The first Fujifilm X-T30 was released in 2019 and was designed to be a “light” version of the Fujifilm X-T3. It included some of the same characteristics as the Fujifilm X-T3, but it had a more consumer- or travel-friendly body.
The X-T30 II is a relatively small increase from its predecessor, the X-T30, which was already a capable camera. However, given the quality of the earlier model, this should not come as much of a surprise.
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If you already own the X-T30, there is probably little point in upgrading; however, if you’re looking for a good all-rounder that doesn’t make too much of a dent in your wallet, and fits neatly into your bag for everyday and travel use, then it’s worth considering; in addition, the fact that it’s a treat to look at is a nice bonus as well.
Since 2019, Fujifilm has also gone through a bit of a reorganization in its product catalog, removing some of its more fundamental camera models and leaving the X-T30 II as its most user-friendly choice for novice photographers.
But it doesn’t mean that you don’t get some fantastic specs for your money, and in many respects, it’s a camera comparable to the superb Fujifilm X-S10, so that’s not bad.
You also receive high-end capabilities like uncropped 4K video and 20fps shooting with the X-T30 II, which can be increased to 30fps if you are willing to apply a crop. The X-T30 II has an APS-C sensor with 26.1 megapixels and is housed within the camera’s body. In addition, there is a plethora of film emulation settings, a rock-solid autofocus setup, and controls that may be customized.
Fujifilm X-T30 II Design
Because Fujifilm has used the same chassis for the X-T30 II as it did for the model that came before it, there are no surprises to report, whether positive or negative. You will thus receive a body with a throwback design, which, in our opinion, looks particularly appealing in the black and silver finish; alternatively, an all-black version of this product is also available.
There are a variety of dials and controls spread throughout the top and back of the camera, as is typical of Fujifilm models. Additionally, the camera offers many different configurations to choose from. However, beginners shouldn’t be discouraged since an excellent Auto mode can also be used. This mode allows you to disregard as many knobs and buttons as you like, so it’s perfect for anyone starting off.
There are three dials on the camera’s top plate: one for the shutter speed, one for exposure correction, and one for the drive mode. If you’re using a lens that doesn’t have an aperture ring (like the 15-45mm lens that comes with the kit), you may make adjustments to the aperture by using one of the dual-control knobs on the front and back of the camera. Several of Fujifilm’s lenses include aperture rings. A switch is located on the front of the camera and may be used to change the focus mode.
Fujifilm X-T30 II Features & Performance
It is reasonable to say that Fujifilm hasn’t done much more than adjust the original X-T30 for the Mark II generation. However, when you’re working with some very outstanding features in the first place, that’s not always a negative thing. One helpful illustration of this is the same 26.2MP APS-C X-Trans CMOS sensor. It is impossible to find a sensor superior to this one, as it is now Fujifilm’s top-of-the-line model and can also be found in its more expensive cameras.
When employing the mechanical shutter, the X-T30 II can achieve a continuous shooting rate of up to 8 frames per second. If, on the other hand, you are content to use the electronic shutter, you have the choice to record at 20 frames per second or 30 frames per second with a 1.25x crop factor applied.
This makes the X-T30 II a good choice for people who enjoy taking pictures of constantly moving subjects, despite the fact that the buffer is relatively small. It only allows you to take 26 JPEGs or 17 raw files at 30 frames per second (fps) or 32 JPEGs or 17 raw files in 20 fps mode before you have to take a short break; as a result, it is best if you can anticipate at least roughly when some action will be
Fujifilm X-T30 II Image & Video Quality
Regarding the picture and video quality, we weren’t expecting any surprises because we’ve already seen the sensor used in the X-T30 II in several cameras. This is almost certainly the most excellent APS-C sensor that can be purchased right now, which means that you can practically count on having high picture quality.
Fujifilm has won many admirers for how their cameras manage color. As anticipated, your photos get vibrant tones and colors with a Fujifilm camera. The JPEG photographs taken straight from the camera look amazing, but the raw files provide a lot of leeways for you to change the settings any way you see appropriate.
When shooting in the primary film simulation mode, you will get pleasingly realistic colors, and the rendering of skin tones will be good. The many different film simulation modes offer a lot of creative potentials and are a lot of fun to experiment with. The X-T30 II adds two additional simulations to its repertoire: Classic Negative and ETERNA Bleach Bypass, bringing the total number of simulations available up to 18. When you initially unbox the camera, you must experiment with all the modes to get a sense of which ones you prefer using the most.
The video is of good quality, demonstrating a high level of detail. However, because the camera does not have image stabilization built into the body, it is not ideal for use while shooting handheld; instead, you will need to rely on the stabilization features of the lens or discharge from a somewhat solid surface. It works well enough for the occasional video clip, but if you’re looking for a camera with much potential, you’d be better off searching elsewhere.
You may end up with photographs with more noise when shooting in low light with less than the full-frame sensor. This is one of the sensor’s downsides. There is noticeable noise beginning to creep in after ISO 6400, but it is not overly objectionable, so we are treated to pretty clean images around that setting. After that, noise begins to creep in, but it is not highly offensive. How often you like to shoot in shallow lighting is something to think about.
