When it comes to Fujifilm’s popular X-series mirrorless cameras, the X-T20 and X-T2 represent two of the most compelling options for enthusiasts and professionals alike. As a professional photographer who has spent countless hours shooting with both cameras, I can tell you that choosing between these two isn’t just about specifications—it’s about understanding what kind of photographer you are and what features matter most to your work. The Fujifilm X-T20 vs X-T2 debate has been ongoing since both cameras hit the market, with passionate advocates on both sides.
In this comprehensive comparison, I’ll break down every aspect of these cameras based on my personal experience in real-world shooting scenarios. Whether you’re a photography enthusiast looking to upgrade, a professional considering a backup body, or simply curious about the differences between these two popular Fujifilm models, this guide will help you make an informed decision.
A Tale of Two Fujifilm Classics
Before diving into the details, let me give you a quick overview of these cameras. The Fujifilm X-T2, released in 2016, was Fujifilm’s flagship APS-C camera at the time, featuring a robust build, advanced controls, and professional features. The Fujifilm X-T20, launched in early 2017, brought many of the X-T2’s features to a more compact and affordable package, making high-quality photography accessible to a broader audience.
I remember when both cameras were announced—the photography community was excited about the X-T2’s professional capabilities and then thrilled when the X-T20 delivered similar performance in a smaller body. As someone who has used both cameras extensively across various photography genres, I’ve discovered that each has distinct advantages that make it better suited for certain types of photographers and shooting situations.
Sensor and Image Quality
Fujifilm X-T2: Professional Performance
The Fujifilm X-T2 features a 24.3MP APS-C X-Trans CMOS III sensor that was at the top of Fujifilm’s lineup when it was released. During a landscape photography workshop in the Scottish Highlands, I was consistently impressed by the dynamic range and color depth this sensor captures. What I’ve discovered is that the X-T2’s sensor produces images with exceptional detail and rich colors that are characteristic of Fujifilm’s renowned color science.
One of the most impressive aspects of the X-T2’s sensor is its performance at higher ISOs. During a wedding reception in dim lighting, I found that I could push the ISO to 6400 and still capture clean images with minimal noise. The lack of an anti-aliasing filter means images are exceptionally sharp right out of the camera, with a clarity that’s immediately apparent even at 100% viewing.
The X-T2 also features the X-Processor Pro engine, which delivers fast performance and excellent image processing. During a fast-paced event photography assignment, I found that the camera could quickly process images and write them to the card, allowing me to shoot continuously without slowdowns.
Fujifilm X-T20: Compact Excellence
The Fujifilm X-T20 features the same 24.3MP APS-C X-Trans CMOS III sensor and X-Processor Pro engine as the X-T2, which means it delivers identical image quality. During a portrait session in my studio, I found that images from the X-T20 were indistinguishable from those captured with the X-T2 when viewed at normal sizes.
What stands out about the X-T20 is that it maintains this high level of image quality in a significantly smaller and lighter body. During a travel photography trip through Southeast Asia, I appreciated being able to carry a camera with professional-level image quality without the bulk and weight of a larger system.
Like the X-T2, the X-T20 performs exceptionally well at higher ISOs. During a night photography session in a bustling city, I was able to capture clean images at ISO 3200-6400, with impressive detail retention and color accuracy.
The Verdict on Sensor and Image Quality
Both cameras feature identical sensors and processors, which means they deliver essentially the same image quality. The Fujifilm X-T2 and X-T20 produce images with exceptional detail, rich colors, and excellent dynamic range that are characteristic of Fujifilm’s renowned color science. If image quality is your primary concern, both cameras will serve you equally well. The choice between them comes down to other factors like build quality, controls, and features rather than sensor performance.
Build Quality and Design
Fujifilm X-T2: Professional Durability
The Fujifilm X-T2 features a robust magnesium alloy body with extensive weather sealing that’s designed to withstand professional use. During a week-long landscape photography project in rainy conditions, I appreciated the weather sealing that kept the camera functioning perfectly despite the damp environment.
Weighing approximately 507g (body only, with battery and memory card), the X-T2 has a substantial feel that inspires confidence. The camera features a deep grip that provides a secure hold even with larger lenses, and the physical controls are well-placed and satisfying to use.
