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In a world where almost every person and their mum’s dog are aspiring social content creators, Fujifilm’s latest offering, the X-M5, feels like a breath of fresh air—or better yet, the camera equivalent of a triple-shot espresso. At just 357 grams, the new Fujifilm X-M5 is the lightest and most portable member of Fuji’s esteemed X-Series family. But don’t be fooled by its pocketable charm—this camera is more than just a pretty face. It’s a full-on multitasker designed for modern storytellers. It’s sleek, lightweight, and brimming with features perfect for your social feeds – but does it live up to the hype? I put it to the test recently to see what the camera can truly deliver.
Fujifilm X-M5 Key Information
| Brand | Fujifilm |
| Model | X-M5 |
| Type | Mirrorless Digital Camera |
| Image Sensor | 23.5mm x 15.6mm (APS-C) X-Trans CMOS 4 with primary colour filter |
| Effective Pixels | 26.1 million pixels |
| Image Processing Engine | X-Processor 5 |
| Battery | NP-W126S Li-ion battery (included) |
| Battery Life | Approx. 440 frames in Economy Mode |
| Weight | 357 grams |
| Price | AUD$1,399 for body only / AUD$1,599 with XC 15-45mm lens kit |
Made for Creators
If you’re a long-time fan of Fujifilm like me, you probably know the X-Series for its sleek design, great image quality, and those signature Film Simulations. The X-M5 stays true to that ethos but takes it a step further by catering specifically to digital content creators. At just 357 grams, it’s the lightest camera in Fujifilm’s lineup—a true blessing for travel photographers, vloggers, and social media enthusiasts.
From the moment you pick it up, it’s clear this isn’t your average camera. The 9:16 vertical mode and Vlog Mode are dead giveaways that Fujifilm has been paying attention to the demands of creators who shoot more for TikTok and Insta Reels than for gallery walls. Whether you’re vlogging your brunch or capturing a dramatic slow-mo coffee pour, this camera makes the process seamless—and dare I say, fun.
Fujifilm X-M5 Design: Minimalist & Modern
The X-M5 feels like the love child of Fujifilm’s retro charm and modern minimalist aesthetic. It’s small enough to slip into a jacket pocket but still sturdy enough to feel like a serious piece of kit. The intuitive touchscreen, paired with a Film Simulation Dial, adds a tactile element that bridges the gap between analog nostalgia and digital convenience.
However, the lack of an electronic viewfinder might put off traditional photographers. Personally, I didn’t miss it much. With a camera this lightweight and geared toward social shooting, you’ll find yourself relying on the touchscreen for most of your framing and adjustments anyway.
Fujifilm X-M5 Comparison
I’ve been a X100 series fan-boy for years, so naturally I was curious how the X-M5 would compare. The X100 series is all about simplicity—a fixed lens, a hybrid viewfinder, and an emphasis on pure photography. The X-M5, on the other hand, is like its younger, trendier sibling. It trades the nostalgic charm of the X100 for sheer practicality and modern features.
For someone like me, who still loves the tactile shooting experience of the X100, the X-M5 felt like a departure—but in the best way. It’s not trying to replace the X100; it’s carving out its own space as the go-to tool for creators who need flexibility and speed without compromising on quality.
What’s Missing?
No camera is perfect, and the X-M5 is no exception. The biggest omission is the lack of in-body image stabilisation (IBIS), which might frustrate those with shaky hands. That said, its featherweight build makes it a great match for gimbals, so the absence of IBIS isn’t a dealbreaker. The lack of an electronic viewfinder might also be a pain point for some, but it’s obvious that Fujifilm designed this camera with a screen-first workflow in mind.
Fujifilm X-M5 Pricing Australia
At AUD$1,399 for the body only or AUD$1,599 with the XC 15-45mm lens, the Fujifilm X-M5 is the sweet spot for anyone ready to level up their content. It’s a step above your phone camera—perfect for sharper Instagram pics and videos that actually looks like you know what you’re doing—but it doesn’t dive headfirst into the intimidating world of professional-level gear.
Should You Buy the Fujifilm X-M5?
If you’re a pro photographer or chasing top-tier features like in-body stabilisation or a hybrid viewfinder, this probably isn’t for you. But if you’re an aspiring creator, a vlogger, or someone who just wants their holiday snaps to look pretty snazzy, the X-M5 is a seriously solid pick. Lightweight, versatile, and social-friendly—it’s an easy win for the price.
