After a few years with the XT30, and just after the announcement of the XT5, I upgraded to the XT4. The reason for my upgrade was that I loved the image quality and look of the XT30's images, but based on my hit rate (and the slower effective speed of crop format sensors per FL), I needed IBIS. I also record myself from time to time in product informational videos, and wanted a vlogging style flip forwards screen.
The XT4 has both of these features, and it makes a world of difference to me.
What I love (vs XT30):
1) Better VF
2) Weather sealed body
3) same great controls
4) Deeper grip
5) Robust third party accessory market
6) dual card slots
7) vlogging screen (even beats the XT5 here)
What I don't love:
1) AF is average to good, depending on the situation. In low light the camera struggles, even with bright lenses. You need to know the AF system to get the most out of it, and use its variable settings wisely. But bottom line is it's about as good as my much older Canon 5Diii, and not as fast. Lenses matter greatly here, and my newer f2 prime lenses, for example, focus faster and more accurately than with my older and noisier fujinon glass.
2) Its still a crop sensor camera, so the overall capability isn't as wide ranging, especially in low light, and concerning DOF, as the larger formats. But the resolution is fantastic and the image quality is gorgeous.
3) The XT5 exists, and therefore represents another, more capable XT camera, for example its new higher resolution sensor.
Summary: The XT4 represents a very large upgrade from the XT30, and for reasons having nothing to do with image *quality*. In my estimation, the XT4 is the best camera for this specific sensor, with all of the tools and protection that allows the user to get the most out of it. IBIS revolutionizes non IS lenses you have owned for years. I can now shoot the 35mm f1.4 or 56mm f1.2 with much more confidence. My hit rate on stability is near 100% now (focus is another story).
With its forward facing vlogging screen and true hybrid camera capability, the XT4 still has a place in the market, even with the XT5 existing right alongside it. For my needs, the XT4 is the better option, and I made the choice to get it after closely looking at both cameras.
I would highly recommend this camera to anyone who wants a highly capable Fuji camera at less than its launch price, with a vlogging screen and numerous specific exterior controls.
--
Beau Industries - Performance Parenting Gear - Check us out at beaupacks.com
estreichdesign.com
http://www.flickr.com/photos/nycgeo/
The XT4 has both of these features, and it makes a world of difference to me.
What I love (vs XT30):
1) Better VF
2) Weather sealed body
3) same great controls
4) Deeper grip
5) Robust third party accessory market
6) dual card slots
7) vlogging screen (even beats the XT5 here)
What I don't love:
1) AF is average to good, depending on the situation. In low light the camera struggles, even with bright lenses. You need to know the AF system to get the most out of it, and use its variable settings wisely. But bottom line is it's about as good as my much older Canon 5Diii, and not as fast. Lenses matter greatly here, and my newer f2 prime lenses, for example, focus faster and more accurately than with my older and noisier fujinon glass.
2) Its still a crop sensor camera, so the overall capability isn't as wide ranging, especially in low light, and concerning DOF, as the larger formats. But the resolution is fantastic and the image quality is gorgeous.
3) The XT5 exists, and therefore represents another, more capable XT camera, for example its new higher resolution sensor.
Summary: The XT4 represents a very large upgrade from the XT30, and for reasons having nothing to do with image *quality*. In my estimation, the XT4 is the best camera for this specific sensor, with all of the tools and protection that allows the user to get the most out of it. IBIS revolutionizes non IS lenses you have owned for years. I can now shoot the 35mm f1.4 or 56mm f1.2 with much more confidence. My hit rate on stability is near 100% now (focus is another story).
With its forward facing vlogging screen and true hybrid camera capability, the XT4 still has a place in the market, even with the XT5 existing right alongside it. For my needs, the XT4 is the better option, and I made the choice to get it after closely looking at both cameras.
I would highly recommend this camera to anyone who wants a highly capable Fuji camera at less than its launch price, with a vlogging screen and numerous specific exterior controls.
--
Beau Industries - Performance Parenting Gear - Check us out at beaupacks.com
estreichdesign.com
http://www.flickr.com/photos/nycgeo/
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