We have been to the Italian presentation of Fujifilm X-S20, in this preview article we present our first impressions of a perfect hybrid mirrorless for those involved in vlogging
We were at the official launch of the new FUJIFILM X-S20 a compact hybrid mirrorless designed for shots, videos and perfect for those involved in vlogging. A launch that came as a surprise and was accompanied by an event in Milan at the Sheraton Diana Majestic Hotel in Porta Venezia, with a large internal courtyard, totally surrounded by greenery complete with a small lake and fountain. A perfect location to test the new X-S20, not only for the place, but also for its neighborhood, full of movement and which is well suited for a “street” reportage. This because the new X-series mirrorless winks at those involved in vlogging, both for profession and for pleasure and therefore this allowed us to try it right at the opera, around the Porta Venezia district and within the chosen location.
Technical characteristics | Fujifilm X-S20 preview and first impressions
The Fujifilm X-S20 is a 26.1 megapixels APS-C (1.5x) sensor mirrorless camera produced since 2023. The sensitivity range, including range, is 80 – 51200 ISO and it can shoot bursts of 20 FPS x 79 RAW, 256 JPEGs. The detailed specifications are as follows:
- Sensor Format: APS-C, 23.5 x 15.7 mm
- Resolution: 26.1 Mpx
- ISO sensitivity: 160-12800 (80-51200 including extension)
- Formati file: Raw, JPG425
- Shutter speed: 900″- 1/32000
- Exposure Compensation: +/- 5 stops, 1/3 stop steps
- Exposure Mode: M, S, A, P, Scene
- Metering types: Multi-Area, Semi-Spot, Spot
- Mount: Fujifilm X
- Stabilization: Yes
- Autofocus (n. aree AF): Hybrid, con phase detection (425)
- Live View: Si
- Dustproof: Yes
- Video mode: 6k @ 30fps
- Wi-Fi: Yes
- GPS: No
- USB: Si, Type-C 3.2
- Touchscreen: Si
- Display: 3.0″, 1.62 million dots 900×600 pixels
- Viewfinder: Electronic, 100% coverage, 1024 x 768 dots, 0.93x
- Built-in Flash: Yes
- Memory: SD, SDHC, SDXC (UHS-II)
- Shutter: Electronic and Mechanical
- Batteria: Li-Ion. Fujifilm NP-W235
Machine body | Fujifilm X-S20 preview and first impressions
After the “revolution” called X-S10, we got to try the evolution of this series and that is Fujifilm X-S20. In line with this, the new X-S20 is very similar to the previous X-S10 and we immediately notice it precisely from the layout of the body, however we change the dimensions of the body, in particular of the handle which has grown. Indeed, on X-S20 we have the NP-W235 battery which is more powerful than that of the previous model and doubles its autonomy. There remains the very important possibility of charging the battery in the camera and also directly charging the camera via USB, a fundamental feature for continuing to take photos and filming without having to interrupt shooting for recharging. Despite the slightly larger dimensions of the X-S10 the ergonomics are always excellent and in perfect FUJIFILM style: a mirrorless with an excellent handle, light and well portable. Indeed, we could say that it is a more comfortable product to hold and more balanced with important optics than the S10. Its structure, mainly composed of plastic, could give a less solid feeling to the machine, but at the same time it also makes it more suitable for its vlogging function by virtue of a lower weight than its competitors. A fair compromise, from our point of view, regarding the scope of use of the S20.
Due to its vocation as a camera for V-Log, we find a fully articulated LCD screen, as we had seen on the X-S10, which we found very comfortable especially in videos moving around the neighborhood, even when there was a lot of light that could have disturbed the vision of the same. The tropicalization of the machine body is missing, so it is necessary to pay attention during travel in certain atmospheric conditions, after all we are talking about a mid-range. Buttons and dials totally maintain the setting of X-S10, so the very good setting of this series remains unchanged, with everything at hand and easy to access. Obsessive, as always, the attention to detail especially with regard to the positioning of the most frequently used buttons. Improved the on/off and shutter button compared to X-S10 which is very good since it was one of the few weaknesses of that body.
High Performance Autofocus | Fujifilm X-S20 preview and first impressions
Autofocus, imported from X-H2s and X-T5, features AI with Deep Learning technology. This intrigued us, especially in understanding if it was at the level of its older sisters, and for this reason we put it to the test with a tour of the neighborhood where we took some street photography shots hunting for moving subjects. The response has been excellent: it automatically tracks the subject keeping it in focus, allowing you to concentrate on the shot and it has no problems even locking on. Not satisfied we repeated also try in video mode; the answer is always quality. We were very surprised by the new AUTO mode, which not only tracks the subject, but it also follows its movement, without ever losing focus. The response of the five-axis stabilization is also good, which although we did not put it to the test on large shooting movements during a quick test like ours, proved to be very performing in shooting moving and walking subjects, as well as with rapid scene transitions. Definitely a step further than the X-S20. All this is made possible by the new X-Processor 5 processor which manages to give new life to the Fujifilm mid-range even with the same sensor as the previous model.
Field Trials | Fujifilm X-S20 preview
As already mentioned, our test field was the street, i.e. the neighborhood, full of moving people and cars from the roadside, therefore a good test for a camera dedicated to vlogging. And from our test we can confirm its vocation: the Autofocus mode with AI allows us to have fun without thinking about focusing, but focusing on what we see and how we want to frame it. Also very interesting are the Fujifilm film simulations found on the classic dial and which offer different choices in monochrome, which are perfect for street photography shots. There are also the most classic cinematographic films and even neutral ones, with faithful image reproduction to reality, which however move away from the needs of storytelling for those who want to use the images directly for social media without post-production. In addition to the photos, we also briefly tested the 6k video department and the articulated LCD screen, which is very useful for movement, especially in very bright conditions. Nothing new but certainly a decisive step forward for the S series, which increasingly responds to the needs of the street photographer. Not satisfied, we also wanted to test the comfort of the body in still life also trying to get as close as possible to the subject and exploiting the macro capabilities of the lens under test, the 18-55 f/2.8-4. Here too, the yield is satisfactory with good image quality and good focus even in close-up shots.
Conclusions
We didn’t have the opportunity to delve into the characteristics of this machine much, but in the time available we got an idea of its potential. X-S10 is very similar to the S10, but represents an evolution in every point. Net of the lack of weather sealing, a sensor unchanged from the past, the S20 is not overshadowed even by the top range X-T5, proving to be up to its older sister in many points. Very specialized in V-logging, the X-S20 is also a great travel bodyI. Ease of use, speed of response to commands and featherweight make it possible to concentrate on the journey, on the emotions experienced and have excellent shots that reflect them. promoted? Definitely yes for now. It deserves an in-depth study, to better grasp all the new features, but it fits very well in the market. Although the introductory price is high in absolute value, 1,429.99 euros, it represents a total evolution of the progenitor and is appreciated precisely for its proximity to higher-end bodies. It could also be an excellent second body for professional use as well as a valid travel companion. We reserve the right to reveal this in the context of a possible review, while you continue to follow us on the pages of TechGameWorld.com to get the latest news on the world of photography!