Fuji X-E2 hands on review

[@TheJohnlclark]

I just bought the XE-2 used on Amazon. The first thing I did was update the firmware to the latest V3.00 and was surprised to find the wifi now provides remote control of the camera. I tried it out and it works well. See the Fujifilm video on using wifi on the XT1 for how to setup for remote control.

[@randydowell9255]

i've seen a few videos on this camera from some of the bigger youtube channels. and this one was by far the most in depth video of them all. Well done! keep it up.

[@MaartenHeilbron]

That's very kind of you. Thanks for watching and commenting.

[@Being_Joe]

I purchased the x-e2s last year and it is probably my most used camera. I have newer "better" cameras but the form factor of this camera is such a pleasure to use. I shoot RAW and get great results in my editing software. Even the JPEGs are good.

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Thanks for sharing your personal experience, always nice to hear from a photographer who's found the right camera.

[@dawdawes]

Looked at purchasing a new X E4, but went with an X A5 and kept my lovely X E2 as my main camera , good job on the vids and I have subscribed

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Awesome! Thank you for the kind words.

[@arunsachdev5638]

Hi Maarten! I always love your reviews as always. Is the new Fuji XE2s along with new Fuji XF 18-55 mm lens for USD 530 serve me good for still photography involving travel, street and landscape today 2022?

[@MaartenHeilbron]

The X-E2 is far from new, but yes, it should be a reliable travel and landscape performer. Not the greatest for street as the AF is slower than average (for 2022).

[@lrb05131963]

I final took the wonderful jump into the Fuji family,I bought the Fuji x e2 ,it will be here next week

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Enjoy!

[@nemortech]

Fantastic review! I saw some bigger channel's review but your is the best :)

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Thanks for taking the time to view and comment - and for the kind words.

[@justinduongs]

Great review! So many details that I wanted to look up, nice job!

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Thanks for your kind comment.

[@fredslow]

Thank you for this quick, but very detailed review! I really like your style. Subscribed ;)

[@MaartenHeilbron]

fredslow Thanks for the kind words - and the subscription.

[@wetcolorsgo]

A very well done and detailed review and i saw many because i want to buy my first camera. My compliments. One question for you: I'm a beginner (and i want to learn ofc) do you think this camera is enough easy for a beginner? Or I should go with something else?

[@niceup1177]

Straight to the core of most of the important features. Thanks for no yadayada. Well done.

[@MaartenHeilbron]

+Niceup I appreciate your kind comment. No Flintstone imitations here.

[@jessplayen]

I'm torn between this and the new olympus om-d e-m10 + 25mm f/1.8. You seem to have a lot of experience with m43. Which one would you recommend? Thanks in advance.

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Tough choice, as they really serve two different types of shooters, so you have some philosophical questions to resolve. I've not had the opportunity to review the OM-D E-M10. I'd recommend that you consult the excellent reviews at dpreview.com, which are much more comprehensive and detailed than my videos.

[@WylunCustoms]

great video, probably the best i've seen so far... but for the 18-55, you said 10 cm for closest distance... were you macro mode or something? b/c i see you got decently close when you were with those, "legos" but when i was trying this camera out w/ the 18-55 i could not get that close to a subject at all. i was quite dissapointed.. i went over the olympus omd-em1 w/ its kit lense and got really close, almost literally under 2 inches away.

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Thanks for the kind words. I don't remember using the macro mode (in fact, I remember thinking it was kind of unnecessary) and I didn't make any notes that refer to it ... not sure why you couldn't get the same distance.

[@tomscott4438]

Nice review. Must say I've grown a bit weary of DSLR "pros" blasting everything that doesn't measure up to their $5K full-frame rig. Everyone has a bias, but you seem pretty adept at providing a balanced perspective. Kudos. I've been wavering between the X-e2 and X-t1 but I actually found all those dials a bit intimidating and that extra $500 is the cost of adding a lens to the X-e2 package. I've also been looking at the a6000 but the sensor size, image quality, and lens set are steering me towards the Fuji. I don't do much video so that is a non-starter for me. (FYI, as of 12/16 Fuji released firmware 3.0 which adds most of the focusing features of the X-t1 plus the very functional remote camera app. Think it might be time to pull the trigger)

[@MaartenHeilbron]

***** Thanks for the kind words. It's a difficult decision, with so many factors to consider. Good luck ...

[@Brandon-vp1if]

Maarten I truly would like some input from you, considering you have this as well as the a6000. I do love my sony, but I do feel like there are many features on it that I do not use. I was considering ditching the a6000 for this camera. I know i would be trading off the autofocus and speed, but I like how the X-e2 has physical controls apposed to fiddling through the menus to change everything. The files seem to be so much better too on the Fuji. Any thoughts? thanks!

