Fujifilm X-A5 Review

March 16, 2018 | Tim Coleman | Rating star Rating star Rating star Half rating star

Introduction

The new Fujifilm X-A5 replaces the 18-month-old Fujifilm X-A3, which used to be Fuji's entry-level X-Series camera until the X-A10 was launched. For consistency, we’ll maintain the X-A5 as an entry-level camera. 

So what is new 18-months on? Not as much as we would hope. The sensor is a refined version of the 24.2MP APS-C sensor of the X-A3, with an updated image processor. It’s not the same as the X-Trans sensor used in Fujifilm’s high-end X-Series cameras. 

An updated sensor means an extra stop in the native ISO range, which now reaches to ISO 12,800 and can be extended up to ISO 51,200. So while not breaking new ground, there should be minor improvements in image quality, backed up by 1.5x quicker processing speeds.

On paper, perhaps the most significant improvement is the new autofocus system. The X-A5 features hybrid AF, meaning you have both contrast and phase detection AF points in play. It’s a 91-point-array that is simpler than those found in high-end X-Series cameras, yet more comprehensive than in the X-A3. 

One should expect a much better focusing experience shooting with the X-A5 than the X-A3 and we’ll comment on our experience later in the review.

4K video recording is now included in the X-A5. We should say though that the maximum frame rate is 15fps and the less said about that the better. Also, the maximum record time is around 5 minutes. That’s less of an issue for us than the severely limited frame rate, because we don’t often shoot single clips longer than 5 minutes. 

However, the improved 4K video resolution opens up two new shooting modes; 4K Burst Shooting and Multi Focus Mode. The new 4K Burst Shooting mode is essentially a regular 15fps 4K video, but in this mode the user can extract an 8.3MP still image from any one of those frames.

The X-A5 is the latest camera to benefit from Wi-Fi and Bluetooth wireless connections. The latter consumes much less power. While on power, the battery life has been upped from 410 frames in the X-A3 to 450 frames. For an entry-level mirrorless camera, that performance is very good and from what we can tell is the highest from an X-Series camera. 

That’s the main ins and outs of the Fujifilm X-A5. It is available now in black, brown or pink for £549 / $599 with the new XC 15-45mm f/3.5-5.6 OIS PZ lens.

Ease of Use

Fujifilm X-A5
Front of the Fujifilm X-A5

A first look at the Fujifilm X-A5 and we are hooked. It’s a lovely looking camera - we really do not expect anything less from Fuji. 

A silver top plate slopes down to hold chunky dials that sit flush in the camera’s profile. The faux-leather finish in black, brown or pink looks great, while the sweeping curve of the hand grip not only looks the part but offers a firm hold. 

With the new XC 15-45mm f/3.5-5.6 kit lens attached (the smallest X-Series zoom lens available) or a compact prime lens like the XF 35mm f/2 R WR, you have a camera that sits perfectly in the hand.

Start to feel your way around the camera and things begin to unravel a little. Of course the X-A5 is plastic - it is an entry-level camera after all - but in places it feels plasticky. There is a difference. 

Fujifilm X-A5
Front of the Fujifilm X-A5

Tap the camera’s silver plating plus it’s battery compartment and it feels hollow. Push in the shutter release and the buttons on the camera’s rear and they all feel 'clicky'. We’ve used other entry-level cameras made from plastic that at least feel a little more durable, with buttons that are nicely dampened. Not so here. 

That said, other controls handle well. The chunky dials are solid and offer perfect resistance. The HDMI port on the side is really smart. You also get a mic port which is less common on entry-level cameras, though it is a 2.5mm mini jack not the industry standard size.

Then there is the operational speed. Some of the Fujifilm X-Series cameras operate at lightning speed - think of the Fujifilm X100F for example. The X-A5 is sluggish in comparison.

Start up speed is fine - it’s 0.4 seconds when the high performance mode is ON. However, select an option in the menu and the camera takes its time to confirm selection. Frankly, it does not respond like a camera of 2018. The general operational speed is for us our least favourite aspect of the X-A5. 

Fujifilm X-A5
Rear of the Fujifilm X-A5

Still, at least there is this new 91-point hybrid AF system. Fuji claims it is twice the speed of the contrast detection AF system of the X-A3. 

Now, we haven’t had the X-A5 and X-A3 together to make a direct comparison, but our expectations in this latest model were not really met. It doesn’t feel like the X-A5 features phase detection AF.

General AF speed in the Wide/ Tracking AF Mode still seems sluggish and at times unreliable. We had the Olympus PEN E-PL9 at the same time, which focuses quicker. 

That said, we found the most joy using the Zone AF Mode. The small wheel by the thumb grip switches between the zone covering 9, 25 or 49 of the 91 AF points, while the control pad shifts the zone. It’s the right mix of precision and flexibility. 

Together the wheel and control pad operate really well for Zone AF Mode. There is also the full array of face/ eye/ right eye/ left eye priority detection settings available in this mode. 

Fujifilm X-A5
Tilting LCD Screen

Images are composed and viewed using the 3in touchscreen. It tilts up 180° to above the camera for selfies and the like, with a little slide to increase its final clearance above the top plate of the camera. Tilt down is limited by the design, so the X-A5 is less useful for above head shots. 

Overall, the touchscreen handles fine. You get touch shutter, touch AF, pinch to zoom for live view magnification and image playback. 

There is also quick access to a couple of user controls on the touchscreen. Whereas the Fujifilm X-A3 features a switch on its front for Focus Mode, the same control is omitted in the X-A5 and instead presented on the touchscreen. In use, the touchscreen is a quicker method. 

