Imagine an imaging company that listens to its users and understands what you want in a camera. Wouldn’t that be great? Well, the Fujifilm X-S10 seems to hit all the right notes in terms of quality, affordability and functionality. It’s a camera that the people have been asking for. Whether that be for capturing moments with family or friends, your travels or your next video. The new X-S10 is a 26-megapixel silent achiever and a crowd-pleaser, even with either of the XF16mm lenses, XC15-45mm or XF16-80mm lens.
Where Does The X-S10 sit in the line of Fujifilm X-Series Cameras?
The Fujifilm X-S10 has had to bump some of the Fujifilm X Series lineup to find its place. Positioning itself above the Fujifilm X-T30, the X-S10 masquerades as an X-T4, but in a simple shell. When first looking at the camera, you will notice the ‘clean lines’ something you would typically see from a German manufacturer. However, the X-S10 compliments itself by adopting much of the Fujifilm retro styling from other models.
For example, the X-H1’s grip has undoubtedly influenced the design. While the X-T200’s flip-out screen folds away neatly on the X-S10. The ‘hidden’ flash is also inherited from the X-T20 and X-T30 adding to X-S10’s beautiful looks.
Fujifilm has thought this camera through based on the usability. For instance, vloggers and YouTubers will be happy to know that there is a dedicated microphone input that’s separate from the HDMI Micro and USB-C port. The clear advantage is with the microphone plug added to the camera it won’t interfere with the rotating, fold-out screen.
Fujifilm X-S10 Image Sensor and Stabilisation
Fujifilm is renowned for its different sensor tech, and the X-S10 is no different. Housing an impressive 26.1MP X-Trans CMOS 4 sensor you can expect the same image quality as the flagship X-T4 and X-Pro 3.
Looking inside the camera, photos and videos will be more blur-free thanks to an inbuilt 5-axis in-body image stabilisation system. Plus when you combine this with an XF lens with Image Stabilisation (IS), you are bound to gain some incredible handheld results.
What is the Video Quality of the X-S10 Like?
Like most new items when you first pull them from a box, there’s a sense of thrill. It’s the adrenaline of trying out the equipment for the first time. When you get to use the X-S10, this sense of exhilaration keeps going. For instance, if you find yourself a videocentric filmer, then the X-S10 caters in frame rate and quality. Featuring 4K video, anyone can record at the highest quality at the touch of a dedicated button. Additionally, if you require external recording to preserve the RAW video feed then 4:2:2 is an option. All you need is to plug a HDMI micro to an external recorder.
In comparison with the flagship X-T4, Fujifilm keeps you recording for longer with the X-S10. 30 minutes is now the new norm whereas previous Fujifilm owners would clock out at 20 minutes.
Why the Fujifilm X-S10 is Designed For Comfort and Control
The Fujifilm X-S10 houses a large and bright 3″ LCD screen that is touch-controlled for optimal shooting experience. Plus, the screen swings out 180 degrees on the horizontal. That way you have a better view of the screen for video or vlogging production. The new model keeps you on your toes with a vari-angle rotating screen. This is a bonus if you find yourself crouching down all the time to capture low-level shots. When folded back in against the back further enhancing the slimline design of the camera.
Much like the larger Fujifilm X-H1, the X-S10 boasts a broad and deep grip making control and support far easier. The grip allows for the largest hands to wrap their fingers right around the front of the camera. What’s more, at the rear of the camera there is ample thumb real-estate. This is thanks to the minimal use of buttons and dials. With the X-S10 firmly in your hand, you can control the scattering of rear buttons with ease. In addition to this you can master the small joy-stick to manage focus points.
Speaking of controls, Fujifilm has the user in mind with the use of customisable command dials. These dials are ideal for setting shutter speed, ISO or even aperture. The main control dial is new to Fujifilm with the inclusion of ‘Filter’ for creative applications. Further to this ‘SP’ or ‘AUTO’ for scene selection has been added for effortless shooting. There are also customisable modes that allow for unique set-ups of camera settings which are available at the twist of a dial. The Fujifilm X-S10 is a lightweight and compact camera that is a joy to shoot with and even carry for long durations. If you are looking for an everyday camera or something ideal for your next holiday, at only 465g, this is the one for you.
Use the Fujifilm X-S10 to Connect to Your Social Media
The Fujifilm X-S10 is packed full of connectivity options with both Bluetooth and Wi-Fi enabled. With this included, you can connect your camera to the Fujifilm Camera Remote app on your smart device. It will allow you to upload firmware updates directly to your camera as well as download your JPEG images to your device. With a little editing, your photos are ready to share with the world via your social media channels. What’s more, the Fujifilm Camera Remote app operates as a wireless trigger to operate your camera when shooting long exposures or group shots.
In addition to the wireless technology, the Fujifilm X-S10 has several terminals to further enhance your shooting options. For output to an external monitor or system, the camera features an HDMI micro port. Additionally, the X-S10 has a USB-C terminal making it ideal for downloading images to your computer or for charging the camera battery. The USB-C port can also take an adaptor that allows for headphones connection for video/audio monitoring. Finally, the camera features a Mic jack that is located separately to the rest of the terminals. This way, when you have flipped the LCD screen out for vlogging, the mic jack is not in the way of your view of the monitor. You can mount an external shotgun microphone to the camera hot shoe and connect without complication.
Store Your Precious Memories and Shoot Unhindered
For those that are already shooting within the Fujifilm ecosystem, you will be thrilled to know that the new Fujifilm X-S10 takes the NP-W126S rechargeable battery. It is the most common battery from Fujifilm and powers the likes of the X-T30, X-T3 and X-T200. If you travel with more than one Fujifilm camera, having the same battery for all devices means you only have to take one charger or USB-C cable to charge them.
The battery inserts into the camera via the door located on the base of the camera grip. The Fujifilm X-S10 holds a single UHS-II SD memory card to support the 4K video capabilities. The single card slot is also located in the same compartment as the battery. Having the capacity for such a high-speed card also supports the brilliant 20 fps burst using the electronic shutter and up to 8 fps with the mechanical shutter.
Why You Need this Fujifilm Camera
Well in our humble opinion, the X-S10 kit is an excellent camera combination that sits midway in the range. You should think of this camera as something that will last you a while without having to upgrade. If you are getting itchy feet to get out and about on an overseas trip once the travel restrictions lift then the X-S10 will no doubt find a spot in your travel bag. We think the Fujifilm X-S10 is also going to cater well for the new users looking to get a better camera than what they had before. However, don’t be fooled into thinking that this camera won’t deliver when it comes to quality.
For the growing number of vloggers and YouTubers, the camera is going to be a perfect tool for the job. With the ability to record either internally or externally (or as a webcam) the X-S10 is a welcome asset.
So regardless if you find yourself walking around your local streets, travelling abroad or filming things, the Fujifilm X-S10 is an ideal camera. You can get the X-S10 in a kit with either the XC15-45mm or XF16-80mm. Don’t forget to add a memory card, spare battery and case, and you will be well on your way to capturing some fantastic images and video.
