Fujifilm announces X-E2 – second generation mid-level mirrorless

Fujifilm has announced the X-E2 – its latest mid-range mirrorless interchangeable lens camera. The X-E2 gains many of the upgrades seen in the X100S, including on-sensor-phase-detection that underpins the company’s unique digital-split-image focus aid. Beyond this the 16MP X-Trans camera has received a series of hardware adjustments and revisions in response to feedback about the X-E1.

The X-E2 will be available from November 2013 at a recommended selling price of $999.95 body-only or with the XF 18-55mm F2.8-4 LM zoom for $1,399.95.

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Press Release:

FUJIFILM ONCE AGAIN REDEFINES THE PHOTOGRAPHIC EXPERIENCE WITH THE NEW X-E2

New X-E2 digital camera features high-speed hybrid AF with phase detection, lens modulation optimizer and professional movie capture

Valhalla, N.Y., October 18, 2013 – As a leader in advanced digital camera technology and outstanding image resolution, FUJIFILM North America Corporation today announced the new FUJIFILM X-E2, a premium interchangeable lens camera featuring the latest generation 16.3 Megapixel APS-C X-Trans CMOS II*1 sensor and the segment’s fastest autofocus of 0.08 seconds*2 for a truly remarkable photographic experience.

As the fifth interchangeable lens camera system introduced within the award-winning FUJIFILM X-Series, the FUJIFILM X-E2 delivers picture quality that rivals full-frame cameras with high definition image capture, Fujifilm’s legendary color reproduction and category-leading speed.

“Outstanding image quality and beautiful design are the hallmarks of the FUJIFILM X-Series experience, and today’s announcement of the new X-E2 shows Fujifilm’s unrelenting commitment to photographic excellence,” said Manny Almeida, senior vice president and general manager, FUJIFILM North America Corporation, Imaging and Electronic Imaging Divisions. “With the X-E2, photographers will immediately be amazed by its high-speed hybrid AF with phase detection, pin-sharp image quality, and improved HD movie capture for endless photographic possibilities.”

Award-winning 16.3 Megapixel APS-C X-Trans CMOS II sensor and EXR Processor II
The FUJIFILM X-E2 uses the 16.3 Megapixel APS-C X-Trans CMOS II sensor which expertly controls moiré and false color generation. This is attained by using an original color filter array with a highly randomized pixel arrangement that removes the need for an Optical Low Pass Filter (OLPF) that degrades resolution. The image quality in the X-E2 is further refined by the inclusion of the first Lens Modulation Optimizer (LMO) for interchangeable lens cameras.

The EXR Processor II in the new X-E2 more than doubles the processing speed*3 of the previous generation. It is able to harness the information taken from over 100,000 phase detection pixels incorporated in the X-Trans CMOS II to deliver extraordinary imaging capability.

This advanced technology has been made possible by the integrated development of lens, sensor and processor, and is based on the optical performance and characteristics of individual lenses. With each of these components working together, the X-E2 achieves astonishing resolution, extends dynamic range, and reduces noise at high sensitivity.

Fast and accurate focusing
The FUJIFILM X-E2 gives photographers and enthusiasts ultra-fast response times to catch even the quickest memorable moments. The X-E2 has a rapid startup time of 0.5 seconds*4, minimal shutter lag of 0.05 seconds, and high-speed continuous shooting of 7.0 fps (up to approx. 28 frames)*5.

With its auto switching AF, the X-E2 combines contrast AF with an improved phase detection AF algorithm that provides accurate capture of low-contrast subjects in low light as well as high-speed responsiveness.

Manual focus made easier
Manual focus has been made easier by the inclusion of Digital Split Image*6 technology. This helps the user achieve pin-sharp focusing by simply adjusting focus to line up the four stripes displayed in the central part of the live view. Focus Highlight Peaking allows for an outline in
high contrast areas of subjects during focusing, further assisting the photographer in achieving stunningly sharp images.

Classic design and intuitive operation
The FUJIFILM X-E2 continues the tradition of the X-Series with uncompromising craftsmanship and classic design that puts the photographer first. The X-E1 features manually adjustable shutter speed and exposure compensation dials, which has been increased to ±3 EV, for easy controls. The X-E2 also allows users to customize up to four buttons on the top and back of the camera to suit their own shooting style.

The X-E2 features a bright and accurate 2.36 million dot OLED viewfinder with Fujifilm’s original optical design for a distortion-free field of view. A premium clear 3” LCD screen with 1.04 million dot resolution and reinforced glass gives users high viewing angles and a true view of their subject.

Improved movie performance
The FUJIFILM X-E2 shoots full HD video at 1920×1080 with up to 60fps with AF tracking performance for exceptional speed, accuracy and smoothness with a high bitrate of 36Mbps. The X-E2 delivers quick focusing on subjects, even when panning and zooming. With the X-E2, film simulation settings and exposure compensation (±2 EV) can be used during movie recording.

Easy Image Transfer with WiFi® button
The FUJIFILM X-E2 includes a WiFi button that lets users transfer high quality photos and movies*7 to smartphones, tablets and computers for easy sharing on social media sites.

To connect the X-E2 to a smartphone or tablet, users can download the free dedicated “FUJIFILM Camera Application” to their iPhone™ / iPad™ or Android™ smartphone or tablet device to transfer up to 30 pictures at a time from the X-E2. The app also lets users download movies, expanding the range of options available for enjoying pictures taken with the camera.

