Verdict
In boasting a high build quality, intuitive handling and a fast lens, the Fujifilm FinePix X10 combines the best of both high-end compact camera types, such as the larger Canon PowerShot G12 and Nikon P7100, with the smaller Panasonic Lumix DMC-LX5 and Olympus XZ-1. The X10 ticks all the right boxes and is a pleasure to use.
Thankfully, a lot has been invested in the X10’s manual zoom lens. Its engineering is sophisticated and image quality is crisp across the entire frame at every focal length, and certainly at sensitivities up to ISO 400. Barrel distortion can be corrected easily enough at the computer, although I would like to see in-camera lens-distortion correction. For a high-end compact, the X10 resolves a high level of detail, but has a more limited performance at higher sensitivities.
The X10 costs a little more than other high-end compact cameras, but this model represents the top of the range before moving into CSC territory. It is a similar size to many consumer CSCs at this price, but has a built-in optical viewfinder. If the desire for simplicity provided by a compact camera is greater than the CSC, then the X10 is a winner.
Fujifilm FinePix X10 Focal points
Hotshoe
The X10’s hotshoe mount is compatible with Fuji’s EF-42 and EF-20 external TTL flash units, with the EF-20 complementing the size of the body perfectly.
Built-in flash
There is a slightly underwhelming pop-up-type built-in flash, which Fuji informs us has a GN output of 5.5m @ ISO 100.
Lens stabilisation
Five of the 11 lens elements are equipped with a shift mechanism, correcting the position of the optical axis.
Macro
Super macro mode operates at a distance up to 1cm from the subject, while regular macro mode is up to 10cm.
Raw conversion software
Included with the camera is Silkypix viewer and raw conversion software, to work on the RAF raw files.
Bracketing
A number of bracketing options are available through the drive mode menu, including ISO, dynamic range, exposure and film simulation.
Raw capture
Another option to raw+JPEG capture is JPEG only and then use the dedicated raw button for a one-off raw+JPEG capture.
Control wheel
The control wheel not only scrolls through the menus, but is also used to make fine manual focus adjustment.
