Fujifilm X-T5 expectations: When will we see it, and what will it look like?

Fujifilm’s X-T series of cameras are adored by millions of photographers worldwide thanks to their vintage looks and modern performance; however, there’s much more riding on the Fujifilm X-T5 than previous generations of the camera.

The Fujifilm X-H2S and the upcoming Fujifilm X-H2 put creators into a tizzy when they were announced in May. The Fujifilm X-H2S is a speedy powerhouse that packs a 26.1-megapixel stacked sensor with lightning-fast readout speeds and many video recording modes. These specs make it ideal for videographers and certain photographers.

The X-H2, on the other hand, won’t feature a stacked sensor. Still, it will feature a 40-megapixel back-side illuminated APS-C sensor geared more toward photographers needing high-resolution capabilities. So, with the X-H2S and X-H2 being flagship cameras for Fujifilm, where does this leave the X-T series? What exactly can we expect to see in the Fujifilm X-T5? Let’s talk about that.

Fujifilm X-T5 — What to expect

Before we dive into the Fujifilm X-T5, let me be clear by saying that everything written here is pure speculation as Fujifilm hasn’t released any concrete information about the Fujifilm X-T5. However, based on previous releases, I think I can come up with a pretty good guess as to what we can expect to see.

The X-T line from Fujifilm has never featured the company’s flagship cameras. Instead, Fujifilm themselves describe the X-T line as their mid-tier offerings. So, forget any expectations you might have had about the X-T5 being on par with the cameras from the X-H line. There will, of course, be some similarities, but the Fujifilm X-T5 will be nerfed in some way, shape or form. So, let’s break down what to expect.

Fujiflm X-T5 — Form factor

I don’t expect a radical departure from the vintage-inspired stylings of previous X-T cameras like the X-T4. The retro look and feel are what have charmed millions of photographers. While the X-H2S features a PSAM wheel (which Fujifilm fans loathe), I expect the Fujifilm X-T5 to retain all of the physical controls for shutter speed, ISO control, and exposure compensation. I will be shocked if Fujifilm deviates from the vintage style we know and love.

Perhaps the biggest question about the form factor will be if Fujifilm keeps the fully articulating screen that made its way into the X-T4 or if they will revert to a tilting LCD. We recently talked about both here. With the X-T5 being a middle-ground camera trying to appeal to everyone, I wouldn’t be surprised to see the fully articulating screen return. I expect the X-T5 will not look much different from the X-T4. The dial on the front which selects your focusing mode will likely be removed but otherwise, expect the Fujifilm X-T5 to look just like other cameras in the X-T series.

Tech specs

While the Fujifilm X-T5 will be the company’s mid-tier offering, it should still pack some impressive specs. The number one question will be, what sensor will it use? This is a tricky one. I could see Fujifilm using the 40-megapixel non-stacked sensor from the X-H2, or I can see them using a new 5th generation 26.1-megapixel non-stacked BSI X-Trans sensor.

The Fujifilm X-T5 won’t feature the stacked 26.1-megapixel sensor from the X-H2S. However, using the 40-megapixel sensor from the X-H2 could hamper sales of that product line. So I’m going to go out on a limb and say I think the Fujifilm X-T5 will use a yet-to-be-announced 5th generation 26.1-megapixel X-Trans sensor.

I fully expect the X-T5 to feature IBIS. I also hope there will be an improved 5.76m dot EVF. Still, realistically, it will likely be the same 3.69m dot EVF from the X-T4. For card slots, dual UHS-II capabilities should be plenty as there will be fewer video codecs that require the fast data recording that CFexpress provides.

I still expect the X-T5 to retain weather-sealing. The autofocus system should be similar to the 425-point offering from the X-H2S with enhancements such as AI object tracking. I also think there will be a less substantial list of video codecs. Improved battery life will also be welcomed, as will a refreshed menu system and more film simulations.

When to expect the Fujifilm X-T5

I wouldn’t expect to hear anything about the Fujifilm X-T5 from official channels until January or February 2023. The release date, I expect, will be in March 2023. Fujifilm will want to maximize the sales of the X-H2S and the X-H2 before bringing another well-respected camera series to market.

As far as pricing goes, the X-H2S has a price of $2,499. The X-H2 has not been priced, but I expect it to be roughly $2,199. The Fujifilm X-T series has always launched at prices between $1,500-$1,700. With the market being the way it is right now, I would not be shocked to see the Fujifilm X-T5 with a price between $1,799-$1,899. If there is one thing for sure, the hype around the Fujifilm X-T5 will be huge.

So, what do you want to see in the Fujifilm X-T5? Let us know in the comment section below.