FUJIFILM X-M5 is a compact entry-level hybrid camera, boasting some impressive capabilities for both video and stills. 5th generation processing joins FUJIFILM’s venerable 26-megapixel sensor to allow for up to 30fps still framerate, 6.2K 25/30P open gate, and 4K 50/60P video shooting. These features are neatly encased in a compact, well-designed body. Next to this exciting announcement, two lenses were announced too, the XF16-55mm II and XF 500mm. Read more about it here.
FUJIFILM takes a rather unique approach with its product line. Omitting full-frame altogether the company invests all its R&D capacity into its APS-C and medium format lines. This path concludes in a multitude of models with relatively minor differences, allowing each user its specific choice of features. The FUJIFILM X-M5 stretches the X-line envelope a bit further, with a compact, affordable camera that should cater to the needs of a rather broad clientele.
Specs and features
The FUJIFILM X-M5 features a well-balanced hybrid feature set, with some standout highlights when put in context with its segment and sub-$1,000 price range. The camera shares the same image pipeline as the X-S20, with a 26-megapixel X-Trans CMOS 4 sensor and 5th-generation X-processor. Hence its basic spec list is quite similar.
The X-M5 boasts 20 different film simulations, accessible via the left top dial. It can shoot 26-megapixel RAW images at up to 8fps with mechanical shutter, 20fps with electronic shutter, and up to 30fps with an x1.25 crop. But it’s the video features that we’re here for. The X-M5 boasts an impressive array for a sub-$1,000 hybrid camera (Leaving behind some pricier options)
- 6.2K (6240 x 4160), open gate, 25/30P 10-bit 4:2:2 internal recording up to 200Mbps
- Uncropped 4K/DCI 25/30P
- Slightly cropped 4K/DCI 50/60P (x1/1.8)
- Up to FHD 240P (with x1.29 crop over 60P)
- Long Play mode, for reducing the possibility of overheating
- Comprehensive VLOG mode
- 9:16 recording mode
- various file transfer options, wired and wireless
- Extensive DIS (Digital Image Stabilization) mode
- Internal microphone array
- “Camera to Cloud” feature is built-in. No need for an external grip
- Blackmagic and ProRes RAW recordings are available through the HDMI (type D) output
DIS and VLOG mode
Aiming the X-M5 to a level audience considering their first dedicated camera FUJIFILM worked hard to make its recent model as accessible as possible. To achieve this the company incorporated some powerful features. The Digital Image Stabilization (DIS) system got a significant boost. In addition to its improved standard operation, it can now combat the rolling shutter effect (to a certain extent) and works better in sync with lens-based optical stabilization. As with every electronic stabilization, This will come at the price of a rather significant crop, ranging from x1.32 to x1.44.
FUJIFILM’s VLOG mode gets a nice revamp for the X-M5. The GUI is now slicker and more streamlined. A vertical 9:16 mask is available, as well as a timed “Short Movie Mode” for social media creators. (In HD quality only. Recording 15, 30, and 60-second clips can be selected in this mode). The camera can also perform high-speed video transfer to mobile devices and can double as a webcam, both via the USB-C port.
Recording times
Being a compact camera with impressive video features, the FUJIFILM X-M5 will eventually meet its physical thermal limitation (as is the case with every hybrid compact). To address this issue FUJIFILM created the Long Play mode (LP). In this mode, the X-M5 sacrifices some sensor real estate to ease the processing load. According to FUJIFILM, at an ambient 25° the camera can maintain 4K LP 30P or FHD LP 60P for over an hour. If the temperatures rise to 40° it may maintain 4K LP 30P or FHD LP 60P for up to 20 minutes. Additionally, the X-M5 is also compatible with FUJIFILM’s optional fan unit, with which it may achieve over an hour of recording at either 4K LP 30P or FHD LP 60P even in 40°. No details regarding other recording modes are available as of writing.
Internal microphone array
Taking a page out of Sony, Panasonic, and some other Vlog-oriented products FUJIFILM incorporated an internal microphone array into the X-M5. Based on a mic trio with two front and one rear unit, the array will allow for front, back, and surround recording options. Advanced algorithms should help with noise reduction with the new “STEADY-STATE” function. Also on board are a wind filter and a low-cut filter.
Design and build
A vintage-inspired design is no news for FUJIFILM’s X line. Several range-finder-esque cameras already adorne the line and the X-M followed suit. With its rectangular, symmetric, compact design the X-M5 seems to harken back to the ancient Leica III.
The top panel includes the majority of control points. Two similarly-sized dials sit at the sides of a middle bulge, housing the hot shoe and the microphone array. One controls film simulations, as seen in the recent X-T50, and the other is a PASM control dial, that has become quite common for FUJIFILM’s cameras in recent years. Further to the right, we’ll find a Q button, function dial, REC button, and the shutter release, surrounded by the on/off switch.
The back panel is mostly occupied by the LCD screen. Above it, we’ll find the drive mode button and a cleverly positioned mic jack, designed to relieve the screen from its interference while also doubling a reminder of viewfinders of old (just a design reference, no EVF there…). Under the hot shoe is the “play” button with an AEL/AFL button next to it. On the grip are a joystick, a Menu/OK button, and a Disp/Back button. The front panel bears only a front control dial and the lens mount.
While it may not seem as much the FUJIFILM X-M5 manages to cram two control dials, PASM and film simulation dials, a joystick, and a mic jack onto a very compact body while maintaining unbeatable style. Not a small feat.
Who is it for?
The FUJIFILM X-M5 is aimed at quite a broad audience. It caters to hybrid shooters and content creators, for people who want a stylish yet capable camera without the premium price tag associated with this segment. It can also work for those who want to elevate their virtual presence, be it webinars, online courses, or whatever your heart desires. While it may not be a hardcore professional camera it can tackle various projects or make do as a b-cam. FUJIFILM’s way of incorporating high-end features into its entire line
Alternatives
The X-M5 joins a rather competitive fray here. Several manufacturers offer dedicated vlogging hybrid cameras. While similar in terms of price the X-M5 easily outperforms Panasonic’s LUMIX G100D and Nikon’s Z30. It’s a different ballgame when encountering the Sony ZV-E10 II, its closest vlogging competitor.
While the ZV-E10 II is a tad pricier it offers one of the best autofocus systems around, extensive smart hot shoe accessories, and an excellent upgrade path with the E-mount. The X-M5 however has something none of its hybrid competitors possess: Style. While some may discard it as a whim, style proves to be a major selling point, And I’ll argue that when used right it may have a profound effect on the end product.
There is also some significant in-house competition with the X-T50 and X-S20 offering better stills or video performance respectively. Both feature an EVF and an IBIS but come at a premium price. To conclude: The X-M5 offers a rather unique mix of features, design, and user experience. It does so at an impressively affordable price, with no competitor who checks all these boxes. (I still can not believe that FUJIFILM is “throwing in” the 15-45mm stabilized kit lens for an additional $100 only)…
Price and availability
The FUJIFILM X-M5 is available for preorder and will set you back $799 for the body only or $899 bundled with the XC 15-45mm f/3.5-5.6 OIS PZ Lens. The silver color version of the camera will be available in November this year, while the black body X-M5 will be available in April 2025.
Will you opt for the FUJIFILM X-M5 as your main or secondary camera? Do you see any professional use cases for it? Let us know in the comments.