The Winner: Fujifilm X-T2
No matter which photography genre you enjoy, you will likely be happy with either the Fujifilm X-T2 or Sony A7 since both can do the job— really well! However, the Fujifilm X-T2 has almost everything that the Sony A7 has and still manages to add more features. If you wish to spend a bit more for advanced features with a few more tricks on their sleeve, then you need to pick the Fujifilm X-T2 without any doubt.
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Specifications |
Fujifilm X-T2 Mirrorless Digital Camera |
Sony A7 Full-Frame Mirrorless Digital Camera |
|---|---|---|
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Dimensions |
5.2 x 3.6 x 1.9 in.(133 x 92 x 49 mm) |
5.0 x 3.7 x 1.9 in.(127 x 94 x 48 mm) |
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Weight |
507 g |
474 g |
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Screen Size |
3 in |
3 in |
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Megapixels |
24.3 MP |
24.3 MP |
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Sensor Size |
APS-C (23.6 x 15.6 mm) |
35.8 x 23.9 mm |
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Focus Point |
325 |
117 |
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Continuous Shooting At High Resolution |
14 fps |
5 fps |
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Max ISO |
51200 ISO |
25600 ISO |
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Shutter |
1/32000 – 900 sec |
1/8000 – 30 sec |
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Max Aperture |
2.8 (kit lens) |
3.5 (kit lens) |
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Viewfinder |
EVF / LCD |
EVF / LCD |
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Wi-Fi |
Yes |
Yes |
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Battery Life |
340 shots |
340 shots |
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Waterproof |
No |
No |
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Pros |
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Cons |
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Price |
Fujifilm and Sony are two of the most popular brand names in the field of photography. So, it makes sense that they both have their own digital camera to showcase.
However, since both are reputable brands of digital cameras and it can be quite hard to decide when choosing between the two, right? Well, let us help you out— follow us as we find out which of the two digital cameras will emerge victorious in this mirror less showdown!
On the surface, the nearly 2-year-old Fujifilm X-T2 and the very first version of Sony A7 appear to have so much in common.
Other than sporting a weather-resistant body and a large electronic view finder at the center, both digital camera models integrated a 24 MP resolution and an advanced hybrid auto focus system.
However, if we dig a little bit deeper below the surface, it will soon become clear that there are some differences between the two that are worth investigating. So, let’s find out what those are now!
Fujifilm X-T2 Mirrorless Digital Camera Review
The Fujifilm X-T2 is a compact yet a professional powerhouse of the mirror less world that you can bring just about anywhere and has enough external controls to please any retro-fanatic out there.
It hovers between the pro product and enthusiast categories with performance levels and feature set that was previously available in DSLRs.
But how does the Fujifilm X-T2 differ from other mirrorless digital cameras out there? Let’s take a hard look at its strengths and weaknesses.
Key Features
- 4K Video Capture
- 3.0-inch tilt-angle screen, 1,040,000 dots
- 24.3 MP APS-C X-Trans CMOS sensor
- Dual SD Card Slot
It is no great surprise to see a 24.3 MP APS-C X-Trans CMOS sensor in the X-T2 which was first used in the X-Pro2. The latest sensor of Fujifilm with its very clever filter designed to draw out even more details in comparison to conventional designs has brought some impressive results.
The range of sensitivity runs from 200 to 12,800; still, it can be expanded to 100 to 51,200. And the good news is this extended range does not force you to shoot in JPEG only and giving new dawn to raw capture as well.
The X-T2 design has a new articulated double-jointed design. This allows the possibility to pull the digital camera’s screen outwards and away from its body when the camera is tilted on its side.
And among the Fujifilm X-series camera, the X-T2 model is the first one to shoot 4K UHD video recording and offering a bit rate of 100 Mbps at 24, 25, or 30fps. Finally, the X-T2 now sports dual SD card slots giving you more storage space than ever.
Build and Handling
- Weighs 507g
- Dust and weather-sealed
- Magnesium alloy construction
Compared to previous Fujifilm cameras, the X-T2 has a more refined designed that promises an even more polished camera. Like before, the body is crafted from magnesium alloy which provides a durable and solid feel in hand. Moreover, the body is weather-sealed at 63 points to protect the camera from moisture and dust.
