Fujifilm X-T3 Review: Verdict
With the X-T2, Fujifilm took what we loved about the X-T1’s styling before tweaking the design a little and refreshing it with a new sensor and processor. A similar approach has been taken with the X-T3. It adopts the niceties of the X-T2 and has been updated with the latest X-Trans 4 sensor and X-Processor 4, transforming its performance significantly.
The wide spread of phase-detect AF pixels across the full height and width of the sensor, united with its high-speed burst capabilities, provides a higher success rate of sharp shots when shooting the fastest moving subjects, meanwhile the improved responsiveness of the autofocus in dark scenes, combined with the way the sensor handles noise at high ISOs makes it a strong contender when challenged by low-light. Incorporating in-body stabilisation (IBIS) would have made it even better, but this premium feature, is for now at least, earmarked to the X-H1 – Fujiiflm’s flagship model in the X-series.
AP’s Michael Topham out testing the Fujifilm X-T3
As mirrorless cameras go, the Fujifilm X-T3 is right up there as one of the most versatile and is just as at home shooting sweeping landscapes and static portraits as it is capturing the hardest to shoot action. It might not boast the same high-end professional status as some full-frame mirrorless cameras or the Fujiiflm X-H1, yet it’ll have great appeal with enthusiasts and professionals alike, especially those who want an impressive performance in a small form factor, supported by the best APS-C-specific lens range currently on the market. All this at a price that’s near enough what the X-T2 cost when it first arrived two years ago.
The X-T3’s arrival is likely to drive down the price of the X-T2, which up until now has held its price very well. Given the £100 price difference between buying the X-T2 and X-T3 new at the time of writing, opting for the X-T3 with all of its added benefits is a no brainer.
The X-T3 builds upon the success of the excellent X-T2. Those who trade in an excellent example of an X-T2 (for which you’ll receive approximately £495 through mpb.com as of 04/10/2018) will be expected to spend around £850 upgrading to the Fujifilm X-T3
Fujifilm had a solid platform on which to build the X-T3 and has once again succeeded at turning a great camera into an even better one. With very few flaws and so much to love, I can categorically say it’s the finest APS-C mirrorless camera that’s ever been made and remains a compelling choice for those who wish to bypass the larger full-frame mirrorless systems in the market.