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Brandon Sekoski Although I do own the A6000, I only had the X-E2 for a few weeks to review. The "features you don't use" are no more accessible on the Fuji - and for whatever camera you own, I recommend you take some time to try all the buttons, menus and modes. Unless you're shooting in full manual (aperture, shutter and ISO) the physical controls don't add much useful functionality - but they certainly add aesthetic value. And if your first camera didn't have a "P" mode - then you might see value in the controls. I shoot mainly in Aperture priority, sometimes Shutter priority, often with auto ISO, so the single dial works for me. I like the Sony's focus features better, and I switch/select those using the Fn button. That's no easier on the Fuji. That said, I'd be perfectly happy with either one - choosing one or the other is primarily a question of aesthetics and familiarity.

[@1barnet1]

***** In my case it came down to the lens that came with it. While love the Fujifilm 18-55mm for it's built and image quality i absolutely hated the 16-50mm with my brief time with the A6000. No doubt the a6000 is a great camera i just wished the standard zoom was up to the same standard. That would've made me a happy owner.

[@travisjeffrey5092]

Thank you, Best review I have seen yet on this camera.

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Travis Jeffrey Thanks for your kind comment.

[@MrZombs123]

your review is awesome!

[@JonathanMWeekes]

Maarten, have you ever shot with any of the entry level Fuji csc's like the X-M1? Would love to hear your thoughts.

[@MaartenHeilbron]

I'm sorry, I don't have any experience with those. Check out dpreview.

[@opiusclay]

...Best review id seen ! Good job !

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Thanks for the kind words.

[@jmhughes3632]

i have the fuji 100s is the sensor and processor in the xe1 the same and which one do you prefer. p.s. scan you tube for review yours are the best

[@MaartenHeilbron]

m hughes Thanks for the kind words. I wish I had reviewed the 100s to provide you with an answer. For better details on quality-related questions, I'd recommend you check on dpreview.

[@zubatia]

nice review, very helpful and informational. Do you think it's a deal at $1000 for the kit? Would you prefer a Sony A6000 for that kind of price, picture quality priority over video? Thanks in advance. :)

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Ivan Kanchelov You can decide on whatever criteria matters most to you - price, aesthetics, a specific feature - you won't be disappointed with either of these. I would judge picture quality to be about equal, but don't take my word for it - read dpreview or other sites that spend more time analyzing picture quality.

[@zubatia]

***** aesthetic wise I don't think the Sony is in the same category but technically it's superior. I just sold my old sony A57 and I'm going mirrorless, still can't make up my mind and saw that you had a review on a5100. Thank once again for your thoughts! :)

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Ivan Kanchelov It's my pleasure - I'm always glad to hear it's been of value. The 5100 (it has no viewfinder) isn't the same category either - but again, the price and features might sway you. Technically, the Sony has a deeper feature set, not sure about superior. They both make excellent (although not similar) processing engines and sensors.

[@tikituka]

thx for the review, but can you tell me about xe 2 battery life? some people says this camera has a wasteful battery so we have to get some more extra battery. any comments?

[@MaartenHeilbron]

tikituka My pleasure. I didn't make a note about battery life, which likely means it was about average. On the other hand, I have an extra battery for every camera I own - it's a small cost for some peace of mind.

[@jessplayen]

Great review. Thanks.

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Thank you!

[@rhonelsantos588]

Which one should I get? Fujifil X-E2 or Sony Alpha 6000, thanks

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Since they're reasonably comparable - if there isn't one feature that makes up your mind, I'd recommend that you be guided by your wallet, by the way they feel in your hand and then by your heart - which one would you be proud to own, which one would you never leave at home?

[@rhonelsantos588]

+Maarten Heilbron which one has the better "auto focus?" sir?

[@MaartenHeilbron]

I would judge the A6000 as better focus, particularly for stills. Although Fuji has stepped up their focus game, I'm not sure what the current firmware version for the X-E2 includes.

[@mrlowblow]

Sorry for being late ,but what would you recommend, X-T1 or this one? Thank you so much

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Depends on what your needs are, I could recommend either, but both have been superseded by newer models.

[@mrlowblow]

@@MaartenHeilbron Thank you for responding, but do you think that both are still appropriate options in 2019

[@MaartenHeilbron]

That depends on your needs and intentions. They could very well be appropriate. On the other hand, focus features and video capabilities have improved.

