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Anyone moved from M4/3 to Fujifilm X series?

Started 2 months ago | Discussions
Pannylumixfan Regular Member • Posts: 149
Anyone moved from M4/3 to Fujifilm X series?
1

Hi everyone,

I'm considering selling my Panasonic G9 and GX9 (and several lenses) and buying an X-S10 and the Fujifilm 16-80 f4 initially, perhaps followed by a longer zoom. One advantage of the X-S10 over the G9 is its significantly smaller size and lower weight, although that may be countered by Fujifilm's larger and heavier lenses (for FF equivalent). This might be a major factor as I have arthritis which is becoming more of an issue for my photography.

I've read several expert reviews and comparisons but would very much appreciate feedback from real world users of Fujifilm X series cameras (especially the X-S10) who have also used M4/3 (especially the G9 and GX9).

In particular I'd appreciate comments about OOC jpegs, image stabilisation, ISO performance  and handling (the grip on the X-S10 looks very comfortable and similar to the one on my G9).

Thank you.

Best wishes,

Brian

Fujifilm X-S1 Panasonic Lumix DC-G9 Panasonic Lumix DC-GX9
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Sam in Hawaii Contributing Member • Posts: 500
Fuji or M43?
10

I've flipped back and forth a couple of times.

It's kind of a damning statement that the G9 (and a few Oly's, too) are significantly bigger than Fuji APSC; one of the real charms of M43 is the power packed into a small package. Bloat it up and you lose that. The little G5 was probably the ultimate expression of the M43 aesthetic. Personally, anything bigger than an EM-10 is verging on too big, as far as I'm concerned. Get much bigger than that and it might as well have a sensor to match, which brings us to APSC.

M43 has more good telephotos and more good zooms than Fuji, although the third party makers are starting to catch up. For a given FF equivalent focal length, obviously M43 will be smaller. Some of the Fuji primes, though, are outstanding. The little Fujicrons are tough to beat in any system.

M43 IBIS is tough to beat, too, thanks to the smaller sensor, less inertia, and more practice.

Fuji wins for me in the "fun!" category, especially the versions with the non-PASM interface. And film simulations are a kick if you like OOC jpgs.

Sounds to me like a minor attack of GAS, which I keep contracting too.

 Sam in Hawaii's gear list:Sam in Hawaii's gear list
Sony RX100 IV Fujifilm X100F Olympus TG-5 Olympus OM-D E-M10 Fujifilm GFX 50R +2 more
SUPERHOKIE Senior Member • Posts: 1,051
Why not both?
2

I have a Xt4 and all the F2 primes and the 56mm 1.2.

I also have a G9 and the 15mm 1.7 / 45-150 f5.6 for fun. Video quality wise G9 has better 1080 60p output than fuji and the 45-150 is really tiny as well.  With Fuji id need a 55-200 which is much bigger and there is no 15 1.7 equivalent in any format.  I also plan on getting the M43 9mm 1.7 soon.  M43 strong points cannot be replicated in any other formats

1000DTL Forum Member • Posts: 94
Re: Anyone moved from M4/3 to Fujifilm X series?
4

I have both the G9 and X-S10. Depending on your use case, I am not sure X-S10 will gain you much.  The G9 is still a great body, has dual card slots and is weather resistant.  The X-S10 has one card slot and is not weather resistant.  The G9 has subject detection, the X-S10 only has face and eye detection.   The G9 probably has an edge on auto focus speed and accuracy in S-AF mode.  If you look at the BIF rankings at mirrorless comparison website, the X-S10 has the better C-AF.  The difference between 20Mp and 26MP is not that great.  
The G9 has a better shutter, the X-S10 doesn’t have electronic front curtain.  It does have a better Electronic shutter than the G9 IMO.  G9 has better battery life.

I have small hands so I do prefer the X-S10 grip over the G9 but I would like more function buttons on the X-S10.  With the 18-55 zoom or the 23mm f2 prime on the X-S10, it makes for a very small kit.   I have a number of Nikon F mount lenses that I use on the X-S10 using a Fringer adapter.

Fuji does have the film simulations but I run my raw files through PureRaw2 and import into Exposure X7 for cropping and sharpening.  Exposure has hundreds of film simulations including the Fuji simulations I use most.  I can get a similar look from either the G9 and or X-S10.

If possible I would compare both in a camera shop.  While you are there, look at the XH2S or XH2.  They are better than both the G9 and X-S10.