What I particularly appreciate about the X-T2 is its fully articulated LCD screen. During a portrait session where I needed to shoot from unusual angles, the ability to tilt and swivel the screen made composition much easier than having to contort my body to see through the viewfinder.
The X-T2 also features a dual SD card slot system, which provides peace of mind during important shoots. During a wedding photography assignment, I set up the camera to write to both cards simultaneously, ensuring I had a backup of every image.
Fujifilm X-T20: Compact and Lightweight
The Fujifilm X-T20 takes a different approach with its more compact and lightweight design. Weighing approximately 383g (body only, with battery and memory card), the X-T20 is significantly lighter than the X-T2, making it ideal for travel and everyday carry.
While the X-T20 doesn’t have the same level of weather sealing as the X-T2, it still features a solid construction with a magnesium alloy top and bottom plate. During a city photography tour, I found the camera to be durable enough for regular use, though I would be more cautious with it in challenging weather conditions.
The X-T20 features a tilting LCD screen rather than the fully articulated one on the X-T2. During a landscape photography session, I found that the tilting screen was sufficient for most situations, though I missed the flexibility of the X-T2’s fully articulated design when shooting portraits.
Unlike the X-T2, the X-T20 has a single SD card slot. During a casual photography outing, this wasn’t an issue, but for critical work where image backup is important, I found myself missing the security of the X-T2’s dual card slots.
The Verdict on Build Quality
Both cameras are well-built, but they prioritize different aspects. The Fujifilm X-T2 offers professional durability with extensive weather sealing, a more substantial feel, and features like dual SD card slots and a fully articulated screen. The Fujifilm X-T20 excels in compactness and lightweight design, making it ideal for travel and everyday use. If you frequently shoot in challenging conditions or need professional features like dual card slots, the X-T2 is the better choice. If portability is your priority, the X-T20’s compact design is hard to beat.
Autofocus Performance
Fujifilm X-T2: Advanced AF System
The Fujifilm X-T2 features an advanced autofocus system with 325 autofocus points, of which 91 are phase-detection points. During a wildlife photography session, I was impressed by how quickly and accurately the camera could track moving subjects, even in challenging lighting conditions.
What I particularly appreciate about the X-T2’s autofocus is its customizability. The camera offers various AF-C custom settings that can be fine-tuned for different types of movement. During a motorsports event, I found that adjusting these settings allowed me to maintain focus on fast-moving cars with remarkable accuracy.
The X-T2 also features improved low-light autofocus performance compared to earlier Fujifilm models. During an indoor event with dim lighting, I found that the camera could acquire focus quickly and accurately, even in situations where earlier models would have struggled.
One feature I’ve found invaluable is the X-T2’s ability to use phase-detection autofocus with adapted lenses. During a vintage lens testing session, I discovered that the camera could focus quickly and accurately with various adapted lenses, expanding my creative options significantly.
Fujifilm X-T20: Capable AF System
The Fujifilm X-T20 features the same autofocus system as the X-T2, with 325 autofocus points (91 phase-detection). During a street photography session in New York, I found that the camera could quickly acquire focus on moving subjects, allowing me to capture fleeting moments with confidence.
Like the X-T2, the X-T20 offers various AF-C custom settings that can be adjusted for different types of movement. During a portrait session with active children, I found that these settings allowed me to maintain focus on my subjects even as they moved around the set.
The X-T20 also performs well in low-light conditions. During a night photography session, I was able to acquire focus quickly even in dimly lit environments, though I did notice that it was slightly slower than the X-T2 in extremely low-light situations.
The X-T20 also supports phase-detection autofocus with adapted lenses, though I found that it was slightly less responsive than the X-T2 when using certain adapted lenses.
The Verdict on Autofocus Performance
Both cameras feature essentially the same autofocus system, with 325 autofocus points (91 phase-detection) and similar performance characteristics. The Fujifilm X-T2 has a slight edge in low-light autofocus performance and when using adapted lenses, but the difference is minimal in most shooting situations. If autofocus performance is your primary concern, both cameras will serve you equally well in most situations. The choice between them comes down to other factors rather than autofocus capabilities.
Viewfinder and Screen
Fujifilm X-T2: Professional Viewfinder
The Fujifilm X-T2 features a high-quality electronic viewfinder (EVF) with approximately 2.36 million dots and a magnification of 0.77x. During a landscape photography workshop, I found the EVF to be large, bright, and detailed, allowing me to see exactly what my final image would look like, including exposure and white balance.
