I'll be honest - when Fujifilm handed me the X-M5, I was skeptical. Another small camera aimed at vloggers and content creators? Haven't we seen enough of those? But after weeks of shooting with this compact powerhouse through Tokyo 's neon-lit streets, scenic cherry blossom parks, and bustling urban landscapes, I've completely changed my tune. This isn't just another vlogging camera with photography capabilities tacked on as an afterthought. The X-M5 is a genuinely impressive photographic tool that happens to excel at video too. And what better place than Japan to test a Fujifilm's full potential?
At Rs 77,999 body-only or Rs 87,999 with the XC 15-45mm kit lens, the X-M5 represents one of the most affordable entry points into Fuji’s celebrated ecosystem. But its accessible price point raises an important question: what compromises were made to hit this target, and do they undermine the camera's core functionality? Let's dive in.
Honey, they shrunk the camera
The first thing that strikes you about the X-M5 is just how tiny it is. Measuring a mere 111.9 x 66.6 x 38mm and weighing just 355g without a lens, this is one of the smallest interchangeable lens cameras you can buy with an APS-C sensor. It's even more compact than Fujifilm's fixed-lens X100VI, which is already celebrated for its portability.
The body exudes that distinctive Fujifilm retro charm – a harmonious blend of vintage aesthetics and modern functionality. I had the monochromatic black shade with me, even though I fancy the one with silver halve more. The body features subtle texturing that provides just enough grip for smaller lenses, though this becomes problematic when mounting larger glass. During my time shooting Tokyo's nightscapes, I found myself gripping the larger lenses rather than the camera body itself, which isn't ideal for stability or comfort.
Given the limited real estate, Fujifilm has made some intelligent compromises with the control layout. The front and rear command dials are responsive and well-positioned, though those with larger hands may find themselves occasionally pressing buttons unintentionally. The dedicated film simulation dial on the top left is perhaps the most divisive design element – I found myself using it constantly while shooting Tokyo's cherry blossoms, quickly switching between Classic Chrome and Velvia for different moods, but others might prefer this space allocated to more customizable controls.
The most controversial design decision is undoubtedly the absence of an electronic viewfinder (EVF). Everything must be framed using the 3-inch, 1.04-million-dot articulating touchscreen. While this screen performs admirably in most conditions, trying to compose shots of Tokyo's skyline at midday proved challenging – the harsh sunlight overwhelmed the screen, making precise composition difficult. For longtime photographers accustomed to eye-level composition, this omission might be a dealbreaker.
However, smartphone upgraders and dedicated vloggers might not miss what they've never used.
One thoughtful touch: Fujifilm has positioned all connection ports (HDMI, USB-C, headphone, microphone) to avoid interfering with the fully articulating screen. The microphone jack is peculiarly placed where an EVF might normally be, which has apparently confused some reviewers into thinking it was a viewfinder – a humorous design quirk that speaks to our ingrained expectations.
A photographer's secret weapon
Despite its entry-level positioning and compact form factor, the X-M5 makes no compromises where it matters most – image quality. Housing the same 26.1MP X-Trans CMOS 4 sensor and X-Processor 5 combination found in the more expensive X-S20, this camera delivers stunning photographs that belie its diminutive stature.
The files produced by the X-M5 exhibit that special Fujifilm character – rich, nuanced colors with excellent dynamic range and impressive detail resolution. Shooting Tokyo's nighttime cityscapes revealed the sensor's ability to capture vibrant neon lights without blowing highlights while maintaining shadow detail in the darker areas of the frame. The camera's JPEG output is worthy of a note, with the internal processing creating immediately usable images that often require minimal adjustment.
Low-light performance impresses, with images remaining clean and detailed up to ISO 3200. Even pushing to ISO 6400 yields usable results for most purposes, though fine detail begins to soften. Photographing dimly lit Tokyo alleyways, I found myself comfortably shooting at ISO 6400 with satisfactory results. The lack of in-body image stabilization (IBIS) is felt here, but it's worth noting that none of the X-M5's direct competitors – Sony a6400, Canon EOS R10, or Fujifilm's own X-T30 II – offer IBIS either. You'll need to step up to the significantly more expensive X-S20 or Canon EOS R7 for that feature.