Erik9999 Junior Member • Posts: 37
Re: Anyone moved from M4/3 to Fujifilm X series?
2

I have also gone from M43 to Fuji. And I have no regrets. I have the G9 and G7 and the G9 is a nice camera except its just to big.  I found I would mostly use the G7 because of its size (even though everything else was inferior).

At the time I was going to stick with M43, but at that time there was a big questions over Olympus, and Fuji bought out the X-S10, so I made the switch. The X-S10 is a nice camera to use but I wish it had a better EVF. To me the OOC jpegs seem a little better as well but there is not a hugh difference, and probably better autofocus. The X-S10 is just so easy to carry around with its nice grip and it must be the best value for money camera out there. I also though about switching to FF but the price difference but me off FF.

But nothing comes near the lenses available for M43. Fuji has great lenses but some are just too large such as the 16-55mm and the 100-400mm. But they also have some great lenses such as the 70-300mm and others.

 Erik9999's gear list:Erik9999's gear list
Fujifilm X-S10 Fujifilm X-H2 Fujifilm XF 16-80mm F4 Fujifilm XF 70-300 F4-5.6 R LM OIS WR
roberthd12 Contributing Member • Posts: 872
Re: Anyone moved from M4/3 to Fujifilm X series?
1

Erik9999 wrote:

I have also gone from M43 to Fuji. And I have no regrets. I have the G9 and G7 and the G9 is a nice camera except its just to big. I found I would mostly use the G7 because of its size (even though everything else was inferior).

At the time I was going to stick with M43, but at that time there was a big questions over Olympus, and Fuji bought out the X-S10, so I made the switch. The X-S10 is a nice camera to use but I wish it had a better EVF. To me the OOC jpegs seem a little better as well but there is not a hugh difference, and probably better autofocus. The X-S10 is just so easy to carry around with its nice grip and it must be the best value for money camera out there. I also though about switching to FF but the price difference but me off FF.

But nothing comes near the lenses available for M43. Fuji has great lenses but some are just too large such as the 16-55mm and the 100-400mm. But they also have some great lenses such as the 70-300mm and others.

I made the switch a couple of years back. Why? The quality of stills. Micro 4/3 is a great system with wonderful features, but the stills output stagnated many years ago. Just one opinion. I see more realness and presence in both people and landscape shots on APS-C vs. M43, when using quality glass.

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Erik9999 Junior Member • Posts: 37
Re: Anyone moved from M4/3 to Fujifilm X series?

roberthd12 wrote:

Erik9999 wrote:

I have also gone from M43 to Fuji. And I have no regrets. I have the G9 and G7 and the G9 is a nice camera except its just to big. I found I would mostly use the G7 because of its size (even though everything else was inferior).

At the time I was going to stick with M43, but at that time there was a big questions over Olympus, and Fuji bought out the X-S10, so I made the switch. The X-S10 is a nice camera to use but I wish it had a better EVF. To me the OOC jpegs seem a little better as well but there is not a hugh difference, and probably better autofocus. The X-S10 is just so easy to carry around with its nice grip and it must be the best value for money camera out there. I also though about switching to FF but the price difference but me off FF.

But nothing comes near the lenses available for M43. Fuji has great lenses but some are just too large such as the 16-55mm and the 100-400mm. But they also have some great lenses such as the 70-300mm and others.

I made the switch a couple of years back. Why? The quality of stills. Micro 4/3 is a great system with wonderful features, but the stills output stagnated many years ago. Just one opinion. I see more realness and presence in both people and landscape shots on APS-C vs. M43, when using quality glass.

I dare say you are probably very right. I did notice some improvement, but I certainly do not have the best glass. The limit of 20mp on nearly all M43 cameras is another thing that concerned me.

 Erik9999's gear list:Erik9999's gear list
Fujifilm X-S10 Fujifilm X-H2 Fujifilm XF 16-80mm F4 Fujifilm XF 70-300 F4-5.6 R LM OIS WR
Ed Jeffersen Regular Member • Posts: 176
Re: Anyone moved from M4/3 to Fujifilm X series?

Been using both Lumix M4/3 and Fujifilm for over a decade now. The Fujifilm image is absolutely a step up. I however prefer the ergonomics, features, lens selection and responsive function of the later Lumix GH5 and G95 cameras I have owned.
Fujifilm wins for style. Lumix wins for utility.

