Table of Contents
When it came out in 2019, the original Fujifilm X-T30 was meant to be a “lite” version of the Fujifilm X-T3. It had many of the same specs as the X-T3, but it was smaller and easier to carry around. In 2022, the X-T30 II isn’t much better than the original camera, but that’s probably not a surprise since the original camera was so good. If you already have the X-T30, there’s probably not much reason to upgrade.
However, if you’re looking for a good all-arounder that won’t break the bank and fits easily into your bag for everyday and travel use, it’s worth thinking about. The fact that it looks great is an added bonus. Since 2019, Fujifilm has also changed up its lineup a bit, getting rid of some of its more basic models. The X-T30 II is now the most beginner-friendly model in its lineup.
Fujifilm X-T30 II SPECIFICATIONS
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Sensor Type | 26.1-megapixel APS-C X-Trans CMOS 4 sensor |
| Image Processor | X-Processor 4 |
| ISO Range | 160-12800 (expandable to 80-51200) |
| Autofocus System | 425-point phase detection autofocus system |
| Continuous Shooting | Up to 8 frames per second |
| Video Recording | 4K/30p and Full HD/120p video recording |
| LCD Monitor | 3.0-inch tilting touchscreen LCD monitor |
| Battery Life | Up to 380 shots per charge |
| Weight | 383 grams (body only) |
Fujifilm X-T30 II review: Design
Fujifilm gave the X-T30 II the same body as its predecessor, so there are no surprises here, for better or for worse. This means that the body has a retro look. We think the black and silver finish looks especially nice, but you can also get an all-black model.
As is typical for Fujifilm cameras, there are a lot of dials and buttons on the top and back of the camera, and there are a lot of ways to change the way it works. Beginners shouldn’t be scared away, though, because the camera has a good Auto mode that lets you ignore as many of the dials and buttons as you want. You can buy this camera from its official website.
Fujifilm X-T30 II review: Controls
The X-T30 II’s top-plate also has four other controls. The On/Off switch surrounds the small but responsive shutter release button, and there is a thread for a traditional mechanical cable release. The small Fn button is next to it. By default, it gives you quick access to the Wi-Fi settings, but you can change it to 12 different settings to suit your needs.
Fujifilm X-T30 II review: Performance
The X-T30 II has a very quick autofocus, and it uses the same improved autofocus algorithms as the much more expensive (and now discontinued) X-T4. The sensor is faster and more sensitive to light than its predecessor, the X-T30. However, when shooting handheld indoors, we did notice that noise increased quite a bit.
We put the X-T30 II through its paces at night to see how well it would work for astro shots. Even though it doesn’t say it’s an astrophotography camera, we were pleased with how much detail we could see on the moon even when we were shooting handheld (when zoomed in as we were using an 18-55mm lens).
Fujifilm X-T30 II review: Image Quality
All of the sample photos in this review were taken with the Fine JPEG setting at 26 megapixels, which makes the average image size about 10Mb. The Fujifilm X-T30 II took pictures that were of very high quality.
It takes JPEG pictures with no noise from ISO 80 all the way up to ISO 6400. There is a little noise at ISO 12800, and the noise is more noticeable at ISO 25600 and 51200, which is amazing for a camera with an APS-C sensor. The RAW files were also very good.
Fujifilm X-T30 II review: Price and Availability
The Fujifilm X-T30 II was announced in October 2021, and you could buy just the body for $899, £749, or AU$1,585. Most people will buy it with either the 15-45mm kit lens or the 18-55mm kit lens, which raises the price. The cheaper 15-45mm lens isn’t as good, but it may be a good choice for travelers who want something small and lightweight.
The X-T30 II and the 15-45mm can be bought together for $999, £849, or AU$1,694. If you can afford it and have room in your bag, you should get the higher-quality 18-55mm lens. At $1,299, £1,099, or AU $2,099 for the whole kit, it’s still a good deal and gives you more options.
Final Words
The Fujifilm X-T30 II is a good camera for taking pictures on a trip. It has a small, light body that feels well-made and makes it easy to take with you. JPEG photos look great right out of the camera because there isn’t much noise and the colors are nice.
Even though it has a lot of physical dials and buttons that make it easy to change settings on the fly, its small size can make it feel a bit crowded. It also has a short battery life, but you can use it while it’s charging via USB.
Fujifilm X-T30 II Ratings
Fujifilm X-T30 II review: THE GOOD AND THE BAD
The Good
- Up to 30fps capture with tracking focus
- Fully formed lens system
The Bad
- Undersized viewfinder
FAQS
Is Fujifilm X-T30 II a good camera?
The Fujifilm X-T30 II is good for taking pictures of sports and animals. It has a fairly fast maximum burst rate for catching moving subjects, and if you shoot in JPEG, it has a very large photo buffer. But its RAW photo buffer is much smaller, and once it’s full, it takes a long time to empty.
How long can Fujifilm X-T30 II record?
The Fujifilm X-T30 II can record videos for up to 30 minutes at a time, but only in certain formats. This limit also depends on things like the camera settings, the size of the memory card, the power of the camera, and the temperature inside the camera.
Is the Fujifilm X-T30 II weatherproof?
The device is resistant to dust and water. Devices that are water-resistant can stop strong water jets from getting in, but they can’t be submerged in water.