Fujifilm X-E1 previewed: A sleeker X-mount mirrorless that won’t break the bank

 

 

Though they still have "film" in their name, Fujifilm has attracted a lot of attention with their cameras over the last two years by giving enthusiasts exactly what they want: Cool-looking, rangefinder-like cameras with great image quality.

The latest model in the X line, called the Fujifilm X-E1, leaves out the rather elaborate hybrid optical/electronic viewfinder in favor of a simpler OLED electronic viewfinder. One of the key goals with this omission is to make a lower-priced model that's not just easier to afford, but also easier to use. Fujifilm also reduced the body size and lowered the weight, but left most of the rest of the design unchanged, using the same 16-megapixel X-Trans CMOS sensor, the same X-Mount lens, and essentially the same set of well-placed controls. As you can see in the shot above right, Fujifilm also added a small pop-up flash.

Expected to ship in November 2012 for essentially US$1,000 body-only, the Fujifilm X-E1 will come in a two-tone black and silver design (harking back to the X100 with its silver top deck and black body) and an all black design. The new X-E1 will also ship as a kit with a new XF 18-55mm lens for US$1,400.

 

 

If you're thrilled at the prospect of a smaller, lighter, more affordable Fujifilm X-mount camera, what are you waiting for? Read our hands-on Fujifilm X-E1 preview!