The brand-new Fujifilm X-T50 was just announced! It’s both surprising and intriguing. This might be Fujifilm’s most contentious model since the X-Pro3, but it shouldn’t be controversial at all. What exactly is the X-T50? Is it the right camera for you? I’ll try to answer those questions in this article.
The double-digit X-T line has traditionally been Fujifilm’s mid-level, enthusiast-grade, interchangeable-lens, SLR-styled models (that’s a mouthful!). It’s the little brother of the single-digit X-T cameras, like the X-T2 and X-T3. With the discontinuation of the low-end triple-digit X-T series, the double-digit X-T cameras have become Fujifilm’s de facto entry-level option. The Fujifilm X-T30 II, which was released in November of 2021, is the current base model, although it’s neither cheap in quality or price—it’s still a mid-tier APS-C camera.
The X-T50 is not the successor to the X-T30 II, but a whole new (yet highly similar) line. Fujifilm plans to sell the X-T30 II alongside the X-T50, similarly to what they did with the X-T3 and X-T4 a few years back. This also means that there is a potential future successor to the X-T30 II, perhaps called the X-T30 III or X-T40; I don’t know that for sure, but I think it is a fair assumption. The main thing for you to know is that the X-T50 is not a replacement for any previous model, but a whole new camera.
There are some key things that set the X-T50 apart from the X-T30 II. First is the 40mp X-Trans V sensor, the same sensor found in the X-H2, X-T5, and X100VI; the X-T30 II has the 26mp X-Trans IV sensor. Second, like the other 40mp cameras, the X-T50 has IBIS; the X-T30 II doesn’t. Perhaps the biggest difference—and the one that is most contentious—is the Film Dial. The X-T30 II has a Drive Dial on top, but in its place on the X-T50 is a brand new knob for switching between the film simulations (Drive is a button on the X-T50, like on the X100VI and X-E4). Aside from that, the X-T50 is a tad bigger than the X-T30 II, has a more rounded design, and costs quite a bit more ($1,400 for the body-only). The X-T50 is more premium than the X-T30 II, but, unsurprisingly, it’s not at the same level as the X-T5. I’d call it an upper-mid-tier model, higher than the X-T30 II but lower than the X-T5.
The Film Dial is a brilliant move by Fujifilm. I know that some may not “get it” and that’s ok; not every camera is for every person. Film simulations are such an intrinsic part of the Fujifilm experience for many users. Placing it on top of the camera in a position of importance makes film simulations a more immersive experience, one that invites exploration. The Film Dial alone will sell the X-T50; 40mp, IBIS, 6K video, etc., are merely bonuses. By simply taking an already existing and loved feature, and moving it from an Fn button or Menu position to the top plate, Fujifilm reinvented the functionality of their camera.
It’s not that the X-T50 does something that the X-T5 (or any other Fujifilm camera) doesn’t, it’s only how it is presented to the photographer. You can use the exact same Film Simulation Recipes on the X-T50 that you can on the X-T5, X100VI, and X-H2, and the analog-like output is identical between each of those models. What is unique about the X-T50 is that a turn of the Film Dial will instantly change the film-like aesthetic. That experience differentiates this cameras from all the others—not just other Fujifilm models, but from every brand. The Film Dial makes the X-T50 a “digital film” camera.
I don’t want to get too deeply into what the Film Dial is and how to get the most out of it, because I have a whole article that explains it in detail (click here). What’s important to know is that the knob only changes the film simulation and nothing else. On the dial, there are eight (out of the 20) hard-set film sims (Provia, Velvia, Astia, Classic Chrome, Reala Ace, Classic Negative, Nostalgic Neg., and Acros), plus three customizable positions for your favorites that were left out. The “C” position simply disables the Film Dial.
If Fujifilm had asked for my input, I would have suggested a couple of changes. First, a C1-C7 Dial (or, better yet, a C1-C11 Dial, since there are 12 positions) would have been most ideal for those who use Film Simulation Recipes. That would’ve been less contentious, and I think a lot of current Fujifilm users would be excited for that; however, I understand why Fujifilm didn’t choose that route: a Film Dial is more inviting and less intimidating to the uninitiated. My advice to Fujifilm is to release an X-T55, which would be the exact same camera, but with a C1-C7 (or C1-C11) Dial in lieu of the Film Dial. Second, since they didn’t do that, I think it would have been really cool if each film simulation on the Film Dial could be customized into a Recipe. If Highlight, Shadow, Color, Dynamic Range, Grain, etc., etc., etc., could be custom set to each film sim on the Film Dial, that would be awesome. While Fujifilm could make that change with a Kaizen firmware update (and I very much hope they do), it would be surprising if they did. But, no worries, because I’ve figured out a good strategy for how to use the Film Dial as-is, and it’s highly enjoyable.