Asla
Asla Senior Member • Posts: 1,101
Yes and no...

Pannylumixfan wrote:

Hi everyone,

I'm considering selling my Panasonic G9 and GX9 (and several lenses) and buying an X-S10 and the Fujifilm 16-80 f4 initially, perhaps followed by a longer zoom. One advantage of the X-S10 over the G9 is its significantly smaller size and lower weight, although that may be countered by Fujifilm's larger and heavier lenses (for FF equivalent). This might be a major factor as I have arthritis which is becoming more of an issue for my photography.

I've read several expert reviews and comparisons but would very much appreciate feedback from real world users of Fujifilm X series cameras (especially the X-S10) who have also used M4/3 (especially the G9 and GX9).

In particular I'd appreciate comments about OOC jpegs, image stabilisation, ISO performance and handling (the grip on the X-S10 looks very comfortable and similar to the one on my G9).

Thank you.

Best wishes,

Brian

Hi!

I use both Fuji & m43 systems. I have found them complementing, not replaving each others. However, I have no experience of camera models you mention. I use Oly (mainly Pen-F's) in m43 and X-E4 of Fuji system... I pnly say that I've been happy with both.

A s l a

TheodorB New Member • Posts: 8
Re: Anyone moved from M4/3 to Fujifilm X series?
2

I have, well, still own some M43 gear but it doesn't get much use any more. I used the GX80 and then the GX9 (and briefly the G9), currently my travel camera is the X-T30, so no experience with the X-S10. My few cents:

  • If you're into the telephoto game, then M43 has significantly lighter, smaller and cheaper options. I am not much into telephoto, but I used to carry everywhere with me the small 45-175 Panasonic lens for the occasional shot. With Fuji, I have the 55-200 lens but more than not I tend to leave it home (unless I know I will be shooting telephoto anyway). Also, the two are surprisingly close in IQ from my experience. 
  • I have the 16-80 lens as well for the X-T30, and it gets a lot of use. I overall like it, I think the only compromise it has is IQ, particularly at the 60-80 range, but it's still OK for my use. But this is a downgrade compared to premium zooms in the MFT land such as the Pana-Leica 12-60 and the Oly 12-40, which are smaller and overall sharper. 
  • In terms of IQ, comparing X-T30 and GX9, what I noticed is that the two are closer than not, at least in RAW, with processing in Lightroom both are acceptable up to ISO 6400. The default color profile on GX9 is really nice. Where Fuji has the edge is in SOOC JPEGs - at low ISO the images are cleaner (e.g. in the sky for example), the colors are almost always very pleasing, and JPEGs at high ISO look very good with noise reduction turned off. This might be different with the G9, I recall being very impressed by the JPEGs produced by that camera.
 TheodorB's gear list:TheodorB's gear list
Panasonic Lumix DC-GX9 Fujifilm X-T30 Panasonic Lumix G 20mm F1.7 ASPH Panasonic Lumix G X Vario PZ 45-175mm F4.0-5.6 ASPH OIS Fujifilm XF 35mm F1.4 R +4 more
WeirdSheep Regular Member • Posts: 220
Re: Anyone moved from M4/3 to Fujifilm X series?
2

Pannylumixfan wrote:

Hi everyone,

I'm considering selling my Panasonic G9 and GX9 (and several lenses) and buying an X-S10 and the Fujifilm 16-80 f4 initially, perhaps followed by a longer zoom. One advantage of the X-S10 over the G9 is its significantly smaller size and lower weight, although that may be countered by Fujifilm's larger and heavier lenses (for FF equivalent). This might be a major factor as I have arthritis which is becoming more of an issue for my photography.

I've read several expert reviews and comparisons but would very much appreciate feedback from real world users of Fujifilm X series cameras (especially the X-S10) who have also used M4/3 (especially the G9 and GX9).

In particular I'd appreciate comments about OOC jpegs, image stabilisation, ISO performance and handling (the grip on the X-S10 looks very comfortable and similar to the one on my G9).

Thank you.

Best wishes,

Brian

Ex G9 owner and current X-S10 owner here. Personally I don't miss the G9 at all, I much prefer the X-S10 for my needs, it's smaller, lighter and less fussy, and the grip is equally comfortable for me. The G9 is an excellent camera, no question, I just prefer the X-S10 for a variety of reasons. In terms of IQ the X-S10 is definitely a step up, better dynamic range, better at high ISO's, better tonality and colour, and the film sims are very enjoyable. I also have the 16-80mm which is an excellent lens, much nicer than the Panasonic 12-60mm I formerly had with the G9, but also larger and heavier.

