Fujifilm X-M5 | First Look

The X-M5 is the latest in Fujifilm's entry-level range of interchangeable lens cameras, targeted towards those of you wishing to upgrade from a smartphone. Perfect for everyday photography and boasting some pretty impressive video specs, this is an ideal camera for content creators and everyday storytellers.

Watch the full video below for a first look.

Key Features

The X-M5 is the lightest in Fujifilm's range of Interchangeable lens cameras weighing in at a mere 355g and that's with the SD card and battery installed. The M stands for Movie or Mobile due to its impressive video capabilities and mobile nature while the 5 is in reference to the X-Processor 5 at the heart of this compact wonder.

While many of the internal specs are identical to that of the X-S20 the X-M5 is significantly cheaper.

Some of the similarities include the aforementioned X-Proccessor 5, a 26.1MP BSI CMOS 4 sensor, 3" 1.04M Dot Vari-Angle Touch LCD and the ability to shoot at up to 8fps continuous with the mechanical shutter and up to 20fps with the electronic shutter.

We also get Face/EYE AF and Subject detection, a built-in directional microphone as well as a 3.5mm jack for external mics along with a headphone socket. All of these connection ports have been moved to the right-hand side of the camera to allow the screen to be flipped when in use.

Lastly, we have space for a single UHS-I SD card and the NP-W126S battery is capable of up to 440 frames when using economy mode.

There are some glaring omissions however as the X-M5 does not have an EVF or IBIS. It does however feature enhanced Digital Stabilisation that is possible at up to 4K video.

One other thing of note is the eco-friendly packaging as the box is not glossy coated making it easier to recycle. It is also worth pointing out that due to EU regulations that come into effect in January 2025, there will be no USB charging cable included though a regular USB phone charging cable will be sufficient to charge the camera.

Film Simulations

Atop the camera is a dedicated dial for their impressive array of film simulations so that you can select your favourites in an instant.

Something that I was very surprised to find out from Fujifilm was that many people aren't aware that their film simulation modes are available on ALL of their cameras, not just their X-100 series. The X-M5 features 20 film simulations in total, including REALA ACE, ACROS, ASTIA, PROVIA, VELVIA and 15 others.

There is also a custom option for one of your favourites.

Other Photographic Capabilities

The PSAM dial allows quick access to shooting modes and a VLOG Mode as well as 4 custom modes for you to set however you see fit.

I already mentioned the ability to shoot at up to 8fps continuous with the mechanical shutter and up to 20fps with the electronic shutter. This is further aided by an updated AF algorithm as well as Subject detection thanks to the X-Processor 5. This includes Animal, Bird, Automobile, Motorcycle & Bike, Airplane and Train to ensure that your subject is always in focus.

The camera also features a new Portrait enhancer mode which smooths skin in-camera and you can quickly transfer content straight to your phone via the Fujifilm XApp.

Video Features

6.2 Open Gate

Despite being an entry-level camera, the X-M5 features Open Gate 6.2K capture at up to 30P in 4:2:2 10-bit. This means that the camera can use the full sensor while capturing video, allowing you to crop the footage to whichever format you like whether it be 16.9 for YouTube as well as having that extra leeway to crop vertically for the likes of Instagram or TikTok.

Built-in Directional Microphone

Another fantastic feature of the X-M5 is the advanced surround microphone that gives you the option to capture sound from the front, back or around the camera. There is also an improved wind filter and well a new Steady-State Noise Reduction mode that reduces noise that continues at a constant frequency such as a fan.

Improved Vlogging Interface

Other video features include an improved vlogging interface that gives you easy access to video options so that you can make creative choices quickly and efficiently. There is even a 9:16 Short Movie mode that allows you to create short-form content for the likes of TikTok, Instagram and YouTube Shorts. You can record in F-Log 2 which provides up to 13+ stops of dynamic range and it is possible to capture up to 60+ minutes of continuous recording, depending on the temperature and resolution. With that said the X-M5 is compatible with the Fujifilm X-H2S Cooling Fan FAN-001 for even longer recording times.

Key Features

26.1MP BSI CMOS 4 sensor
X-Processor 5
3" 1.04M Dot Vari-Angle Touch LCD
VLOG Mode
20 Film Simulations
6.2K Open Gate
8fps Continuous (mechanical)
20fps Continuous (electronic)
Face/EYE AF
Subject Detection
Built-in Directional Microphone

Convinced yet?

The Fujifilm X-M5 is available for pre-order now:

Fujifilm X-M5

Thank you!

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By Ben Wright
14 Oct 2024