Fujifilm X100VI too expensive? Small, affordable X-M5 could be on its way
With the hit Fujifilm X100VI still proving hard to find, many aspiring photographers are looking for a compact camera that’s just as small and ideally a lot cheaper. Well, it looks like Fujifilm is gearing up to launch an intriguing new model that largely fits that bill, according to new rumors.
A new message from the reliable Fuji Rumors Fujifilm Inc. has predicted that a new Fujifilm X-M5 will arrive in “the second half of 2024,” according to its “reliable sources.” And if the new model follows the usual stylings of the XM series, it will be a compact entry-level camera with interchangeable lenses and no electronic viewfinder.
These X-M5 rumors come as a bit of a surprise, considering the sole model in the series to date – the Fujifilm X-M1 – launched back in June 2013. But now that camera trends have come full circle and demand for small, digital cameras with Film Simulations and accessible price tags is on the rise again, an X-M5 could make sense.
There are no rumors yet on specs, but we can make some educated guesses based on the X-M1. That camera was Fujifilm’s smallest and lightest X-series model, with an even smaller footprint than today’s popular X100VI (which measures 117x67x39mm). That’s without a lens, of course, but there are now plenty of compact primes that you can pair with an X-M5.
Like the X100VI and XE series, Fujifilm’s XM series typically features APS-C sensors, which are larger than those found in the best camera phones but slightly smaller than those found in the best full-frame cameras. An X-M5 model would likely have an X-trans sensor, like the 26MP one in the Fujifilm X-E4. Where that model would likely differ would be the lack of an electronic viewfinder (EVF), with the X-M5 likely having a tilting or fully articulating screen.
So while the X100VI is a different proposition with its fixed lens, hybrid viewfinder and undeniable style, an X-M5 might tempt those wanting something similarly compact, more affordable and versatile with the option of interchangeable lenses. Back in 2013, the X-M1 launched for just $799 / £679 / AU$999 including a kit lens.
A ‘design classic’
A large part of the Fujifilm X100VI’s appeal is the film camera’s style and build quality. And while an X-M5 would likely unseat the latter for a lower price tag, it would likely have its own appeal too – with our Fujifilm X-M1 review calling it a “design classic” that “combines classic retro looks with everything you need for excellent photos, and an extremely useful tilting screen”.
Clearly, a lot has changed in the last decade, but an updated XM series could make sense in the current climate. Compact cameras are enjoying a resurgence – and while the XM series doesn’t really qualify as a genre due to its interchangeable lens nature, it does combine a travel-friendly design with a similar retro style to the X100VI.
The XM series was left behind as Fujifilm quickly followed up with the Fujifilm X-A1 which took over as the entry-level camera. We were big fans of the more recent Fujifilm X-A7, but that has seemingly been sidelined in favor of the Fujifilm X-T50 – so an X-M5 could be on the way as an alternative to the latter, albeit without a viewfinder and with a much lower price tag.
On paper, this could be a new contender for our guide to the best entry-level cameras, or perhaps a nice second camera for owners of larger models like the Fujifilm X-T5.
