As big fans of Fujifilm’s X-E1 mirrorless, how well does the
cheaper X-A1 fare?
We loved the image quality on Fujifilm’s X-1Pro mirrorless
camera, while the retro-metal body of the X-E1 definitely tugged at our
heart-strings. Both though were expensive (bodies only $224 & $144 respectively),
and in a country still worshipping at the altar of DSLRs, they certainly didn’t
set the market alight.
Fujifilm X-A1
Enter the new 16 MP X-A1 that now retails for a more
affordable $112. For your bucks you do get a solid offering, albeit a more
plastic version than the X-E1 (pretty much the same as the $144 X-M1 which we
did not test).
Missing from the X-A1 is an optical viewfinder, while the
aperture adjustment is not directly on the lens anymore either. The X-A1 also
doesn’t use the same X-Trans CMOS sensor as the M1/E1, instead opting for the more
conventional Bayer color filter array as found on other cameras. Important to
note is that it’s an APS-C sized sensor, as found in bigger DSLRs, and that
image quality certainly cannot be faulted.
Some added benefits
The X-E1 offers a
host of functionality, including a custom setting and Wi-Fi.
For easy adjustment of your speed/aperture and exposure
compensation, Fujifilm provides two dials at the back of the camera within easy
reach of your thumb. Also included is a programmable Fn button (we set it to AE
Lock), and one Custom setting that makes it possible to save your personal
preferences for taking portraits, for example. Although this provides
versatility for those with some photography experience under the hood, Fujifilm
certainly did not forget about the amateurs. This since an SR AUTO mode is
include that can identify up to 54 scene types, adjusting the camera
accordingly. Finally, we were surprised to find Wi-Fi onboard, a feature not
usually featured on entry-level SLRs. With this you can automatically download
pics to your PC, while you can also send images to smartphones/tablets if you
install the Fujifilm camera application (unfortunately you can’t remotely
trigger your camera).
Top,
Fujifilm X-A1
To the point
The Fujifilm X-A1 is still smaller and lighter than the
smallest DSLR (Canon’s 100D) while offering a host of functionality, including
a custom setting and Wi-Fi. At $112 it makes for a compelling offering, coming
with a 16-50mm kit lens that is slightly wider than usual.