We loaded the Fujifilm Camera Remote App to establish a wireless connection. It was not possible to get a wireless communication running at all with iPhone, it just didn’t work. We moved on to an Android phone and the connection seemed to work quite well. Your experience may vary.

Fujifilm X-A5
Top of the Fujifilm X-A5

The app has a solid set of features. With the Android phone we’ve wirelessly shared images and taken pictures and the response is good.

Elsewhere, the Fujifilm X-A5 has a rather solid feature set that will please photographers of all skill levels. 

There are plenty of manual exposure control quick to hand, plus beginner-friendly picture effects. Also, there are a stack of bracketing modes to choose from in the drive mode menu that are likely to please photography enthusiasts. Each bracketing mode takes three consecutive pictures at different values. These include auto exposure, film simulation, dynamic range, ISO sensitivity and White Balance. 

Really, a part of our experience handling the X-A5 was one of learning to live with some of its limitations. In some areas the X-A5 handles fine, in others such as its overall speed, it frustrates, so there is room for realistic improvement.

Image Quality

All of the sample images in this review were taken using the 24 megapixel Fine JPEG setting, which gives an average image size of around 8Mb.

If the camera’s ease of use has been a bit of a disappointment in some areas, it’s all worth it for the quality of images that the Fujifilm X-A5 is able to produce. Goodness the X-A5 can make great pictures. 

It is not the same APS-C X-Trans sensor as Fujifilm’s high end X-Series cameras, but the 24.2MP images are still lovely. 

We had the new XC 15-45mm f/3.5-5.6 OIS PZ lens for this test, plus the XF 35mm f/2 R WR lens. 

All 24.2MP images included in this review are taken in the full 3:2 aspect ratio. RAW files are a whopping 40MB approximately and JPEG files around 10MB.

Most of our pictures are taken in RAW and JPEG format, with the Provia Standard default colour setting, multi segment metering (which Fujifilm calls Photometry), auto white balance (AWB) and Dynamic Range set to its minimum of 100%. Any in-camera noise reduction has been switched off. 

We’ll start by saying how well the X-A5 is able to tackle a variety of scenarios and produce what appear well exposed pictures, with pleasing colour reproduction.

If you look at identical RAW and JPEG images straight out of the camera, we can see how well JPEGs are processed. There appears to be little change in colour rendition between the two; the hues of grass, blue skies, skin tones and cool shade are all consistent. 

Perhaps the most obvious difference in RAW and JPEGs is the handling of warm tones and increase in contrast for punchier end results. The X-A5 appears to enhance warms tones. For example, portraits we took at sunset show muted warm tones in RAWs, that are vibrant in JPEGs. It’s exactly to our taste. 

We’ve rarely needed to make colour corrections and all the sample images included with this review are unedited originals. 

On the whole, multi-segment metering produces well exposed images. If the scenario presents strong highlights and dark shadows - thinking a bright sunny day - then the camera is more likely to lose highlight detail than shadows.

That said, we had the camera set to its minimum 100% dynamic range. The X-A5 does offer 200%, 400% plus an auto setting. We’d recommend whacking the camera in auto to ensure the capture of the widest range of tones across a range of scenarios. 

Images can be stabilised optically, so the effectiveness of stabilisation depends on the lens. There is also electronic stabilisation for video. With the 15-45mm lens attached we have been able to consistently shoot sharp images handheld with shutter speeds as slow as 1/4sec.  

If there is one aspect of the camera to let image quality down, it is the speed and reliability of auto focus. 

The X-A5 may well produce well exposed images with pleasing colour rendition, but there are times that the accuracy and response of AF lets the side down. 

As for the clarity and detail in images, well the X-A5 excels. Even with the low cost kit lens, the X-A5 is able to tackle complex and fine detail and produce realistic and sharp-looking images. Blades of grass, tiny tree branches, hair, all wonderfully crisp. 

When viewed at 100%, you’ll see from the sample images in our standard noise test that ISO 200 and ISO 400 are completely clean, with no perceivable noise whatsoever. 

Noise like fine grain appears in shadow areas at ISO 800 but highlights are appear completely clean. Detail is still very crisp. ISO 1600 has fine noise in highlight and shadow areas, while again detail is really crisp. 

It’s at ISO 3200 that noise starts to affect the clarity of detail in shadow areas, while highlights still look quite clean. We would have no hesitation to make 100% prints (51x34cm approx at 300 PPI) all the way up to this ISO setting.  

After ISO 3200 there is a steady increase in noise, with ISO 25,600 and ISO 51,200 available in JPEG format only. Even at these settings, chroma noise is very well controlled, though of course ISO 51,200 exhibits luminance noise and therefore smudgy detail.

All in all, the high quality pictures that the X-A5 can produce makes you want to use it time and again. 

Noise

The Fujifilm X-A5 has has seven native ISO settings ranging from ISO 200 to ISO 12,800, for JPEG and RAW files. The ISO range can be extended down to ISO 100 and up to ISO 51,200 in JPEG format only. Here are some 100% crops which show the noise levels for each ISO setting for both JPEG and RAW files.

