If you’ve been following the latest camera releases, you’ve probably noticed a big trend: new models are packed with cool video features, and they’re clearly designed with content creators in mind. Fujifilm’s X-M5 is a perfect example—it moves away from the classic manual dials you’d find on more photography-focused cameras like the X-T5, and instead goes all-in on features that make life easier (and more fun!) for anyone making videos or social content. After spending a month with it, I can honestly say it’s built to make content creators smile.
Fujifilm X-M5 Key Features via Amazon
- Easy to create high-quality content via a large, bright touchscreen LCD and intuitive controls
- Detail-packed, color-rich videos and photos from an imaging sensor up to 16x bigger than most smartphone sensors
- Compact, lightweight body offers creative freedom thanks to compatibility with interchangeable lenses, memory cards, and easily replaceable batteries
- Crystal clear audio from three built-in microphones, plus an external mic and USB-C connections
- 20 unique built-in looks quickly accessed via dedicated Film Simulation mode dial, just like FUJIFILM X-T50
A Quick Tour of the Fujifilm X-M5
There’s something that needs to be said about the X-M5 – this thing is tiny! Seriously, I’m not going to say I have giant paws for hands, but I constantly felt like the Fujifilm X-M5 disappeared in the palm of my hands. This compact size means it’s easy to carry around; in fact, most of my lenses are probably heavier than the camera itself. When paired with something like the Fujifilm XF 27mm F2.8 or the XF 35mm F2, the camera becomes extremely svelte and easy to throw in a bag. It’s meant to be carried around everywhere you might go.
In terms of controls, instead of the manual control dials that I’ve come to know and love with Fujifilm X-series cameras, you will now find a PASM dial on the right-hand side of the top plate and a Film Simulation dial on the left. These two changes are probably among the most controversial, especially for long-time fans of the X-series cameras. Personally, I’m on the side of those who prefer manual controls or, at the very least, a Drive Mode dial. While I might occasionally experiment with a film simulation, I find myself adjusting the drive mode more frequently than the film simulation mode. Additionally, locking it as the film simulation mode means that you will have to live with a physical control for a feature you might rarely use.
On the rear of the camera is the tiniest of joysticks. It’s so small, in fact, that I would miss the joystick when locked in on photographing a scene. While it’s there for people like me, it feels like the X-M5 is meant to be a touch-input device, meaning everything from focus controls to menu navigation should be done on the screen. On the sides, you’ll find your I/O ports and, very importantly for a camera like this, a 3.5mm audio input for a microphone. The bottom door houses your battery and an SD card – it would be nice to see a dual-slot for a video-centric camera, but at sub-$900, I’ll overlook it.
In terms of battery life, the Fujifilm X-M5 comes with the now-outdated NP-W126S. While this ended up working out for me – I own several compatible bodies – if you’re new to the system, be ready to invest in some batteries. Especially if you’re using this camera primarily for video.
Lastly, if you were expecting a viewfinder, you can forget it. The fully articulating screen is there for a reason – it will become the primary way you will frame your world. This is a design choice that I understand – this camera is largely a first camera for many, and keeping the experience as intuitive as using a smartphone seems to be what they were going for.
Image Quality
While I was not exactly a fan of physically using the Fujifilm X-M5, I must admit that these images are exactly what you should expect from the X-Trans 4 sensor. The best way to think about the X-M5 is to imagine Fujifilm taking an X-T4 and miniaturizing it. The image quality remains solid, even though it uses the older 26-megapixel sensor instead of the 40-megapixel sensor found in the Fujifilm X-T5/X-T50.
Below are some image samples taken with the Fujifilm X-M5:
In terms of video, here’s where you can have a proverbial field day. The X-M5 supports Open Gate 6.2K video recording at 30fps with 4:2:2 10-bit color. Additionally, this camera offers users the option to record in a 9:16 aspect ratio internally – without requiring a change to the camera’s physical orientation. While handy in a pinch, if you’re trying to maximize the available resolution, I highly recommend shooting in 6.2K Open Gate, framing for the center, and editing in post.
Here’s a sample video I took with the X-M5:
If you’re looking to upgrade from your smartphone to a dedicated camera for both video and photography, the Fujifilm X-M5 is an excellent choice. This compact, feature-rich camera is designed with content creators in mind, offering impressive image quality, versatile video options, and user-friendly controls. Whether you’re vlogging, traveling, or capturing everyday moments, the X-M5 delivers great results and makes the creative process enjoyable. For those seeking a reliable and fun camera, the Fujifilm X-M5 is highly recommended. You can find it for $899 (body-only) on Amazon.
