I Put the New Fujifilm X-E5 vs. X100V in a Travel Photography Face-off

To say the
Fujifilm X100VI
Saying that the compact camera was popular upon its release in early 2024 would be putting it mildly. It garnered the largest preorders for a camera I’ve seen in my lifetime, with continued high demand even now.

That’s why I believe the new Fujifilm X-E5 has the potential to also become quite popular.

Reaching us over a year following the release of the X100VI compact camera – which marks four years from the original.
X-E4
– The new X-E5 closely resembles the X100VI both externally and internally. However, the main distinction lies in the fact that it’s a mirrorless model, allowing for interchangeable lenses, unlike the X100VI which features a fixed 23mm f/2 lens.

Theoretically, the X-E5 offers greater versatility. However, practically speaking, its compact rangefinder style performs optimally when paired with smaller lenses for photojournalism, traveling, and capturing street scenes—despite Fujifilm’s smallest lens being permanently attached to the X100VI model.

Fortunately, Fujifilm has introduced its newest lightweight lens in conjunction with the X-E5: an ultra-compact XF 23mm f/2.8 pancake lens weighing only 90 grams. When compared side-by-side with the X100VI, as shown in the image above, the differences become negligible.

The Fujifilm X-E5 and X100VII are quite comparable overall, both sharing close price points as well (except for those affected by tariffs in the U.S.). The X100VII comes with a tag of $1,599 / £1,599, whereas the X-E5 along with the new 23mm f/2.8 lens bundled together costs $1,899 / £1,549 (pricing for Australia still pending).
Preorders have officially begun for its anticipated August 28 launch.
So which one stands out as the best? Let’s examine the main distinctions.

1. The internals

A 40-megapixel APS-C sensor featuring in-body image stabilization
6K video recording
X-Processor 5 with face-detection autofocus

Beneath the surface, there’s hardly anything distinguishing the X-E5 from the X100VI; both boast nearly identical imaging abilities and computational prowess.

The main features consist of capturing 40MP photos, offering a 2x digital zoom, and incorporating in-body image stabilization (note that the X-E5 boasts slightly superior stabilization, rated up to seven stops at the center).

Both cameras can record videos up to 6K at 30 frames per second; however, the option for video is tucked away within the drive mode menu. This suggests that these cameras are mainly built with photographers in mind. If videography is your primary focus, you may want to consider different models.

The latest version of the X-Processor 5 engine continues to drive multiple subject-detection autofocus modes. However, what sets the X-E5 apart is more than just adjustable-sized autofocus zones; you can now modify their shapes as well—switching them between square and rectangular configurations. Additionally, both cameras provide remarkably accurate spot-autofocus capabilities.

2. Lenses

The Fujifilm X-E5 features Fuji’s X-mount system, offering a broad range of lenses, such as the recently introduced 23mm f/2.8.
FujiFilm X100VI: has a fixed 23mm f/2 lens

At first glance, the Fujifilm X-E5 appears to have an obvious advantage over these two rangefinder-styled cameras when it comes to lenses since it utilizes Fujifilm’s X-mount, offering compatibility with numerous top-notch options. In contrast, the X100VI remains limited to its single fixed 23mm f/2 lens. Nonetheless, this isn’t a guaranteed win.

I have compared the X100VI and the X-E5 paired with the new XF 23mm f/2.8 lens — which is Fujifilm’s most recent addition and also their smallest, comparable in size to the XF 27mm f/2.8 lens — directly against each other, and noticed that the X100VI’s 23mm f/2 lens remains even more compact.
and
its maximum aperture is one stop brighter.

I’ve spent considerable time with the X100VI and find myself drawn to its f/2 aperture, especially for blurring backgrounds—there’s quite a distinction between using f/2 and f/2.8.

Given their compact rangefinder styles, these cameras work optimally with smaller lenses. I anticipate that most purchasers of the X-E5 will opt for the budget-friendly bundle featuring the 23mm f/2.8 lens rather than choosing just the body itself. Additionally, I foresee that many users will typically leave this particular lens attached to the X-E5 whenever they use it.

This raises the question—why not opt for the more adaptable of the two 23mm lenses, the f/2 version available on the X100VI?

For many people, I believe that merely having the choice to switch lenses is compelling enough reason to choose the X-E5 over the X100VI. Certainly, this feature may only apply to about five percent of their photos, yet that can make all the difference, particularly if it ends up being their primary camera.

This renders the X100VI lens aperture debate irrelevant since the X-E5 can equally well be coupled with the larger and more expensive 23mm f/1.4 lens for travel photography.

3. Viewfinder

X-E5: 2.36m-dot EVF only
X100VI: Hybrid finder – combines an optical viewfinder with a 2.36 million-dot electronic viewfinder

A distinguishing factor, suggested by the design on each camera’s exterior, lies in their respective viewfinders: The X-E5 comes equipped with a 0.39-inch 2.36m-dot electronic viewfinder, whereas the X100VI boasts a hybrid viewfinder system, offering both electronic and optical display options.