JPEG RAW

ISO 100 (100% Crop)

 
iso100.jpg  
   

ISO 200 (100% Crop)

ISO 200 (100% Crop)

iso200.jpg iso200raw.jpg
   

ISO 400 (100% Crop)

ISO 400 (100% Crop)

iso400.jpg iso400raw.jpg
   

ISO 800 (100% Crop)

ISO 800 (100% Crop)

iso800.jpg iso800raw.jpg
   

ISO 1600 (100% Crop)

ISO 1600 (100% Crop)

iso1600.jpg iso1600raw.jpg
   

ISO 3200 (100% Crop)

ISO 3200 (100% Crop)

iso3200.jpg iso3200raw.jpg
   

ISO 6400 (100% Crop)

ISO 6400 (100% Crop)

iso6400.jpg iso6400raw.jpg
   

ISO 12800 (100% Crop)

ISO 12800 (100% Crop)

iso12800.jpg iso12800raw.jpg
   

ISO 25600 (100% Crop)

 
iso25600.jpg  
   

ISO 51200 (100% Crop)

 
iso51200.jpg  

Flash

Flash settings on the Fujifilm X-A5 are Auto, Forced Flash, Slow Synchro, 2nd Curtain Sync, Commander and Suppressed Flash (off). Red-eye removal can be applied to flash, plus a manually selected Flash Compensation up to ±2EV selected in values of 1/3EV. The sample pictures of flowers were taken at the same distance of approximately 1m.

A side note, the pop-up flash actually has a taller-than-normal clearance from the camera body, which may reduce any shadows cast by longer lenses or other obstacles. 

Flash Off

flash-off.jpg
 

Forced Flash

flash-forced.jpg
 

Flash Manual Compensation

flash-compensation-manual.jpg
 

Flash 2nd Curtain Sync

flash-2nd-curtain-sync.jpg
 

Flash SLow Synchro

flash-slow-syncro.jpg

Night

Using either mechanical or electronic shutter, the maximum shutter speed of the Fujifilm X-A5 is 30 seconds in manual exposure mode or up to four seconds in P Mode. There is also a Bulb mode which allows exposures up to 60 minutes long (points if you can find it, however). 

The exposure settings of the picture below are 4 seconds shutter speed, aperture of f/5.6 and ISO 200.

Night

night.jpg

Film Simulations

Most cameras include a choice of colour styles, but Fujifilm names these colour styles Film Simulation because they are designed to emulate the company’s film stock. In the X-A5, there are 11 different film simulation choices, including Provia, Velvia, Astia and a range of monochrome with filters.  

The camera offers a Film Simulation bracket mode in JPEG format only, where up to three different styles are captured with a single push of the shutter.

Provia / Standard

Velvia / Vivid

2-film-simulation-provia-standard.jpg 2-film-simulation-astia-velvia-vivid.jpg
   

Astia / Soft

B&W

2-film-simulation-astia-soft.jpg 2-film-simulation-monochrome.jpg
   

Sepia

Pro Neg

2-film-simulation-sepia.jpg 2-film-simulation-pro-neg-high.jpg
   

Classic Chrome

 
2-film-simulation-classic-chrome.jpg  

Advanced Filters

On the shooting mode dial is an option called Advanced Filter that offers 17 different filter effects (including six different ‘Partial Color’ effects). These effects can be selected quickly via the touchscreen and you’ll see the effect on the screen in real time.

Toy Camera

Miniature

2-advanced-filter-toy-camera.jpg 2-advanced-filter-miniature.jpg
   

Pop Color

High-Key

2-advanced-filter-pop-color.jpg 2-advanced-filter-hig-key.jpg
   

Low-Key

Dynamic Tone

2-advanced-filter.jpg 2-advanced-filter-dynamic-tone.jpg
   

Soft Focus

Partial Color (Red)

2-advanced-filter-soft-focus.jpg 2-advanced-filter-partial-color-red.jpg
   

Partial Color (Orange)

Partial Color (Yellow)

2-advanced-filter-partial-color-orange.jpg 2-advanced-filter-partial-color-yellow.jpg
   

Partial Color (Green)

Partial Color (Blue)

2-advanced-filter-partial-color-green.jpg 2-advanced-filter-partial-color-blue.jpg
   

Partial Color (Purple)

Cross Screen

2-advanced-filter-partial-color-purple.jpg 2-advanced-filter-cross-screen.jpg
   

Fisheye

Remove Fog

2-advanced-filter-fisheye.jpg 2-advanced-filter-fog-remove.jpg
   

HDR Art

 
2-advanced-filter-HDR-art.jpg  

Panorama

The Fujifilm X-A5 can record a 6400x1440 pixel panorama by sweeping the camera from side to side.

panorama.jpg

Sample Images

This is a selection of sample images from the Fujifilm X-A5 camera, which were all taken using the 24 megapixel Fine JPEG setting. The thumbnails below link to the full-sized versions, which have not been altered in any way.

Sample RAW Images

The Fujifilm X-A5 enables users to capture RAW and JPEG format files. We've provided some Fujifilm RAW (RAF) samples for you to download (thumbnail images shown below are not 100% representative).

Sample Movies & Video

This is a sample movie at the highest quality setting of 3840x2160 pixels at 15 frames per second. Please note that this 25 second movie is 302Mb in size.

This is a sample movie at the highest quality setting of 3840x2160 pixels at 15 frames per second. Please note that this 25 second movie is 204Mb in size.

Product Images

Fujifilm X-A5
 
Fujifilm X-A5
 
Fujifilm X-A5
 
Fujifilm X-A5
 
Fujifilm X-A5
 
Fujifilm X-A5
 
Fujifilm X-A5
 
Fujifilm X-A5
 
Fujifilm X-A5

 

Fujifilm X-A5
 
Fujifilm X-A5
 
Fujifilm X-A5
 
Fujifilm X-A5
 
Fujifilm X-A5
 
Fujifilm X-A5
 
Fujifilm X-A5
 
Fujifilm X-A5
 
Fujifilm X-A5
 
Fujifilm X-A5
 
Fujifilm X-A5
 
Fujifilm X-A5

Conclusion

Image quality is a key strength of the Fujifilm X-A5. Those 24.2MP images look great, with accurate exposure and pleasing colour rendition straight out of camera. 

