What's Fujifilms Best X-T Camera?

Are you wondering what the key differences between the Fujifilm X-T4 VS Fujifilm X-T3? Already own a Fujifilm X-T3, looking to upgrade, or wondering what the hype is over the new Fujifilm X-T4? We'll compare the specifications, benefits, and main differences between the two powerhouse cameras throughout this blog.

If you're currently an X-T4 owner and considering the upgrade, I've got you covered. Whether you are a videographer, photographer or hybrid shooter like myself, this blog will have you covered with the in's and out's, with my genuine and honest opinion. 

Finally, as an owner of both cameras, I wish to give you a real-world perspective. After using both cameras for different purposes, I advise you if the upgrades are worth it or persist with the X-T3.

What's similar?

• Sensor: 26.1MP APS-C X-Trans IV BSI CMOS
• Processor: X-Processor 4 image engine
• Base ISO: 160 to 12800
• Extended ISO: 80 and Maximum 51200
• 4K Recording: 4k @60fps, F-Log & HLG
• Electronic Shutter: 30fps burst shooting
• Connectivity: WiFi & Bluetooth
• USB Charging: USB-C (Charging & Power)
• SD Cards: Dual SD Cards (UHS-II Both)
• Mechanical Shutter: 1/8000 second
• Electronic Shutter: 1/32000 second
• Shutter Speed: 15 Minutes (Minimum T-Mode)
• EVF: 3.68M dots @ 100fps refresh rate
• Weather Sealing

Fujifilm X-T4 vs X-T3 Physical Comparison

Firstly, there is no great deal of physical difference between the two cameras. However, with the new IBIS (which I will touch on later) in the newer Fujifilm X-T4, there is a slight difference between the two bodies. Additionally, this is minor and only noticed when holding both cameras in either hand.

Secondly, it must be said that neither camera feels as good in the hand when compared to the Fujifilm X-H1. Especially when paired with those more significant lenses such as XF 50-140 & XF 100-400mm. Read a comparison between the Fujifilm X-T4 VS X-H1.

Fujifilm X-T4 Fujifilm X-T3 

Size 134.6 x 92.8 x 63.8mm 1342.5 x 92.8 x 58.8mm 

Weight 607 grams (21.4 oz) 539grams (19.0 oz) 

As you can see above, the height, width and weight have increased slightly. Although the IBIS unit is smaller than that found in the older X-H1, Fuji had to alter the IBIS and larger battery. Overall, I would say (for my needs) the extra weight and size is a great addition when weight up the additional features.

Additionally, the grip found on the X-T4 is a whisker bigger than the X-T3. Furthermore, the button dial is exceptionally similar, with AEL and Q buttons being switched. The sub-dial under the shutter speed accommodates the Video/Still mode replacing the metering mode.

Finally, the eyecup on the X-T4 has a locking system. Therefore, the fear of losing the eyecup from getting the camera in and out of the backpack is gone.

Fujifilm X-T4: 5-Axis Image Stabilisation

The most significant upgrade to the X-T line-up, the 5-axis IBIS system. Previously, the only Fujifilm camera to utilise the in-body stabilisation was the X-H1. 

Two years later, the X-T4 welcomes a 30% smaller and 20% lighter unit. As a result, the new IBIS mechanism is controlled by magnetic force, increasing and improving the structure to absorb shock. Additionally, the new system is supposedly 8 times better in detection accuracy than the 2-year-old X-H1.

Fujifilm claims that the new magnetic IBIS works up to 6.5 stops with 18 out of 29 Fujinon lenses. With the other lenses, the compensation is 5Ev.

Finally, Fuji has 2 additional internal image stabilisers. Firstly, Digital Image Stabilisation incorporates a 1.1x crop but improves the stabilisation further. Secondly, IS Boost mode, designed to replicate a stationary shot as if you're using a tripod.

The X-T3, as you already know, doesn't have any sort of stabilisation, relying heavily on the OIS lenses from Fujifilm or Gimbals.

Fujifilm Battery: NP-W235 VS NP-W126

Firstly, I've owned Fujifilm cameras since the first release of the X-T1 days. Since then, I have been screaming out for a more substantial capacity battery. Hands down, there number one huge improvement. 

NP-W235, the new battery introduced with the X-T4. How good is it compared to the NP-W126S seen in the older X-T4 line up?

• Fujifilm X-T4 NP-W235 - 2350mAh (500 shot rating)
• Fujifilm X-T3 NP-W126S - 1260 mAh (390 shot rating)
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By CIPA standards and mAh ratings, the newer NP-W235 battery gives us double the amount of capacity. Furthermore, the X-T4 has an 'economy mode' that can save even more power than older usual and boost modes.

3-Way Tilt VS Fully Articulating LCD Monitor

Line up haters... I understand everyone is entitled to their own opinion. However, this talking point can be debated for days on end, a 3-way tilt screen vs the fully articulating screen.

The X-T3 has a 3-way tilting mechanism, perfect for photographers. It can be turned by about 70˚ when working vertical orientation or simply tilting up and down.