The 16-80mm is probably the most controversial lens in the Fuji line-up, and almost certainly the most misunderstood IMHO. It's 5x zoom which comes with some minimal compromises, the most oft cited that it's a 'bit soft' at the long end and the edges are bit weak at the wide end. Personally, what others complain about has never been an issue to me, it's really over-stated IMHO. I can get excellent results throughout the range with it, it's very sharp, has excellent OIS, has the best bokeh of any lens of its type that I've seen, focuses very closely, focuses quickly and has excellent colour and contrast. I have zero complaints about the lens, and plenty of people off this forum say very much the same. Some people may have bought weaker copies, which can happen with any lens, mine is excellent.

Now, having said all that, to answer your question, would I advise moving from m4/3's based on your criteria? That's a 'no' for me, if you're looking for smaller and lighter you're not going to get that from Fuji compared to m4/3's, especially at the telephoto end. Trading up to a smaller camera but larger lenses doesn't make logical sense to me. You'd be better off getting a smaller m4/3's camera and keeping your smaller and lighter lenses. There is also the issue of the aspect ratio, I prefer the 4/3's aspect ratio and that's the thing I miss the most shooting Fuji, I almost always have to crop my images, not a big deal with 26mp but it's worth noting. The IBIS on the G9 is definitely significantly superior to that on the X-S10, probably a couple of stops better in my experience. It's ok on the X-S10, just not m4/3's level, which may matter to you.

So in summary, stick with m4/3's, I personally couldn't recommend Fuji if size and weight are your main rational, m4/3's is definitely the champ for that. You only have to compare the size and weight of the cheap (but excellent) 40-150mm or 14-150mm Olympus zooms with their Fuji counterparts to see the difference, it's significant.

mtnroads Regular Member • Posts: 292
Re: Anyone moved from M4/3 to Fujifilm X series?
2

I use both systems (X-T2) and pretty much agree with what the others have said. I have shot M43 for more than a decade, bought into Fuji to try it during the pandemic - expecting gains in image sharpness, but the difference was negligible (SOOC). You simply cannot beat the Olympus zooms, they are sharper than the mid-range Fuji and same price. With Fuji, the primes are where you get the image quality, but overall there is a bit more DR also.

M43 does allow you to go much smaller, espec lenses. The G9 is simply too big and heavy. I am in SE Asia right now with an E-M5 III, 12-45/4 and 15/1.7 It is a tiny lightweight (2 lbs) kit that punches above it's weight. Excellent for travel, weather resistant, and with that great IBIS. I also have the 35-100/2.8 Lumix - a gem and very small.

The Fuji is more for fun and creative shooting - I have 5 primes and the 18-55/55-200 zooms, which are not WR. The fun is with the primes, as previously mentioned, and the traditional controls. The menus are simpler, colors a bit richer and film sims and dials are so fun to use. But when it comes to travel or ruggedness, especially here in rainy SE Asia - for me it is the Olympus every time.

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OP Pannylumixfan Regular Member • Posts: 149
Re: Anyone moved from M4/3 to Fujifilm X series?

Thanks for all your helpful replies. They've given me a lot to think about! 
Best wishes,

Brian

OP Pannylumixfan Regular Member • Posts: 149
Re: Anyone moved from M4/3 to Fujifilm X series?
5

I've considered the helpful replies- thank you everyone- and decided to stick with my M4/3 kit. When my arthritis allows, using my G9 and PL 100-400 is a far lighter combination than the Fujifilm equivalent. I've ordered an additional grip (JCC version) which will help me to more securely and comfortably hold my GX9 and Panasonic 14-140 when I want a more portable combination than the G9 with the 14-140. The Jpegs out of both the GX9 and G9 are a definite step up from earlier Panasonic models, but not quite up to the excellent Fuji film simulations. I shall experiment with the Jpeg settings and see what I can achieve. Unfortunately my finances do not stretch to keeping my M4/3 kit and adding the Fujifilm system. However, this exercise has made me appreciate what I've got!

Thanks again for your contributions.

WeirdSheep Regular Member • Posts: 220
Re: Anyone moved from M4/3 to Fujifilm X series?

