Is The Fujifilm X-T3 Good For YouTube and Vlogging? Review

Fujifilm has been releasing great mirrorless cameras for a while now. Their X series offers excellent image quality while keeping a slick retro look. Fuji-fans love this analog vibe… and who wouldn’t?

This year, the brand launched the X-T4 and it’s a powerful camera equipped with many useful functions for vloggers. However, if you’re not familiar with the series, you might want to know a little more about its predecessor: the Fujifilm X-T3.

After we reviewed the new model, we wondered: would the X-T3 be a good choice for vloggers as well? Because, maybe, if the camera is suitable for vlogs, you would like to save some money and invest in the X-T3 instead of the new one.

That is why, in this article, we’ll take a closer look at the Fujifilm X-T3 to know if it’s worth it for YouTubers and vloggers.

Fujifilm X-T3 Overview

First of all, this is a mirrorless camera with an APS-C sensor. It’s aimed at entry-level photographers and videographers as it has a cropped sensor and a simpler construction than full-frame cameras.

Thanks to its mirrorless design, the body is small and lightweight, which makes it easy to carry around. This is a nice starting point for vloggers, but let’s see what this camera has to offer:

Design and body construction

Following the tradition in Fujifilm cameras, the X-T3 has a classic analog-style, which instantly draws your attention. It’s available in black and silver for the same price.

The body is protected against dust and moisture, and it includes many dials and buttons to keep all exposure controls accessible, which is really useful. However, the grip is not too big so it can feel uncomfortable or unsafe when using large lenses.

It has an EVF and a hot shoe, but it doesn’t include a built-in flash.

As for the rear display, it has an LCD touch-screen that tilts up and down, and swings to the right, but can't fully rotate to face forward. This is sad news because you wouldn’t be able to see the frame while recording yourself.

26.1 megapixels APS-C sensor

As I mentioned above, the Fujifilm X-T3 has an APS-C sensor. It has a 26.1 megapixels resolution and a sensitivity range of ISO 160-12800.

It also has a back-illuminated design for better performance in low-light conditions.

Autofocus and image stabilization

The Fujifilm X-T3 has a fast hybrid autofocus system that covers almost the entire sensor area and it has an improved phase detection algorithm to deliver more speed and accuracy when focusing. Although the AF is not as fast as in the new X-T4, it’s quick and reliable. Eye and Face Detection work well, too.  

Unfortunately, this camera doesn’t have image stabilization. This is a shame for most vloggers because you’ll have to invest in stabilized lenses and/or additional equipment to record steady videos.

Video and time-lapse functions

This camera is great for videos. Even without stabilization, it offers good quality and autofocus performance.

It records 4K video at up to 60 fps, as well as Full HD video at up to 120 fps, which is enough for slow-motion.

And, if you want to create time-lapses for your videos, you can do it with the interval timer shooting of the Fujifilm X-T3. Oh, yes!

On the downside, there are some limitations. For example, you can only record up to 30 minutes. Also, when recording 4K at 60 fps, there’s a 1.2 crop, and when recording Full HD at 120 fps, there’s a 1.3 crop. Therefore, you’ll have to adapt to smaller frames depending on the settings you choose to record video.

Battery and connectivity

Usually, mirrorless cameras consume a lot of power, so you need a good battery.

The Fujifilm X-T3 has a traditional NP-W126S lithium-ion battery that lasts enough for most applications but it’s not great for video recording.

However, Fujifilm offers a battery grip that holds two extra batteries so you never run out of power. But you’ll need to buy it separately, and perhaps it’s an expensive choice.

Fortunately, the battery can be charged in-camera via USB-C port while you’re shooting. An external charger is included as well.

In addition to the USB-C port, the X-T3 has a micro HDMI output, microphone input, and a headphone jack. It also has Wi-Fi and Bluetooth to connect the camera to your smartphone and use it as a remote control.

Regarding the memory card slots, it has two SD UHS-II card slots, which is fantastic!

Film Simulation and Grain effect modes

As you know, Fujifilm continues to bet on the nostalgic feel of analog photography, even in this modern digital world.

That is why, besides the retro physical design, this camera has many film simulation modes for photos and videos, which imitate some of the classic film-looks of the brand. This is a cool tool if you want to set a vintage mood for your videos.

It also includes a Grain Effect mode to add even more of that “analog vibe” to your photos.

These features are also available on the new X-T4.

Is the Fujifilm X-T3 Good for Vlogging?

Now that we’ve seen all the main features of the Fujifilm X-T3, it’s time to ask ourselves: is it suitable for vlogging?

Not much. Maybe, for videographers and YouTubers who record with a tripod, it’s a very decent option, but for handheld shooting and daily vlogs, it's not that good.

The main issue with this camera is that it lacks a fully-articulated screen, which is a negative point for most vloggers who need to keep an eye on the frame while recording themselves.

Additionally, the lack of image stabilization and battery life is not great.

It certainly is a good camera with many benefits for photo and video applications, but unless you work with a tripod, you probably would like to go for the new X-T4 instead.

If you’re looking for an alternative vlogging camera for around the same price, we recommend the Canon EOS M50 instead.

Lenses for The Fujifilm X-T3 for YouTube and Vlogging

If you choose this camera, you’re going to need great lenses to get the best out of it.

Depending on your needs, I'll recommend two first-class options for the Fujifilm X-T3. It’s worth noting that both these lenses are compatible with the X-T4 as well.

YouTube lens for the Fujifilm XT-3

Fujinon XF35mmF2 R WR