Once paired, users can press and hold the WiFi button to begin sharing images and movies immediately to their smartphone or tablet.

The X-E2 also has an Advanced Filter function and Film Simulation modes to give users a range of creative filters and film effects to apply and achieve unique and artistic looks.

FUJIFILM X-E2 key features list:

• 16.3 million Megapixels APS-C X-Trans CMOS II Sensor
• EXR Processor II

• Start-up time of 0.5
• Shutter lag time of 0.05
• Shooting interval time of 0.7

FUJIFILM X-E2 accessories list:

• Dedicated all-leather case BLC-XE1 with separate cloth wrap
• Compatible with all FUJINON X Mount lenses
• M Mount Adapter for additional lens compatibility
• Hand Grip HG-XE1
• Three dedicated flash models to choose from depending on requirements (EF-X20, EF-20, EF-42)
• Protector filters (PRF-39, PRF-52, PRF-58 and PRF-62)
• Remote release RR-90

The FUJIFILM X-E2 (body only) will be available in November 2013 for $999.95 in both black, and a two-tone black and silver.

The FUJIFILM X-E2 and XF18mm-55mm (27-84mm) F2.8-4 lens (kit) will be available in November for $1,399.95.

The FUJIFILM X-E2 uses the same FUJIFILM X-Mount as the X-Pro1, X-E1 X-M1 and X-A1, and all FUJIFILM XF and XC lenses work with all X-Series interchangeable lens cameras.

The current Fujifilm lens family includes the following FUJINON XF and XC lenses:

• XF 14mm F2.8 R
• XF 18mm F2.0 R
• XF 23mm F1.4 R
• XF 27mm F2.8
• XF 35mm F1.4 R
• XF 60mm F2.4 R Macro
• XF 18-55mm F2.8-4.0 R LM OIS
• XF 55-200mm F3.5-4.8 R LM OIS
• XC 16-50mm F3.5-5.6 OIS
• XC 50-230mm F4.5-6.7 OIS

*1: X-Trans is a trademark or registered trademark of FUJIFILM Corporation
*2: FUJIFILM research as of September 2013. Compared with other digital cameras equipped with 4/3-inch sensor or larger, based on CIPA standards, and using internal measurement methods under high performance mode. Attached with XF14mm F2.8R lens.
*3: Compared with EXR Processor Pro
*4: In high performance mode with XF27mm F2.8 lens
*5: JPEG format: Use a card with SD speed class with class 10 or higher.
*6: Digital Split Image is a trademark or registered trademark of FUJIFILM Corporation
*7: FUJIFILM Camera Application for iOS can save movie files up to 1280 x 720

Fujifilm X-E2 specifications

Fujifilm X-E2

Comments

“AF speed 0.08 seconds”

OK DPR, you should start testing AF and tracking already, because the manufacturers’ claims are becoming ridiculous. Somebody has to keep them honest.

It says this figure is as: “of September 2013. Compared with other digital cameras equipped with 4/3-inch sensor or larger, based on CIPA standards, and using internal measurement methods under high performance mode. Attached with XF14mm F2.8R lens.”

Whether or not this CIPA test has anything much to with normal shooting conditions is another matter.

While I admire all these new niche camera each with their quirky feature sets and small collection of lens but their price points always leave me cold. Especially when you look at the lens prices – what is the point of an interchange lens camera if there are few lens, no third party lens and they are more expensive than their SLR peers.

$1400 would buy you a Canon 70D a Nikon 7100 or a Sony A77. You would have 10 times more lens options – including 3rd party lens.

Some people surely need a vast selection of lenses, or longer tele options, but I think for most hobbyists the Fuji lens range hits the sweet spots pretty well. I find the Fuji lenses to be very close iQ-wise to Canon lenses that cost double, give or take.

Fuji doesn’t have the low end options that Canon offers, but they are not trying to offer all things to all people.

Fuji’s 18-55 is a very high-quality lens, and many people would be quite content with that and the XE-2. No need to have a million lenses if what Fuji offers A) is high quality and B) suits your needs.

That said, -100 for Fuji for not making the rear LCD tilting 🙁
Guess I’ll stick with my XE1.

For a fairly recently introduced camera system the lens selection is pretty good. The quality of most of the lenses is very good too.

There are some third party lenses – and many more can be used with an adapter.

Very nice. And Fuji is also thinking about the “minor” issues.

i.E.: The exposure compensation dial now goes from -3 to +3 instead of -2 to +2. That’s a great thing.

I am still fine with my X-Pro1, only hoping for an FW-update for the minimum shutter-speed in auto-iso (what is also finaly fixed on the X-E2).

Daniel

I would give you +1000 on both statements if I could!

Let’s hope that the min-shutter speed in Auto ISO gets resolved for the X-Pro 1, soon. We all have requested this to Fuji hundreds of times so far…
Grüße 🙂

still 16 megal pixel?

What’s wrong with that? Oh, that’s right, you have the non-photographer megapixel obsession.

No, more would be nice to compensate for Adobe not being able to handle x-trans very well. 😉

try PhotoNinja …

Looks good!

Yeap, specs and feature set look very, very nice. But since this is such a shallow depth (ie. thin bodied) camera, I must say the dials and buttons seem to be very small and quite crowded on the X-E2.

Francis, it looks like the controls are the same ason the XE-1, which I have, and ergonomically it all works nicely.
One area for improvement did alas not happen: ideally the exposure compensation dial should have a lock button in the middle. I sometimes accidently turn mine.