The X-M5's autofocus system is another pleasant surprise. Using Fujifilm's latest algorithms, it confidently tracked moving subjects throughout Tokyo's bustling Shibuya Crossing , rarely missing focus even in challenging conditions. Subject detection covers an impressive range – humans (with eye detection), animals, birds, automobiles, motorcycles, bicycles, airplanes, and trains. In practice, the system proved remarkably effective, with eye detection working reliably for portraits and animal detection confidently tracking pets and wildlife. For street photography, the camera's ability to quickly acquire focus on passing subjects meant fewer missed opportunities.
Where the X-M5 truly distinguishes itself is through Fujifilm's legendary film simulations. Having these famous film stock emulations – including Classic Chrome, Velvia, Acros, and the newer Reala Ace – available via a dedicated dial transforms the shooting experience. Each simulation imparts a distinct character to images, encouraging creative experimentation without complex post-processing. Shooting cityscape, roaming around the Japan’s subrubs, in Velvia mode produced vibrant, explosive colors that captured the bustling spectacle in all its glory, while switching to Classic Chrome gave urban scenes a more contemplative, cinematic quality.
The X-M5's biggest photographic limitation? The kit lens. While the XC 15-45mm f/3.5-5.6 is admirably compact and produces decent images in good light, its slow maximum aperture (particularly at the telephoto end) and plasticky build quality don't do justice to the camera's capabilities. During a twilight shoot in Tokyo's Shinjuku district, I found myself constantly fighting against the lens's limitations, pushing ISO higher than ideal to compensate for the narrow aperture. If you're serious about unlocking the X-M5's potential, budget for a better lens – perhaps the XF 27mm f/2.8 pancake for street photography or the XF 35mm f/2 for general use.
The mechanical shutter is another welcome inclusion, maintaining all the dynamic range the sensor is capable of while eliminating the rolling shutter problems that plague some competitors like the Sony ZV-E10 II. It's touches like these that reveal Fujifilm's commitment to photography excellence, even in their more video-oriented models.
Remember? It’s a vlogging camera
While the X-M5 excels as a still camera, its video capabilities are equally impressive – perhaps even more so considering its price point. There's simply nothing else in this price range that offers 10-bit log recording with 6.2K open-gate capture at 30fps, plus 4K at 60fps and Full HD at up to 240fps for dramatic slow-motion.
The camera's heat management is exceptional – during testing in Tokyo's humid summer conditions, I recorded over 75 minutes of continuous 6.2K footage before the battery gave out, with no overheating warnings. At 4K/60p, the camera managed about 40 minutes before thermal shutdown – still impressive for a body this small. Those needing longer recording times can attach Fujifilm's optional cooling fan accessory.
A unique feature that content creators will appreciate is the ability to record vertical Full HD video while holding the camera horizontally – perfect for social media content without the awkward sideways grip. The three-capsule microphone system also offers directional audio capture options: front priority, back priority, front-and-back priority, and full surround. Testing this in Tokyo's busy Shibuya district, I found it did a good job isolating my voice from ambient noise when set to front priority.
The X-M5's video autofocus performance is where some inconsistencies emerge. While the still photography AF is excellent, video AF can sometimes drift or hunt, particularly in challenging lighting conditions. During a walking tour through Tokyo's backstreets, the camera occasionally shifted focus to the background before reacquiring my subject. You can adjust tracking sensitivity in the settings to make it stickier, but it remains less reliable than Sony's class-leading AF systems.
The lack of IBIS impacts video more noticeably than stills, with handheld footage showing noticeable shake even with digital stabilization enabled. For the smoothest results, you'll want to pair the X-M5 with a gimbal or stabilized lens. Its compact size makes it an excellent candidate for gimbal use, with the entire setup remaining lightweight and portable.
Battery life is adequate rather than impressive, with the NP-W126S battery providing about 330 shots per charge, or around 440 in economy mode. For a day of mixed shooting in Tokyo, I found myself carrying two spare batteries to be safe. The camera charges via USB-C, which is convenient for topping up on the go with a power bank.