Pannylumixfan wrote:

I've considered the helpful replies- thank you everyone- and decided to stick with my M4/3 kit. When my arthritis allows, using my G9 and PL 100-400 is a far lighter combination than the Fujifilm equivalent. I've ordered an additional grip (JCC version) which will help me to more securely and comfortably hold my GX9 and Panasonic 14-140 when I want a more portable combination than the G9 with the 14-140. The Jpegs out of both the GX9 and G9 are a definite step up from earlier Panasonic models, but not quite up to the excellent Fuji film simulations. I shall experiment with the Jpeg settings and see what I can achieve. Unfortunately my finances do not stretch to keeping my M4/3 kit and adding the Fujifilm system. However, this exercise has made me appreciate what I've got!

Thanks again for your contributions.

I think that's a wise move, all systems have their compromises, and whilst Fuji offers a lot of benefits, compared to m4/3's, size and weight isn't one of them. If it's any consolation I'm planning two weeks of 200 miles of hiking, m4/3's would be ideal, but I have Fuji, so I'm having to make compromises on the telephoto end due to size and weight, such is life.

OP Pannylumixfan Regular Member • Posts: 149
Re: Anyone moved from M4/3 to Fujifilm X series?
1

That sounds a great way to spend a couple of weeks. I'd be interested to know where you'll be hiking and what Fujifilm kit you'll be taking with you.

SmokeAndMirrorless Forum Member • Posts: 82
Re: Anyone moved from M4/3 to Fujifilm X series?
1

It really depends on the lenses and subjects you shoot.  I've used all formats including m43 and Fuji extensively.  For outdoors, wildlife and sports, m43 has better lenses and build quality.  I like the ergonomics of the G9.  But you're right, it is too big for what it is.  You can get full frame bodies smaller and lighter than the G9.

Fuji lenses tend to be not much smaller than full frame equivalents.  m43 lenses do actually achieve smaller sizes but the "equivalency" can be debated when you're comparing something like the Lumix 35-100 f2.8 to Fuji 50-140 f2.8 to full frame 70-200 f2.8.

I do not want to create yet another "m43 is dying" thread.  But the reality is there has been very little advancement of the m43 platform.  Yes, the GH6 and OM-1 have finally bumped the sensor technology bar up a couple notches.  But for how many years/models will these be the defacto m43 sensor?  Fuji has offered a steady progression of sensor improvements over the same time that all m43 cameras used essentially the same one.

The noise performance is a factor too.  Fuji sensors have less shot noise than any of the m43 cameras I've used.  The OM-1 might offer some improvements but at a cost higher than some Fuji and full frame camera which seems counter to the whole m43 strategy.

WeirdSheep Regular Member • Posts: 220
Re: Anyone moved from M4/3 to Fujifilm X series?

Pannylumixfan wrote:

That sounds a great way to spend a couple of weeks. I'd be interested to know where you'll be hiking and what Fujifilm kit you'll be taking with you.

I'll be doing the Portuguese Camino Costa, from Porto to Santiago de Compostela. I'm already training for it even though it's in September, I'll be wild camping much of it. Kit choice is a tough one, the camera will definitely be the X-S10 as I can charge it direct from a battery pack which has small solar panels for trickle recharging the battery pack as I walk. Lens choice is a tough one, but I'm thinking of getting the Fuji 18-135mm and pairing that with my XC 35mm F2 (which is a small light and excellent prime). I'll keep the 18-135mm in a kata belt bag on my bergen belt and carry the X-S10 and 35mm on a peak design clip on my bergen strap. I've been trying various options on my practice hikes, which have been invaluable for this. Using my 16-80mm is another option, but I do like a compressed telephoto shot and 80mm is just a bit short for that.

OP Pannylumixfan Regular Member • Posts: 149
Re: Anyone moved from M4/3 to Fujifilm X series?
1

Sounds a great trip and great kit options. I'm also a big fan of compressed telephoto landscapes, which is why I almost always hike with my 14-140 lens on my GX9.

Hope you have s fantastic trip and capture some wonderful shots.

WeirdSheep Regular Member • Posts: 220
Re: Anyone moved from M4/3 to Fujifilm X series?

Pannylumixfan wrote:

Sounds a great trip and great kit options. I'm also a big fan of compressed telephoto landscapes, which is why I almost always hike with my 14-140 lens on my GX9.

Hope you have s fantastic trip and capture some wonderful shots.

Thanks, will do, I used to have the 14-140mm, great lens.

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