Fujifilm X-E5: Compact system camera with 40 megapixels and new 23 mm lens
Fujifilm expands the X-E series with X-E5 with improved autofocus and image stabilization. New pancake lens developed to ensure compact dimensions for travel.
The Fujifilm X-E5 with its small 23-millimeter pencake is perfect for street photography.
(Image: Fujifilm / Lorenzo Catena)
Fujifilm has unveiled the X-E5, a mirrorless system camera with a 40 megapixel sensor in APS-C format. This sets it apart from its predecessor, the X-E4, which only has 26 megapixels. For the first time in the X series, the housing uses a milled and anodized aluminium top plate, which ensures a high-quality feel. Until now, Fujifilm has always used the standard magnesium alloy casting. With a weight of 445 grams including battery and memory card, the camera is compact and light, but slightly heavier than the X-E4 at 364 grams.
(Image:Â Fujifilm)
The X-E5 continues to combine classic rangefinder design with the latest technology. A horizontal milled notch on the top of the housing is used to arrange the dials in a slightly recessed position to protect them from accidental adjustment. It also makes them easier to operate. A new film simulation wheel on the left shoulder enables quick switching between different film simulations, of which there are now a total of 20. Users can save personal film simulation recipes in the FS1 to FS3 positions, which they can define via the menu. The latter has been specially optimized for this purpose. The current selection is visible in a small window.
Improved image stabilization and autofocus
The newly integrated 5-axis image stabilization is designed to compensate for camera shake by up to 7.0 EV stops in the image center and 6.0 EV stops at the edges of the image. To achieve this, Fujifilm claims to have optimized the gyro sensor and used improved algorithms that analyze camera movements more precisely and quickly than in previous models.
The autofocus has been trained with artificial intelligence and deep learning technology and tracks the faces and eyes of people as well as animals, birds, cars and planes, trains, insects, and drones. The system is designed to improve tracking performance for moving subjects and precision in low-contrast scenes.
High image quality and video recording
The back-illuminated X-Trans CMOS 5 HR sensor with 40.2 megapixels is already familiar from the X-T5. It is said to offer an improved pixel structure and thus enable a higher light yield. ISO 125 is now available as the standard sensitivity, which should enable detailed images with reduced noise. With the X-E4, the extended ISO range still had to be used for ISO 125. The electronic shutter allows exposure times of up to 1/180,000 of a second. Image series are to be created electronically and without crop at a maximum of 13 images per second, with the mechanical shutter it is up to eight images per second. Pre-shooting is also possible with the electronic shutter.
The X-E5 records videos in 6.2K resolution at 30 frames per second in 16:9. In Full-HD mode, recordings with up to 240 frames per second can be selected for slow motion effects. The tracking autofocus is designed to ensure even focus tracking for moving images.
(Image:Â Vorserienmodell X-E5, Christine Bruns)
Intuitive operation
A new Classic Display mode, which can only be set in the electronic viewfinder, shows only the essential information at the bottom of the image. The Surround View function makes the area outside the field of view visible, similar to an optical viewfinder.
The control lever on the front of the camera can also be used to select film simulation recipes, but also to change the display mode, adjust the image format or set the magnification of the digital teleconverter. The lever offers a total of five different setting options and was already installed in a similar form in the Fujifilm GFX100RF. The 3-inch touchscreen can be swiveled up and forward by up to 180 degrees. This allows better control of shots where you are standing in front of the camera.
(Image:Â Fujifilm)
New pancake lens
Fujifilm is also introducing a new pancake lens with the X-E5, the Fujinon XF23mm F2.8 R WR, which is also sold as a kit lens. According to Fujifilm, it was designed especially for the smaller X cameras in response to customer requests. The focal length of 23 millimetres corresponds to 35 millimetres in 35 mm format and is therefore suitable for numerous photo situations – from everyday scenes and close-ups to landscapes and portraits. With a length of 23 millimetres, a diameter of 62 millimetres and a weight of just over 90 grams (with lens cap), it takes up very little space in your luggage.
The optical construction comprises eight elements in six groups, including two aspherical lenses, which are designed to minimize aberrations and ensure sharpness from the center of the image to the edge. According to the manufacturer, the lens elements have been made particularly thin for a compact design. Precise metal components are said to ensure stability.
The focus and aperture rings are separated by a fixed intermediate ring and can be operated independently of each other. The sensor-supported focus ring is designed to enable precise manual focusing with a minimal angle of rotation. Nine seals protect the lens from dust and splash water.
Price and availability
The Fujifilm X-E5, which has already been teased in a short video, will be available from August 2025 for €1,550 and the Fujinon XF23mm F2.8 R WR will be available from December 2025 for €450. A kit will be available for 1,800 euros. The camera is available in black and silver.
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