Fine and intricate detail can be produced with wonderful clarity, even when shooting with the new low-cost, lightweight and small 15-45mm f/3.5-5.6 kit lens. 

There is a big but though. If your subjects are fast moving or you need a quick response, the X-A5 is likely to disappoint. The X-A5 is not quite up to pace in more frenetic situations or in low contrast light. We have missed a number of key moments because of sluggish AF. 

Also, the general operational speed of the camera seems unusually slow when you compare it to cameras of a similar price bracket. Select a mode through the in-camera menu and the selection confirmation needs jollying along. 

Some new features seem great at a first glance, but in reality are less useful. 4K video at 15fps, really? Perhaps the best that comes from this is the 4K Burst Shooting, if only to boost the maximum 6fps burst mode to 15fps. 

Overall, we have mixed feelings about the Fujifilm X-A5. It looks the part, sits in the hand nicely and takes wonderful pictures. Yet, the overall handling of the camera is mixed. The faux-leather feels great, the silver plating less so. Some controls feel solid, others flimsy. Start up is quick, AF can be slow. 

After reflecting on our time with the camera, we feel that the motivation was always there to push through any limitations because the images it produces are top drawer. 

Bottom line, not too much has changed in 18-months. We don’t think the Fujifilm X-A5 does enough over the X-A3 to warrant the extra outlay. 

3.5 stars

Ratings (out of 5)
Design 4
Features 4
Ease-of-use 3
Image quality 4
Value for money 4

Main Rivals

Listed below are some of the rivals of the Fujifilm X-A5.

Canon EOS M100

The Canon EOS M100 is a new compact system camera aimed at beginners. The M100 offers 24.2 megapixel resolution, Bluetooth connectivity, full HD 1080p high-definition video, a 180-degree tilting LCD and a touch-screen interface. Read our expert Canon EOS M100 review now...

Fujifilm X-E3

The Fujifilm X-E3 is a stylish rangefinder-esque digital camera that comes across like a mini X-Pro2 with a wealth of smartphone touch and connectivity options. Read our Fujifilm XE3 review to find out if this mix of retro and modern is a successful one or not...

Olympus PEN E-PL9

The Olympus PEN E-PL9 is a stylish new entry-level mirrorless camera aimed at smartphone owners looking to buy an interchangeable lens camera for the first time. The E-PL9 also has a lot to offer more experienced photographers, though, as we find out in our in-depth Olympus PEN E-PL9 review...

Panasonic Lumix DC-GX800

The Panasonic Lumix DC-GX800 is a new entry-level compact system camera that can record 4K video. The DC-GX800 has a range of selfie modes, a 180-degree tilting LCD screen, built-in wireless and NFC connectivity, a 16 megapixel sensor, 4K movies at 30fps, and a touchscreen interface. Read our Panasonic Lumix DC-GX800 review, complete with full-size JPEG and RAW sample images...

Sony A6300

The Sony A6300 is a new high-end compact system camera that features the fastest auto-focusing system in the world and the highest number of AF points. With a 24.2 megapixel APS-C CMOS sensor, 4K movie recording, high-res 3-inch tilting LCD screen, electronic viewfinder and built-in flash, the Sony NEX-6 also offers 11fps burst shooting, wi-fi and NFC connectivity, and downloadable PlayMemories Camera Apps. Read our in-depth Sony A6300 review to find out if it's the best Sony APS-C camera yet...

Specifications

Number of effective pixels 24.2 million pixels
Image sensor 23.5mm x 15.7mm (APS-C) CMOS with primary color filter
Sensor Cleaning system
Ultra Sonic Vibration
Storage media SD Card (-2GB) / SDHC Card (-32GB) / SDXC Card (-256GB) UHS-I*1
File format
Still image
JPEG (Exif Ver 2.3)*2 / RAW (RAF format) / RAW+JPEG (Design rule for Camera File system compliant / DPOF-compatible)
Movie
Movie File Format: MOV
Movie Video Compression: H.264
Audio: Linear PCM Stereo
Number of recorded pixels L: (3:2) 6000x4000 / (16:9) 6000x3376 / (1:1) 4000×4000
M: (3:2) 4240x2832 / (16:9) 4240x2384 / (1:1) 2832×2832
S: (3:2) 3008x2000 / (16:9) 3008x1688 / (1:1) 2000×2000
<Motion Panorama>
180°: Vertical: 2160 x 9600 / Horizontal: 9600 x 1440
120°: Vertical: 2160 x 6400 / Horizontal: 6400 x 1440
Lens mount FUJIFILM X mount
Sensitivity Standard Output Sensitivity : AUTO1 / AUTO2 / AUTO3(up to ISO6400) / ISO200 to 12800(1/3 step)
Extended output sensitivity : ISO100 / 25600 / 51200
Exposure control TTL 256-zone metering, Multi / Spot / Average
Exposure mode P(Program AE) / A(Aperture Priority AE) / S(Shutter Speed Priority AE) / M(Manual Exposure)
Exposure compensation -5.0EV - +5.0EV, 1/3EV step
(movie recording : -2.0EV - +2.0EV)
Image Stabilizer Supported with OIS type lens
Face detection Yes
Eye detection Yes
Shutter type Focal Plane Shutter
Shutter speed
(with mechanical shutter)
Mechanical Shutter
4 sec. to 1/4000 sec.(P mode), 30 sec. to 1/4000 sec.(Other modes)
Bulb mode(up to 60 min), TIME : 30 sec. to 1/4000 sec.
Electronic Shutter*3
4 sec. to 1/32000 sec.(P mode), 30 sec. to 1/32000 sec.(Other modes)
Bulb mode : 1 sec. fixed, TIME : 30 sec to 1/32000sec.
Mechanical + Electronic Shutter
4 sec. to 1/32000 sec.(P mode), 30 sec. to 1/32000 sec.(Other modes)
Bulb mode(up to 60 min), TIME : 30 sec. to 1/32000 sec.
Synchronized shutter speed for flash
1/180 sec. or slower
Continuous shooting Approx. 6.0 fps (JPEG : max. approx. 10 frames)
Approx. 3.0 fps (JPEG : max. approx. 50 frames)


