Verdict

The Fujifilm X-T5 packs the 40 Megapixel sensor and built-in stabilisation from the flagship X-H2 into a slightly smaller and lighter version of the X-T4 body with the screen articulation of the X-T3. Impressively it’s only 18g heavier than the X-T3 while sporting the bigger battery and IBIS unit both lacking from that model.

As such it’s literally the camera many of the Fuji-faithful have been waiting for, with a feature-set and design-aesthetic cherry-picked for photographers, without getting bogged down by the technical demands of pesky videographers or action shooters.

Fujifilm’s strategy at the top-end of the range has now become clear: if you want it all, including a side-hinged screen, battery grip, deep buffer, fast card slot, higher-res viewfinder, headphone jack, full-size HDMI, 8k and internal ProRes, the flagship X-H2 will give it you. And if you’re willing to trade 14 of those Megapixels while handing over a few hundred bucks extra for reduced rolling shutter, the X-H2S has you covered.

If however you can live without any of those features and only want the X-H2’s pure photo quality in a slightly smaller and lighter body with the classic X-T exposure dials, and a screen that tilts rather than flips, then the X-T5 is the camera for you, and it’s $300 or £200 cheaper than the X-H2 as well. Plus presumably there’ll be other variations going forward for those who want the same sensor in, say, an X-Pro or X100 body.

In theory everyone should now be happy, although in practice there are some who preferred the direction of the earlier X-T4. Owners who essentially want the feature-set of the X-H2 with its flip screen, optional grip, improved EVF and fast card slot, but in a body styled with the vintage-chic of the X-T series. I don’t know how many you are, but I’ve had a roughly equal number of comments on my X-T5 preview either cheering or weeping.

There’s no denying the X-T5 giveth and taketh-away, but the bottom line is Fujifilm has made its decision on positioning, at least for this generation. The X-T may remain high-end, but is no longer the flagship that has to please everyone in terms of performance and features. By cementing the position of the X-H series at the top, the X-T has now become free to specialise and have fun.

Ultimately while I think the X-T5 could have been granted an optional grip without treading on the toes of the X-H2, I feel Fujifilm has otherwise made wise choices on what to include and what to miss out. 

The X-T5 is the perfect upgrade for owners of the X-T1, 2 and 3, not to mention a compelling entry for those new to the system. I loved shooting with it, and guess what, it’s not bad at video either; check back soon for my full review of the video capabilities.