What I particularly appreciate about the X-T2’s EVF is its high refresh rate of 100fps in Boost mode. During a fast-paced sports event, I found that the high refresh rate eliminated any lag or stuttering, making it easier to track moving subjects.
The X-T2 also features a fully articulated LCD screen with approximately 1.04 million dots. During a portrait session where I needed to shoot from unusual angles, the ability to tilt and swivel the screen made composition much easier than having to contort my body to see through the viewfinder.
One feature I’ve found invaluable is the X-T2’s ability to display a histogram in the viewfinder. During a landscape photography session with challenging light, I found that being able to see the histogram in real-time helped me achieve perfect exposures without having to chimp (review images on the LCD) after every shot.
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Fujifilm X-T20: Compact Viewfinder
The Fujifilm X-T20 features a slightly smaller electronic viewfinder with approximately 2.36 million dots and a magnification of 0.62x. During a travel photography trip, I found the EVF to be perfectly adequate for most situations, though not quite as large or immersive as the X-T2’s viewfinder.
The X-T20’s viewfinder has a refresh rate of up to 60fps in Boost mode, which is lower than the X-T2’s 100fps. During a fast-paced street photography session, I noticed slightly more lag when tracking very fast-moving subjects, though it wasn’t significant enough to impact my hit rate.
The X-T20 features a tilting LCD screen with approximately 1.04 million dots. During a landscape photography session, I found that the tilting screen was sufficient for most situations, though I missed the flexibility of the X-T2’s fully articulated design when shooting portraits or video.
Like the X-T2, the X-T20 can display a histogram in the viewfinder, which I found equally useful for achieving proper exposures in challenging lighting conditions.
The Verdict on Viewfinder and Screen
Both cameras feature high-quality electronic viewfinders and LCD screens, but with some differences. The Fujifilm X-T2 offers a larger, higher-magnification viewfinder with a higher refresh rate, making it slightly better for fast-paced action photography. It also features a fully articulated LCD screen that provides more flexibility for shooting from unusual angles. The Fujifilm X-T20 has a slightly smaller viewfinder with a lower refresh rate and a tilting rather than fully articulated screen. If viewfinder quality and screen flexibility are priorities, the X-T2 is the better choice. If you’re comfortable with a slightly smaller viewfinder and don’t need a fully articulated screen, the X-T20 is still excellent.
Continuous Shooting and Buffer
Fujifilm X-T2: Professional Performance
The Fujifilm X-T2 offers impressive continuous shooting capabilities, with a maximum burst rate of 14fps with the electronic shutter or 8fps with the mechanical shutter. During a wildlife photography session, I found that the high burst rate allowed me to capture the perfect moment in a sequence of fast-moving action.
What I particularly appreciate about the X-T2 is its large buffer capacity. When shooting with a fast UHS-II SD card, I found that I could shoot approximately 73 JPEGs or 26 RAW frames in a single burst before the buffer filled up. During a sports event, this allowed me to capture extended sequences of action without interruption.
The X-T2 also features a boost mode that increases the EVF refresh rate to 100fps and improves autofocus performance. During a motorsports event, I found that boost mode made it easier to track fast-moving subjects and maintain accurate focus.
One feature I’ve found invaluable is the X-T2’s compatibility with the VPB-XT2 Vertical Power Booster Grip. When shooting portrait-oriented images during a wedding, the grip not only provided a more comfortable holding position but also increased the battery life and boosted the continuous shooting speed to 11fps with the mechanical shutter.
Fujifilm X-T20: Solid Performance
The Fujifilm X-T20 offers solid continuous shooting capabilities, with a maximum burst rate of 14fps with the electronic shutter or 8fps with the mechanical shutter—the same as the X-T2. During a street photography session, I found that the high burst rate allowed me to capture fleeting moments with confidence.
However, the X-T20 has a smaller buffer capacity than the X-T2. When shooting with a fast UHS-II SD card, I found that I could shoot approximately 62 JPEGs or 21 RAW frames in a single burst before the buffer filled up. During a sports event, this was generally sufficient, but I did notice the camera slowing down slightly during extended bursts.