One feature that enhances the X-M5's appeal for content creators is its Frame.io integration, allowing for immediate uploading of footage to the cloud for remote collaboration. For travel vloggers or filmmakers working with remote teams, this functionality could be a major workflow advantage.
A photo tool that films well too
After spending a week with the XM-5 through Tokyo's varied environments – from the neon-drenched streets of Shinjuku to the serene cherry blossom parks of Ueno – I've reached a conclusion that might surprise: the Fujifilm X-M5 is primarily a photographer's camera that happens to excel at video, rather than the other way around, at least for me.
Yes, its video specifications are impressive and outshine many competitors at this price point. But it's the X-M5's photographic capabilities – the brilliant image quality, responsive autofocus, distinctive film simulations, and mechanical shutter – that consistently impressed me most during real-world use.
The camera's most significant compromises – no viewfinder, no IBIS, and a mediocre kit lens – will impact users differently depending on their priorities. For photographers used to eye-level composition or those who shoot primarily in low light, these limitations might be dealbreakers. But for those willing to adapt their technique and perhaps invest in better glass, the X-M5 offers tremendous value.
At Rs 77,999 body-only, the X-M5 is one of the most affordable entry points into the Fujifilm ecosystem without sacrificing the core image quality that makes these cameras special. For hybrid shooters who value both stills and video, it's a compelling option that outperforms its price tag.
Is it perfect? No. The lack of an EVF remains its most significant handicap for serious photography. The Sony a6400, Canon EOS R10, and Fujifilm's own X-T30 II all offer viewfinders at similar price points. The X-M5 counters with superior video capabilities and that distinctive Fujifilm shooting experience, but the tradeoff is real.
For those coming from smartphones who are used to composing on screens, the X-M5 offers a natural transition to more serious photography with minimal learning curve. For vloggers and content creators, its video specifications are unmatched at this price point. And for photographers seeking a compact second body or travel camera, the X-M5 delivers Fujifilm's celebrated image quality in an incredibly portable package.
Like the best cameras, the X-M5 has a clear personality – it knows what it wants to be and executes that vision confidently, even if it's not for everyone. In a market crowded with generically capable cameras, that kind of clarity is refreshing. The X-M5 may have been designed with vloggers in mind, but in the hands of a photographer, it reveals its true potential as one of the most capable compact cameras on the market today.
Our rating: 4/5
At Rs 77,999 body-only or Rs 87,999 with the XC 15-45mm kit lens, the X-M5 represents one of the most affordable entry points into Fuji’s celebrated ecosystem. But its accessible price point raises an important question: what compromises were made to hit this target, and do they undermine the camera's core functionality? Let's dive in.
Honey, they shrunk the camera
The first thing that strikes you about the X-M5 is just how tiny it is. Measuring a mere 111.9 x 66.6 x 38mm and weighing just 355g without a lens, this is one of the smallest interchangeable lens cameras you can buy with an APS-C sensor. It's even more compact than Fujifilm's fixed-lens X100VI, which is already celebrated for its portability.
The body exudes that distinctive Fujifilm retro charm – a harmonious blend of vintage aesthetics and modern functionality. I had the monochromatic black shade with me, even though I fancy the one with silver halve more. The body features subtle texturing that provides just enough grip for smaller lenses, though this becomes problematic when mounting larger glass. During my time shooting Tokyo's nightscapes, I found myself gripping the larger lenses rather than the camera body itself, which isn't ideal for stability or comfort.
Given the limited real estate, Fujifilm has made some intelligent compromises with the control layout. The front and rear command dials are responsive and well-positioned, though those with larger hands may find themselves occasionally pressing buttons unintentionally. The dedicated film simulation dial on the top left is perhaps the most divisive design element – I found myself using it constantly while shooting Tokyo's cherry blossoms, quickly switching between Classic Chrome and Velvia for different moods, but others might prefer this space allocated to more customizable controls.
The most controversial design decision is undoubtedly the absence of an electronic viewfinder (EVF). Everything must be framed using the 3-inch, 1.04-million-dot articulating touchscreen. While this screen performs admirably in most conditions, trying to compose shots of Tokyo's skyline at midday proved challenging – the harsh sunlight overwhelmed the screen, making precise composition difficult. For longtime photographers accustomed to eye-level composition, this omission might be a dealbreaker.