The electronic viewfinder in the X100VI closely mirrors the one found in the X-E5, whereas the optical display stands out with its vintage aesthetic, aligning perfectly with the camera’s classic rangefinder style. After discussing this feature with numerous experienced camera critics, I’ve discovered that I am part of a smaller group preferring the optical display over the digital version for regular use.

When doing travel and street photography, I appreciate being able to view beyond the edges of my photo’s framing with the optical display—it simplifies capturing a moment involving someone passing through the scene since you can spot them before they actually step into the picture.

As mentioned, the optical display has a noticeable physical presence, making the X100VI seem less sleek compared to the X-E5.

The X100VI features a front lever used to toggle between electronic and optical views. In contrast, the X-E5 includes a front switch with another function.
GFX100RF-like digital cropping and aspect ratio optionsselector
With multiple display choices available for the trimmed sections of your image, you can opt for adding a border around them, greying them out, or just enlarging these areas to fit within your design.

By pulling the switch for an extended duration, various aspect ratio crops based on the sensor’s complete 3:2 ratio become available—this feature is readily accessible via a dial on the GFX100RF model; however, it is less prominently featured here, although just as enjoyable to explore.

4. Design

The Fujifilm X-E5 features enhanced controls, a 1.04 million-dot touch screen, and can be tilted up to 180 degrees.
Fujifilm X100VI: A touch screen featuring 1.84 million dots with a tilting range of up to 100 degrees, along with an integrated LED flash.

Of course, Fujifilm has introduced several new concepts for an improved design in their newest model, the X-E5. This camera also exudes a more luxurious feel compared to the X100VIII and X-E4, resembling somewhat of a compact edition of a top-of-the-line device.
GFX100RF medium-format compact
.

The shutter speed dial on this camera is positioned more toward the rear of the top plate and has a slight overhang, making it simpler to tweak using your right thumb compared to the dial located centrally on the top plate of the X100VI. Additionally, the top panel of the X-E5 looks sleeker, featuring smoother lines overall.

The tilting touch screen on this model offers more flexibility with its wider range of movement compared to the X100VI; you can extend it outward and rotate it fully upwards by 180 degrees for taking self-portraits, while the X100VI only supports approximately 100 degrees of tilt. However, when looking at display quality, the X-E5 comes equipped with a screen resolution of 1.04 million dots as opposed to the X100VI’s higher-resolution panel of 1.84 million dots, which might seem somewhat disappointing considering the cost.

One advantage of the X100VI is that it includes an LED flash, though it has limited power. This can be useful for taking low-light and indoor portrait photos, something the X-E5 lacks. However, both cameras come equipped with a hotshoe for attaching external flashes.

5. Film simulations

The Fujifilm X-E5 features a new simplified dial offering a curated choice of 20 simulation options along with custom modes.
The Fujifilm X100VI offers all 20 film simulation modes, which can be easily selected using the camera’s built-in options.

It goes without saying that Fujifilm’s renowned film simulations are present in both cameras. However, the X-E5 has an adorable display on its top panel showing which effect you’re currently using—a novel addition. Additionally, it includes a dial for choosing among the six most favored presets, along with three customizable settings. When navigating these choices, they also show up on the LCD screen as well.

In my extensive testing session before the release of the X-E5, I configured several custom ‘film recipes’ for Fujifilm enthusiasts into their designated slots. In ideal Mediterranean sunlight conditions, I used the black-and-white Acros setting combined with a red filter to achieve a strikingly contrasting effect, enhancing the scene’s intensity; further adjustments were made to contrast and similar parameters. Additionally, I crafted another personalized preset based on the Eterna cinematic mode for a more movie-like appearance, adjusting factors like grain along with other settings accordingly.

The X100VI offers this feature as well, yet it lacks an equivalent straightforward way to adjust film simulations, despite these being easily accessible within the camera settings. This model includes all 20 film simulation options; however, navigating through them requires more scrolling time.

X-E5 versus X100VII: Which one suits your needs more?

If you already have X-mount lenses or appreciate the option to switch them out, then the X-E5 clearly stands out. It boasts a sleek design with smooth contours and readily accessible features such as film simulations, along with options for digital and aspect ratio cropping, providing a more streamlined user experience.

Personally, I would still opt for the X100VI. Its compact rangefinder style complements smaller lenses well, and this model with its wider aperture 23mm f/2 lens offers a superior overall package compared to alternatives. It’s worth noting that my preference stems from owning an additional interchangeable lens camera. However, if you’re completely new to using ‘serious’ cameras, the X-E5 might be more durable over time in your hands.

Top Fujifilm Camera for 2025: Leading Mirrorless and Compact Models, Both Retro and Modern
The Fujifilm X100V effect – how it has triggered a surge in prices for compact cameras and alternatives I would consider purchasing.
Fujifilm X100VI versus Fujifilm X100V: 5 motivations for upgrading, and one significant reason against it

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