You will also notice the shutter speed,and ISO dials have been slightly heightened, while the dial locks on X-T1 have been adapted which makes it possible to toggle each dial setting without releasing the lock.This should be a significant improvement and eliminates frustration when trying to change settings quickly.
The dial of exposure compensation has also been tweaked as well as providing physical adjustments. It also has a dedicated video button rather than having to browse the setting in the drive modes.
The X-T2 also has 4-way buttons which provides the benefit of a multi-directional focus lever where the thumb can rest on, for a much quicker process for selecting the desired focus area.
Other added tweaks include a slightly enlarged hand grip and rear thumb rest, locks on both the battery compartment and card cover and a larger eye cup for a more comfortable viewfinder shooting.
Auto Focus
- 5 AF-C presets plus custom choices
- Eye detection AF
- 169-point AF
One of the challenges for the most mirror less camera is the uncertainty towards AF performance. Maybe not so much for static subjects, but when it comes to moving objects, mirror less cameras can’t match the sophistication and speed of more advanced DSLR systems.
However, with the new system incorporated in the X-T2, Fujifilm does not only improve the fundamental AF performance,but it also made a huge development when it comes to subject tracking and continuous AF.
The X-T2 hybrid AF system employs both contrast-detection and phase-detection points, with 169 phases detect points that are arranged in a large square formation at the center and supplemented by 2 grids of 6×13 contrasts detect points to deliver a total of 325 focusing points through the large area of the frame.
Fujifilm overhauled the previous AF algorithm to boost accuracy while also allowing you to fine-tune how the camera will react to the way a subject moves in the frame and how fast it moves, as well as where in the frame does the camera bias for focusing.
Those 3 parameters are Tracking Sensitivity, Speed-Tracking sensitivity and Zone Area Switching. The X-T2 features 5 preset as well as a custom setting which allows you to tinker with the 3 variables yourself.
Image Quality
- +/-5 EV exposure compensation in ½ or 1/3 stop increments
- Film simulation modes
- ISO200 – 12,800, expandable up to 100 – 51,200
Given that the Fujifilm X-T2 has a 24.3MP CMOS sensor, it does a great job at resolving detail across sensitivity range, particularly when compared to APS-C rivals with similar resolutions.
Although it might have a more conservative sensitivity range, the Fuji X-T2 is pretty impressive, displaying clean results at the lower end of the ISO range. At around ISO3,200, it is possible to apply some noise reduction in the post-processing to keep it under control and still have an acceptable shot.
The X-T2’s dynamic range is very nice at lower sensitivities and offers several flexibilities to recover details during the post-processing with raw files. At higher ISO setting (ISO1,600+) things start to tail off ever slightly but are still acceptable.
Final Thoughts
Pros:
- 4K Video
- Dual card slots
- Robust weather sealing
- Very fast hybrid AF
- Superb high ISO performance
- Excellent image quality from both RAW files and JPEGs
There’s a lot to love in Fujifilm X-T2. From its robust build and weather-sealing to its awesome shooting performance and image quality, it is surely the digital camera to take you to the next level.
Cons:
- Battery life is only decent
- Precise manual focus is tricky
With the best shooting performance comes a disadvantage. Because of it, the X-T2 battery life is not that good enough since it gives its all to allow you to shoot the best qualities.
Sony A7 Full-Frame Mirrorless Digital Camera Review
Sony has introduced the A7— a mirror less digital camera with a compact body and a full-frame image sensor, yet a lot more affordable when compared to its A-series siblings.
With the release of A7, we already knew that it would be great, but we hope to give you a better understanding. So, what does the Sony A7 Full Frame Mirror less Digital Camera has to offer?
Key Features
- BionzX image processor
- Non-native lens support
- 24.3 MP Full Frame Exmor CMOS Sensor
- NFC and Wi-Fi Connectivity
Sony is no foreigner to innovation. And with its endless desire to be seen in front of consumer technology, it does not that surprising that it is one of those names that offers a compact digital camera that features a full-frame sensor.
The A7 comes with a 24.3 million pixel sensor,and along with this exciting sensor, it is also fully-equipped with a new processing engine. The Bionz X processor is up to 3 times faster than the A7 predecessors.
Also, thanks to Sony’s release of E-mount specs, a broad variety of third-party lens adapters are now available today.