Fujifilm X-T30 II Specs
| Body type | SLR-style mirrorless |
|---|---|
| Max resolution | 6240 x 4160 |
| Image ratio w:h | 1:1, 3:2, 16:9 |
| Effective pixels | 26 megapixels |
| Sensor size | APS-C (23.5 x 15.6 mm) |
| Sensor type | BSI-CMOS |
| Processor | X-Processor 4 |
| ISO | Auto, 160-12800 (expands to 80-51200) |
| Boosted ISO (minimum) | 80 |
| Boosted ISO (maximum) | 51200 |
| White balance presets | 7 |
| Custom white balance | Yes (3 slots) |
| Image stabilization | No |
| Uncompressed format | RAW |
| JPEG quality levels | Fine, normal |
| Autofocus | Contrast Detect (sensor)Phase DetectMulti-areaCenterSelective single-pointTrackingSingleContinuousTouchFace DetectionLive View |
| Manual focus | Yes |
| Number of focus points | 425 |
| Lens mount | Fujifilm X |
| Focal length multiplier | 1.5× |
| Articulated LCD | Tilting |
| Screen size | 3″ |
| Screen dots | 1,040,000 |
| Touch screen | Yes |
| Screen type | TFT LCD |
| Live view | Yes |
| Viewfinder type | Electronic |
| Viewfinder coverage | 100% |
| Viewfinder magnification | 0.93× (0.62× 35mm equiv.) |
| Viewfinder resolution | 2,360,000 |
| Minimum shutter speed | 900 sec |
| Maximum shutter speed | 1/4000 sec |
| Maximum shutter speed (electronic) | 1/32000 sec |
| Aperture priority | Yes |
| Shutter priority | Yes |
| Manual exposure mode | Yes |
| Subject / scene modes | Yes |
| Built-in flash | Yes |
| Flash range | 5.00 m (at ISO 100) |
| External flash | Yes (via hot shoe) |
| Flash modes | Auto, on, slow sync, manual, commander |
| Continuous drive | 30.0 fps |
| Self-timer | Yes |
| Metering modes | MultiCenter-weightedAverageSpot |
| Exposure compensation | ±5 (at 1/3 EV steps) |
| AE Bracketing | ±5 (2, 3, 5, 7 frames at 1/3 EV, 1/2 EV, 2/3 EV, 1 EV, 2 EV steps) |
| WB Bracketing | Yes |
| Format | MPEG-4, H.264 |
| Modes | 4096 x 2160 @ 30p / 200 Mbps, MOV, H.264, Linear PCM4096 x 2160 @ 25p / 200 Mbps, MOV, H.264, Linear PCM4096 x 2160 @ 24p / 200 Mbps, MOV, H.264, Linear PCM4096 x 2160 @ 23.98p / 200 Mbps, MOV, H.264, Linear PCM3840 x 2160 @ 30p / 200 Mbps, MOV, H.264, Linear PCM3840 x 2160 @ 25p / 200 Mbps, MOV, H.264, Linear PCM3840 x 2160 @ 24p / 200 Mbps, MOV, H.264, Linear PCM3840 x 2160 @ 23.98p / 200 Mbps, MOV, H.264, Linear PCM1920 x 1080 @ 120p / 200 Mbps, MOV, H.264, Linear PCM1920 x 1080 @ 60p / 200 Mbps, MOV, H.264, Linear PCM1920 x 1080 @ 50p / 200 Mbps, MOV, H.264, Linear PCM1920 x 1080 @ 30p / 200 Mbps, MOV, H.264, Linear PCM1920 x 1080 @ 25p / 200 Mbps, MOV, H.264, Linear PCM1920 x 1080 @ 24p / 200 Mbps, MOV, H.264, Linear PCM1920 x 1080 @ 23.98p / 200 Mbps, MOV, H.264, Linear PCM |
| Microphone | Stereo |
| Speaker | Mono |
| Storage types | SD/SDHC/SDXC card (UHS-I supported) |
| USB | USB 3.2 Gen 1 (5 GBit/sec) |
| USB charging | Yes |
| HDMI | Yes (micro-HDMI) |
| Microphone port | Yes |
| Headphone port | No |
| Wireless | Built-In |
| Wireless notes | 802.11b/g/n + Bluetooth 4.2 |
| Remote control | Yes (via wired remote or smartphone) |
| Environmentally sealed | No |
| Battery | Battery Pack |
| Battery description | NP-W126S lithium-ion battery & Charger |
| Battery Life (CIPA) | 380 |
| Weight (inc. batteries) | 383 g (0.84 lb / 13.51 oz) |
| Dimensions | 118 x 83 x 47 mm (4.65 x 3.27 x 1.85″) |
| Orientation sensor | Yes |
| Timelapse recording | Yes |
| GPS | None |
Fujifilm X-T30 II Verdict
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The Fujifilm X-T30 II is a camera that has a lot of positive qualities going for it. Even though it is just a somewhat significant improvement over its predecessor, it is a great camera that falls into the middle price bracket and is ideal for travel and general photography.
It packs a significant punch by having a fantastic sensor, a unique AF system, and good video specifications. You should consider upgrading higher up the line if you already own the original X-T30 or if you have somewhat larger money available to invest.
