The X-M1 is one of
Fujifilm's smallest and lightest CSCs and is designed to target a wider
audience than previous models.
The X-M1 comes in
brown, black and silver options
The Fujifilm X-M1 is equipped with the manufacturer's own
16.3MP APS-C X-Trans CMOS sensor, which is also used in the X-Pro 1 and X-E1.
The chip is teamed up with Fujifilm's latest EXR Processor II and produces a
sensitivity range of 200-6400. This can be expanded to an equivalent of 100-
25,600, however this is for JPEG only.
A quick glance at the body reveals it does away with a
viewfinder altogether, instead relying on the 3in, 3:2 aspect ratio 920k-dot vari-angle screen at the rear. Unlike a host of its
competitors, there's no touchscreen functionality and without an option to plug
in an external EVF, the screen is always relied on for compositional purposes.
The X-M1 is also the first X-Series camera to sport Wi-fi
functionality, and combined with the free downloadable Fujifilm Camera App, it
allows you to connect to your smartphone or tablet. However, unlike some other Wi-fi enabled CSCs we've seen recently, it's not possible
to remotely control the X-M1 from any mobile device.
The X-M1 sports a 49-point AF system, just as we've seen on
other X-series cameras, with manual focusing offering Focus Peaking, which
works by highlighting the area in focus with a high-contrast outline. This is
particularly useful for macro and close-up photography.
Fujifilm X-M1 with
16-50mm lens
Users upgrading from a point-and- shoot compact will also
appreciate the host of auto shooting modes, though it is slightly disappointing
to see the panoramic mode hasn't been carried across from other X-Series
cameras. It's also worth noting there are 12 optics available at present in
Fujifilm's X-series, though the manufacturer says more are in the pipeline.
The X-M1 may appear to be constructed from metal but the top
and base plates are actually plastic. You shouldn't be put off though as the
textured synthetic leather grip and the relatively shallow but comfortable
handgrip doesn't disappoint.
It's a shame you have to forgo the luxury of being able to
tap the area of the screen where you'd like to focus, but it's simple enough to
use the four-way d-pad to toggle through the 49 AF points, which are laid out
in a 7x7 grid formation.
The X-M1's auto white balance delivers neutral results in
most situations, with Standard (Provia mode)
producing results that are perhaps a little cool. If you want more punch the Velvia film mode produces richer and deeper colours.
Battery life is
rated at 350 shots according to Fujifilm / CIPA test results
The 256-zone metering system is a consistent performer and
there are two expanded dynamic range settings, referred to as DR200 and DR400
that retain more detail information in highlights and shadow areas when
shooting high-contrast scenes.
The X-Trans sensor and lack of anti-aliasing filter mean the
level of detail is impressive, with our test chart revealing it can resolve
down to a very strong 26 lines per mm (lpmm) at its
base ISO of 200. Minimal image noise disrupts quality at ISO 3200 and 6400.
Verdict
The X-M1 excels in three key areas over its closest rivals,
these being style, feel and results. The beautiful image quality the X-M1's
X-Trans CMOS sensor delivers is a premium worth paying for, but unlike rival
models it does lack a touchscreen and viewfinder. It's also a tad pricey for the
features it offers when compared with designs from its competitors.
Key specs ·
Sensor: 16MP (APS-C) ·
File formats: Raw, JPEG, Raw + JPEG ·
Shutter speeds: 30-1/4000sec, Bulb ·
ISO: 200-6400 (exp.to ISO 100 and 25,600
equivalents) ·
Exposure modes: Auto, Advanced SR Auto, PASM ·
Drive modes: Single, Continuous, Self-timer ·
Movie mode: 1920 x1080 (30p) DISPLAY 3in
tilt-angle, 920k dot ·
Viewfinder: No ·
Built-in flash: GN 7 at ISO 200 ·
AF points: 49 ·
Memory card: SD, SDHC, SDXC ·
Power: Rechargeable Li-ion ·
Dimensions: 116.9 x 66.5 x 39mm ·
Weight: 350g (including battery and card) Best for ·
Auto shooting modes will appeal to those
upgrading from a point-and-shoot ·
Impressive resolution of detail ·
Macro photography Alternatives ·
Sony Alpha NEX-6 $1,326.88 ·
Panasonic Lumix GX7
$1,492.74 ·
Olympus OM-D E-M5 $1,907.39 Pros ·
Excellent results from the X-Trans sensor ·
Styling ·
Build quality ·
Consistent metering system ·
Auto shooting modes Cons ·
No touchscreen ·
Price ·
Lack of connection for an optional viewfinder ·
No panoramic mode ·
Range of optics
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