Mini test: Fujifilm X-M5

Posted on Jan 6, 2025 by Pro Moviemaker

Testing the Fujifilm X-M5 revealed features like advanced autofocus, versatile video options and settings for vlogging and social media

Words Adam Duckworth

Pro Moviemaker wouldn’t normally gush over a camera aimed at content creators seeking an upgrade from a smartphone to a vlogging cam, but the Fujifilm X-M5 does have some features that make it interesting.

Using Fujifilm’s fifth-generation processing, the new X-M5 features a 26-megapixel, APS-C, back-side illuminated X-Trans CMOS 4 sensor that records video in 6.2K/30p open gate in 4:2:2 10-bit, as well as 4K/60p for slow motion. It supports two Log options and, with an external recorder, you can export Raw files or HD at up to 120fps for super slow-motion. While the processor may not be the fastest, rolling shutter artefacts are minimal.

The X-M5 can be bought with a £169/$199 accessory fan to mitigate heat when shooting in high resolution. Power is supplied to the fan from a direct connection on the body.

A Vlog mode and a new 9:16 Short Movie option make it simple to shoot vertical videos for social media platforms. For vlogging use – and for the first time in any Fujifilm camera – there are three built-in microphones and a choice of four microphone directions: surround, front, back or front and back. If you move behind the camera while recording, the mics work well at maintaining audio levels.

It also includes a noise-reduction function, ideal for removing hum from air conditioning. Features like these are likely to become more common in high-end cameras in the future.

To shorten the transfer time to smartphones for quick video uploads to social media, low bit rates of 8Mbps or 25Mbps can be selected.

There’s no EVF, but an unusual design choice places the headphone, USB and HDMI ports on the right, with the mic port on the rear to avoid left-side cable tangling.

The camera is lacking image stabilisation for stills, but does offer video stabilisation, though not full IBIS. Footage in 6.2K, DCI 4K and regular 4K is sharp, with Log modes for increased dynamic range and Raw output. Primarily for social media, 9:16 Short Movie mode works well.

Autofocusing is handled well on the X-M5 with its advanced system which includes subject detection AF that can detect moving objects such as animals, birds, cars, motorcycles, bicycles, aeroplanes, trains, insects and drones using AI. Eye detection works well too.

The camera features interesting technology for inexperienced users such as ‘background defocus’, which sets a wider aperture for a shallower depth-of-field, and ‘Portrait enhance’, which comes in three settings. From what we could tell, this simply softens the skin – something that can be done in post – though it’s useful having it in camera. The strong setting, however, is definitely too much.

Perhaps the most interesting setting is Product Priority, as it shifts focus from a presenter’s eyes to a held-up product near the camera. It works well, eliminating those awkward moments in social media clips where reviewers cover their eyes with their hand to make the camera focus on the item. This is a useful feature we hope to see in more cameras.

£799/$799

fujifilm-x.com

Specifications

Sensor: 26.1-megapixel APS-C X-Trans CMOS 4 sensor, 6240X4160 pixels
Image processor: X-Processor 5
Storage: 1x SD UHS-I card
ISO range: Stills native 160-12,800, expansion to ISO 80-51,200. Video 125-12,800
Shutter: Mechanical/electronic front curtain shutter
Monitor: Vari-angle 3in 3:2 screen, 1.04m dots
Focusing: Single point 13×9, 25×17 zones; 3×3, 5×5, 7×7 zones from 117 area and 13×9 grid. Face/eye detection, Subject detection, animal/bird/automobile/motorcycle and bike/plane/train
Video: AVC/H.264/H.265, Long GOP. 6.2K: 23.98p, 24p, 25p 29.97p. DCI 4K: 23.98p, 24p, 25p 29.97p, 50p, 59.94p. FHD: 23.98p, 24p, 25p, 29.97p, 50p, 59.94p. External: 4:2:2 10-bit HD up to 120fps/12-bit Raw
Film Simulations: Provia, Velvia, Astia, Classic Chrome, Reala Ace, Pro Neg Hi, Pro Neg Std, Classic Neg, Nostalgic Neg, Eterna, Eterna Bleach Bypass, Acros with no filter, yellow, red and green filters, Black & white with no filter, yellow, red and green filters, Sepia
Gammas: F-Log, F-Log2
Recording limit: 50 mins in 4K
IP streaming: No
Connectivity: HDMI Type D, USB-C 10Gbps, 3.5mm headphone and microphone sockets, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth
Stabilisation: Video only
Audio: Microphone direction setting
Dimensions (wxhxd): 111.9×66.6x38mm/4.4×2.6×1.5in
Weight: 355g/0.78lb