Fujifilm’s Latest Addition to its X-series—the X30

Fujifilm x30

The X30 is a more refined version of the much appreciated X20. However, with a majority of the internal technology remaining the same, it must be said that a 1/1.5-inch sensor in such a large body seems a little outdated now, considering the ever popular Sony RX100 series and Canon’s rumoured G7X that leaked online a few days ago. Also, considering that interchangeable-lens mirrorless cameras are getting even smaller at this price point, one may wonder whether the X30 is a little underwhelming, at this point of time.

The X30 has the same 12MP X-Trans CMOS II sensor and EXR Processor II that the X20 had with a f/2-2.8 lens having a 28–112mm equivalent focal length. The big improvement is in the viewfinder, which is now the largest, brightest and sharpest viewfinder available in this class of cameras. There is now a Control Ring around the lens and the battery life has been improved significantly, from 270 shots to 470 shots.

Another improvement is the 3-inch (920k dot) LCD that users can tilt upwards to 90° and downwards to 45°. Fujifilm has also added a new mode to its current selection of Film Simulation Modes called the Classic Chrome. Also found in the X100T, this Simulation mode is subtle and muted, yet attractive, drawing comparisons with Kodachrome from some early reviewers.

Other features include WiFi and an external mic and wired remote input, both of which were absent from the X20, 12fps continuous shooting and Full HD movie recording 1080/60p at 36Mbps bit rate. The camera will  be available in silver and black and will retail for USD 599 (approx. Rs. 36,592).