Fujifilm’s X-T50 has a dedicated film simulation dial

Fujifilm has introduced the X-T50 APS-C mirrorless camera, the long-awaited follow-up to the consumer-friendly X-T30 and X-T30 II. The new model retains key features from the previous model, including light weight and generous hand control. At the same time, it adds a higher-resolution 40.2-megapixel sensor, 6.2K 30p video, and other features from the X-T5 and other recent models. However, it also has a much higher price tag than the X-T30 and an unusual new dial that could prove controversial.

The X-T50 looks similar to the X-T30 II, with a relatively thin and light body of 438 grams (15.45 ounces), only slightly heavier than before. However, in place of the shooting mode dial on the previous model, Fujifilm introduced a dedicated film simulation dial with eight preset modes (Acros, Nostalgic Negative, Classic Neg and others), three custom slots for other built-in simulations, and a custom slot for user-designed simulations.

The company probably believes that sales of the X100 V and VI have increased due to the popularity of film simulations with TikTok and the set of influencers. However, users may find it more difficult to change shooting modes (burst, single shot, etc.) than before.

One key feature missing from the X-T30 was in-body stabilization, but with the X-T50 Fujifilm has introduced a five-axis system with seven stops of shake reduction that adds almost no weight. This will make it a much better camera for hiking and street photography as handheld shooting is possible at shutter speeds as low as 1/4 of a second or so. It will also make the X-T50 much more useful for video.

Unfortunately, the 1.8 million dot rear display still only flips up/down, not out, so it won’t be great for vlogging. Another feature carried over is the NP-W126S battery (about half the battery power in the X-T5), which is quite small considering the higher resolution sensor and improved video capabilities.

With the same sensor as the X-T5, X-H2 and X100 VI, you can expect similar image quality and speeds, up to 13 fps continuous shooting with the electronic shutter. Autofocus performance will probably be in line with the X100 VI, which is to say, pretty good, but not great. The main attraction, Fujifilm hopes, will be the film simulations that allow creators to take Instagram-ready photos straight from the camera.

Like the X-100 VI, the X-T50 is surprisingly competent at video too, with 6.2K at up to 30p and a touch 10-bit F-Log2. So again, it’s a shame it doesn’t have a flip-up screen, as vloggers and content creators might prefer the form factor and interchangeable lenses over the X100 VI.

Fujifilm also introduced the Fujinon XF16-50mmF2.8-4.8 R LM WR (24-75 or so in full frame). It’s a compact, lightweight and decently fast zoom kit that should be perfect for the X-T50. While it’s $700 on its own, it’s a much better deal if purchased as a bundle.

The X-T50 is now up for pre-order for $1,400 (body only) or $1,800 with the XF16-50mm. That’s a solid $500 more than the launch price of the X-T30 II and only a few hundred dollars less than the X-T5. I’m not sure the extra features justify such a big jump, but Fujifilm must be confident that people will pay for it given the incredible success of the X100 series.

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