The Fujifilm X-E5 Just Dropped – But Here's Why I'm Not Interested

7 Jul

The long-awaited Fujifilm X-E5 has officially landed, and on paper, it’s an impressive piece of kit. Sleek, minimal, retro – everything we’ve come to expect from Fuji’s popular X-E line. It's got the looks, the specs, and that interchangeable lens flexibility many photographers crave. But despite all this, I won’t be adding it to my camera bag. And here’s why.

Fujifilm X-E5 – Full Specs

Let’s get the numbers and features out of the way first. The Fujifilm X-E5 shares a lot of internals with the brand’s recent releases, including:

40.2MP APS-C X-Trans CMOS 5 HR sensor (same as the X100VI and X-T5)
X-Processor 5 for fast, efficient image processing
6.2K/30P and 4K/60P video recording
7-stop in-body image stabilisation (IBIS) – which I really do love seeing included
New Film Simulation dial for quick changes between your favourite looks
Lightweight, rangefinder-style body weighing around 350g
Tilting LCD screen
Single UHS-II SD card slot
USB-C charging
Kit lens option: Fujifilm’s new XF 23mm f/2.8 R WR – compact and weather-sealed, and actually a lens I’m very into

Pricing:

Body only: £1,299 / $1,699
With 23mm f/2.8 kit lens: £1,549 / $1,899

It’s basically an interchangeable lens version of the X100VI. But therein lies my personal disinterest.

Why I’m Skipping It

I already own the X100VI. And if you’ve been following my journey as a photographer, you’ll know how much I love that camera – not despite its limitations, but because of them.

The fixed 23mm f/2 lens (35mm full-frame equivalent) on the X100VI forces me to slow down, to frame more intentionally, and to work within a creative box. And honestly, I’ve found freedom in that limitation. The fewer options I have, the more clarity I gain. My creative voice feels more distinct, more honest, when I’m not chasing perfection through gear upgrades or lens swaps.

Aesthetics and Design

That being said, the X-E5 is undeniably beautiful. If the X100VI didn’t exist, I’d be seriously tempted. Its design is in the same stylish family – compact, clean lines, tactile dials. It feels like a camera for someone who appreciates both function and form.

And yes, the new film simulation dial is a fun addition – also seen on the X-T50 – but for me (and maybe most pro photographers), it's not an essential. It’s a nice-to-have, not a need-to-have.

Let's Talk Price

Like the X100VI, the X-E5 feels… overpriced. £1,299 / $1,699 for the body alone isn’t insignificant. Add the new pancake lens and you’re looking at £1,549 / $1,899. With high demand following the success of the X-E4 (which was released back in early 2021), Fujifilm knows people will pay a premium – but whether it’s worth that premium is a different story.

And just like the X100VI, expect this camera to be very hard to get your hands on. That’s going to be frustrating for many of you out there – especially if you've been holding out for a new X-E model. I wouldn’t be surprised if prices on the second-hand market spike the moment stock dries up.

What About Video?

Yes, it boasts impressive video specs. But again – how necessary are these for the type of person drawn to a camera like this? For most of us who shoot stills, and maybe the occasional clip for socials, the extra video power is nice but far from essential.

A Note for Photographers

If you’re a photographer who just shoots stills, I’d argue you might be just as happy with the X-E4 or even the X-E3. Sure, the newer sensor is technically better, but in the real world – with filters, grain, post-processing, and Instagram compression – the differences are negligible. We’re well past the point of cameras being the bottleneck.

Final Thought: What Are Your Needs?

The X-E5 looks amazing. It performs incredibly well. But at this stage, most cameras do. I’ve become numb to new specs and shiny releases. If you’ve got the money and it speaks to you – go for it. But also ask yourself: What do I really need?

Sometimes, having fewer choices can unlock more creativity. For me, that’s what the X100VI does. It’s why the X-E5 – as gorgeous and capable as it is – just doesn’t hold much appeal.

Jay Ducker