However, smartphone upgraders and dedicated vloggers might not miss what they've never used.
One thoughtful touch: Fujifilm has positioned all connection ports (HDMI, USB-C, headphone, microphone) to avoid interfering with the fully articulating screen. The microphone jack is peculiarly placed where an EVF might normally be, which has apparently confused some reviewers into thinking it was a viewfinder – a humorous design quirk that speaks to our ingrained expectations.
A photographer's secret weapon
Despite its entry-level positioning and compact form factor, the X-M5 makes no compromises where it matters most – image quality. Housing the same 26.1MP X-Trans CMOS 4 sensor and X-Processor 5 combination found in the more expensive X-S20, this camera delivers stunning photographs that belie its diminutive stature.
The files produced by the X-M5 exhibit that special Fujifilm character – rich, nuanced colors with excellent dynamic range and impressive detail resolution. Shooting Tokyo's nighttime cityscapes revealed the sensor's ability to capture vibrant neon lights without blowing highlights while maintaining shadow detail in the darker areas of the frame. The camera's JPEG output is worthy of a note, with the internal processing creating immediately usable images that often require minimal adjustment.
Low-light performance impresses, with images remaining clean and detailed up to ISO 3200. Even pushing to ISO 6400 yields usable results for most purposes, though fine detail begins to soften. Photographing dimly lit Tokyo alleyways, I found myself comfortably shooting at ISO 6400 with satisfactory results. The lack of in-body image stabilization (IBIS) is felt here, but it's worth noting that none of the X-M5's direct competitors – Sony a6400, Canon EOS R10, or Fujifilm's own X-T30 II – offer IBIS either. You'll need to step up to the significantly more expensive X-S20 or Canon EOS R7 for that feature.
The X-M5's autofocus system is another pleasant surprise. Using Fujifilm's latest algorithms, it confidently tracked moving subjects throughout Tokyo's bustling Shibuya Crossing , rarely missing focus even in challenging conditions. Subject detection covers an impressive range – humans (with eye detection), animals, birds, automobiles, motorcycles, bicycles, airplanes, and trains. In practice, the system proved remarkably effective, with eye detection working reliably for portraits and animal detection confidently tracking pets and wildlife. For street photography, the camera's ability to quickly acquire focus on passing subjects meant fewer missed opportunities.
Where the X-M5 truly distinguishes itself is through Fujifilm's legendary film simulations. Having these famous film stock emulations – including Classic Chrome, Velvia, Acros, and the newer Reala Ace – available via a dedicated dial transforms the shooting experience. Each simulation imparts a distinct character to images, encouraging creative experimentation without complex post-processing. Shooting cityscape, roaming around the Japan’s subrubs, in Velvia mode produced vibrant, explosive colors that captured the bustling spectacle in all its glory, while switching to Classic Chrome gave urban scenes a more contemplative, cinematic quality.
The X-M5's biggest photographic limitation? The kit lens. While the XC 15-45mm f/3.5-5.6 is admirably compact and produces decent images in good light, its slow maximum aperture (particularly at the telephoto end) and plasticky build quality don't do justice to the camera's capabilities. During a twilight shoot in Tokyo's Shinjuku district, I found myself constantly fighting against the lens's limitations, pushing ISO higher than ideal to compensate for the narrow aperture. If you're serious about unlocking the X-M5's potential, budget for a better lens – perhaps the XF 27mm f/2.8 pancake for street photography or the XF 35mm f/2 for general use.
The mechanical shutter is another welcome inclusion, maintaining all the dynamic range the sensor is capable of while eliminating the rolling shutter problems that plague some competitors like the Sony ZV-E10 II. It's touches like these that reveal Fujifilm's commitment to photography excellence, even in their more video-oriented models.
Remember? It’s a vlogging camera
While the X-M5 excels as a still camera, its video capabilities are equally impressive – perhaps even more so considering its price point. There's simply nothing else in this price range that offers 10-bit log recording with 6.2K open-gate capture at 30fps, plus 4K at 60fps and Full HD at up to 240fps for dramatic slow-motion.
