Preview posted 01/14/2016 by Michael Palmer
Full review posted 05/03/2016 by Kyle Schurman

Quick Take

Pros

Very good image quality versus similarly priced peers Noise is not noticeable up to ISO 6400, resulting in good low light image quality Can shoot in RAW or JPEG image format (or both) Fast autofocus system Well constructed build for a mirrorless camera Retro inspired design yields great looking camera Viewfinder and LCD screen are very sharp Plenty of special effect options, including cool film simulation features Fast performing camera Competitive price point More than two dozen X mount lenses can be purchased

Cons

Not enough differences/upgrades from previous X-E2 model (when it has the firmware update) No touch screen makes Q menu feature a little less useful LCD screen does not tilt Lack of mode dial can make X-E2S confusing to use initially LCD's neutral/default brightness setting isn't quite bright enough for using in sunlight (can select from 11 brightness settings) At 16-megapixels, X-E2S doesn't quite offer the resolution of peer mirrorless cameras RAW image format is limited to ISO 6400 Menus aren't organized as well as they could be

Bottom Line

The Fujifilm X-E2S is an interesting camera, in that it offers a retro design with plenty of buttons and dials, while maintaining advanced features. It's also a relatively thin model for an advanced camera, as it has a mirrorless design, allowing it to be smaller than comparable entry-level DSLRs. The X-E2S has a good price point, excellent image quality, and a great mix of automatic features and manual control features. Its electronic viewfinder is of an outstanding quality. There's no mode dial, which may confuse those new to this model for a while, but it won't take you long to get a handle on this camera's operation. The biggest problem with this camera is its lack of upgrades from the X-E2 from a couple of years ago. It's definitely worth comparing prices on both models to find the best deal, as the differences between the two aren't noticeable. Read more in our Full Conclusion.

Fujifilm has announced a new premium rangefinder mirrorless camera for its X-Series line, the X-E2S. With a very similar specs list to its predecessor, the X-E2, this durable, yet compact camera offers a 16.3-megapixel APS-C X-trans CMOS II image sensor with Full 1080p HD video recording capability, a Real-Time (electronic) Viewfinder with the world's shortest display lag time (0.005 seconds), an advanced Fast AF (autofocus) system with multiple modes engaging 49-77 AF points, an extended ISO range (up to 51200), and built-in Wi-Fi for wireless printing as well as for turning your iOS or Android device into a remote control / external display.

Time-lapse fans will also enjoy the built-in interval timer. Add in a number of creative filters and film simulation modes, shooters can evoke photographic styles of the film era. And there's even a pop-up flash to boot.

FUJIFILM X-E2S Features

• 16.3MP APS-C X-Trans CMOS II image sensor
• Real-Time Viewfinder
• 0.06 second Fast AF
• 0.5 second start-up time
• 0.05 second shutter time lag
• 0.5 second shooting interval
• 3.0" LCD display (1,040K dots)
• Full 1080p HD video 1080p at 36Mbps
• 60fps, 50fps, 30fps, 25fps, and 24fps
  
• Advanced creative filters
• 49-point Single Point AF mode
• 77-point Zone & Wide/Tracking AF modes
• ISO 100 - 51200 (extended)
• 1/32,000 max shutter (electronic & silent)
• CLASSIC CHROME Film Simulation
• Advanced creative filters
• Interval timer
• 1 second to 24 hours
• up to 999 frames
• 2 command dials
• 7 customizable Fn (function) buttons
• Auto Mode Switch
• Super Intelligent pop-up flash
• Built-in Wi-Fi
• FUJIFILM Camera Remote app
• Wireless Communication function
• INSTAX Share App (iOS and Android)

Optional X-E2S Accessories

• Hand Grip

The FUJIFILM X-E2S (body only) is available with a $699.95 MSRP. The kit version, which includes a FUJINON XF18-55mmF2.8-4 R LM OIS lens will set you back $999.95. See our best price box at the top right of this page to see current online pricing.

Also, if you happen to own the previous generation X-E2, you're getting a firmware update in February (2016) that will give you many of the same features as the new X-E2S, including an updated autofocus system, improved performance, and a new graphical user interface. For a complete list of what will change, click HERE.