Fujifilm X-A3 Review

With the X-A3, Fujifilm again offers an entry-level model: No X-Trans CMOS sensor

With the X-A3, Fujifilm’s mirrorless X-System focuses on beginners who like to make selfies. The compact system camera is equipped with a 180-degree swivelling screen for self-portraits, an eye-detection autofocus and portrait optimization. In contrast to the higher-quality X-system cameras, the buyer also has to do without the X-Trans technology typical of Fujifilm; the X-A3 comes with an ordinary CMOS sensor with a normal Bayer color filter hanging in front of its 24 megapixels.

The new Fujifilm X-A3 comes with a partially aluminium case and high-quality imitation leather applications. [Photo: Fujifilm]

According to Fujifilm, the X-A3 should above all combine helpful, uncomplicated functions with a chic retro design, whereby the pink color version can’t necessarily be called a retro, whereas the brown and black ones are more like it. The 24 megapixel CMOS sensor in APS-C size was newly developed according to Fujifilm. According to a survey of users of the predecessor model X-A2, personal photos represent approx. 40 percent of all typical motifs. The LC display, which can be swivelled upwards by 180 degrees, is also designed to take this circumstance into account, as it simplifies self-portraits. The screen not only folds up, it also slides up so that the image is completely visible. The eye-detection autofocus, i.e. the eye autofocus, is automatically activated by flipping it up. Portrait Optimization offers three adjustment levels that can be selected directly via the touchscreen. Another new addition is a skin tone brightening, which is intended to lift self-portraits to a new level. Especially in Japan and some other Asian countries, a light “porcelain skin” is considered the ideal of beauty.

The touch functions of the screen are based on the operation familiar from smartphones. In addition to touch autofocus, there is also a touch trigger and you can even zoom in with familiar gestures. According to Fujifilm, this should be possible even with fixed focal lengths, whereby the zoom then works purely digitally. This should also apply to zoom lenses, because we don’t know of any Fujifilm motorized zoom lenses yet. Further optimizations for selfies include the ergonomically adapted handle and the possibility of triggering via the steering wheel on the back of the camera. The self-timer also has smile detection, a buddy timer and a group timer. The latter two only trigger when the corresponding number of persons in the image is recognized.

According to Fujifilm, the classic retro design of the X-A3 is particularly popular with the younger generation, who are just finding retro fashionable (or still do, the trend has been around for some years). Both the upper cover and the front panel as well as the upper selection wheels are made of aluminium. The newly developed artificial leather is supposed to give the X-A3 first-class features. The Fujifilm is even equipped with two dials to adjust exposure time and aperture separately. On board are eleven film simulation modes from Fujifilm such as Provia, Velvia, Classic Chrome or Pro Neg-Hi and Pro Neg.Std. Furthermore, the image look can be refined with ten creative filters such as pinhole camera, miniature, dynamic color depth, soft focus and many others.

If you don’t like the silver version of the Fujifilm X-A3, which is actually silver-black, you can also use the brown camera. Technically, it is identical, for example with the 24 megapixel APS-C sensor. [Photo: Fujifilm]

If you like it a little more shrill, you can go for the pink Fujifilm X-A3. Thanks to WLAN, the X-A3 can be controlled remotely and partly pictures with smartphones, tablets and even PCs. [Photo: Fujifilm]

The rear touchscreen of the Fujifilm X-A3 can be folded up 180 degrees, the eye autofocus is then automatically activated. In addition, there are special self-portrait timers and a digital skin optimization. [Photo: Fujifilm]

The improved battery performance, which makes 410 CIPA-standard shots possible, is pleasing. Usually in this class are about 300 shots. In addition, the USB charging function allows the battery to be recharged at any time, even when travelling in the car or at the power bank. The Fujifilm X-A3 records videos in maximum Full HD resolution with up to 60 frames per second, and even a 5-axis image stabilizer is available. Depending on the mode, 49 or 77 AF points are also available, and the Fujifilm also offers a tracking autofocus (AF-C), of course not only for videos.

In addition, the Fujifilm X-A3 has a built-in WLAN. This allows photos to be transferred to smartphones or even PCs, but remote control via app including live image transmission is also possible. The Fujifilm X-A3 is to be launched on the market in September 2016 at a price of just under 650 euros. The set lens Fujinon XC 16-50 mm F3.5-5.6 OIS II belongs to the scope of delivery, no matter if you choose the silver (silver-black), the brown (silver-brown) or the pink (silver-pink) camera.

Firmware update 2.21 for the Fujifilm X-A3

Fujifilm has released new firmware version 2.21 for the X-A3 entry-level system camera. This improves not only the autofocus performance, but also the image quality when using the Portrait Enhancer. In addition, the Advanced SR Auto mode is enhanced with the Night (Tripod) Capture function. The update can be installed by the photographer himself, Fujifilm makes it available on its support website, including instructions in English. If you need help with the update, please contact the Fujifilm support or your dealer.

Fujifilm X-A3 Datasheet