Although the A7 has an E-mount, you will need to use the new FE-series lenses from Sony to fully take advantage of the cameras full frame sensor.
There are existing E-mount lenses which physically fit however they are not designed for use with the APS-C sensors,and their image circles will not cover the entire frame properly.
Furthermore, the A7 is also equipped with NFC and Wi-Fi connectivity, meaning you can share images with your tablet or smartphone in an instant or even use another device to control the camera remotely.
Build and Handling
- Composite body and sealed alloy
- Dust and weather-sealed
- Weighs 474g
Like its beefier older siblings, the A7 is an impressive machine both inside and out. With a metal construction for durability, the A7 is excellent to hold sporting a texturized grip which provides a good amount of security and surface area.
The Sony A7 is dust and weather-sealed, and although the camera is not fully waterproof, it is highly moisture resistant that should cope with rain shower without giving you anxiety problems. This digital camera sits comfortably around the neck,and if you are taking weight seriously, then the A7 is a great camera to have.
The camera’s front sports an aperture control dial on top and a lens release button. On top, there’s the hot shoe at the center, and the right has all the controls— custom button, exposure compensation dial. Shutter, on/off toggle and the mode dial.
Although your right index finger and thumb does all the dialing and moving, it is quite easy and works well.
The menu button is right there on the right part of the wonderfully bright and big viewfinder, providing an impressive amount of dial.
Then, there is a movie button right below the SD card compartment,and on the south side, there is the tripod thread and the battery compartment that did an excellent job of staying closed.
Auto Focus
- Fast Hybrid AF system
- Subject tracking AF
- Face-priority AF
- Eye detection AF
The A7 equipped with Sony’s new AF algorithm which boasts a very fast auto focusing speed. With a hybrid AF system that boasts 25 contrast-detection points and 117 phase detection points, it may not be as good as the Fujifilm X-T2.
Furthermore, the A7’s AF system is sensitive down to the only 0EV which is not particularly favorable when compared to other competitors. So, the camera might have a hard time coping in low light conditions. Regardless, its AF system is still one of the best out there.
Image Quality
- High ISO output, max. 25600 ISO
- Raw File Versatility
- Distortion Correction
Among other aspects, the Sony A7 claims fame to its stunning image quality. Taking an image at ISO1600, the Sony A7 will still produce a solid image where as other cameras would start to fall apart. And with ISO5000, noise in the picture will become apparent and there will be a good amount of warm tones.
Also, the RAW files of A7 are incredibly versatile. In a light room, you will be able to recover a good amount of info. The Raw files of A7 are not as portly as its brothers’— the A7R. However, you can easily make up for it by just being mindful of how much you are shooting.
The Sony A7 also has distortion correction feature when using E-mount lenses. It also uses a content-sensitive noise reduction system which attempts to protect areas of fine details while it applies high levels of noise reduction to smooth areas.
Final Thoughts
Pros:
- Accepts existing A- and E-mount lenses
- Excellent image quality at very high sensitivities
- Hybrid AF system is reasonably fast
- Full frame camera
- Incredibly small body
Overall, the Sony A7 is the stunning mirror less digital camera. Its small body, surprisingly, has all the features that you will need. With a fast hybrid AF system and excellent images even at high ISOs, your photographs will surely be stunning and awesome!
Cons:
- Limited selection of native Sony FE lenses
- Weak low-light AF
- Mediocre battery life when using the viewfinder
Although the Sony A7 boasts excellent image quality under high ISO possible, it does not do well with low light. And because of its E-mount, you only have several options on lenses.
Also, its not-so-good battery life can easily cut all the fun of taking photographs, especially if you are using the viewfinder.
If you like the Sony A7 Check the latest two versions A7r-III and A7III
Conclusion
In the closing of the heated battle between the two popular names for the mirror less digital camera, it is quite obvious that the Fujifilm X-T2 scores higher and emerged victoriously. Thanks to its very fast hybrid AF system and superb high ISO performance, the Fujifilm X-T2 can take and produce stunning imaging quality and outshines the Sony A7.
Although we like Fujifilm X-T2 better,if you wish to get something cheaper with almost the same advanced features and have specific requirements in mind, then Sony A7 could be a game changer, too. If not, then there is no reason not to choose the Fujifilm X-T2.
