Despite its advances, many users see ultracompact cameras as an inferior format, already surpassed by the photographic functions of smartphones. While we have demonstrated on many occasions that this is not the case, at the same time we cannot deny that for the same price it is possible to access more flexible models. The Fujifilm X-A5 is a solid proof of this. Although it does not have a viewfinder and 4K falls short, the price-quality ratio is robust enough to catch our attention.
Fujifilm X-A5: One Shot at a Time, Without Losing Style
One of the missions of ultracompact cameras is to replace the smartphone wherever possible. Integrated lenses and the natural size of the sensors should be enough to place them a couple of steps above, but not all users believe so. In those cases, the best is to change strategy, abandon (at least for today) the ultracompact format and move to mirrorless cameras, which, to be honest, are not much more expensive.
The ability to change lenses, RAW shooting, phase detection autofocus and superior manual controls make this mirrorless a very interesting option, as long as we are willing to accept a couple of cuts along the way.
Announced originally in January 2018, the Fujifilm X-A5 features a 24.2-megapixel effective CMOS sensor. Its ISO sensitivity extends from 200 to 12,800 with a Boost in both directions of 100-51,200, while the shutter speed goes from 1/4,000 to 30 seconds (or 1/32,000 in electronic mode).
Its 3-inch screen with 1.04 million dots is touch-sensitive and tilts 180 degrees for selfie mode, but the scissors effect removed the viewfinder from the specifications, and we can only shoot using the screen. If the presence of a viewfinder is non-negotiable, you should definitely take a close look at the Fujifilm X-T100.
Fujifilm could have relaxed the autofocus a bit to optimize the price of the mirrorless even further, but it decided to maintain its hybrid system based on 91 phase detection points. At the time of its launch, the Fujifilm X-A5 suffered some autofocus performance issues, but a couple of firmware updates improved its situation, and we recommend jumping to version 2.00 as soon as possible.
Technically, the Fujifilm X-A5 is not a sports camera, so we should not expect a huge burst. Its 6 fps with a buffer of 10 frames in JPEG are basic, and slow mode reduces speed by 50 percent but extends the buffer to 50 frames. The quality of JPEG images is very good even with the 15-45 that comes in the kit, and RAW shots are not far behind.
The appearance and interface of the Fujifilm X-A5 maintain that classic profile that, besides being very pleasant to the eye, is easy to absorb. I think nobody would have complained if Fujifilm decided to eliminate the second dial, but we are glad to see it still there. There is barely one Fn button on the top, a detail offset (to some extent) with the Q quick access button.
The mode dial has a total of twelve entries: Full Auto (which Fujifilm calls SR Auto), Programmed Auto "P", Shutter Priority "S", Aperture Priority "A", Manual "M", Panorama, Advanced Filter "Adv.", Special Scenes "SP", and four scenes with direct shortcut (Face Smoothing, Landscape, Sports, Night). The manual has a little over 200 pages, but its format and a good Spanish translation make it very easy to follow.
Unfortunately, video recording is where the Fujifilm X-A5 loses some ground. The reason is simple: its 4K mode works at 15 frames per second, a framerate that is unacceptable these days. Nothing stops you from experimenting with it for a while, but from a practical point of view we need at least 24 fps.
Fortunately, its 1080p60 works wonders, and it is ideal for vlogging with the flipped screen, although you won't be able to use the hot shoe in that position. Recording time limits were very strict at first (14 minutes for 1080p), however, one of the latest firmware updates raised that parameter to 30 minutes. On the connectivity side, we find WiFi n and Bluetooth Low Energy 4.1 support... but the state of its mobile app is catastrophic according to users.
Accessories for the Fujifilm X-A5
I calculate that you won't have problems finding the Fujifilm X-A5 at a price of 400 euros... and another 50 for shipping. I admit that this takes a bit of competitiveness "today", but if the complete kit that includes the 15-45 has already reached that position, it is likely that the price will continue to drop. Another even more positive aspect is that the value of its accessories remains at very reasonable levels, which will allow you to complete your setup with a small investment.
Batteries and Power
The battery of the Fujifilm X-A5 yields about 450 shots on a full charge, a number that in my opinion is not bad at all. Even so, the energy component must be as abundant as light in photography, so I recommend adding a compatible Gloxy NP-W126 battery, and a hybrid Gloxy 2-in-1 charger for home and car. Both can be yours for less than 45 euros. The battery and charger are identified by the SKU "0712006549,VDTS-4604-CH-VDTS-4242"
Tripods and Supports
The Fujifilm X-A5 weighs 361 grams with battery and memory card installed. Many users report that it feels a bit heavier than normal, and on more than one occasion (say, night shots with long exposure) it is convenient to look for some kind of support. The best tripod for the Fujifilm X-A5 that we can recommend without breaking the cost-benefit ratio is the classic Gloxy GX-T6662A, with 10 kilograms of tolerance and a maximum working height of 1.6 meters. On the other hand, if you prefer something more compact, the Clampod Takeway T2 will not disappoint you. Its revised design with legs for tripod mode, the smartphone adapter and the same strength as always make it irresistible, and it has a discount!
Backpacks and Bags
No matter how good the construction of the Fujifilm X-A5 is, the truth is that it does not have weather sealing. That means we must be a little careful in storing and transporting the mirrorless. A complete option that includes space for lenses and other accessories is the Gloxy Pro AW backpack, with padded and modifiable interior, an extra support to carry the tripod, and a waterproof outer cover. As an alternative I suggest the Delta 400a Fancier bag, more compact, with a sling style design, front pocket, breathable fabric on the back, and two colors to choose from. The backpack and bag are identified by the SKU "GloxyPRO,Fancier400a"
Flash
The Fujifilm X-A5 comes with a small built-in flash, and for casual shots it should be enough, but if there are times when the environment does not help, it is a good idea to add something like the Meike MK-320 to your setup, which besides being quite powerful (guide number 32), does not exceed 150 grams, thus ensuring its portability.
Memory Cards and Special Kits
To finish, a small fusion between two categories that are often separated here. On one hand, the Fujifilm X-A5 needs a good memory card, and although the SanDisk Extreme Pro V30 64 gigabyte may seem a bit "overkill", for less than 30 euros it would be crazy to let it pass. On the other side, the lack of sealing reminds us that cleaning must be a priority, and for that, nothing better than the Gloxy 6-in-1 cleaning kit. From the blower to the cloths, through the liquid and the brush, your Fujifilm X-A5 will be in optimal condition.
Even paying an excessive shipping cost, the Fujifilm X-A5 falls below 500 euros, competes without fuss with the vast majority of ultracompact cameras, and the flexibility of changing lenses is an advantage we will never reject. Fortunately, Fujifilm did its homework with firmware updates, and eliminated several of its growing pains. If you want to take superior photos and don't care about the viewfinder or 4K, the Fujifilm X-A5 should be on your list. Good luck!
