Fuji X-M5 vs Sony ZV-E10 II: A Deep Dive and Personal Shootout

Hey everyone, it's Joe here, and today we're going head-to-head with the Fuji X-M5 and the Sony ZV-E10 II. These two cameras have been battling it out in my camera bag for the past few weeks, and I'm ready to share all the juicy details.

Now, this wasn't an easy comparison. At first glance, they seem pretty similar. Both rock a 26-megapixel sensor, both lack in-body image stabilization (IBIS), and both have those handy flip-out touchscreens. But trust me, there are some major differences lurking beneath the surface.

I also made a Youtube Video on this comparison, so you can check it out after you read this blog post.

The Color Conundrum 

One of the biggest things I wanted to explore was color science. Fuji has a legendary reputation for its film simulations and unique color profiles, even though it uses Sony sensors. So, I put it to the test. I set up both cameras side-by-side, using the same lens, settings, and composition, and snapped a photo of a vibrant sunset.

The result? Jaw-droppingly different. The Fuji, with its standard profile, delivered those warm, nostalgic tones I've come to love. The Sony, on the other hand, leaned towards a more modern, punchy look. It was fascinating to see how two cameras with the same sensor could produce such distinct results.

But here's where things got really interesting. When I switched both cameras to their log profiles, the images became nearly indistinguishable. I even applied my trusty Sony log conversion LUT to the Fuji footage, and it was still incredibly close. This was a game-changer! It means these cameras could be a killer A-cam/B-cam combo for video work, as long as you're comfortable shooting in log.

A Tour of the Cameras 

Before we proceed, let's break down what we'll be covering today. I've tested these cameras, testing everything from sharpness and autofocus to low-light performance and video capabilities. We'll even delve into some macro shots, green screen work, and how they handle tricky backlit situations. Oh, and I'll share my personal experiences and quirks I discovered along the way.

Price Point 

Let's talk dollars and cents. The Fuji X-M5 costs $799, while the Sony ZV-E10 II costs $999. Interestingly, the price difference shrinks if you opt for the kit lenses. I actually recommend that route; the kit lenses are surprisingly good, and you'll save some cash in the long run.

For this shootout, I also used a couple of my favorite Viltrox lenses: the 23mm f1.4 for everyday shooting and the 13mm f1.4 for landscapes and low-light situations.

Feeling the Difference: Form Factor 

One of the most obvious differences between these cameras is how they feel in your hand. The X-M5 has that retro rangefinder vibe, which I adore. It's compact and lightweight, perfect for slipping into a jacket pocket. But, and this is a big but, the grip is tiny. I have fairly average-sized hands, and I found myself needing to use two hands to operate the camera comfortably. If you're considering the X-M5, I'd definitely recommend investing in a cage to improve the grip.

The Sony ZV-E10 II, on the other hand, feels much more substantial. Its larger and more ergonomic grip makes it a joy to hold, even with heavier lenses. Although it's definitely bulkier than the X-M5, that extra size translates to a more secure and comfortable shooting experience.

Image Quality: A Mixed Bag 

Both cameras can shoot 4K video, but the Fuji X-M5 has a secret weapon: 6K open gate recording. This is a huge plus for video enthusiasts who want that extra resolution and flexibility in post-production.

However, I did notice some quirks with the X-M5's image quality, particularly in low light. When shooting with the wide-angle lens, I saw a noticeable color shift in the shadows, especially in the skies. It had a kind of magenta/purplish tint that threw off the overall color balance.

However, as I mentioned earlier, shooting in log mode seemed to level the playing field. After I applied my usual color grading process, the images from both cameras looked remarkably similar.

User Experience: Autofocus, Stabilization, and More 

When it comes to autofocus, the Sony ZV-E10 II takes the crown. It's snappy and accurate, even in challenging lighting conditions. The X-M5's autofocus was a bit slower and struggled more in low light.

The ZV-E10 II also excels in stabilization. Both cameras offer digital stabilization, but Sony's implementation is more effective. Of course, for truly smooth footage, you'll want to use a gimbal with either camera.

One area where the Fuji X-M5 shines is its mechanical shutter, which is sadly missing from the ZV-E10 II. A mechanical shutter helps avoid rolling shutter distortion, allows for higher flash sync speeds, and eliminates the risk of electronic artifacts. If you're a photography enthusiast, this could be a deal-breaker.

The Quirks and Frustrations 

No camera is perfect, and these two are no exception. Here are a few things that irked me:

•  X-M5's Button Placement: Some of the buttons on the X-M5 are awkwardly placed, especially the Q button, which is nestled between two dials, making it difficult to press.
•  ZV-E10 II's Lack of a Front Dial: I really missed having a front dial on the ZV-E10 II. It would have made adjusting settings on the fly much quicker and more intuitive.
•  Overheating: Both cameras have small bodies, which can cause them to overheat if you record for extended periods. The X-M5 has a 4K Long Play mode that helps mitigate this, but it comes with a slight crop.
•  Flimsy Port Flaps: Both cameras have annoying rubbery port flaps that feel like they're going to break at any moment. This is a minor gripe, but it’s still frustrating.

The Verdict 

So, which camera comes out on top? It really depends on your priorities.

Choose the Sony ZV-E10 II if: 

•  You need fast and reliable autofocus.
•  You want better video stabilization.
•  You prioritize ergonomics and a comfortable grip.

Choose the Fuji X-M5 if: 

•  You love the Fuji film simulations and color science.
•  You want the option of 6K open gate recording.
•  You need a mechanical shutter for photography.

Ultimately, both cameras can produce fantastic images and videos. It all depends on your personal preferences and shooting style.

I hope this in-depth comparison has helped you make a more informed decision. Also, be sure to check out the sample footage and LUTs I've linked in the description.

Happy shooting!