Fujifilm X-E1: Rangefinder-style mirrorless vs X-E2 / X-E3 / X-E4

Originally I was going to review the X-E1 and compare it to my X-E4. But I did some searching and saw that nobody else on YouTube had done an in hand comparison with all four generations. So I picked up an X-E2 and an X-E3 and ended up reviewing all four cameras from the Fujifilm X-E series that have been released to date in 2022.

We will go in depth on each cameras' ergonomics and how they differ for practical shooting purposes. At the end of the video, you can find a summary on which X-E camera might make sense for you based on current used pricing and availability.

This video was recorded with the Sony A7IV and the Sony 24-105mm f/4 and Sony 20mm f/1.8 G, edited in Davinci Resolve.

[snappiness]

As someone new to Fujifilm, this was a really helpful video to understand the series and differences between the XE models. Having loads of fun with my X-E1 loaner!

[Bscrambler]

Woohoo! X-E1 is my favourite :) It has outlived my X-Pro 2, X-T2, and probably my X-H1, none of which I fell in love with quite the same way. X-E1 is aces.

[marcowolfart]

Man I really loved this video. You mentioned things as no other channel is mentioning. Really complete. Found great value on it. 👏👏

[alihall]

The XE range is in my opinion severely underrated and overlooked within both the Fuji and wider photography community. I love my XE3, such a capable camera with an amazing design and form factor.

[Format]

X-E1 paired with 35mm 1.4 was the camera set I started with and I've taken my best photos with it. There's some kind of character in those photos. It may be because of the sensor X-E1 uses, I guess. I then moved to XT-series and years later realized that taking photos with them became way too much focused on playing with the knobs and settings instead of subjects and just taking photos. Now after years of dry photo season I bought the X-E4 and refound the joy of photography. Sometimes simpler equals better - at least for me it does.

[davidfirth]

Bought an XE4 shortly after launch and the online community hammered me about the level of minimalism. But ... dials! But ... focus mode switch! It's a great camera, and the existing dials, buttons, and touch screen are functional and, to a degree, reconfigurable enough. I even sold my XT4 and kept the XE4. Because I liked small and I can pop the XE4 on a gimbal (Crane M3 in my case) if I really need stabilization with a small lens. I kept my XE3, selling my X100F, making my mirrorless workflow all XE series. I love these cameras.

[abchappell]

This is the absolute best video presentation discussing the differences between each of here camera models. NowI truly understand. Thank you so much 😊

[tomscott]

The X-E2 got me back into photography. I loved that camera. It was small, easy to shoot manual (my preference) and it was fun. Still needed a thumb and hand grip (I have large hands) but felt solid. I've had both the E3 and E4 in hand, and disagree with you regarding build quality, which I prefered on the E3. I also found that losing a command dial plus the omission of the M/C/S switch on E4 is a deal-breaker for me. If I could find an X-E2 in top condition I'd jump for it, but right now I'm on the hunt for an X-E3. The X-E4 is now discontinued, and riding on the coattails of the X-100V, is priced much too high IMHO. Rumors that there will not be an X-E5 are also fueling that. (You forgot the X-E2S, but that's ok... so did the market)

[coryirvin]

The X-E4 has always been the goal for me due to the tilt screen. I stepped into the fuji world with the X-T1 but love the compact size of the X-E series. Thanks for the comparison video!

[brendonp]

I basically never comment on You Tube, but am thinking about purchasing an X-E camera and having watched a bunch of different videos, this was the best. To the point, clear and super helpful. Thank you.

[NeeshDFeesh]

Been trying to decide between the X-E2 and X-E3 for weeks and this was the most helpful video I've watched so far. Thanks!

[catherinegrimes]

I bought an X-E3 from new and love it. It is small and light and will do everything that I want. It is good for astrophotography, two years ago I put it on a 180mm focal length telescope on hotel balcony in Turkey and was surprised with how good it was. I randomly pointed it at the sky and investigated the bright "star" when I arrived home. On arriving home, I zoomed in using some imaging software and realised that it was Jupiter and on zooming in further some of the Galilean Moons could be seen. There was not a hint of noise.
The only problem that I have had is focusing, one problem that the focusing square can easily be moved by touching the rear screen so the settings were changed to prevent that from happening and the other problem was it allowed me to take the photograph before it was properly focussed, this setting has now been changed.

[christians.]

The Fujifilm X-E1 is my main cam because it was on a budget. I normally use it with manual lenses and have not found any disdvantage. There is no slow camera, just slow photographers 😬.

[carylee]

I had the X-E2 and sold it and got the X-E1. It works great with my M42 lenses and since I shoot manual it works in my work flow. In addition the original Xtrans sensor is what got me into using the X-E1. I also use my Xpro1 and XM1 because they also use the same sensor. If you were to use Fujifilm lenses all the time then going to the later models will be advised, but if you're into film vintage lenses and love the original magic this sensor brings then X-E1 is a great option.

[tommartin]

Very useful video, thanks. Enjoyed the full comparison. I have the X-E3 (partly because I couldn't find an X-E4), but after using it for a few days now, I'm sold. I don't mind whatever limitations it has. If I need more, I have the X-T5. I just wanted something small and capable for street photography, and I believe this will do well for that. I also got the XF 35mm f2 specifically for the E3. So far, it has exceeded my expectations. Oh, and it is very comfortable and relaxed to hold.
BTW I bought the XPro2 first, but was underwhelmed and returned it. It cost used, nearly what I paid for the X-T5 new! The X-E3 in like new condition was half the price of the Pro2. It was not a hard decision.

[nvrumi]

I took delivery of a rental X-E4 yesterday afternoon and had a chance to play with it last night. I want to know what the fuss is all about. So, of course, I started watching YT videos to see what others have to say about the little camera.

My thought is that it would make the basis for a fine small kit, with the 18mm f/2 or 16mm f/2.8, and the 50mm f/2 to supplement the 35mm f/2. That would be close to the historically valid 33mm rangefinder with a 28mm or 35mm wide, a nifty-fifty, and something in the 90mm range. I always dreamed of a Leica rangefinder kit so equipped, but I need car. Ha!

Thanks for an excellent analysis that is very practical and not focused on the specifications. Well done.

[Nenad]

Had all fujis, x-e1 for me no competition.Yeah its slow but when you put that picture on monitor pure magic.

[expatcrib]

I have watched this video probably about 20 times. This is my favorite line of Fuji Cameras. You should definitely make more videos.

[craigcarlson]

Excellent overview! I was toying with getting a used XE-1! Thanks much.

[JoshuaValerio]

owning all of a camera series…. an achievement I have only dreamed about and have always wanted to produce a video about! good stuff my guy!