New Fujifilm X-E5 rangefinder-style camera explores the joy of photography

Fujifilm South Africa has announced the latest mirrorless camera in their X Series line-up: the rangefinder-style X-E5, debuting four years after the X-E4. The X-E5 brings with it some serious specifications, including the back-illuminated 40.2 megapixel X-Trans CMOS 5 HR sensor and the X-Processor 5 high-speed image processing engine, the same as found inside the flagship Fujifilm X-T5 camera.

Many see the X-E5 as the rangefinder-style kin to the in-demand X100VI, but unlike the X100VI, the X-E5 offers interchangeable lenses. It also includes a number of new features never seen on Fujifilm X Series cameras before, including a top plate crafted solely from machined aluminium.

Fujifilm X-E5: A tactile and precise design 

By combining sharp, flat edges with carefully curved surfaces, the X-E5 offers a distinct premium feel when holding the camera, with tactile handling for one-handed operation.

The top plate is also home to a newly designed Film Simulation dial, which features a precision-cut indicator window. Photographers can choose between different Film Simulations on the fly, each providing a particular look and feel, based on Fujifilm film stock such as Velvia and Acros. Fujifilm fans will also be happy to learn about three positions on the dial which allow for the saving of their own Film Simulation recipes. 

Importantly, the X-E5 is the first in the X-E series to feature a powerful five-axis In-Body Image Stabilisation mechanism, offering up to 7.0 stops in the centre and 6.0 stops at the periphery – highly beneficial in low-light situations. The camera now also includes a 1.4x and 2x digital teleconverter function, creating a range of framing options even when shooting with prime lenses. 

Exploring the joy of photography

In keeping with Fujifilm’s exploration of the joy of photography, photographers will be able to select the retro and minimalist “Classic Display” mode when viewing the electronic viewfinder. Inspired by the viewfinder look of old film cameras, this simplifies the information on the EVF to help photographers concentrate on composition.

Further assisting them to capture the exact moment, the new Surround View function displays the area outside the shooting range as a semi-transparent or a line pattern according to the aspect ratio. This provides a shooting experience that is similar to an optical viewfinder, even though the X-E5 has an electronic one.

And photographers will never miss a shot, since as far as autofocus is concerned, the X-E5 incorporates an impressive autofocus prediction algorithm for reliable focusing. Thanks to the powerful X-Processor 5, subject detection autofocus can accurately track a range of subjects. This includes animals, birds, cars, motorcycles, bicycles, aeroplanes, trains, insects and drones, due to the incorporation of deep-learning AI technology.

Finally, when it comes to videography, the X-E5’s compact and lightweight body supports in-camera recording at an impressive 6.2K/30p 4:2:2 10-bit, as well as high-quality 4K/60p and 1080/240p. 

Fujifilm X-E5 price and availability

Expected in South Africa during July 2025, the Fujifilm X-E5 will sell at an RRP of R29,500 incl. VAT for the body. As a kit, the X-E5 is bundled with the newly announced Fujinon XF23mmF2.8 R WR pancake lens. This lens weighs a mere 90g and is weather-resistant, making it an ideal companion. The Fujifilm X-E5 kit is expected to retail for a recommended R35,000 incl. VAT. On its own, the new XF23mmF2.8 R WR lens is set to sell for R8 800 incl. VAT.