The X-T20 also features a boost mode that increases the EVF refresh rate to 60fps and improves autofocus performance. While not as high as the X-T2’s 100fps in boost mode, I still found it useful for tracking moving subjects during a portrait session with active children.
Unlike the X-T2, the X-T20 doesn’t have an official vertical grip option. During a portrait-heavy assignment, I found myself missing the additional comfort and battery life that a grip would provide.
The Verdict on Continuous Shooting and Buffer
Both cameras offer the same maximum burst rates (14fps with electronic shutter, 8fps with mechanical shutter), but the Fujifilm X-T2 has a larger buffer capacity, allowing for longer bursts before the buffer fills up. The X-T2 also features a higher refresh rate in boost mode (100fps vs 60fps) and is compatible with a vertical power booster grip that enhances performance and comfort. If you frequently shoot action or sports and need extended burst capabilities, the X-T2 is the better choice. If you primarily shoot in shorter bursts and don’t need the additional features of a grip, the X-T20 is still excellent.
Video Capabilities
Fujifilm X-T2: Professional Video Features
The Fujifilm X-T2 offers impressive video capabilities for a stills-focused camera, with the ability to shoot 4K video at up to 30fps. During a documentary project, I found that the 4K footage was sharp and detailed, with excellent color reproduction that’s characteristic of Fujifilm cameras.
What I particularly appreciate about the X-T2’s video capabilities is the inclusion of a microphone jack and the ability to use F-Log gamma. During an interview session, the ability to connect an external microphone significantly improved my audio quality, while F-Log provided greater flexibility in post-production color grading.
The X-T2 also features a 4K video cropping mode that provides additional reach. During a wildlife video shoot, I found this feature useful for capturing distant subjects without needing to change lenses.
One feature I’ve found invaluable is the X-T2’s compatibility with the VPB-XT2 Vertical Power Booster Grip, which includes a headphone jack for monitoring audio levels. During a documentary project, this feature allowed me to ensure my audio levels were appropriate throughout the shoot.
Fujifilm X-T20: Solid Video Performance
The Fujifilm X-T20 offers the same 4K video capabilities as the X-T2, with the ability to shoot 4K video at up to 30fps. During a travel video project, I found that the 4K footage was indistinguishable from that captured with the X-T2, with the same sharpness and excellent color reproduction.
Like the X-T2, the X-T20 includes a microphone jack and supports F-Log gamma. During a vlogging session, the ability to connect an external microphone significantly improved my audio quality, while F-Log provided greater flexibility in post-production.
The X-T20 also features the same 4K video cropping mode as the X-T2. During a nature video shoot, I found this feature equally useful for capturing distant subjects without needing to change lenses.
However, unlike the X-T2, the X-T20 doesn’t have a headphone jack, even with an optional grip. During a documentary project, I found this limitation challenging when trying to monitor audio levels in real-time.
The Verdict on Video Capabilities
Both cameras offer essentially the same 4K video capabilities, with the ability to shoot 4K at 30fps, a microphone jack, and F-Log support. The Fujifilm X-T2 has a slight edge for serious video work due to its compatibility with the Vertical Power Booster Grip, which includes a headphone jack for monitoring audio levels. If you’re primarily a stills photographer who occasionally shoots video, both cameras will serve you well. If you’re more serious about video production and need to monitor audio levels, the X-T2 with the optional grip is the better choice.
Battery Life
Fujifilm X-T2: Extended Power
The Fujifilm X-T2 uses the NP-W126S battery, which provides approximately 340 shots per charge according to CIPA standards. During a day of landscape photography, I found that I could typically get through a full day of shooting with a single battery, though I always carry spares for extended sessions.
What I particularly appreciate about the X-T2 is its compatibility with the VPB-XT2 Vertical Power Booster Grip, which can hold two additional batteries, effectively tripling the battery life. During a long wildlife photography session, this extended battery life was invaluable, allowing me to shoot all day without worrying about running out of power.
The X-T2 also features a more efficient power management system compared to earlier Fujifilm models. During a cold weather photography session, I found that the battery lasted longer than expected, even in temperatures that typically drain batteries quickly.
One feature I’ve found useful is the ability to charge the battery via USB. During a travel photography trip, I found that I could charge the battery overnight using a standard USB cable and power bank, eliminating the need to carry a separate charger.
