X-E3 vs X-T30 for small travel rig

mpfef wrote:

I am currently looking at downsizing my Nikon gear (D7500) or maybe just adding to my gear by getting something smaller that’s more travel-friendly.

I’m torn between the X-E3 and the X-T30. I like the RF style of the X-E3 body and the lower price, but how much of a difference does the new sensor/autofocus on the X-T30 make in daily use?

Personally, I don't think the 2 extra megapixels and slightly faster AF make much of a difference.  I think how it feels in hand, or ergonomics in general, would make a bigger difference.  They did for me.

I handled both the X-E3 and the X-T30 in a store and personally did not like the lower location of the X-T30 joystick vs the X-E3's.  There's also a bit more room for your thumb on the back of the X-E3, so perhaps less chances of hitting that Q button (I've never accidentally hit it on my X-E3, but did in the store on the X-T30). I went with the X-E3 because of these little handling niggles, but some do prefer the X-T30.

I do like that the X-T30 has USB-C versus micro-USB (X-E3).  I also like that it has the flash for occasional fill if needed, but the new AF, 2 extra mp, and new charging were not enough to sway me over a cheaper camera that felt better in my hands.  I found my X-E3 for around $425.  At the time it was $475 less than what the X-T30 was running.

I think both are fine cameras...  I echo what others have said.  If you can, hold them before making the jump.

One last thought, if you really like the X-E3 better, but want the current generation performance, then it might be worth it to wait until 2020.  Based what has already been refreshed (X-T3, X-T30, X-Pro3, X-A7) the next left to update would be the X-E and X100 series, and I would imagine most of the goodies from from the current releases will be in the next versions those cameras.  This said, it's hard to argue with the current go rates of the X-E3, and even the new lower price on the X-T30.

Good luck with your choice!