  • * Recordable frame number may vary depending on the type of memory card used.
  • * The frame rate varies with shooting condition and the number of images recorded.
Auto bracketing AE Bracketing (2/3/5/7 frames) ±1/3EV-±3EV, 1/3EV step
Film Simulation Bracketing (Any 3 types of film simulation selectable)
Dynamic Range Bracketing (100% · 200% · 400%)
ISO sensitivity Bracketing (±1/3EV, ±2/3EV, ±1EV)
White Balance Bracketing (±1, ±2, ±3)
Focus
Mode
Single AF / Continuous AF / MF / AF+MF
Type
Intelligent Hybrid AF: TTL contrast AF / TTL phase detection AF, AF assist illuminator available
AF frame selection
Single point AF: 7x13 (Changeable size of AF frame among 5 types),
Zone AF: 3x3 / 5x5 / 7x7 from 91 areas on 7x13 grid,
Wide/Tracking AF: (up to 18 area)
  • * AF-S : Wide
  • * AF-C : Tracking
White balance Automatic Scene recognition / Custom1-3 / Color temperature selection (2500K-10000K) / Preset: Fine,Shade, Fluorescent light (Daylight), Fluorescent light (Warm White), Fluorescent light (Cool White),Incandescent light, Underwater
Self-timer 2sec. / 10sec. / Smile / Buddy (LV.1 - LV.3) / Group (1-4 subjects) / Face Auto Shutter
Flash Manual pop-up flash (Super Intelligent Flash)
Guide number : Approx 4 (ISO100・m) / Approx 5.7 (ISO200・m)
Flash modes
Red-eye removal OFF
Auto/Forced Flash/Suppressed Flash/Slow Synchro/Rear-curtain Synchro/Commander
Red-eye removal ON
Red-eye Reduction Auto/Red-eye Reduction & Forced Flash/Suppressed Flash/ Red-eye Reduction & Slow Synchro/Red-eye Reduction & Rear-curtain Synchro/Commander
  • * Red-eye removal is active when Face Detection is set to ON.
Hot shoe Yes ( dedicated TTL Flash compatible)
LCD monitor 3.0-inch, aspect ratio 3:2, approx. 1,040K-dot Tilt-type, TFT color LCD monitor
Movie recording 4K 3840 x 2160 15P, Continuous recording : up to approx. 5 min.
Full HD 1920 x 1080 59.94p / 50p / 24p / 23.98p, Continuous recording : up to approx. 14 min.
HD 1280 x 720 59.94p / 50p / 24p / 23.98p, Continuous recording : up to approx. 27 min.
High Speed Movie 1280x720 1.6x / 2x / 3.3x / 4x
  • * For 4K movie recording, use a card with UHS Speed Class 3 or higher
Mode dial Advanced SR AUTO / P / S / A / M / Night / Sports / Landscape / Portrait Enhancer / SP(Scene Position) / Adv. / Panorama
Film Simulation mode 11 type (PROVIA/STANDARD, Velvia/VIVID, ASTIA/SOFT, CLASSIC CHROME, PRO Neg Hi, PRO Neg. Std, MONOCHROME, MONOCHROME+Ye FILTER, MONOCHROME+R FILTER, MONOCHROME+G FILTER, SEPIA)
Dynamic range setting AUTO, 100%, 200%, 400%
ISO restriction (DR100%: No limit, DR200%: ISO400 or more, DR400%: ISO800 or more)
Advanced filter Toy camera, Miniature, Pop color, High-key, Low-key, Dynamic tone, Fish-eye, Soft focus, Cross screen, Partial color (Red / Orange / Yellow / Green / Blue / Purple), Fog remove, HDR Art
Touch screen
Shooting Mode
Shooting, AF, Focus area, Focus mode, Digital zoom, Film simulation select, Adv. Filter select, Protrait enhancement level, touch AF in movie
Display Mode
Swipe, Zoom, Pinch-in / Pinch-Out, Double-tap, Drag
Other photography functions 4K Burst, 4K Multi Focus, Electronic level, Advanced SR AUTO, Eye detection AF, Face Detection, Interval timer shooting, Auto Red-eye Removal, Select custom setting, Motion panorama, Color space, Setting (Color, Sharpness, D-range, Gradation), Film Simulation, Advanced Filter, Framing guideline, Frame No. memory, Histogram display, Preview depth of focus, Pre-AF, Focus check, Focus Peak Highlight, Multiple exposure, Release priority / Focus priority selection, Fn button setting, ISO AUTO control, Interlock spot AE & Focus area, Edit/Save quick menu, Preview exp./WB in manual mode, Shutter Type, Touch screen setting
Playback functions RAW conversion, Image rotate, Auto image rotate, Face Detection, Red-eye reduction, Photobook assist, Erase selected frames, Multi-frame playback (with micro thumbnail), Slide show, Protect, Crop, Resize, Panorama, Favorites
Wireless transmitter
Standard
IEEE 802.11b / g / n (standard wireless protocol)
Access mode
Infrastructure
Encryption
WEP / WPA / WPA 2 mixed mode
Bluetooth®
Standards
Bluetooth Ver. 4.1 (Bluetooth low energy)
Operating frequency
[Center frequency]
2402 - 2480MHz
Wireless functions Geotagging setup, Image transfer (Individual image/Selected multiple images), View & Obtain Images, PC Autosave, instax Printer Print, Pairing registration, Delete pairing registration, Bluetooth ON/OFF setting, Auto image transfer
Playback functions RAW conversion, Image rotate, Auto image rotate, Face Detection, Red-eye reduction, Photobook assist, Erase selected frames, Multi-frame playback (with micro thumbnail), Slide show, Protect, Crop, Resize, Panorama, Favorites
Other functions PictBridge, Exif Print, 35 Languages, Date/Time, Time difference, Sound & Flash OFF, Quick start Mode, High Performance, Preview exp. in Manual mode, LCD Brightness, LCD Color, Preview Pic. Effect, DISP. Custom Setting
Terminal
Video output
-
Digital interface
USB 2.0 High-Speed / micro USB terminal
HDMI output
HDMI Micro connector (Type D)
Microphone/remote release connector
⌀2.5 mm 3-pole mini jack
Power supply NP-W126S Li-ion battery (included)
Dimensions 116.9(W) mm x 67.7 (H) mm x 40.4(D) mm / 4.6 in.(W) x 2.7 in. (H) x 1.6 in. (D)
(Minimum depth: 31.6 mm/ 1.2 in.)
Weight Approx. 361g / 12.7 oz. (including battery and memory card)
Approx. 311g / 11.0 oz. (excluding accessories, battery and memory card)
Operating Temperature 0 - 40°C / 32 - 104°F
Operating Humidity 10 - 80% (no condensation)
Battery life for still images*4 Approx 450 frames (with XF35mmF1.4 R lens)
Starting up period Approx. 0.4 sec., when High Performance mode set to ON
Approx. 0.8 sec., when High Performance mode set to OFF
  • * Fujifilm research
Accessories included Li-ion battery NP-W126S
AC power adapter
Plug Adapter
USB cable
Shoulder strap
Body cap
Owner's manual

