Reviews |Fujifilm X-T30 announced, specs, price and release date confirmed

Fujifilm X-T30 announced, specs, price and release date confirmed

Fujifilm X-T30 announced, specs, price and release date confirmed
News

Fujifilm has announced a new enthusiast-level X-Series camera, the X-T30, which replaces the popular X-T20.

The Fuji X-T30 borrows much of its specification from the X-T3 above it, having the same 4th Generation image sensor and processor. This means its APS-C format sensor has a pixel count of 26.1 million.

Fuji has improved the autofocus system for the X-T30 which has 100% phase detection coverage.

In addition, the AF algorithm has been reworked from that used in the Fujifilm X-T3 to enable more advanced AF-tracking performance and better face and eye detection.

Another key change in comparison with the X-T20 is the introduction of a Focus Lever (joystick). This has proved popular on other X-Series cameras including the X-E3, X-T2 and X-T3.

Compact and lightweight

At just 383g, the X-T30 is highly portable. However, the redesigned grip is said to make it more comfortable to use with long lenses.

In addition, the Focus Lever takes the place of the navigation pad so there’s more room on the back of the camera for the photographer’s thumb.

Fuji has also reduced the thickness of the rear screen by 1.3mm and made the touchscreen more responsive.

Fourth Generation

Like the X-T3, the X-T30 has Fujifilm‘s 4th generation X Trans CMOS image sensor and X Processor. This means it can capture the same quality images as the popular X-T3.

The native sensitivity (ISO) range now extends down to ISO 160, which is an extended setting on the X-T20. It’s also possible to use this value when shooting raw files.

Fujifilm X-T30 Review

Autofocus Improvements

According to Fujifilm, the X-T30 (and the X-T3) has the best AF performance and functionality of any X-Series camera. A total of 2.16 million phase detection pixels means approximately 4x as many pixels are used for focusing as by the X-T20.

Furthermore, the low light sensitivity has reduced from +0.5EV to -3EV. That should ensure better focusing in dim conditions.

The X-T30 also makes use of the faster processing engine and the new AF algorithm to boost its Face & Eye detection.

A Face Select function has also been introduced to enable photographers to target individuals in a crowd for focusing.

Video

The X-T30 video specification makes a significant step up on that of the X-T20. It records in 6K (6240×3510) and downsamples to 4K (3810×2160) at 30p for better quality. It’s also possible so record DCI format (17:9), for more cinematic-looking footage.

When 4K/30P video is written to an SD card it is output in 4:2:0 8bit. However, when an external HDMI device is used for recording, the X-T30 can output 4:2:2 10bit in F-Log mode. This widens the appeal of the camera to more serious videographers.

The eye tracking functionality is also available during video recording.

The X-T30 has 16 Film Simulation modes thanks to the addition of the Eterna mode. This is primarily designed for when shooting video as it produces flatter footage that’s more suitable for grading.

Price and Availability

The Fujifilm X-T30 will be available three colours, Black, Silver and Charcoal Silver. The Black and Silver versions will go on sale in March 2019. The Charcoal Silver version will go on sale in May.

The Fuji X-T30’s price is:

Fujifilm X-T30 Body Only – £ 849.00
Fuji X-T30 with XC15-45mm lens £ 899.00
Fuji X-T30 with XF 18-55 lens £ 1,199.00

Key Specifications

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