Which older Fujifilm X-mount cameras are still "acceptable" today?

[cankoklu]

Hi all,

I recently purchased the Fujifilm X-S10 (I moved from Sony a6000 so don't have any complaints about the PSAM).

I want to buy an older model (that can use x-mount lenses) for my 6 year old kid so we can go out on photo walks together. Also considering getting one for my wife so we can turn it into a full family affair.

I need recommendations for each of these and would appreciate any help (I've been following Sony developments for 6+ years now but don't know much about the Fuji ecosystem).

For the kid camera, I don't need much, no need for wi-fi/bluetooth or even a viewfinder.. Just something that works and works relatively fast.

For my wife, I think style can be a seller.. I've seen some tan colored models that I'm sure she'd appreciate. But other than that, wi-fi would be a must, and the film profiles would be welcome too.

Both devices must have full auto modes though and should be interchangeable lens models.

I know on paper, almost all devices would cover this.. But it's hard/impossible to judge the responsiveness and usability. Hence, my ask for recommendations. (For example I got my daughter a Sony Nex-3 only to realize how slow it was at taking photos and how horrific the menu system was).

Many thanks in advance!

 

[FTOG]

I find that X-Trans III is the generation with the best value for money in the used market.

• Except for the slightly more demanded X-Pro 2, you should find prices sub 500 USD, so this may be an option for your wife?
• Due to the heavier weight and lack of Auto switch (you listed this as a requirement), I'd also forego the X-T2
• Which leaves the X-T20 and X-E3, both of which feature an Auto switch, film simulations and WiFi connection to Fuji's (terrible) app.
  • The X-T20's tilting screen and integrated flash might be appreciated?
  • Preferences are split between the D-Pad of the X-T20 (shortcuts and AF point selection) and the AF joystick of the X-E3 (diagonal AF point movement, shortcuts moved to swipes)
  • Outside of those differences, the rest is largely the same (two command dials front and back, shutter speed dial, internals) and the style preference might swing you one way or the other

For your son, the X-Trans II generation could make him feel like he has the same camera his parents have (and might help you explain some functions that are very similar). The X-E2 doesn't have a full Auto switch, so the X-T10 might be the best choice here. An X-T20 and X-T10 pair could make for a nice combo.

If you don't want the complexity, there are also (X-Trans I X-M1, (Bayer X-A1/A2/A3/A5/A7, and X-T100/X-T200. I'm not as informed about feature sets on these lower tiered cameras, and you might want to check local availability and prices for these. If the price difference isn't large, I'd prefer younger models (A5, A7, X-T100, X-T200) for later features and a shorter camera life before you buy them.

 

[cankoklu]

Thanks, I'll start checking up on these.

One more thing is that preferably we'd have all the devices using the same NP-W126 batteries.. I'll check if these fit that as well.

appreciate the answer!

 

[FTOG]

One more thing is that preferably we'd have all the devices using the same NP-W126 batteries.. I'll check if these fit that as well.

X-E2/X-T10, and X-E3/X-T20 are compatible with NP-W126 and NP-W126S (and third party equivalent) batteries. I believe so are the X-A and X-Tx00 lines, but you might want to confirm that.

 

[Tamed Monkey]

For amateur use? Wifi a must? Full auto? Style?

Sounds like a phone camera would be best.

 

[FTOG]

For amateur use? Wifi a must? Full auto? Style?

Sounds like a phone camera would be best.

Why? If they want to explore photography, full auto mode is a great way of flattening the learning curve initially. Interchangeable lenses and the handling can be enough to wrap your head around before you dive into the exposure triangle etc.

As for style and wifi, enthusiasts are just as happy about a nice looking camera and ease of sharing as a beginner might.

 

[New Day Rising]

For amateur use? Wifi a must? Full auto? Style?

Sounds like a phone camera would be best.

 

[Tamed Monkey]

For amateur use? Wifi a must? Full auto? Style?

Sounds like a phone camera would be best.

Why? If they want to explore photography, full auto mode is a great way of flattening the learning curve initially. Interchangeable lenses and the handling can be enough to wrap your head around before you dive into the exposure triangle etc.

As for style and wifi, enthusiasts are just as happy about a nice looking camera and ease of sharing as a beginner might.

Because one can learn so much with just a phone. Composition, lighting, framing, colour... Some of the most strongly fundamental elements of photography can be addressed with just a phone.

Fuji's wifi is -in some cases, especially older cameras- is notoriously bad. Full auto? You can't get much more auto than a modern cell phone.

But I'm probably in the minority here. For years, most people that approach me about photography while I'm shooting seem to want to be seen more as a photographer, than actually being one.

 

[Kiwi Shutterbug]

Check out the Fuji X-T100 with the 15-45 lens, move the dial to red and it's fully auto and takes great photos! I like the selfie screen where you can flip the screen around, take family group photos, vlogging, etc. There's no Aperture dial on the lens so your kid can't accidentally turn it by mistake.

And pair it with the Instax Fuji printer, it becomes a fun setup to use especially when you can print those memorable family photos within minutes your kid can carry anywhere.

Hi all,

I recently purchased the Fujifilm X-S10 (I moved from Sony a6000 so don't have any complaints about the PSAM).

I want to buy an older model (that can use x-mount lenses) for my 6 year old kid so we can go out on photo walks together. Also considering getting one for my wife so we can turn it into a full family affair.

I need recommendations for each of these and would appreciate any help (I've been following Sony developments for 6+ years now but don't know much about the Fuji ecosystem).

For the kid camera, I don't need much, no need for wi-fi/bluetooth or even a viewfinder.. Just something that works and works relatively fast.