There are probably a number of people who are concerned that the X-T50 uses the “old” NP-W126 battery, and not the new NP-W235. I took this camera with me on multiple trips, and shot with it literally all day several times, and only once did I actually have to use a spare battery. So as long as you have two NP-W126 batteries, you should be good-to-go. Perhaps a second spare is a good idea if you record a lot of video footage.
So who is the Fujifilm X-T50 for? Is it worth buying? Should a different camera be considered instead? There are a few groups that the X-T50 makes a lot of sense for, and a couple of groups that I think it could potentially be a good option for.
First, the Fujifilm X-T50 is great for those who shoot film, but want to get into digital photography. With film prices so high right now, there are a number of analog photographers who are seriously considering their first digital camera. Or perhaps they haven’t picked up a digital camera in a long time because they didn’t appreciate the experience of it, and are searching for something that is more reminiscent of film photography. I can relate to this, personally. I have no doubts that it will be highly appealing to this group of people—after all, the X-T50 is Fujifilm’s “digital film” camera.
Next up are those who succumbed to the Fujifilm X100VI hype but cannot secure a camera due to the unprecedented demand. Specifically, I’m talking about those who are not current Fujifilm users—those who have a different brand of camera or perhaps no “real” camera at all currently. They will see the X-T50 as an alternative that they have a better chance at actually getting their hands on. Since most of the specs are exactly the same, it won’t take much to convince someone in this group to buy it instead of the X100VI. Obviously, there are some significant differences between the two models, but there are enough similarities that the X100VI’s demand (and Fujifilm’s inability to fulfill it) will notably fuel X-T50 sales. The X100VI’s hype is real, and, in my opinion, well deserved; the X-T50 is not an X100VI, but certainly close enough for many people.
Third, the X-T50 will be appealing to video content creators who desire streamlined color grading. The Film Dial works in video mode, and film simulations can reduce or even eliminate some editing steps. This is an underrated and underutilized aspect of Fujifilm cameras that I think will be employed more on the X-T50 simply because of the Film Dial.
Then there are Fujifilm X-T5 owners who want a smaller and lighter option—but with an identical output—to be a companion camera. Some might appreciate the divergent shooting experience, while others might not. I think, for this group, the X-T50 is contentions, and either you’re intrigued by it or put off, and your opinion has likely already been made.
The last group are those who have an older double-digit X-T camera, or perhaps even a triple-digit model, and are eager to upgrade to something brand-new. The X-T5 is a little too big, heavy, and/or expensive for you, while the X-T30 II doesn’t have the latest two film simulations or features like 6K video and IBIS. If you appreciate the Film Dial, the X-T50 could be perfect; otherwise, this might not be the double-digital X-T camera that you were wishing for.
I really like the Fujifilm X-T50, personally. It’s fun, and offers a divergent experience from the other retro-inspired models. But, no camera is perfect, and none are for everyone. Each person has their own preferences. I think the X-T50 will, generally speaking, appeal more to non-Fujifilm photographers than current Fujifilm owners. On one hand, that’s really good. The X-T50 will be a lot of people’s gateway into Fujifilm. On the other hand, there are plenty of people who will complain that Fujifilm should have designed it another way. I do wish that the new knob had been implemented just a little differently, but I completely understand why they did it. Just because this camera might be more well-received by those buying their first Fujifilm model, doesn’t mean that current Fujifilm enthusiasts can’t or won’t like it, too, because I think many will (I enjoyed it); however, there are some who definitely won’t.
The Fujifilm X-T50 is brilliant, as it blurs the line a little between digital and analog, and gives users a unique photography experience. I have no doubts that the Fujifilm X-T50 will be a huge success, and the new Film Dial will be a big reason for it.
This post contains affiliate links, and if you make a purchase using my links I’ll be compensated a small amount for it.
Fujifilm X-T50 in black:
Amazon, B&H, Moment, Wex, Nuzira
Fujifilm X-T50 in silver:
Amazon, B&H, Moment, Wex, Nuzira
Fujifilm X-T50 in charcoal:
Amazon, B&H, Moment, Wex
Example pictures, all camera-made JPEGs using various Film Simulation Recipes on a Fujifilm X-T50:
See also:
How To Add Film Simulation Recipes To Your Fujifilm Camera
The Essential 7 Film Simulation Recipes to Program Into Your Fujifilm Camera First
Find these Film Simulation Recipes and over 300 more on the Fuji X Weekly App! Consider becoming a Patron subscriber to unlock the best App experience and to support Fuji X Weekly.
Thanks for the article. At this price point I don’t understand what Fujifilm is doing anymore.