News

The new Fujifilm X-A5 is the smallest and lightest mirrorless digital camera within the X Series range. Combining a new 24.2 megapixel CMOS sensor with the X Series signature colour reproduction technology, the X-A5 offers a host of new features, including a newly developed zoom lens, 4K movie recording, touch screen and the latest Bluetooth pairing technology for immediate image transfer.

The Fujifilm X-A5 will be available as a kit with the FUJINON XC 15-45mm F3.5-5.6 OIS PZ lens from February 2018, available in Brown, Pink and Black priced at £549.

Fujifilm UK Press Release

Create with confidence: introducing the new stylish FUJIFILM X-A5, the smallest and lightest mirrorless digital camera within the X Series range*1

Combining a new 24.2 megapixel sensor with the X Series signature colour reproduction technology, the X-A5 offers a host of new features, including a newly developed zoom lens, 4K movie recording, touch screen and the latest Bluetooth®*2 pairing technology for immediate image transfer.

FUJIFILM Corporation (President: Kenji Sukeno) is delighted to announce that it will launch the FUJIFILM X-A5.  Sporting a retro and stylish design, it offers a host of features including a 180 degree tilting rear LCD screen, the latest built-in Bluetooth® technology for easy and quick image transfer, to mobile phones, tablets and the latest INSTAX SHARE SP-3 square format printer, as well as an extended battery life, with up to 450 frames possible per charge.  In addition, when combined with the new collapsible FUJINON XC15-45mmF3.5-5.6 OIS PZ, the X-A5 weighs just 496g*3, making it the lightest camera-zoom kit lens combination in the X Series.  It boasts a powerful 24.2MP APS-C sensor equipped with a phase detection autofocus system, and a newly developed image processing engine that offers a processing speed 1.5 times faster than previous models. Combined with Fujifilm’s renowned outstanding image quality with the company’s proprietary colour reproduction technology, the X-A5 is compact, stylish and portable making it the ideal companion for everyday photography. 

(1) Combining a newly-developed sensor and color reproduction technology that has been refined over 80 years to deliver premium quality portraiture

The X-A5 combines a newly developed 24.2 megapixel APS-C sensor with the image processing engine to achieve Fujifilm’s renowned photo quality. Combined with the supplied FUJINON lens, the camera boasts ultimate image resolution, recording the subject’s texture, form and even the atmosphere of the scene.  The camera outperforms previous models in its scene recognition accuracy in SR+ AUTO mode, color reproduction performance and “skin tone reproduction” capability, which is particularly popular. This makes the X-A5 the perfect choice for photographing human subjects, which account for approximately 50% of all subject matter*4. The regular range of ISO sensitivity has also been extended to ISO12800. Camera shake and noise are reduced in low light conditions and when shooting a fast-moving subject for enhanced image quality. The X-A5 is the first X-A Series model to feature phase detection pixels, originally developed for the X series’ high end models. The Intelligent Hybrid AF system focuses twice as fast as previous models, ensuring that you capture those photographic moments more swiftly and beautifully.

