By now many people are familiar with the superb image quality produced by the randomized pixel array of the X-Trans sensor that is found in most of the Fujifilm X-series cameras. The Fujifilm X-T10 Mirrorless Digital Camera houses the same 16.3MP APS-C X-Trans CMOS II sensor as the flagship X-T1 and the X-E2, so imaging is not really an issue. In reality, the specs and features of the X-T10 are strikingly similar to those of the X-T1, and the X-T10 even offers an improved hybrid autofocus system. (The focus system of the XT1 can be updated with an available firmware update.) So, what differentiates these Fuji cameras and why would the X-T10 be for you?
The Fujifilm X-T10 Mirrorless Digital Camera alongside the flagship Fujifilm X-T1
The simple answer is size and cost. The X-T10 is a smaller and lighter camera, not by much, but in this world of minor differences making major hay, it is notable. And of course, it costs a few hundred less. There are also other minor differences, which I will mention below, but in all honesty, if you are a photographer like me, one who bumps and bounces his camera with regularity, I don’t see the advantage of the X-T10 over the X-T1, which is more durable, weather-sealed, and offers a more stable grip.
f/10; 1/250 second; ISO 100
There are other differences. The X-T10 has a pop-up flash, in addition to a hot shoe, while the XT-1 has a PC sync terminal and hot shoe but no pop-up flash. The X-T10 has an easy-to-access SR Auto mode for simplified shooting and its completely silent electronic shutter enables shutter speeds up to 1/32,000 of a second. (This is also available via firmware for the X-T1.) On the X-T1, ISO is controlled by a top-plate dial whereas, on the X-T10, even when assigning it a Function button, you must go into the menu to adjust. In general, the X-T1 is built with advanced users in mind while the X-T10 is aimed more at “consumers,” but as far as image quality and functionality, the differences are minimal. Of course, both cameras utilize the same set of lenses and your lens choice makes a big difference in image quality, focus speed, and the physical size of the system you are carrying. The X-T10 really is a wonderful camera that is easy to operate, takes beautiful images, and offers all the functionality a modern photographer would ever need; the only question is, why would you buy it with the X-T1 only a few hundred dollars away? To answer this question, I would love to hear from our readers, obviously owners of the Fuji X-series, so please speak up in the Comments section, below.
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| ISO 800 | ISO 3200 | ISO 6400 |
Things I liked about the X-T10:
- Sharp and accurate EVF with responsive eye sensor
- Autofocus area accurate and easy to control
- Intuitive and easy-to-navigate menu system
- Low noise at high ISO
- Silent Electronic Shutter
- Shutter speed with bulb and compensation dials easily available on top plate
- Double exposure and panorama modes on the top dial
- Q Button is well-located and runs through settings quickly
- Fujifilm Cam Remote and built-in Wi-Fi easy to use and offer comprehensive control
- Velvia and Filtered Monochrome Film-Simulation Modes
- Rubber thumb grip
- Discreet onboard flash
Not so much:
- Slow to start up when in “sleep” mode; tough to grab quick shots
- Buttons bunched together; accidentally switched off when adjusting shutter speed
- Autofocus struggled a bit in low light
- Small grip and not weather-sealed; unbalanced with even mid-size lenses
- Shutter speed dial does not go all the way around (from Bulb to Auto)
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| Film Simulation: Velvia | Standard | Film Simulation: MONOCHROME + R FILTER |
I was given the X-T10 with the 16-50mm f/3.5-5.6 OIS II, which matches up well with the camera, as it is a lightweight and versatile zoom lens. This system is as easy on your neck as a point-and-shoot but with imaging options that few point-and-shoots can match. This aspect of the camera is wonderful in its way, but my dilemma remains. You have the compact size, which is great for carry and capture, but the long plastic tube of the lens, not to mention physical act of turning the zoom ring, inhibits its prowess as a street shooter and snap taker. Place the camera on a tripod or use it in more controlled settings and your options grow, but what is the advantage of this system compared to a point-and-shoot on the low end or the flagship X-T1 on the high end? The advantage can be found when you put smaller or higher-quality lenses, such as the XF 27mm f/2.8 or the XF 23mm f/1.4R, on the X-T10. It gives you the profile of a compact camera with great functionality. But if you are putting nice Fuji glass on it and starting to build a system, you might as well invest in the X-T1.
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f/8.0; 1/160 second; ISO 200 |
f/6.4; 1/1000 second; ISO 400 |
It’s hard to find any flaws in the X-T10. Perhaps the best way to sum up my feeling is that it’s too good for its own good. Its specs and image quality are top notch, so you can go forward with confidence if you know that you won’t need a weather-sealed, flagship camera. But for the ultimate convenience and lightweight carry, you might be better with a point-and-shoot, such as the X30, and if you choose a compact prime lens to go with the X-T10, you could be better off with the Fujifilm X100T. As mentioned, if you intend to shoot with the best that Fuji has to offer, spring for the X-T1, and if you want a very lightweight mirrorless with the most up-to-date features, then the X-T10 is for you.
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