Upgrade X-E2, with what?

I love my little X-E2 but it developed a few problems due to its age.

So am looking for a replacement.

What I love about it is its size (I have an X-T3) and the only lens I use with it is the 18mm which makes the perfect put in your pocket everday camera.

I suppose the obvious choice is the X-E4, however being a tight git I always think used as its cheaper.

There is not much I would want better than the X-E2 but if I have to be crytical than faster auto focus for stills and better continuous autofocus for video.

E3 is a nice device.

Started with X-E2, added X-E3s. A tilting screen would have been nice, but otherwise no complaints whatsoever. Even/especially when not using the touchscreen capabilities, it feels like an all-round improved X-E2, for me: Add'l resolution, faster operating speed, add'l front command dial, Acros, better video, and - at least for me - the AF joystick is better than the D-Pad was.

FTOG wrote:

Started with X-E2, added X-E3s. A tilting screen would have been nice, but otherwise no complaints whatsoever. Even/especially when not using the touchscreen capabilities, it feels like an all-round improved X-E2, for me: Add'l resolution, faster operating speed, add'l front command dial, Acros, better video, and - at least for me - the AF joystick is better than the D-Pad was.

That is exactly what I would recommend as well…. buy a used  XE3 in good condition with the money you saved by purchasing the XE3 instead of the XE4… buy a used 2/23.

A used 2/23 might be good for pairing with the XE3. Very lightweight and not much  bigger than the 2/18… but very fast and silent  AF, very good IQ and WR.

the AF function of the XE3 is really much much better than that of the XE1 or XE2(s).

Cheers

E3.  Handling on the E4 is a huge departure from what you are familiar with.

Buy another xe2 in mint condition. It has a d-pad and a on-board flash. Use it with one of the newer primes, so the af shouldn't be an issue, if you keep it in af-s.

Petrolhead wrote:

How much of a step up is the X-E3?

I did also wonder about a X-T20/30, Thoughts?

I have the X-E1, X-E2 (given to my grandson), X-E2s (to replace the X-E2 given to my grandson and the X-E3, the first Fuji I bought.

The AF on the X-E3 is noticeably better, though your shooting style will determine how much of a factor that is.  If you shoot burst, the bigger buffer is a big improvement.  Thre's the difference in resolution, from 16 to 24 mp, which again may or may not matter to you.

There's lots of subtle improvements in the X-E3 that for me make a difference.  However, in most cases I'm just as happy taking out the X-E2s.

I haven't used one, but the X-T30 II is supposed to be very nice.

Doug MacMillan wrote:

Petrolhead wrote:

How much of a step up is the X-E3?

The AF on the X-E3 is noticeably better, though your shooting style will determine how much of a factor that is. If you shoot burst, the bigger buffer is a big improvement. Thre's the difference in resolution, from 16 to 24 mp, which again may or may not matter to you.

There's lots of subtle improvements in the X-E3 that for me make a difference. However, in most cases I'm just as happy taking out the X-E2s.

In agreement with the above. A few observations from the top of my head:

• AF and general operating speed is significantly improved
• Acros is a nice alternative to monochrome
• I like the addition of the front command dial, which I use a lot
• Speaking of command dials, the back command dial now has a coin edge knurling, rather than the more prominent "teeth" on the X-E2. This feels a bit more precise and pleasant to the ungloved hand - while on the other hand a gloved hand will get a bit more physical feedback from the older style dial
• There is (even) more customisation available
  
  • This isn't limited to menus, i.e. the EC dial now has a C position, which allows you to manipulate EC via a command dial and extends its range from +/- 3 stops to +/- 5 stops.
• On the back, the buttons along the screen have migrated from the left to the right. This makes it easier to use the camera with only one hand

With all that said, the X-E2 is still an excellent camera and while I appreciate improvements in the X-E3, like Doug, I'm just as happy using the X-E2 instead. Were it not for owning two X-E3s, I'd continue using the X-E2 frequently and happily.

XE2 or XE2S. Or an X Pro 2 to keep the same feel but faster focus and higher MP,  but it is noticeably heavier.

I started out with an X-30 (fixed lens, rangefinder).   When I switched to an interchangeable lens Fuji I went with the X-T100 (DSLR style).  I was never able to adjust to the ergonomics.  Even with the "better" grip of the X-T100, my nose kept hitting the screen and the eyepiece was not comfortable.  I finally gave up and sold the X-T100 and switched to the X-E3 (rangefinder style) and am completely happy. (other than missing a tilt screen)  What I am trying to say is that for me ergonomics was more important than features or dials.  Make sure and hold an X-T20 before you switch or make sure you can return it.

Used prices for the X-E3 have recently also been discussed here .

Petrolhead wrote:

So, the question I would ask, is the xe3 worth £80 to £110 more than the xt20?

Different people will have different answers to this question.

In my opinion, this depends primarily on two factors: EVF placement preference and how much you'd need a flip screen. For some, D-Pad vs AF joystick might also be a consideration.

Personally, I much prefer an EVF on the left side and prefer the flat-top form factor. I'd like a flip screen, but I wouldn't compromise on the overall body layout to get it. As for the secondary consideration, I prefer an AF joystick to a D-Pad, as I didn't use the hotkey functionality on my X-E2 D-Pad. I mostly used the D-Pad for AF point selection (and menus, obviously), for which the AF joystick is a much better solution.

Finally, budget can of course play a role. For some people saving 80-110 GBP will not be an option but a requirement. Not everyone has the financial means (or willingness) to spend the additional amount.

Petrolhead wrote:

Blood N Guts Murphy wrote:

XE2 or XE2S. Or an X Pro 2 to keep the same feel but faster focus and higher MP, but it is noticeably heavier.

And probably twice the price in the UK

I would have thought it is more like 3 times the price, my last XE2 was around £185 off eBay around 18 months ago. The X Pro seems to go through batteries quicker, possibly a slightly smaller EVF too. But I do like the focus speed for the older lenses. When I upgrade it will be the X Pro that goes, the XE2 is nearly perfect for certain lenses.

Petrolhead wrote:

...

So, the question I would ask, is the xe3 worth £80 to £110 more than the xt20?

I think the XT20 is more valuable as it has that extra dial like you mentioned, plus it retains the D pad and has the flip screen.

I wasn't happy with the XE3, but do agree with the poster above about not liking my nose getting in the way with central EVFs. Hence me selling it and choosing an X Pro 2 (stumbled across a rare new one abroad for £685). I also had an XT3 and couldn't bare not having a left EVF camera too. I just checked eBay and the prices over the past few months range from £475-600. I think the X Pro 2 is worth considering if you find a shop with one for something like £550... if you also appreciate a left EVF. I just stick to lighter lenses with it and use the XE2 for heavier ones. A flip screen would be nice, but a left EVF is more important to me. Depends on your priorities.

Edit: just checked and there is an X pro 2 for £524 on MPB. But it is "well used", all the good condition ones are £674 and £749 for excellent condition. Bad for you but at least I know mine can be sold for what I bought it for, maybe even get a profit.

It's getting too pricey and you already have the heavier XT3, so I would probably get the XT20. With the money you save you could always pick up an old XE1 if you get the left EVF itch. Sold mine for £85 18 months ago. From £104 on MPB.