T1, so the findings didn’t surprise us in any way. However, there was a considerable improvement in the level of detail captured compared to the results from the X-T1.
The X-Trans CMOS technology included in the X-T2 effectively resolves information over the sensitivity range. This is especially true when contrasted to APS-C competitors with comparable resolutions.
Even though it may have one of the more conservative sensitivity ranges, the X-T2 performs very well. The results at the lower end of the ISO range display excellent results; you will need to look closely for signs of luminance noise in flat, blocked-color areas that can sometimes be there.
Fujifilm X-T2 Specs
Body type | SLR-style mirrorless |
---|---|
Body material | Magnesium alloy |
Sensor | |
Max resolution | 6000 x 4000 |
Other resolutions | 3:2 (4240 x 2832, 3008 x 2000), 16:9 (6000 x 3376, 4240 x 2384, 3008 x 1688), 1:1 (4000 x 4000, 2832 x 2832, 2000 x 2000) |
Image ratio w:h | 1:1, 3:2, 16:9 |
Effective pixels | 24 megapixels |
Sensor size | APS-C (23.6 x 15.6 mm) |
Sensor type | CMOS |
Processor | X-Processor Pro2 |
Color space | sRGB, Adobe RGB |
Color filter array | X-Trans |
Image | |
ISO | Auto, 200-12800 (expands to 100-51200) |
Boosted ISO (minimum) | 100 |
Boosted ISO (maximum) | 51200 |
White balance presets | 7 |
Custom white balance | Yes (3 slots) |
Image stabilization | No |
Uncompressed format | RAW |
JPEG quality levels | Fine, normal |
File format | JPEG (Exif v2.3)Raw (Fujifilm RAF, 14-bit) |
Optics & Focus | |
Autofocus | Contrast Detect (sensor)Phase DetectMulti-areaCenterSelective single-pointTrackingSingleContinuousFace DetectionLive View. |
Autofocus assist lamp | Yes |
Manual focus | Yes |
Number of focus points | 325 |
Lens mount | Fujifilm X |
Focal length multiplier | 1.5× |
Screen / viewfinder | |
Articulated LCD | Tilting |
Screen size | 3″ |
Screen dots | 1,040,000 |
Touch screen | No |
Live View | Yes |
Viewfinder type | Electronic |
Viewfinder coverage | 100% |
Viewfinder magnification | 1.16× (0.77× 35mm equiv.) |
Viewfinder resolution | 2,360,000 |
Photography features | |
Minimum shutter speed | 30 sec |
Maximum shutter speed | 1/8000 sec |
Maximum shutter speed (electronic) | 1/32000 sec |
Exposure modes | ProgramShutter priorityAperture priorityManual |
Built-in flash | No (Small external flash included) |
External flash | Yes |
Flash modes | Auto, standard, slow sync, manual, commander |
Flash X sync speed | 1/250 sec |
Continuous drive | 14.0 fps |
Self-timer | Yes (2 or 10 secs) |
Metering modes | MultiCenter-weightedAverageSpot |
Exposure compensation | ±5 (at 1/3 EV steps) |
AE Bracketing | ±2 (3 frames at 1/3 EV, 1/2 EV, 2/3 EV, 1 EV, 2 EV steps) |
WB Bracketing | Yes |
Videography features | |
Resolutions | 3840 x 2160 (29.97p, 25p, 24p, 23.98p), 1920 x 1080 (59.94p, 50p, 29.97p, 25p, 24p, 23.98p), 1280 x 720 (60p, 50p, 30p, 25p, 24p) |
Format | MPEG-4, H.264 |
Modes | 3840 x 2160 @ 30p / 100 Mbps, MOV, H.264, Linear PCM3840 x 2160 @ 25p / 100 Mbps, MOV, H.264, Linear PCM3840 x 2160 @ 24p / 100 Mbps, MOV, H.264, Linear PCM3840 x 2160 @ 23.98p / 100 Mbps, MOV, H.264, Linear PCM1920 x 1080 @ 60p / 100 Mbps, MOV, H.264, Linear PCM1920 x 1080 @ 50p / 100 Mbps, MOV, H.264, Linear PCM1920 x 1080 @ 30p / 100 Mbps, MOV, H.264, Linear PCM1920 x 1080 @ 25p / 100 Mbps, MOV, H.264, Linear PCM1920 x 1080 @ 24p / 100 Mbps, MOV, H.264, Linear PCM1920 x 1080 @ 23.98p / 100 Mbps, MOV, H.264, Linear PCM |
Microphone | Stereo |
Speaker | Mono |
Storage | |
Storage types | Dual SD/SDHC/SDXC (UHS II compatible) |
Connectivity | |
USB | USB 3.0 (5 GBit/sec) |
HDMI | Yes (micro-HDMI) |
Microphone port | Yes |
Headphone port | No |
Wireless | Built-In |
Wireless notes | 802.11b/g/n |
Remote control | Yes (via smartphone or wired remote) |
Physical | |
Environmentally sealed | Yes |
Battery | Battery Pack |
Battery description | NP-W126S lithium-ion battery & charger |
Battery Life (CIPA) | 340 |
Weight (inc. batteries) | 507 g (1.12 lb / 17.88 oz) |
Dimensions | 133 x 92 x 49 mm (5.24 x 3.62 x 1.93″) |
Other features | |
Orientation sensor | Yes |
Timelapse recording | Yes |
GPS | None |
Fujifilm X-T2 Verdict
It’s easy to understand why the original X-T1 has been such a favorite among photographers and here at TechRadar; the camera has a compact body, controls that are easy to use, a sturdy construction, and it produces beautiful images.
The autofocus performance, especially while shooting in continuous mode, was a significant weakness of the camera. This was one of the camera’s significant shortcomings. It is an area that undeniably discouraged many potential customers who were eager to convert from their DSLRs and had been accustomed to a sophisticated AF system that did not lag when trained on a subject that was moving quickly.
Fujifilm X-T2 Price
Fujifilm X-T2 Mirrorless Digital Camera (Body Only)
- 24.3MP X Trans CMOS III APS-C sensor reduces moiré and false colors to improve image quality and X Processor Pro engine increases response times, achieves faster AF, lower noise and better color
- Dust and moisture resistant body with approximately 63 points of weather sealing; Freeze resistance to 14 Degree Fahrenheit
- 24.3MP X Trans CMOS III APS-C sensor reduces moiré and false colors to improve image quality and X Processor Pro engine increases response times, achieves faster AF, lower noise and better color
- Dust and moisture resistant body with approximately 63 points of weather sealing; Freeze resistance to 14 Degree Fahrenheit
- High precision 0.48 inch, 2.36 million dot OLED viewfinder featuring a magnification of 0.77x and Ultra fast Real Time Viewfinder with a lag time of 0.005sec
- Full HD and 4K 3840x2160 30P/25P/24P shooting (Using a card with the UHS Speed Class 3 or higher)
- Tempered glass 1.04 million dot high-precision 3 Inches tilting LCD monitor with three directional tilt and shutter type is focal plane shutter