Fujifilm announced the replacement for the X20, today -- the X30. While the camera still features a 12-megapixel 2/3" CMOS X-Trans sensor combined with the EXR Processor II, the X30 almost doubles battery life, continues the X20's quest for snappier performance, features numerous refinements to the controls and body as a whole, and offers full 1080p video recording at 60fps.
Some may dismiss this camera based on its relatively low "12" megapixel-count sensor. However, it's been said before: don't get drafted into the megapixel war. Twelve megapixels allows that slightly smaller 2/3" sensor to open up with a large individual pixel size so it can produce beautiful pictures in low light while keeping the body small and costs low compared to a higher megapixel camera. Additionally, we only ever really use eight megapixels or so. A full-size image on your computer desktop likely doesn't hit more than two!
As to the other features, the X30 promises a quick startup time of 0.5 seconds and virtually no shutter lag. Both phase- and contrast-detect autofocus systems work together to focus in as little as 0.06 seconds. And the electronic viewfinder really is instant with a 0.005-second lag. Along with 1080p video at 60fps, the X30 features the same 12fps full-resolution still image performance. The dual manual controls and other ergonomic refinements let you take advantage of all that speed by allowing quick shutter speed and aperture adjustments.
All your manual focusing and zooming options are also available on the built-in, fast 28-110mm (35mm equivalent) f/2.0-2.8 lens.
Along with more standard features, a host of interesting conveniences some with the X30, including built-in WIFI and geotagging that hitchhikes on your smartphone's GPS data to accurately tag locations in which you shoot. With a die-cast magnesium body and lightweight aluminum lens, the X30 is ready for a variety of adventures.
B&H Photo already has the X30 available for pre-order for $599 in black or silver.
The following line isn't true though: "Twelve megapixels allows that slightly smaller 2/3" sensor to open up with a large individual pixel size"
Unless my understanding of sensor size is wrong, 12MP on a 2/3" sensor (58.1mm area) is the equivalent of 76.4MP on an APS-C sensor. So those pixels are absolutely tiny.
Your math is correct. Using a Canon APS-C sensor size (just for comparison for Canon owners), it's 67.9 MP. Very tiny, indeed.
Of course, that's right. But this is in relation to a lot of other cameras with similar sensor sizes that might try to go 18-24 megapixels. That's just ridiculous -- and it all happens because the "big megapixel" marketing works (unfortunately). People relating standalone cameras' megapixel counts to that of their phones is even more depressing. But in general, it's rather rare to find an enthusiast- or pro-level camera with just 12 megapixels these days. And for this sensor, I'm happy it's not more.
Yeah I agree the megapixel war is annoying, although it has seemed to subside. It was just the "larger" pixels point I was contesting - 12 million is a huge amount of pixels in that size sensor.
This looks really great, as all Fuji X series cameras.
But it will have a tough time competing with the Sony RX100 III, my guess is that the sony will still lead the pocket cameras market!
Looks like a mini-X100S. Fuji continues to innovate and improve, while Nikon and Canon are just doing firmware updates.
I'm actually considering this purchase. I've been wanting a portable travel camera with a hotshoe for impromptu street portraits. Not a bad deal. I'm sure the lens will be plenty sharp.
It's a bit pricey still for wht it is and I think it might come down after photokina (or special rebates), as read on fujirumors...
Interesting compact though!!
I bought an X10 for my wife two years ago and it has performed wonderfully. The metal body is great for travel and the Fuji sensor does a good job with colors, skin tones, and in low light given it's sensor size. The zoom range of the lens makes it as versatile as you ever need with a camera like this - you're not buying it to shoot sports or wildlife after all - and yes, it is quite sharp. It was improved with the X20 iteration and now once again with the X30. I'm sure this version will be as sound an investment as the X10 was.
What are the thoughts on this camera for someone who has never used a Rangefinder style camera before? I currently have a 5D Mark II with a 50mm 1.8, 24-70 2.8 and 70-200 2.8. My interest in this camera is for travel and more casual use, but like I said, I've never used a Rangefinder before.
The Fujis of today are some of the most loved, appreciated, and bought mirrorless cameras of their kind. I largely shoot with SLR-style cameras (Nikon D4/F6/D800/etc), but I wouldn't give this a second thought if it works for your needs, budget, etc.
Someone's going to yell at me for saying this, but the idea that a "rangefinder" feels different is a little silly to me... It just feels like a slimmer, more agile DSLR with just about the same functionality.