[@dstefanek1988]

How do you change Program mode while using the Fujinon 16-50mm and 27mm, which both lens don't have "A" switch?

[@thelesls]

Hi Maarten. Great review! Let me ask you this, I am no photographer. I am an photo enthusiast, and I'm studying photography, and I want to buy my first exchangeable lens camera, preferable used and in good shape, because I don't have a lot of money to spend on this right now. Several options exist, and I came down to the x-e1 and x-e2, and the nex-6 and nex-7, for these last two I am seeing the price dropping right now. So, for an general purpose, including occasionally videos, which one will offer the best value for my money? Thanks a lot!

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Theles Silveira Thanks for the kind words. All of these are fine choices, so you may let your credit card limit be your guide. I would choose the NEX6 over the NEX7, (but don't overlook the A6000, which I prefer over the NEX6) and the X-E2 over the X-E1. As a photography student, the Fuji cameras will get you closer to thinking about and working on the technical details of taking photos. Sony cameras are a little more technically advanced, with next generation features and capabilities.

[@thelesls]

***** Hi. Thanks for your advice. I have heard that the image quality of the Fuji are excellent, even in low light. This is important to me too. And one more question, concerning image quality and resources, these cameras are on pair with Nikon D3300 or Sony A58?

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Theles Silveira I recommend you read the detailed reviews at dpreview to help answer those questions.

[@thelesls]

***** Hi again! I have already read those reviews. There is too much informations for me, and, since they didn't do an exactly comparison between the cameras, it's hard to me to deduce from their opinions. But, I'll keep looking. Thanks!

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Theles Silveira I agree - it's very hard to do direct comparisons - there are many aesthetic and functional features that don't really align. Good luck with your decision.

[@nikonosekai3759]

Hi I want to ask of XE2 still worthed on 2024? or just go for XE4? thankyou

[@MaartenHeilbron]

It depends on your needs, I'd go with the X-E3 if you can find one.

[@marion_roberts]

Can the camera settings be changed on this camera while not relying on the rear dial?I found one being sold low online but the dial has some issues.

[@MaartenHeilbron]

If you use aperture priority and AutoISO, you will only need to use the lens's aperture ring (which means your lens should be the XF type or third party equivalent).

[@marion_roberts]

@@MaartenHeilbron Thanks,Maart!

[@jeremyspal78]

What will u recommend, this camera or the xt10?

[@MaartenHeilbron]

I recommend both - unless you're considering the X-T2 (review nearing completion). It's kind of a decision about size I think, unless there are specific features you're missing on one, or price is an issue.

[@777FOXA]

Thank you, excellent review :).

[@MaartenHeilbron]

777FOXA Thanks!

[@lulebay6584]

Do you think this camera worth to buy or not??? Because im planing to buy one of this??

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Lulebay Without a great deal more information about your needs, interests and budget, I could not possibly make this decision for you.

[@lulebay6584]

I mean is it good for beginner..because actually i dont know anything about photography And i only use for taking picture thats it

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Lulebay If it's a size and style you like, if it fits in your budget, if the quality of your images is a concern, if your intention is to learn the technical aspects of photography and improve your skills, then this is a good choice. There are many cameras which cost less (and offer less functionality) which are good for taking pictures.

[@lulebay6584]

If u can suggest me as a beginner which camera should i take Means the quality not bad and the price not to pricey... Because i really know nothing about camera Thanks

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Lulebay I think you would be best to take this conversation to your local camera store and try some first-hand.

[@Cotictimmy]

I've just got one of these so I settled in to listen. Unfortunately, you're gonna hate this Martin, but here goes. I'd say in adding the 'ever-so-slick' jazz track and choosing to speak in that artificial sounding 'he's just reading out a script' style, you've made what would otherwise have been an interesting meal into something much less palatable.

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Thanks for your thoughts, and I'm sorry to hear I disappointed you. I hope you clicked the dislike button for the video and quickly moved on to something that provided more pleasure. I've passed your note along to the composer in the hopes that it will help him improve. I'm hoping that my new microphone will not pick up the sounds from the script. Now, you've made us hungry - we're off to lunch.

[@rpieranti]

Movie Mode does not appears at Drive option box, how can I recover it ? Tks for helping

[@MaartenHeilbron]

No idea, except for resetting the camera.

[@rpieranti]

@@MaartenHeilbron I did it... pressing a function key for a while, choosing the option and then keeping it... tks...

[@MaartenHeilbron]

@@rpieranti Glad to hear it's resolved.