Fujifilm X-T20: Efficient Performance
The Fujifilm X-T20 uses the same NP-W126S battery as the X-T2, providing approximately 340 shots per charge according to CIPA standards. During a day of street photography, I found that I could typically get through a full day of shooting with a single battery, though like with the X-T2, I always carry spares for extended sessions.
Unlike the X-T2, the X-T20 doesn’t have an official vertical grip option that can hold additional batteries. During a long event photography assignment, I found myself needing to change batteries more frequently than with the X-T2 equipped with the grip.
Like the X-T2, the X-T20 features efficient power management. During a travel photography trip, I found that the battery life was generally good, though I did notice that using the electronic viewfinder extensively drained the battery more quickly than using the LCD screen.
The X-T20 also supports USB charging, which during a weekend trip proved invaluable when I forgot to bring my battery charger. I was able to charge the battery overnight using a standard USB cable and power bank.
The Verdict on Battery Life
Both cameras use the same battery and provide similar battery life (approximately 340 shots per charge according to CIPA standards). The Fujifilm X-T2 has a significant advantage when equipped with the optional VPB-XT2 Vertical Power Booster Grip, which can hold two additional batteries, effectively tripling the battery life. If you frequently shoot for extended periods or need the security of extended battery life, the X-T2 with the optional grip is the better choice. If you primarily shoot for shorter periods and don’t need the additional features of a grip, the X-T20 is still excellent.
Price and Value
Fujifilm X-T2: Premium Investment
As of 2025, the Fujifilm X-T2 is typically priced at around $1,299 (body only) on the used market, as it’s no longer available new. While this represents a significant investment, I’ve found that the camera’s professional features and build quality justify the price for serious photographers.
What I appreciate about the X-T2 is its value proposition. For the price, you get a robust build, weather sealing, dual SD card slots, a fully articulated screen, and compatibility with the Vertical Power Booster Grip. During a professional photography business evaluation, I found that these features made the X-T2 a viable option for paid work where reliability is essential.
The X-T2 also holds its value well on the used market, making it a sound investment for photographers who might upgrade in the future. During a period when I was selling off some of my less-used equipment, I was pleased to see that my X-T2 had retained much of its value compared to other digital cameras I’d owned.
Fujifilm X-T20: Excellent Value
The Fujifilm X-T20 is typically priced at around $599 (body only) on the used market, as it’s also no longer available new. This makes it significantly more affordable than the X-T2, offering excellent value for photographers on a budget.
What impresses me about the X-T20 is how it delivers essentially the same image quality and many of the same features as the X-T2 at a fraction of the price. During a budget-conscious period in my photography journey, this camera provided professional-level results without breaking the bank.
The X-T20 also holds its value reasonably well on the used market, though not as strongly as the X-T2. During a period when I was evaluating my equipment investments, I found that the X-T20 represented excellent value for the performance it delivers.
The Verdict on Price and Value
Both cameras offer excellent value, but in different ways. The Fujifilm X-T2 represents a premium investment with professional features like weather sealing, dual SD card slots, and compatibility with the Vertical Power Booster Grip. The Fujifilm X-T20 offers exceptional value, delivering essentially the same image quality and many of the same features as the X-T2 at a significantly lower price point. If you need professional features and build quality, the X-T2 is worth the extra investment. If you’re on a tighter budget but still want excellent image quality and performance, the X-T20 represents outstanding value.
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Personal Experiences with Both Cameras
Having spent extensive time with both cameras, I’ve developed a nuanced perspective on their strengths and weaknesses. During a recent month-long photography project that included landscapes, portraits, street photography, and some video work, I brought both cameras to test them side by side.
For landscape photography, I found myself gravitating toward the X-T2. The weather sealing gave me peace of mind during a rainy day shoot in the mountains, and the dual SD card slots provided security for my images. The fully articulated screen also made it easier to compose shots from low angles without having to lie on the wet ground.
However, when I switched to street photography in urban areas, I found myself reaching for the X-T20. Its smaller size and lighter weight made it less conspicuous, allowing me to capture more candid moments. During a full day of walking through the city, I also appreciated the reduced weight and bulk.
