Fujifilm just announced the 26.1-megapixel X-T4, a highly anticipated update to 2018’s X-T3. The X-T4 sports significant improvements in autofocus, video, and shutter durability, but the headline feature is 6.5-stop IBIS (the previous X-T3 does not have in-body image stabilization at all, so this is a major upgrade). The camera will ship in Spring 2020 for $1,699 body only.
Here’s a list of the X-T4’s major new features:
- 6.5-stop IBIS (versus none on the X-T3)
- 15 FPS with the mechanical shutter (versus 11)
- Phase detect AF down to -6 EV (versus -3 EV)
- 240 fps video at 1080p (versus 120 fps)
- Better face/eye AF and tracking capabilities and improved AF algorithm
- New eco battery mode, up to 600 shots per charge (compared to 390 on X-T3 and 500 on X-T4 in standard mode)
- New film simulation options
- Higher-resolution rear LCD (1.62 vs 1.04 million dots) with new tilt-flip design rather than dual-axis tilt
- Dual SD card video recording
- 300,000 vs 150,000 shot shutter life, and slightly quieter mechanical shutter
One of the biggest things that didn’t change is the 26.1-megapixel sensor, one of the best (if not the best) APS-C camera sensor on the market.
If you are a landscape, studio, or architecture photographer – anyone who mainly shoots stationary subjects from a tripod – I would take a really close look at the previous X-T3 before spending the extra money on the X-T4. Most of the improvements on the new camera are related to handheld photography (IBIS), fast action shots (autofocus and frame rate improvements), and video.
Video users will appreciate the ability to record simultaneously to both cards. The option for 240 fps video in 1080p resolution is also a very interesting specification, and not something many competing cameras on the market can match. While it’s true that the X-T4 isn’t primarily geared toward dedicated videographers (certainly not when compared to some Panasonic or Blackmagic cameras at a similar price), video shooters certainly won’t be disappointed by it.
To me, IBIS is the biggest new feature on the X-T4, and something that a lot of travel and portrait photographers will find invaluable. Fuji claims it provides 6.5 stops of stabilization with 18 of 29 current XF / XC lenses, and does so with a lighter weight magnetic rather than a spring-based system.
The Fuji X-T4 will cost $1,699 and weigh 607 g / 1.34 lbs (including SD and battery). It will begin to ship in the spring of this year.
All in all, this looks like an exciting camera release to me, albeit one whose improvements may not matter as much if you shoot primarily still photos from a tripod. (Not that this is a bad camera for those needs, but that the X-T3 should more than cover your requirements already.)
For travel photography, portraiture, or action photography, however, this looks like a well-thought-out update to an already excellent camera.
Fujifilm Promotional Videos
Below is Fuji’s press release on the X-T4.
Official Press Release
INTRODUCING THE FUJIFILM X-T4: CRAFTED FOR THE MODERN IMAGE-MAKER
Valhalla, New York – February 26, 2020 – FUJIFILM North America Corporation is proud to announce the launch of the FUJIFILM X-T4 (hereinafter “X-T4”), a flagship model of the X Series family of mirrorless digital cameras.The X-T4 is an astounding imaging tool, packing a newly designed IBIS, a quiet new shutter unit, a new vari-angle LCD screen, a new Eterna Bleach Bypass Film Simulation, and a new, large-capacity, battery all into a compact and lightweight camera body. This camera is the perfect tool for today’s image makers and is an ideal multi-functional solution for visual storytellers to use in creating their stories.
More information about the key features of X-T4:Designed for Quality and Speed
Fujifilm’s state-of-the-art X-Trans CMOS 4 sensor and X-Processor 4 combination sits at this camera’s core, pairing this exceptional, 26.1MP, back-side illuminated sensor with a powerful quad-core CPU to produce images with wide dynamic range and incredible image quality, doing so with lightning-fast processing and precision AF performance, right down to -6EV.IBIS Puts Stability in the User’s Hands
A huge part of creating great photos or videos is being in the right place at the right time – and that often means making handheld images to get to the heart of the action. X-T4’s five-axis In-Body Image Stabilization (IBIS) provides up to 6.5 stops1 of image stabilization to make sure that, even in the midst of all the excitement, images remain steady and sharp. Combine this with the new four-axis Digital Image Stabilizer, and there’s lots of room to maneuver.Steady, Reliable Performance
For any serious image maker, having a tool that can be relied upon to perform flawlessly whenever it is required is extremely important. For this reason, X-T4 features a newly developed mechanical shutter that is the fastest and most robust in the history of the X Series. Not only can it make 26.1 Megapixel images at 15 frames per second, but it is also rated for 300,000 actuations. Combined with its larger capacity battery that is capable of up to 600 frames per charge2, X-T4 has the power and the durability to give users the peace of mind that they’ll never miss the perfect opportunity.Find the Best Angle for the Story
When chasing the perfect image, versatility is key. The 1.62 million pixel vari-angle touchscreen LCD featured on X-T4 can be adjusted to make it visible from a wide range of positions. This not only provides a high-quality monitor to frame with, but also provides quick and simple controls when they’re needed most. On the flip side, there are times when it’s necessary to minimize the light and distractions that a screen can create. That’s why X-T4’s LCD has been designed to easily fold away so it is completely hidden from view, leaving the updated 3.69 million pixel/100fps electronic viewfinder to focus on the moment at hand.When a Story Needs Movement
The modern image maker is blurring the lines between photography and videography, and X-T4 has been designed to celebrate this new generation of hybrid creativity. With the simple flick of a switch, movie mode is activated, meaning X-T4 is capable of recording both professional-level DCI 4K/60p and Full HD/240p super slow-motion video. It is also possible to record F-Log footage in 10-bit color, straight to the card. What’s more, the innovative AF-C subject tracking works in low-light conditions down to -6EV and the camera’s use of a new, high capacity battery lets content creators push their creative limits.Powerful Image Manipulation Made Easy
For over 86 years, FUJIFILM Corporation has produced photographic films that have been used by some of the world’s best-known moviemakers to create some of the world’s most successful movies. This legendary reputation in color science is celebrated with the company’s hugely popular selection of film simulation modes, which digitize some of the industry’s most iconic films and puts them right at hand. X-T4 introduces ETERNA Bleach Bypass, the newest addition to the much-loved collection of Film Simulation modes available in the X Series product line, which creates a beautiful de- saturated, high-contrast look that image-makers will find irresistible.X-T4 will be available in both black and silver and is expected to be available for sale in Spring 2020 at a manufacturer’s suggested retail price of $1,699.95 USD and $2,199.99 CAD.