The Fujifilm X-T1 v Fujifilm X-T5. These are two popular models from the company’s X-series lineup of APSC mirrorless cameras. Both cameras offer high image quality and solid performance, but there are some key differences between the two models that may make one a better choice for you over the other.
The Fujifilm X-T1 comes from an entirely different era of photography – 2014. That may not sound very long ago, but in terms of modern technology it’s lightyears away. The Fujifilm X-T5 is full of all the modern tech you could want in a camera, but still holds on to the DNA of the X-T1 – with a very similar design and a body size/weight.
The reason I’m comparing these two models is because The X-T1 still captures incredibly beautiful images. I tested one against the other, and even though the X-T5 outperforms the X-T1 on specs, the images are still very strong from the X-T1, making it a viable alternative for anyone with a smaller budget.
Read about how to choose your next camera here
Design: Both cameras have the classic, retro-style design that is inspired by film cameras from the past. However, the X-T1 is built with a solid, magnesium-alloy body that is both weather-resistant and dust-resistant.
The X-T5, on the other hand, has a more modern design under the hood and is made with a lighter and more compact polycarbonate body. It is also weather sealed.
Image Quality: Both cameras use Fujifilm’s X-Trans CMOS sensors, however, the Fujifilm uses the X-trans 2 sensor and the X-T5 uses the X-Trans 5 sensor.
They both produce excellent image quality, but the 40mp sensor in the X-T5 is capable of recording much more detail than the X-T1, which has a 16.3-megapixel APS-C sensor.
Processing power: The speed of the X-T5, which is superpower by the X-5 processor is far superior than the X-T1’s early processor from 2014.
Autofocus: The autofocus system on the X-T5 is a significant improvement over the X-T1. The X-T5 has phase-detection autofocus points covering a larger area of the frame, and it also has faster autofocus performance. This makes the X-T5 a better choice for fast-moving subjects and action photography.
Find out more about the Fujifilm X-T5 here
The Fujifilm X-T5 has an incredible ability to track wildlife and other moving subjects. I tested it on the YouTube video below and the results were incredible.
Video: The X-T5 is a better choice for video enthusiasts, as it offers 6K video recording at 30 frames per second and a fully articulating touch screen. The X-T1 can only record full HD video and has a fixed LCD screen. However, this camera is meant for photographers, and I wouldn’t recommend it for videographers.
IBIS: The X-T5 has 7 stops of Image stabilization which will make shooting handheld images at really slow shutter speeds entirely possible. The X-T1 has no IBIS.
Film simulations: Fujifilm’s film simulations are one of the unique features in their cameras, offering a nostalgic touch and creative control to digital photography.
These simulations emulate the look and feel of some of Fujifilm’s classic film stocks such as Velvia, Astia, and Provia, providing a wide range of color and tonal options to suit different shooting situations and personal styles.
By using these film simulations, photographers can apply a specific film look to their images in-camera, allowing for a more film-like, organic look without the need for post-processing.
The X-T5 has the most uptown date film simulations, and the ability to create your own recipes within the menu, so in effect you can have your very own film simulations within the camera – which means no post processing!
The X-T1 has a few film simulations, including Velvia, Astia, Provia and Classic Chrome, but no ability to create recipes of your own.
Conclusion: The Fujifilm X-T5 is the better choice for photographers who need fast autofocus, higher-resolution images, and better video capabilities. It’s the latest camera from Fujifilm (at the time of writing) and so it bears all the quality of what they have to offer in today’s demanding camera market.
However, the Fujifilm X-T1 is a good choice for photographers who prefer the image quality with a more analogue feel, oozing texture and atmosphere in the images it produces. It’s from another era and I love it.
Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on your specific photography needs and preferences, but perhaps there’s still room for both.