For my wife, I think style can be a seller.. I've seen some tan colored models that I'm sure she'd appreciate. But other than that, wi-fi would be a must, and the film profiles would be welcome too.

Both devices must have full auto modes though and should be interchangeable lens models.

I know on paper, almost all devices would cover this.. But it's hard/impossible to judge the responsiveness and usability. Hence, my ask for recommendations. (For example I got my daughter a Sony Nex-3 only to realize how slow it was at taking photos and how horrific the menu system was).

Many thanks in advance!

 

[FTOG]

For amateur use? Wifi a must? Full auto? Style?

Sounds like a phone camera would be best.

Why? If they want to explore photography, full auto mode is a great way of flattening the learning curve initially. Interchangeable lenses and the handling can be enough to wrap your head around before you dive into the exposure triangle etc.

As for style and wifi, enthusiasts are just as happy about a nice looking camera and ease of sharing as a beginner might.

Because one can learn so much with just a phone. Composition, lighting, framing, colour... Some of the most strongly fundamental elements of photography can be addressed with just a phone.

Fuji's wifi is -in some cases, especially older cameras- is notoriously bad. Full auto? You can't get much more auto than a modern cell phone.

But I'm probably in the minority here. For years, most people that approach me about photography while I'm shooting seem to want to be seen more as a photographer, than actually being one.

Photography - especially for non-professionals - is also about the shooting experience. And while you rightly highlight that a lot of fundamentals can be learned for free with a phone, the shooting experience with a dedicated camera is fundamentally different.

I find it a bit of a cynical view to assume that most people who could 'make do' with a camera are only getting a dedicated camera to be 'seen as photographers'.

 

[Tamed Monkey]

I find it a bit of a cynical view to assume that most people who could 'make do' with a camera are only getting a dedicated camera to be 'seen as photographers'.

Cynical or not, that's been my experience.

 

[FTOG]

I find it a bit of a cynical view to assume that most people who could 'make do' with a phone are only getting a dedicated camera to be 'seen as photographers'.

Cynical or not, that's been my experience.

And that's valid. I'm not denying there are some who are doing exactly that. And there are a good amount of beginners with pure intentions, who don't stick with photography (outside of using their phone).

But it's my approach to give people the benefit of the doubt (as difficult as it can be at times), rather than discourage them from trying out a hobby they might enjoy for years to come - and might do so more strongly than with a phone.

 

[Strangefinder]

Batteries: all X-mount cameras accept the same battery except the recent X-T4 (which shares its battery with GFX). (Btw The X100F and X100V fixed lens cameras also use the 126 battery.)

Style: there were clearance sales of tan X-E3 cameras very cheaply not long ago, and there may still be some around. The current X-E4 has already seen some good discounts (it’s the last of the 4th-gen).

Capability; the previous 3rd generation of X-Trans has the same IQ, just less advanced AF/features/simulations. X-E3, X-T20, X-T2, X-Pro2, X-H1 all equivalent in IQ to the X-S10. X-T20 has an "auto" switch.

Response: probably the contrast-AF only 1st-gen is out. 2nd-gen are: X-T1, X-T10, X-E2 (Some people didn’t like the 2nd-gen jpegs, however.)

Bayer cameras tend to be less durable, though some prefer the output.

Depending on your location, Fuji often has an annual cashback/rebate season which can be combined with discounts. XC zooms are very cheap (almost free) if bundled with the camera, and sometimes can be found separated from kits at good prices (otherwise they tend to be too close to the XF pricing.)

Although it’s slow, I still think that the original X-Pro1 would be a great first camera, and it’s durable.

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[FTOG]

Capability; the previous 3rd generation of X-Trans has the same IQ, just less advanced AF/features/simulations. X-E3, X-T20, X-T2, X-Pro2, X-H1 all equivalent in IQ to the X-S10. X-T20 has an "auto" switch.

An Auto switch was introduced on the X-E3 - a feature not found on its older siblings X-E1 and X-E2 (or the recent X-E4).

 

[cankoklu]

Thanks, like some others have alluded to, I want to get the cameras so we can have that as a dedicated experience. Having a phone is a non-starter for our 6yo. And for mommy and me, I want a camera so we can specifically detach from our phones.

Full auto is just a beginner's crutch for my wife.. I don't want to just to the exposure triangle on day one.

 

[cankoklu]

I actually saw about the photo printer while watching some reviews.. Definitely looking into it!

Will also check the X-t100 thanks!

 

[cankoklu]

Thanks all.. I think I should have been clear on the budget aspect.. Basically looking to buy second hand that's relatively usable.

After searching a bit more, found a really good deal (within our current country of residence) for a practically brand new X-A5 + 15-45 lens + peak design strap for 220USD.

It's fast enough for focus and writing jpeg files (i tried to shoot the buffer full with jpegs and gave up after 40 shots or so). It has this intelligent auto mode to start off with too..

So that's sorted for my wife.. Still looking one for my 6yo daughter.. Again, the budget is the main factor here.. She's overly active and I'm fairly certain she's going to break what we get her within a few months so really looking for something that won't be missed.

Again, thank you all for all the suggestions so far.. They were very helpful!

 

[yardcoyote]

I happily use an X-M1. The X-Pro1 is a remarkable camera but very quirky to use, especially with the OVF. The files are wonderful, though.

 

[Eugene A]

Most X-mount lenses from Fujinon have Aperture rings and prone to accidental changes so keeping them at "A" (auto mode) needs extra care.

If you are considering a Fujifilm ILC for your wife and your 6yo kid and plan to depend on Auto mode, expect some complaints

 

[Kyle Logan]

I still use an x-t10 which has auto and I love it. They’re cheap at KEH