Fujifilm X-E2 review – Noise, resolution and sensitivity
Image: In low-light scenes it is possible to shoot up to ISO 6400 without noise becoming a serious issue
With the same 16.3-million-pixel resolution as the X-E1, the X-E2’s sensor resolves an identical level of detail. Our resolution chart reveals that 30 lines per millimetre are visible at ISO 200. This was sustained up to ISO 800, beyond which the detail dropped off slightly, but I was still impressed by the camera’s ability to resolve 24lpmm at ISO 6400. It should also be noted that the superb 18-55mm kit lens played its part in such an impressive readout.
Comparing raw images alongside JPEGs reveals comparable levels of detail at low sensitivity settings. As the ISO is increased, raw files come out on top with JPEGs unable to resolve to the same level. Unlike some cameras that can oversharpen JPEGs, the X-E2’s in-camera processing is subtle and effective in reducing noise at the highest sensitivities.
The X-E2 delivers exceptional noise performance, with no sign of colour or luminance noise between ISO 100 and 800. At ISO 1600, a faint trace of noise creeps in, although it has such a fine structure that it’s barely noticeable when viewed at 100%. Noise is more noticeable at ISO 3200 and 6400,
but images are by no means unusable.
Detail is well preserved right up to ISO 12,800, but this is the limit to which you’ll want to push it, unless you’re willing to accept more noise and a more waxy appearance at ISO 25,600.
These images show 72ppi (100% on a computer screen) sections of images of a resolution chart, captured using the Fujinon XF 18-55mm f/2.8-4 R LM OIS lens. We show the section of the resolution chart where the camera starts to fail to reproduce the lines separately. The higher the number visible in these images, the better the camera’s detail resolution at the specified sensitivity setting.