(2) Newly-developed compact and lightweight wide-angle zoom lens and new user interface for ease of operation

The X-A5 debuts the new FUJINON XC15-45mmF3.5-5.6 OIS PZ, the first electric-powered zoom lens for the X Mount.  This lightweight and compact zoom makes the photographic experience easier and more comfortable than ever before.  The lens has the minimum working distance of just 5cm*5, ideal for clear close-up shots, such as food photography.  The smooth electric-powered zooming mechanism that starts from the wide-angle 23mm end (35mm film format equivalent) gives greater freedom in composition framing for both still images and video.

The X-A5 is equipped with a large rear LCD monitor that can rotate 180 degrees. When the panel is rotated 180 degrees, the Rear Command Dial automatically switches to the Zoom and Shutter Release function for fail-safe composition when shooting “selfies (self-portraits).” The 180-degree rotation of the rear LCD monitor also activates the Eye AF function automatically to create high quality self-portraits with sharp focus on the subject’s eyes. The Portrait Enhancer Mode, offers its popular ability to produce beautiful skin tone, and has also evolved with the new user interface. Users can select from three levels of skin tone enhancement with touch-screen operation for easy, natural and flattering self-portraits.

(3) Artistic expression made easy, with Film Simulation Modes and New Bluetooth® technology for quick and easy image transfer

The X-A5 offers 11 variations of Fujifilm’s unique Film Simulation Modes, making adding an advanced artistic flair easy with the reproduction of film-like color tones. The camera also features 17 variations of Advanced Filters including the new “Fog Remove” and “HDR Art.”

The rear LCD monitor uses the new touch-panel GUI, facilitating intuitive touch-panel operation using fingertips so that you can check the effect of Advanced Filters and Film Simulations for added usability.

The Exposure Compensation Dial now has the range expanded from ±3EV to ±5EV to boost freedom in photographic expressions.

The Bluetooth® Low Energy technology has been incorporated for quick, easy and automatic transfer of still images and videos to paired smartphones and tablet devices, using the free smart-device app “FUJIFILM Camera Remote”.  The camera is also compatible with FUJIFILM Instax SP-3 printer, so users can enjoy the fun of printing and sharing their images more than ever before.

(4) Broader range of videography with 4K video capabilities

The X-A5 offers a High-Speed HD Video function, allowing users to record HD video up to quad speed for slow motion clips.  The Multi Focus Mode automatically stacks 4K quality images, whilst cleverly changing the depth of field setting required.  Also provided is the 4K Burst function of shooting 15 frames per second in 4K image quality. These new 4K video capabilities and accompanying functions enable artistic expressions of greater creativity.

(5) Class-leading*6 battery life

The use of energy-saving design means the X-A5 now offers the class-leading number of frames per charge. Users can shoot as many as 450 frames per single battery charge, making the camera ideal for travelling and photography on the move. 

(6) The perfect partner to the INSTAX Share SP-3 Printer

Thanks to the X-A5’s latest WiFi®*7 technology, the camera is the ideal companion to the instax SHARE SP-3 photo printer, the first square format printer to join the iconic INSTAX range. Over recent years, the desire for nostalgia has risen, as young people move to take their memories offline and into a physical format to last a lifetime. The new X-A5 and the SHARE SP-3 are the perfect partnership to do so, as users can select their favourite moments from the camera and turn them into something immediately tangible.

*1 As a zoom lens kit in Fujifilm X series mirrorless range

*2 The Bluetooth® word mark and logos are registered trademarks owned by the Bluetooth SIG, Inc. and any use of such marks by FUJIFILM Corporation is under license.

*3 As of January 2018, when fitted with the FUJINON XC15-45mmF3.5-5.6 OIS PZ kit lens and including the weight of memory card and supplied battery

*4 According to FUJIFILM research

*5 Distance from the front lens element to the subject when shooting at the wide-angle end of the zoom}

*6 According to FUJIFILM research, comparing within entry mirrorless cameras

*7 Wi-Fi® is a registered trademark of Wi-Fi Alliance®.

 

 

Model Name

FUJIFILM X-A5

Number of effective pixels

24.2 million pixels

Image sensor

23.5mm×15.7mm(APS-C)CMOS with  primary color filter

Sensor Cleaning system

Ultra Sonic Vibration

Storage media

SD Card (-2GB) / SDHC Card (-32GB) / SDXC Card (-256GB) UHS-I*1

File format  (still image)

JPEG (Exif Ver 2.3*2) RAW (RAF format)/RAW+JPEG (Design rule for Camera File system compliant, DPOF-compatible)

                      (movie)

Movie File Format : MOV Movie Video Compression : H.264 Audio : Linear PCM  Stereo

Number of recorded pixels

L: (3:2) 6000x4000 / (16:9) 6000x3376 / (1:1) 4000×4000    M: (3:2) 4240x2832 / (16:9) 4240x2384 / (1:1) 2832×2832 S: (3:2) 3008x2000 / (16:9) 3008x1688 / (1:1) 2000×2000

Lens mount

FUJIFILM X mount

Sensitivity    

Standard Output Sensitivity : AUTO1 / AUTO2 / AUTO3(up to ISO6400) / ISO200 to 12800(1/3 step) Extended output sensitivity : ISO100 / 25600 / 51200

Exposure control

TTL 256-zones metering, Multi / Spot / Average

Exposure mode

P(Program AE) / A(Aperture Priority AE) / S(Shutter Speed Priority AE) / M(Manual Exposure)

Exposure compensation

-5.0EV - +5.0EV, 1/3EV step (movie recording : -2.0EV - +2.0EV)

Face/Eye Detection

Yes

Shutter type

Focal Plane Shutter

Shutter speed   Mechanical Shutter

4 sec. to 1/4000 sec.(P mode), 30 sec. to 1/4000 sec.(Other modes) Bulb mode(up to 60 min), TIME : 30 sec. to 1/4000 sec.

