ET review: Fujifilm FinePix X20

NEW DELHI: Retro style cameras are in and Fuji is making the biggest push in this area. The recently reviewed X100s earned top honours from us for superb performance. However, the price does put it out of reach for everyone except avid enthusiasts and professionals.


The new X20 is more affordable but still retains the retro charm. It's available in allblack and a (nicer looking, in our opinion) black-silver.

The X20 has a 12MP sensor, 28 - 112mm manual zoom Fujinon lens, built in optical image stabilisation, 1cm macro mode, full HD video recording at 60fps, a super-fast , hybrid autofocus system, RAW shooting support, a 2.8-inch LCD (4,60,000 dots), film simulation mode, built in 360 panorama mode, electronic level, full manual control and a burst mode of 12fps (at full 12MP resolution).

In a head-to-head comparison, these features put the X20 ahead of any entry or mid-level DSLR kit. It makes a very strong case for itself if you don't need to change lenses. It may not have the APS-C size CMOS sensor found in digital SLRs, but it still does have a 2/3-inch X-Trans CMOS II sensor - larger than most compact cameras.
Price: Rs 39,999
It also has an optical viewfinder with a new Digital Trans Panel - the viewfinder zooms along with the lens, but it also shows you vital information like shutter speed, aperture , mode and focus lock. Performance is excellent in any condition.

The X20 delivers sharp and bright images with virtually no lag. Video quality is excellent too, with the hybrid AF taking care of focus. Finally, there are various modes and filters (toy camera, selective colour, low light, miniature, soft focus and so on) If you're considering buying a DSLR but are put off by size and heft, the X20 is a great alternative.

Sony's NEX-5 R offers better performance, interchangeable lenses and a larger sensor, but at the cost of the great retro design.