Skip to main content Digital Camera World Digital Camera World THE HOME OF DIGITAL PHOTOGRAPHY Search Digital Camera World View Profile Accessories Buying Guides The Photography & Video Show Digital Camera Australian Camera Australian ProPhoto Photography Magazines Why subscribe? Issues filled with product reviews, latest updates, expert advice and more Delivered to your Android or IOS device Every issue is packed with photo tips, kit reviews and inspiration From$12View Camera news Camera rumors Photography & Video Show Photo mag deals Cheatsheets Recommended reading Fujifilm X-E5 sample gallery: hands-on with Fujifilm's compact interchangeable lens rangefinder The Fujifilm XF 27mm f/2.8 R WR doesn’t get enough credit as a hack to DIY an X100VI Mirrorless Cameras Fujifilm’s affordable mirrorless cameras are hard to find. The Fujifilm X-S20 is an exception – and a gem of a hybrid Compact Cameras The Fujifilm XQ2 feels like a mix of the two trendiest cameras – and I think this cheap compact deserves a comeback Mirrorless Cameras The Fujifilm X-E5 price is more than 50 percent higher than the X-E4, but the features are no longer cheap either Compact Cameras The new Fujifilm X Half is weird, but it combines my favorite cameras into one retro compact Mirrorless Cameras The Fujifilm X-Pro3 is a digital camera with a film soul – and I want its strange screen to come to more cameras Digital Cameras Mirrorless Cameras The Fujifilm X-E5 seems like a more versatile X100VI — and that’s why I’m tempted Kalum Carter 17 June 2025 Fujifilm’s new X-E5 offers the soul of the X100 line with more freedom to grow When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. Here’s how it works. (Image credit: Fujifilm) Like a lot of Fujifilm fans, I’ve had the X100VI circled in my mental wishlist since the rumors first started. I’ve been shooting with the X100F for years, and the idea of a refreshed version with IBIS, that beautiful 40MP sensor, and all the classic Fujifilm charm, sounded like the perfect upgrade – but then the X-E5 came along, and now I’m not so sure. On paper, the two cameras are different beasts. The X100VI is a fixed-lens, high-end compact camera. The X-E5 is a more affordable interchangeable lens body. But spend even a little time comparing them and you start to notice the similarities; they share the same sensor, the same image engine, the same film simulations, and an almost identical size and weight. (Image credit: Fujifilm) What the Fujifilm X-E5 lacks in out-of-the-box romance, it makes up for in flexibility. Let’s be honest, the 35 mm-equivalent lens on the X100 series is great, but it’s also limiting. Yes, Fujifilm makes wide and teleconversion lenses, but they’re add-ons, not true solutions. You may like Fujifilm X-E5 sample gallery: hands-on with Fujifilm's compact interchangeable lens rangefinder The Fujifilm XF 27mm f/2.8 R WR doesn’t get enough credit as a hack to DIY an X100VI Fujifilm’s affordable mirrorless cameras are hard to find. The Fujifilm X-S20 is an exception – and a gem of a hybrid With the X-E5, you get to choose. Want a pancake prime to match the sleek X100 profile? Slap on the new Fujifilm XF 23mm f/2.8 R WR lens. Want a moody, fast portrait lens for something more cinematic? Go for the XF 56mm f/1.2. You’re not locked into one look, and that changes everything. Fujifilm X-E5 x SmallRig (Image credit: SmallRig) And then there’s the price. Even with a couple of SmallRig X-E5 accessories like the new optical viewfinder or leather half case, the X-E5 comes in at a significantly lower cost than the X100VI, with more room to grow into the Fujifilm lens ecosystem. I’m not saying the X-E5 has the cult magic of the X100VI. It doesn’t have the same viewfinder or the same buzz. But it might have more staying power. It gives you the Fujifilm feel and filmic soul, but in a body that can evolve with you, especially if you’re someone who wants one small body that can do everything from street to travel to portraits to casual video. The X100VI is still an icon, and for many, it’ll be the right choice. But if you’ve ever found yourself wishing it could just… do a little more, the X-E5 is your answer. Quietly, and without fanfare, it might just be the more versatile version of the camera everyone’s chasing. Get the Digital Camera World Newsletter The best camera deals, reviews, product advice, and unmissable photography news, direct to your inbox! Contact me with news and offers from other Future brandsReceive email from us on behalf of our trusted partners or sponsorsBy submitting your information you agree to the Terms & Conditions and Privacy Policy and are aged 16 or over. Today's best Fujifilm X-E5 andFujifilm X100VI deals Fujifilm X-E5 $1,699View See all prices Fujifilm X100VI $2,329.95View See all prices We check over 250 million products every day for the best prices you may also like Check out our guides to the best Fujifilm cameras and the best compact cameras. Kalum Carter Social Links Navigation Staff Writer Kalum is a photographer, filmmaker, creative director, and writer with over 10 years of experience in visual storytelling. With a strong focus on photography books, curation, and photo editing, he blends a deep understanding of both contemporary and historical works. Alongside his creative projects, Kalum writes about photography and filmmaking, interviewing industry professionals, showcasing emerging talent, and offering in-depth analyses of the art form. His work highlights the power of visual storytelling, fostering an appreciation for the impact of photography. You must confirm your public display name before commenting Please logout and then login again, you will then be prompted to enter your display name. Fujifilm X-E5 sample gallery: hands-on with Fujifilm's compact interchangeable lens rangefinder The Fujifilm XF 27mm f/2.8 R WR doesn’t get enough credit as a hack to DIY an X100VI Fujifilm’s affordable mirrorless cameras are hard to find. The Fujifilm X-S20 is an exception – and a gem of a hybrid The Fujifilm XQ2 feels like a mix of the two trendiest cameras – and I think this cheap compact deserves a comeback The Fujifilm X-E5 price is more than 50 percent higher than the X-E4, but the features are no longer cheap either The new Fujifilm X Half is weird, but it combines my favorite cameras into one retro compact Latest in Mirrorless Cameras Canon EOS R6 Mark II now $1,799 at B&H – Save $200 in exclusive deal Durable, compact and retro: the new OM System OM-5 Mark II hits all the trends in a camera made for the outdoors These are the best EXCLUSIVE B&H Bild deals you can't miss out on! 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