[@hadibagusss9799]

What is the difference between x-e2 and xe2s?and what will you recommend?

[@MaartenHeilbron]

I believe the difference is the colour ...

[@danielandujar5479]

Waiting for my x E2s and the difference is 2 days saturday 15 ➿ 📷 👀

[@MaartenHeilbron]

@@danielandujar5479 Lots to look forward to!

[@danielandujar5479]

@@MaartenHeilbron I first have and keep my x-A1 still like new in brown, Then i move to the xT10 mostly for the viewfinder. And i love the style of the E2 and the viewfinder. I love fujis 📷💪 I fell in love with the omd 10mkll. But was and i'm disapointed because the presence of noise even at 200 ISO. I shoot mostly on manual and those fujis are the best. I was in my way to sell the 10mkll But i will keep it. Because the features specially Art 11 the fotos are like drawings. I love this feature and 2 more but this one in daytjme or at night have a lots of details colors and textures. And like i said it looks like drawings. I was asking those who love and makes videos about this gear about the noise and they told me to shoot in raw and go to post and fix it there. You know what? If you see my stories in pictures they're originals no post.. So this is my story and my experience with this 3 Fujis sisters .. If something happen with one of them i will replaced whenever i have the chance. They performed well on daytime and at night. And i'm a night shooter here in the City of San Juan 🇵🇷. If you ever comes by Let me know it will be a real pleasure to shoot with you here Broo!! 🙏 May the Lord bless you🎵

[@danielandujar5479]

@@MaartenHeilbron heyy sir the foto on your page this is what i'm talking about omd feature Art 11

[@sergeyvasilishin5761]

should of talk more about particularities of this particular camera not just telling about menu which is almost the same as it is with fuji X10, x100S, and so on

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Sergey Vasilishin Thank you for your comment and your guidance. I'll try to keep that in mind. It's possible that some viewers don't have the same experience or knowledge of those models that you do, so I do try to provide a complete picture.

[@冷非顏-u9s]

good

[@MaartenHeilbron]

thanks

[@rensaudade]

XE2 looks waaaaay different after firmware updates

[@MaartenHeilbron]

That's good news, thanks for the update.

[@einavon]

Bummer you speak so fast...You know, the ppl who mainly watch it - begginers. Not all of the ppl are ENG fluents. But thank you!

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Please feel free to use KZbin's tools to turn on subtitles, to play at a slower speed - and please watch as many times as you need. And thanks for your kind words.

[@guardianobserver6593]

Instead of give a message to the company that their cameras sacks for the money they sell them, you continue to give them credits for not good video, for not touch screen, even for not rebaltable back screen in order to protect it. And its not only Fuji in this sick game. All camera manufacturers give not complete models in order to have their victims open their wallets every time a new model go out in production. Until when you will play their game?

[@MaartenHeilbron]

This review is over two years old, and I think that you are making unfair comparisons between technology that was current then and now. I have long complained about the video functionality on Fuji's cameras - as it always seemed like an afterthought. Fuji has heard my (and not to be vain about it) and other reviewers comments on their video. They have gone a long way to address this shortcoming in the X-T2. I also think it an unfair assumption to suppose that camera manufacturers are holding back features - if they had the feature, they would happily deploy it to get an advantage over their competitors. However new features, functions and capabilities all require both hardware and software development - which luckily they all continue to invest in. And, as a result, each year there are great new features to tempt us to buy new cameras. This is, of course, an issue that applies to all kinds of products - from soaps and dishwashers to bicycles and cars. I don't think that you're suggesting that all technology development stop so that we wouldn't feel badly about the products we bought last year. So, looking back at the X-E2, I find that it was a worthy competitor in 2014, one particularly well suited, as I pointed out, to those with a strong understanding of the basics of photography and who are not much interested in video. And if you bought it for that reason, it remains an excellent camera. Let's remember that many great photographs were taken before touch screens and rebaltable back screens. But thanks for writing, it's always good to hear from my viewers - and to have the chance to revisit my old reviews.

[@s0me737]

Which one should I get? The xa2 or the xe2 if only for pictures taking only?

[@MaartenHeilbron]

I would judge them as fairly comparable, the XE2 has a viewfinder, the XA2 is a little newer, slightly better ISO range - make your choice based on price and your design preference (although even there, pretty similar). The viewfinder likely sways me to the XE2, but if you don't shoot with a viewfinder, the articulating screen on the XA2 could be the deciding factor.

[@s0me737]

+Maarten Heilbron Thank you. That was a big help:)

[@MaartenHeilbron]

My pleasure.