It’s almost the same price as an X-T5, with a worse viewfinder, one slot, a simple one way tilting screen, no weather sealing…a new dial ok and… Instead of bringing so many new cameras all the time they should just be able to make a new camera like the x100vi and build enough for the people to get them instead of favorising scalpers! Fujifilm has lost his soul for me. I am back to Nikon.
They’re manufacturing the X100VI at twice the rate as the X100V, and they’re working on doubling that. It’s just the most in-demand camera of all time. It’s a really long line to get one.
As far as the X-T50: it’s not for everyone. No camera is. No Nikon camera is, either.
Double the price of the X-T30ii? It’s hopeless for me. I won’t be surprised that sooner or later, I may just raise a white flag as I just couldn’t afford any of Fuji’s APSC line which are supposedly cheaper with decent to outstanding (not excellent) specs. 🙁
It’s not double the price, it’s 40% more expensive. It also has IBIS and 40mp. The X-T30 II has not been replaced, and is still Fujifilm’s “entry-level” model. The cheaper line, the X-T000, didn’t sell well towards the end, and was discontinued a few years back. The X-T50 is a new line, and not the X-T30 II’s successor.
Sorry, Ritchie. Let me specify, double the price here where I live locally. 🙁
That’s nuts. I would not buy it for double the price of the X-T30 II.
I agree that the pricing on this is ridiculous. I believe there are few people who don’t already have a camera who are going to drop almost $2000 on one after a lens is included and the price is high enough that current X-TXX users will have a hard time justifying the upgrade
The camera will sell like hotcakes, I have zero doubts about it.
We’ll see. I think it will take a semi-permanent price drop like the X-H2 (or S? Whichever one is on sale 8 months each year) to move copies, but maybe I’m wrong. It’s very expensive for what has traditionally been an entry level line of cameras. Fuji can attempt to reposition it above the X-T30ii, but that doesn’t mean it will be a successful when someone’s first camera can be $899 instead of $1399. Not to mention that at $1399 they are now competing with full frame entry level.
I dunno. Feels like a swing and a miss for the price even though I’m sure the camera is great.
It’s my understanding that preorder sales were strong.
I don’t know what the indication is on sales numbers, but the shipping date for the X-T50 hasn’t changed from June 17 if one wants to preorder today and had not not already done so. I’ll give Fuji credit for meeting the demand, but I do wonder if it’s not selling as well as they hoped if the first batch is readily available.
What I’ve heard is that the Day 1 preorders were strong—nothing like the X100VI, but definitely above average for Fujifilm cameras. But, in the days that followed, the preorders were much less strong. Basically, those who wanted one ordered it immediately following the announcement. It’s my understanding that the demand and the current supply are pretty well balanced. Not too much or too little supply, not too much or too little demand. That’s from talking with a few different camera stores in the USA.
It’s definitely a genius move! So obvious but no one predicted it. Well done Fujifilm!!
I think it’s so simple and obvious, yet so shocking at the same time. Brilliant!
Pity there’s no ISO dial. They could have given it an X-Pro3 type one. Also it doesn’t appear to have either a Q button or ISO button + turn-the-wheel, so presumably you have to go through the menu to set the ISO.
However, I’ve probably missed something as it seems unlikely they’d make something as basic as changing the ISO so difficult.
Update to my previous comment: I’ve just found out the Q button is on the thumb grip which is why I couldn’t see it on the photos I’d seen. (Bit too easy to press accidentally perhaps?)
I would have liked an X-Pro/X100 like ISO ring. It has never been on a double-digit X-T camera, so I didn’t expect it to be on this one.
There is a Q-button like all Fujifilm cameras. I adjust the ISO using the front command wheel.
My X-T20 leaves this thing for dust. The X-T20 gives me rapid one touch access to a range of functions via the D-Pad (film sims, recipes, ISO, focus point) and the drive dial (Bracketing, CL, CH), as well as stock stuff via fn buttons (SS, Aperture, Exposure Comp). Without the drive dial, D-Pad and ability to customise the film sim dial for recipes, I lose most of this one-touch functionality.
Meanwhile influencers masquerading as reviewers are wetting themselves over an unnecessary increase in megapixels. While studiously ignoring the significant reduction in functionality for enthusiastic JPEG shooters such as myself, who Fuji have kicked in the nuts and clearly have abandoned as a target customer group. And we are expected to swallow the lie that this is progress, whilst paying through the nose for the ‘privilege’.
I would take the X-T50 over the X-T20 hands down any day; however, I met Omar Gonzalez, and he was carrying an X-T20. Just goes to show that it doesn’t matter nearly as much as some of us (myself included) sometimes believe.