For portrait photography, both cameras performed admirably, but with different advantages. During a studio session, the X-T2’s more substantial grip and additional controls made it slightly more comfortable to use for extended periods. However, during an outdoor portrait session where I needed to be mobile, the X-T20’s lighter weight made it the more practical choice.
For video work, both cameras delivered similar 4K quality, but the X-T2 had the advantage when using the Vertical Power Booster Grip with its headphone jack. During a documentary interview, being able to monitor audio levels in real-time was invaluable and resulted in better sound quality.
Who Should Buy Which Camera?
The Fujifilm X-T2 Is For You If:
- You’re a professional photographer who needs weather sealing and dual card slots
- You frequently shoot in challenging conditions and need a more robust build
- You value the flexibility of a fully articulated LCD screen
- You need extended battery life and are willing to invest in the Vertical Power Booster Grip
- You want a camera that feels substantial and professional in your hands
The Fujifilm X-T20 Is For You If:
- You’re an enthusiast photographer who wants excellent image quality in a compact package
- You primarily shoot in good conditions and don’t need extensive weather sealing
- You value portability and frequently carry your camera for extended periods
- You’re on a tighter budget but still want professional-level image quality
- You want a camera that’s less conspicuous for street and travel photography
Pro Tips for Getting the Most Out of Either Camera
For Fujifilm X-T2 Users:
- Invest in the Vertical Power Booster Grip: The grip not only provides a more comfortable holding position for portrait shooting but also extends battery life and improves performance. During a wedding photography assignment, I found that the grip made a significant difference in both comfort and battery life.
- Take Advantage of Weather Sealing: While the X-T2 is weather-resistant, remember that your lenses need to be weather-sealed as well for complete protection. During a rainy landscape shoot, I discovered that using weather-sealed lenses allowed me to continue shooting without worry.
- Customize the Function Buttons: The X-T2 has several customizable buttons that can be programmed to your most-used functions. During a sports event, I found that customizing these buttons for my specific needs significantly improved my workflow.
- Use the Dual Card Slots Strategically: The X-T2’s dual card slots can be configured in several ways. During a wedding photography assignment, I set up the camera to write RAW files to one card and JPEGs to the other, providing both backup and immediate sharing options.
- Master the AF-C Custom Settings: The X-T2’s AF-C custom settings can be fine-tuned for different types of movement. During a wildlife photography session, I found that adjusting these settings for the specific type of movement I was photographing significantly improved my hit rate.
For Fujifilm X-T20 Users:
- Embrace the Compact Size: The X-T20’s smaller size makes it ideal for travel and street photography. During a trip through Europe, I found that the camera was small enough to fit in a coat pocket, allowing me to capture moments I would have missed with a larger camera.
- Use the Tilting Screen Creatively: While not fully articulated, the X-T20’s tilting screen is still useful for shooting from high or low angles. During a landscape photography session, I found that using the tilting screen allowed me to compose shots from ground level without having to lie down.
- Customize the Q Menu: The X-T20’s Q menu can be customized to include your most frequently used settings. During a portrait session, I found that customizing this menu for my specific workflow significantly improved my efficiency.
- Carry Spare Batteries: Without the option for a vertical grip with additional batteries, carrying spare batteries is essential for extended shooting sessions. During a day-long event, I found that having two spare batteries ensured I never ran out of power at a critical moment.
- Take Advantage of 4K Video: The X-T20’s 4K video capabilities are excellent for a camera of its size. During a travel vlogging session, I found that the 4K footage provided plenty of detail for editing, even when cropping in post-production.
FAQ
Which camera has better image quality?
Both the Fujifilm X-T2 and X-T20 feature the same 24.3MP APS-C X-Trans CMOS III sensor and X-Processor Pro engine, which means they deliver essentially identical image quality. Images from both cameras have exceptional detail, rich colors, and excellent dynamic range that are characteristic of Fujifilm’s renowned color science. If image quality is your primary concern, both cameras will serve you equally well.
Is the Fujifilm X-T2 weather-sealed?
Yes, the Fujifilm X-T2 features extensive weather sealing with approximately 63 points of weather resistance. This makes it suitable for use in light rain and dusty conditions. However, it’s important to note that for complete weather protection, you also need to use weather-sealed lenses. The X-T20 has some weather resistance but not to the same extent as the X-T2.
Can the Fujifilm X-T20 use the same lenses as the X-T2?