                             Electronic Shutter*3

4 sec. to 1/32000 sec.(P mode), 30 sec. to 1/32000 sec.(Other modes) Bulb mode : 1 sec. fixed, TIME : 30 sec to 1/32000sec.

                             Mechanical + Electronic Shutter

4 sec. to 1/32000 sec.(P mode), 30 sec. to 1/32000 sec.(Other modes) Bulb mode(up to 60 min), TIME : 30 sec. to 1/32000 sec.

                             Synchronized shutter speed for flash

1/180 sec. or slower

Continuous shooting

Approx. 6.0 fps (JPEG : max. approx. 10 frames) Approx. 3.0 fps (JPEG : max. approx. 50 frames) * Recordable frame number may vary depending on the type of memory card used. * The frame rate varies with shooting condition and the number of images recorded.

Self-timer

2sec. / 10sec. / Smile / Buddy (LV.1 - LV.3) / Group (1-4 subjects) / Face Auto Shutter

Flash

Manual pop-up flash (Super Intelligent Flash) Guide number : Approx 4 (ISO100・m) / Approx 5.7 (ISO200・m)

LCD monitor

3.0-inch, aspect ratio 3:2, approx. 1,040K-dot Tilt-type, TFT color LCD monitor

Movie recording

4K 3840 x 2160 15P, Continuous recording : up to approx. 5 min. Full HD 1920 x 1080 59.94p / 50p / 24p / 23.98p, Continuous recording : up to approx. 14 min. HD 1280 x 720 59.94p / 50p / 24p / 23.98p, Continuous recording : up to approx. 27 min. High Speed Movie 1280x720 1.6x / 2x / 3.3x / 4x *For 4K movie recording, use a card with UHS Speed Class 3 or higher

Touch screen

Shooting Mode : Shooting, AF, Focus area, Focus mode, Digital zoom, Film simulation select, Adv. Filter select, Protrait enhancement level, touch AF in movie Display Mode : Swipe, Zoom, Pinch-in / Pinch-Out, Double-tap, Drag

Wireless transmitter    (Standards)

IEEE 802.11b/g/n (standard wireless protocol)

                                           (Access mode)

Infrastructure

                                           (Encryption)

WEP/WPA/WPA2 midex mode

Bluetooth ®                      (Standards)

Bluetooth Ver. 4.1 (Bluetooth low energy)

                                           (Operating frequency)                                            (Center frequency)

2402 - 2480MHz

Terminal    (Video output)                 (Digital interface)             (HD output) Microphone/remote release connector

-

USB 2.0 High-Speed / micro USB terminal

HDMI Micro connector (Type D)

⌀2.5 mm 3-pole mini jack

Power supply

NP-W126S Li-ion battery (included)

Dimensions

116.9(W) mm x 67.7 (H) mm x 40.4(D) mm / 4.6 in.(W) x 2.7 in. (H) x 1.6  in. (D) (Minimum depth: 31.6 mm/ 1.2 in.)

Weight

Approx. 361g / 12.7 oz. (including battery and memory card)

Approx. 311g / 11.0 oz. (excluding accessories, battery and memory card)

Operating Temperature

0 - 40℃ / 32-104°F

Operating Humidity

10 - 80%  (no condensation)

Battery life  for still images*4

approx 450 frames (with XF35mmF1.4 R lens)

Starting up period

Approx. 0.4 sec., when High Performance mode set to ON Approx. 0.8 sec., when High Performance mode set to OFF * Fujifilm research

Accessories included

Li-ion battery NP-W126S AC power adapter Plug Adapter USB cable Shoulder strap Body cap Owner's manual

*1 Please see the Fujifilm website (http://www.fujifilm.com/support/digital_cameras/compatibility/card/x/) to check memory card compatibility.

*2 Exif 2.3 is a digital camera file format that contains a variety of shooting information for optimal printing.

*3 The Electronic Shutter may not be suitable for fast-moving objects. Flash can not be used.

*4 Approximate number of frames that can be taken with a fully-charged battery based on CIPA standard.

AVAILABILITY AND PRICING:

The Fujifilm X-A5 will be available as a kit with the FUJINON XC15-45mmF3.5-5.6 OIS PZ lens from February 2018, available in Brown, Pink and Black priced at £549.

Preview Images

Ahead of our full review, here are some sample images taken with the brand new Fujifilm X-A3 entry-level compact system camera, which offers 24 megapixels, 4K video recording and Bluetooth connectivity.

A gallery of sample images taken with the Fujifilm X-A5 compact system camera.

Fujifilm X-A5 Sample Images

Sample RAW Images

The Fujifilm X-A5 enables users to capture RAW and JPEG format files. We've provided some Fujifilm RAW (RAF) samples for you to download (thumbnail images shown below are not 100% representative).

Sample Movies & Video

This is a sample movie at the highest quality setting of 3840x2160 pixels at 15 frames per second. Please note that this 25 second movie is 302Mb in size.

This is a sample movie at the highest quality setting of 3840x2160 pixels at 15 frames per second. Please note that this 25 second movie is 204Mb in size.

Your Comments

Loading comments…