The X-T4, however, has a fully articulating screen, perfect for hybrid shooters. Allowing for numerous possibilities, including 180˚ front-facing rotation, perfect for vloggers.

In conclusion, to simplify things after using both cameras for multiple purposes. The Fujifilm X-T3 tilt screen is perfect for photographers. However, the Fujifilm X-T4 is streets ahead with versatility, perfect for hybrid shooters, personally, who these cameras are aimed at, but more on that later...

Finally, both LCD's are touch-sensitive, allowing you to perform multiple tasks including, capturing the image, moving the focus point and allocating specific settings.

Additionally, I use this camera as a vlogging and professional camera on a gimbal - where the fully articulating screen helps enormously.

Fujifilm's BEST Video Cameras

Firstly, many of the video settings have been carried across from the already powerhouse X-T3. However, minor improvements have been altered to the X-T4 giving it that more 'professional' touch. Recording to both SD cards simultaneously and F-Log assists (allows you view F-log in Rec.709 on the LCD). 

Furthermore, you can apply the same crop throughout all your recording. Meaning the 1.29x crop on slow-motion can be used regardless of the video setting, perfect to have a constant field of view.

Please note: There is no 3.5mm headphone output on the X-T4. A USB-C adapter is required (included). Unfortunately, this doesn't allow you to be able to charge and record simultaneously.

Fujifilm X-T4 Fujifilm X-T3 

Video Resolution 4k, 1920x1080 Full HD & 720p 4k, 1920x1080 Full HD & 720p 

Video FPS 4k @ 60fps 4k @ 60fps 

Bit Rates 30fps: 400mbps 400mbps 

Bit Rate 60fps: 200mbps 200mbps 

Slow Motion 1920x1080 @ 240fps 1920x1080 @ 120fps 

Headphone Port USB-C Adapter 3.5mm Jack 

Recording Storage Both SD Cards Only 1 SD card 

F-Log Assist Yes No 

Both cameras can record 4K up to 60p and 200Mbps (1.18x crop) or 4K up to 30 and 400Mbps (no crop). You can have 10-bit 4:2:0 for internal recording and 10-bit 4:2:2 via HDMI.

What's new on the X-T4 is the maximum frame rate in Full HD, which goes up to 240fps (10x slow-motion effect). The X-T3 can do a maximum of 120fps, which is half that (5x slow-motion effect). Note that the High-Speed mode works with a 1.29x crop.

Autofocus X-T4 VS X-T3

The Fujifilm X-T4 has an improved autofocus system, reported to have a success rate two times more accurate than that of the X-T3. Introduced with its new algorithm, designed to analyse and enhanced accuracy, and colour, distance and object data focusing.

Low light sensitivity is -6Ev compared to -3Ev on the X-T3. Increased autofocus locking speed to 0.02 second and face and eye detection have the same tweaks as the X-T3.

Therefore, the Fujifilm X-T3 could improve via a firmware update, as both cameras use the same technology.

Shutter Unit & Continuous Shooting

Fujifilm X-T4 Fujifilm X-T3 

Shutter Mechanism 300,000 150,000 

Continuous Mode 15fps (AF/AE tracking) 11fps (with blackouts) 

Shutter Lag 0.035 seconds 0.051 seconds 

Electronic Shutter 20fps (No blackout) 20fps (No blackout) 

Electronic Shutter 30fps (No blackout) 30fps (No blackout) 

Fujifilm Image Simulations

Introducing a NEW film simulation model in the X-T4, Eterna Bleach Bypass, a low saturation but high contrast colour profile.

Other Minor Tweaks:

• Highlights & Shadows controlled by 1/2 stop instead of 1 stop.
• White Balance: White Priority & Ambience Priority NEW artificial light settings.
• NEW compressed RAW option.
• Tone & Clarity Curves.
• 8-bit & 16-bit TIFF export files. (RAW Converter)

Filmed ALL with the Fujifilm Cameras!

Conclusion - Fujifilm X-T4 VS X-T3

The X-T4 is my 'almost perfect' camera in many ways. The X-T3 was a considerable step closer to obtaining the "perfect Matthew camera" crown. Still, it required IBIS, a larger battery and a fully articulating screen. You don't need to be superman to work out. These issues are finally solved. 

However, this is my personal opinion to suit my requirements. Are you a photographer who doesn't touch the video button or is not interested in starting a YouTube channel? Therefore, I couldn't recommend the X-T4 to you as a consumer for $500 extra. As a photography camera, the X-T3 in 2020 is an absolute steal.

Finally, if you're a photographer that hates the battery life of the X-T3 and has $1799 to burn, well, congratulations. However, those hybrid shooters looking for a convincing powerhouse should give the X-T4 some serious thinking time. A small, compact and feature-packed camera at a competitive price point that's offering everything you need, then some in terms of performance to quality.

Let me know in the comments below, Fujifilm X-T4 VS X-T3, what do you prefer and why?