Yes, both cameras use Fujifilm’s X-mount lens system, so they’re fully compatible with the same lenses. This means you can use any X-mount lens on either camera, from Fujifilm’s own lenses to third-party options from manufacturers like Viltrox, Samyang, and others. During my testing, I found that both cameras performed equally well with the same lenses.
Which camera is better for video?
Both cameras offer essentially the same 4K video capabilities, with the ability to shoot 4K at 30fps, a microphone jack, and F-Log support. The Fujifilm X-T2 has a slight edge for serious video work due to its compatibility with the Vertical Power Booster Grip, which includes a headphone jack for monitoring audio levels. If you’re primarily a stills photographer who occasionally shoots video, both cameras will serve you well. If you’re more serious about video production and need to monitor audio levels, the X-T2 with the optional grip is the better choice.
Is the Fujifilm X-T2 still worth buying in 2025?
Yes, the Fujifilm X-T2 is still worth buying in 2025, especially on the used market where it can be found at a significant discount from its original price. While it’s been succeeded by newer models like the X-T3 and X-T4, the X-T2 still offers excellent image quality, robust build quality, and professional features that make it a viable option for many photographers. During my professional work, I’ve found that the X-T2 still delivers excellent results that meet the demands of most clients.
Conclusion
After extensively using both the Fujifilm X-T2 and X-T20, I can confidently say that they’re both exceptional cameras that serve different needs and preferences. The right choice depends entirely on your specific shooting style, subjects, and priorities.
The Fujifilm X-T2 is the professional workhorse, offering robust build quality, weather sealing, dual SD card slots, a fully articulated screen, and compatibility with the Vertical Power Booster Grip. It’s the perfect choice for serious enthusiasts and professionals who need a reliable camera that can withstand challenging conditions and provide the security features needed for paid work. During my years with this camera, it has proven itself time and again as a reliable tool that delivers exceptional results in even the most demanding situations.
The Fujifilm X-T20 is the compact powerhouse, delivering essentially the same image quality and many of the same features as the X-T2 in a smaller, lighter, and more affordable package. It’s ideal for enthusiasts, travelers, and street photographers who value portability and discretion. During my travels, its compact size has allowed me to capture moments that would have been missed with a larger, more conspicuous camera.
Ultimately, the choice between these two cameras comes down to your specific needs and budget. If you need professional features and build quality, the X-T2 is worth the extra investment. If you prioritize portability and value, the X-T20 offers outstanding performance at a more accessible price point.
I recommend handling both cameras if possible, as their size and weight differences are difficult to appreciate from specifications alone. Whichever you choose, both cameras represent excellent options in Fujifilm’s X-series lineup and will provide years of photographic enjoyment.
Pro Photography Tips
Before you go, here are a few bonus tips to elevate your photography regardless of which camera you choose:
- Master the Film Simulations: Both cameras offer Fujifilm’s renowned film simulations that can give your images a distinctive look. During a portrait session, I found that using the Classic Chrome simulation for JPEGs reduced my post-processing time while still delivering beautiful, film-like results.
- Customize Your Function Buttons: Both cameras have customizable buttons that can be programmed to your most-used functions. During a street photography session, I found that customizing these buttons for my specific workflow significantly improved my efficiency and allowed me to capture moments I might have missed while navigating menus.
- Use the Electronic Shutter Creatively: Both cameras offer a silent electronic shutter that can be useful in situations where noise would be disruptive. During a wedding ceremony, I found that using the electronic shutter allowed me to capture images without disturbing the solemn atmosphere.
- Experiment with RAW + JPEG: Both cameras can shoot RAW and JPEG simultaneously, allowing you to have the flexibility of RAW processing with the convenience of ready-to-share JPEGs. During a travel photography trip, I found this feature invaluable for sharing images on social media while keeping the RAW files for more extensive editing later.
- Learn to Use Manual Focus Lenses: Both cameras have excellent focus peaking and magnification features that make manual focusing easy and accurate. During a vintage lens testing session, I discovered that using manual focus lenses encouraged a more deliberate approach to photography that resulted in more thoughtful compositions.
Did you find this comparison helpful? Bookmark this page for future reference, as I’ll be updating it with new insights as I continue to use both cameras in various professional scenarios. Happy shooting!