Love the idea of the film sim dial but the 3 custom sections should have been able to program recipes that dont effect the the other sims. But maybe a firmware update in the future. I think I would order if i could do this.
Omar is pushing for Fujifilm to change it. Don’t know if they will or not.
First thank you Ritchie, for the great post!
I will not comment the price, because I will not buy this camera. For me, the interesting is the IBIS (in smaller body), slightly rounded corners and of course the new dial. It really is very interesting decision. If it is good I cannot tell, but I could describe it as confusing.
Ritchie explain very well how this dial can or cannot be used, and in my situation I am not sure I could use it. Or at least will leave it on C and will continue change my recipes from the Q menu.
I do not use the Drive dial and almost never used the ISO dial on my X-T3, so I can not tell they miss me. This dial looks cool and is very good ad for the film simulations, but only this.
Regards!
It’s definitely not for everyone. Thanks for the comment!
Having an XT5 ofc there is not much to be interested in this camera for me. I should be indifferent to it. But I can’t. I wanted a Fuji X-Pro 4 really, really, really bad. I understand there is no priority in a niche line like the Pro. But I only got the X-T5 because I needed a camera at that time for a gig, I wanted back into the Fuji system and the X-T5 is just a really great camera spec wise. Still, I don’t “feel” the camera like I did my X-Pro 2 years ago. I want that feeling back with up to date specs and it feels like Fuji is keeping it away from me.
In a lot of ways, the X-T50 is an X-T5 in a smaller body. Obviously it doesn’t have weather-sealing, duel card slots, the bigger battery, the better EVF, or the ISO dial. But, image quality is identical, and the Film Dial… I actually like it—not right away, but after a couple of weeks, once I got it figured out, I kind want a film dial on all my cameras now 🤣
I had a X-T30 which I loved the size of and I switched to the X-T4 when I found one for a good deal. My only small complaint about the X-T4 is that it’s heavier than the X-T30 that I got used to. I put in my preorder for the X-T50 with the 16-50mm kit lens when it was available. It does help that I’ve had Amazon credit sitting unused for a while.
I have zero doubts that you will love the camera 😀
Hi, thanks for the info – X-T50 suits me best of the Fujifilm offerings and I plan to order one pending more reviews and user feedback. If I may ask: What’s the sim/recipe you used for the shot of the X-T50/27mm sitting in the green hedge, near the top of the article? That’s the kind of color and tonality I like.
That was captured with my Fujifilm X100VI using the PRO Negative 160C Recipe.
https://fujixweekly.com/2024/03/27/pro-negative-160c-fujifilm-x100vi-film-simulation-recipe/
Thank you! Can’t wait to try it.
You are welcome!
Simulation knob would make perfect sense if it could work similar way to custom settings in Q-menu. (the way when you switch to another simulation it will switch to a whole recipe with all custom settings done to it). This would be absolutely perfect.
I think a more “perfect” implementation would have been if each of the film simulations could have been customized with a Recipe. It’s possible that this could potentially be changed in a future firmware update, but I’m not sure that Fujifilm will. I do believe they are aware of the feedback.
This is where I talk about it:
https://fujixweekly.com/2024/05/16/fujifilm-x-t50-film-dial-settings-14-new-film-simulation-recipes-yes-14/
Omar Gonzalez talks about it here:
https://youtu.be/K7OFUSFg8wg?si=DTnh9JZTXr_6Cf3A
The IBIS feature on the X-T50 makes it very tempting for me. However, I have read pros and cons regarding the ability of an older lens to properly resolve a newer sensor. I like to make prints to hang on my wall, and I certainly cannot afford to replace all my lenses. I noticed that you are using order lenses on your X-T50. I print mostly 8.5×11 and occasionally 11×17. In your opinion would this be a problem with the ew 40mm sensor. Thank you for your help in this matter.
Yeah, the lenses that can’t fully resolve 40mp thing has been severely overblown, unfortunately. That happens a lot on the internet. Yes, some lenses (mostly the older ones) just aren’t quite sharp enough to fully take advantage of the 40mp sensor, but it just means that the details are equivalent to whatever the lens can resolve, as if the sensor was 36mp or 34mp or whatever it is that the lens resolves. You still have a finely detailed, high-resolution image. At 11″x17″ there would be no way to be able to tell the difference. At 2’x3′ you might not notice a difference, but that size or larger is where it would likely begin to become apparent with a side-by-side comparison (and who does that kind of comparison anyway?). So unless you are printing large posters, it’s nothing at all to worry about.
Thank you for your most informative reply. Today there so many so called experts who seem more interested in the technical aspects of their cameras than in photography. Yours is a refreshing and dependable voice. Thank you again so much.
You are welcome 😀