Review: Fujifilm X-T30, a lot of camera for little money

Friday 12 July 2019, 11:33 by Elja Trum | 6,961 views | 1 comment

This article was translated from Dutch with the help of AI. Read the original.

The Fujifilm X-T30 is essentially the excellent Fuijfilm X-T3, but for less money. The camera uses the same 26-megapixel sensor and the same processor. This means the image quality of this cheaper sibling is just as good as that of its bigger brother.

Fujifilm X-T30 specifications

- 26.1-megapixel APS-C X-Trans BSI-CMOS 4 sensor
- X Processor 4
- Hybrid autofocus system with 425 phase-detection points
- 20 frames per second (30 with crop)
- 2.36-megadot OLED electronic viewfinder
- 3-inch tilting display
- 4K video (30 frames per second, 10-minute recording limit)
- SD(XC) memory card slot

Difference from the Fuijfilm X-T3

So what is the difference from its bigger brother? The body is of course different. The X-T30 is slightly more compact and, in terms of appearance, is actually the same as its predecessor, the X-T20.

The electronic viewfinder is also smaller and contains more than a million fewer pixels (2.36 versus 3.69 million pixels). The screen on the X-T3 can tilt along two axes, rather than one.

Video is also slightly better on the X-T3. You can record 4K at 60 frames per second on this camera. You can also save video on the bigger brother in 10-bit (versus 8-bit).

The X-T30 does have a built-in flash. This can be useful in some situations, for example as an emergency solution or as fill flash. The X-T3 does not have a built-in flash.

So, small differences that you need to have a use for. With the X-T30, you do get a camera that is slightly more compact and also 156 grams lighter. That can be useful, especially if you often go out or travel with your camera.

In the hand

The Fujifilm X-T30 is a sturdy camera. It feels solid and well made. That gives you a reassuring feeling when using it. You do not have to worry about breaking something quickly.

It is quite small, though, which is also an advantage, so it can feel a little cramped with large hands. Because of its compact size, you can still support it relatively easily with your little finger. This means you do not feel that it will quickly slip out of your hand.

The dials on top of the camera are very pleasant to use. The other buttons and wheels are a little small, but they do what they are supposed to do.

I was worried that I would often press the Q button by accident, but in practice that was not too bad. You could also accidentally use the joystick on the back of the camera, which moves the focus point.

Pleasant controls

I am very enthusiastic about Fujifilm's cameras. The brand makes very compact cameras with a retro body, which makes it very appealing to set the camera partly or fully manually.

Changing a setting is wonderfully simple and quick. Especially in combination with a lens that has an aperture ring.

The same applies to the X-T30. On top of the camera, you can use physical dials to adjust the drive mode, shutter speed and exposure compensation. Combine this with an XF lens with an aperture ring and you have all the important settings within easy reach.

Fujifilm XF lenses

Fujifilm makes quite a few excellent lenses for its mirrorless cameras. A major advantage is that they are also quite affordable.

During my test period, I worked with the Fujifilm XF 35mm f/1.4 R (549 euros) and the Fujifilm XF 60mm f/2.4 R Macro (569 euros). There is currently a cashback promotion, which means the lenses are slightly cheaper than usual.

Conclusion

The Fujifilm X-T30 is an excellent camera. It is nice and compact, but the physical buttons still make it easy to use. The image quality is excellent, and the autofocus is smooth and fast. The video quality is also quite good.

That makes the Fujifilm X-T30 a very sensible choice. If you have a little more money to spend, it may be a good idea to hold both cameras in a shop first. The X-T3 is slightly nicer to use and hold, thanks to its body. You can best decide for yourself whether that is worth the extra cost.

Price

The Fujifilm X-T30 costs 949 euros. For just 50 euros extra, you get it with a 15-45mm kit lens. A great price for the camera you get for it.

The X-T30 is available in three colours: black, silver and charcoal silver.

More information

- Fujifilm X-T30 review by DP Review
- Fujifilm X-T30 review by Engadget
- Fujifilm X-T30 review by Ken Rockwell
- Fujifilm X-T30 review by Imaging Resource

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