An X-T3 users thoughts on his X-E3 purchase...

DivineMadcat wrote:

So, not that it matters, but a little over a month ago, i picked up an X-E3 w/ 23mm 1.4 for a song ($450); but had reservations that a body older and more limited than my T3 would be as useful. However, i followed the advice here, and gave it a fair shot; in this time, i also figured it would be good to share my feedback for anyone else who might be wondering. And i will leave a TL:DR for those wondering at the end...

Sounds like a bargain!

Overall Impressions

Obviously, the body size and style are completely different from the T3, which was my first reservation. I am happy to say that the body style really grew on me. Before my move to Fuji, i had an A6000, and the square RF style body absolutely never grew on me. I hated using the camera, and it didn't stay in my collection long. Thankfully, this camera is a polar opposite; i enjoy using it as much as the T3, and the grip (even without an extension) is excellent. I think i would wish for the dials of the T3, but i have had no problem adapting to the different setup.

Yes I like the xe3 too & it's my first fuji camera. Even though I have bought the XT4 as well I still use the xe3 when I need something compact.

Compared to the T3, i have had to be a little more flexible on my configuration, but it still works well. My front dial manages ISO, with shutter generally on A, and aperture adjusted on the lens.

EVF

A number of users asked my thoughts on the EVF in comparison, and i can't say i will really surprise anyone. It is smaller for sure, and i lament the loss of the eye cup (i know there is a 3rd party solution, but....). However, in real world use, i have had no problem making it work, and it has never cost me a shot.

Yes it works OK for me with glasses but they definitely need to improve this for xe4

Likewise, the LCD is nice, but I definitely find myself wishing for the adjustable monitor i came to love on the T3. It works, but Fuji has some room to impress if they add that kind of feature. Otherwise, the screen and experience is the same, and using it has been seamless day to day.

Yes the screen is fine but the resolution is a bit low & a tilt screen would be very welcome to the xe4

Autofocus

Being an older body, I also had worries that the AF would disappoint; thankfully, for the USE CASE i see the E3, it has never been a problem. Right up front, i know my T3 on V4 will blow it out of the water, but i also will not use the E3 in the same situation that my T3 will see (paired with the 100-400 more rugged outdoors, etc). The E3 keeps up very well on the street, and does an excellent job for portrait and still photography.

Yes I've have no issues with AF but the XT3/XT4 are better

Image Quality

This was my biggest worry.. would the X-Trans 3 leave me disappointed. Flat out, not at all! Since using it, not once have i hesitated in using it because i was afraid the image quality would be a problem. The colors are wonderful, with the same crisp Fuji color that impressed me with the X-T3. I have even done night photography, and left again very happy.

Yes the image quality is great even though it might look look like it on the lcd screen

Other thoughts

Surprisingly, this has become my go to body for walk arounds in the day/night, when i just want something with me. It is 99% used with the 23mm (as such, i now completely understand the X100V), but that may change as i acquire other similar primes (would like an 18, or pancake 27, etc). I love the combination, and it has killed a long standing desire for a mobile setup like an RX100 VI, etc. Right now, the two bodies average a 50/50 use, with the T3 winning on planned trips, and the E3 for any grab and go. I also love how small the E3 is, and i can fit it easily into my T3 bad (Thinktank Streetwalker V2) as a backup body. I really feel that this body has opened me up in what is possible for me, and i am beyond thankful i purchased it when i did.

Nice...personally I'm finding that I'm using the XT4 more & more as I'm getting used to the bigger size together with the 16-80mm. I used to prefer more compact but that seems to have changed.

TL:DR

The E3 has become a beloved addition to my hobby. It commonly goes with me every day (in my man purse... lol), and has impressed me with its versatility. It won't replace my T3, but it definitely made me a more agile and equipped photographer. I solidly recommend such a camera if you are looking for a second body.

Sample Images:

Most of these are with the 23mm, but all with the E3:

Nice pics...I still like the xe3 even after getting the XT4 (which cost me 4 times more lol). It works great & is very compact with the pancake lenses or smaller kit lens.

I can highly recommend this as a second camera or for any newcomers wanting to try Fuji. With a few minor improvements the xe4 could be prefect!