Fujifilm X-T30 III Silver

Overall, this is a good camera. However, the camera has to suit you. I also notice that the kit lens is of lower quality than the one included with the Fuji XM5 (same price range, but with a few differences regarding the flip-out screen, buttons, and viewfinder/flash). Unfortunately, the photos I take with the XT30III are often less beautiful than those taken with my previous Fuji XM5. This is likely really due to the different kit lenses.

I also notice that the beautiful photos on social media were probably NOT taken with the XT30III's kit lens. Honestly, the difference in practice is likely comparable to, or even worse than, that of a "better" compact camera, because the kit lens simply does not deliver the expected quality and sharpness. (However, the kit lens is actually better than the one on the Sony ZV-E10 that I also owned, so relatively speaking, it isn't all that dramatic)

I also find that on the Fuji XM5, the exposure is easier to adjust with the dial on the back that can turn "endlessly" and where you see the "exposure" on the screen. With this XT30III, you have to turn a dial on top. Details, but in hindsight, the XM5 was more pleasant to use (except for the flip-out screen).

Perhaps someone else sees this differently.

The autofocus of the Fujifilm XT30III is unfortunately really substandard. The camera recognizes objects, and you can easily select one point for AF with the joystick. Yet, when photographing my dog or cat, I still often see the animal appearing out of focus. It's a shame, because when the dog or cat is in focus, the photo is really good.

Fujifilm's "recipes" are amazing. My favorite is the recipe that is set by default under FS1. This is customizable.

The battery doesn't last long, but I think literally every camera has this. However, I genuinely think it's great that this device can be charged via USB-C, meaning you could also charge it with an external power bank while traveling.

It is still a good camera, but one where, in hindsight, I think: I would have preferred a different one. Especially in this price range.

Points for improvement for a successor:

• A screen that can tilt upwards so you can use it for a selfie. Otherwise, the screen on the XT30iii is top-notch.

• A better iPhone app, especially with the remote control. The X app doesn't always work well, the remote control often doesn't work at all, and there are no good alternatives.

• A better kit lens, or supply the camera without a lens (body only) but with advice on which lens pairs well with it.

• The autofocus really needs to be better. - The camera itself isn't very big, but making it smaller or releasing a new, smaller model that I would want to take on vacation (and that starts up faster) would be nice. Currently, I mainly use the camera at home.

When might this camera be right for you?

• If you want better photo quality than with your smartphone (and make compromises on autofocus)
• If you take photos with a lot of patience, and don't necessarily want your camera started up and ready for use within a maximum of 3 seconds. - If you want to experiment with different lenses

• If you find the side-flipping screen of the Fuji XM5 annoying, or absolutely want a built-in flash and viewfinder
• If you are certain that a "better" compact camera like the Canon G7X or Sony RX100 is not for you (spoiler alert: I suspect those often produce better results than this Fuji XT30 with kit lens)
• If you would like a recently released model (this one is from 2025; most available cameras are already from before corona!)