The camera's heat management is exceptional – during testing in Tokyo's humid summer conditions, I recorded over 75 minutes of continuous 6.2K footage before the battery gave out, with no overheating warnings. At 4K/60p, the camera managed about 40 minutes before thermal shutdown – still impressive for a body this small. Those needing longer recording times can attach Fujifilm's optional cooling fan accessory.
A unique feature that content creators will appreciate is the ability to record vertical Full HD video while holding the camera horizontally – perfect for social media content without the awkward sideways grip. The three-capsule microphone system also offers directional audio capture options: front priority, back priority, front-and-back priority, and full surround. Testing this in Tokyo's busy Shibuya district, I found it did a good job isolating my voice from ambient noise when set to front priority.
The X-M5's video autofocus performance is where some inconsistencies emerge. While the still photography AF is excellent, video AF can sometimes drift or hunt, particularly in challenging lighting conditions. During a walking tour through Tokyo's backstreets, the camera occasionally shifted focus to the background before reacquiring my subject. You can adjust tracking sensitivity in the settings to make it stickier, but it remains less reliable than Sony's class-leading AF systems.
The lack of IBIS impacts video more noticeably than stills, with handheld footage showing noticeable shake even with digital stabilization enabled. For the smoothest results, you'll want to pair the X-M5 with a gimbal or stabilized lens. Its compact size makes it an excellent candidate for gimbal use, with the entire setup remaining lightweight and portable.
Battery life is adequate rather than impressive, with the NP-W126S battery providing about 330 shots per charge, or around 440 in economy mode. For a day of mixed shooting in Tokyo, I found myself carrying two spare batteries to be safe. The camera charges via USB-C, which is convenient for topping up on the go with a power bank.
One feature that enhances the X-M5's appeal for content creators is its Frame.io integration, allowing for immediate uploading of footage to the cloud for remote collaboration. For travel vloggers or filmmakers working with remote teams, this functionality could be a major workflow advantage.
A photo tool that films well too
After spending a week with the XM-5 through Tokyo's varied environments – from the neon-drenched streets of Shinjuku to the serene cherry blossom parks of Ueno – I've reached a conclusion that might surprise: the Fujifilm X-M5 is primarily a photographer's camera that happens to excel at video, rather than the other way around, at least for me.
Yes, its video specifications are impressive and outshine many competitors at this price point. But it's the X-M5's photographic capabilities – the brilliant image quality, responsive autofocus, distinctive film simulations, and mechanical shutter – that consistently impressed me most during real-world use.
The camera's most significant compromises – no viewfinder, no IBIS, and a mediocre kit lens – will impact users differently depending on their priorities. For photographers used to eye-level composition or those who shoot primarily in low light, these limitations might be dealbreakers. But for those willing to adapt their technique and perhaps invest in better glass, the X-M5 offers tremendous value.
At Rs 77,999 body-only, the X-M5 is one of the most affordable entry points into the Fujifilm ecosystem without sacrificing the core image quality that makes these cameras special. For hybrid shooters who value both stills and video, it's a compelling option that outperforms its price tag.
Is it perfect? No. The lack of an EVF remains its most significant handicap for serious photography. The Sony a6400, Canon EOS R10, and Fujifilm's own X-T30 II all offer viewfinders at similar price points. The X-M5 counters with superior video capabilities and that distinctive Fujifilm shooting experience, but the tradeoff is real.
For those coming from smartphones who are used to composing on screens, the X-M5 offers a natural transition to more serious photography with minimal learning curve. For vloggers and content creators, its video specifications are unmatched at this price point. And for photographers seeking a compact second body or travel camera, the X-M5 delivers Fujifilm's celebrated image quality in an incredibly portable package.
Like the best cameras, the X-M5 has a clear personality – it knows what it wants to be and executes that vision confidently, even if it's not for everyone. In a market crowded with generically capable cameras, that kind of clarity is refreshing. The X-M5 may have been designed with vloggers in mind, but in the hands of a photographer, it reveals its true potential as one of the most capable compact cameras on the market today.
Our rating: 4/5
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