Resolution: 4kp30 | Weight: 383g/0.84 lb | Flip Screen: No | Stabilization: No | External Mic Port: Yes
The Fujifilm X-T30 is the X-T3’s little sibling. With a smaller body and fewer functions, it offers the same image quality and autofocus performance for less money.
For that reason, this camera might be a great choice for those who want an X-T3 but don’t have enough money to buy it.
But, hey! I know what you’re thinking: what can and can’t do this camera compared to the X-T3? Is it worth it?
And, most importantly, considering its size and specs… is it good for vlogging?
Well, let’s take a closer look at it to find out.
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Fujifilm X-T30 Overview
One of the best things about the Fujifilm X-T30 is that it has the same sensor as the X-T3, which means image quality is excellent.
Also, it can shoot 4K videos and it includes all the cool vintage Film Simulations Modes from Fujifilm.
Generally speaking, this is a tiny mirrorless camera designed for enthusiasts with a limited budget but it still delivers amazing performance… plus, it looks super cute!
Design and body construction
Just like the X-T3 (and all the cameras from the brand), the Fujifilm X-T30 has a retro look that is very appealing and instantly catches your attention. It’s available in black, silver, and charcoal silver colors.
As I said before, this camera is small, really small. It weighs only 0.84 lb (383g) and has a compact style so you can take it with you anywhere.
Because of its size, it might be a great ally for street and travel vloggers. Note that the body is not weather-sealed, though.
The Fujifilm X-T30 is meant to be versatile and easy-to-use. It has many physical controls to adjust the exposure as much as you want without having to navigate through the digital interface.
However, the grip is not too deep so it can feel a little uncomfortable to hold at first, especially when you’re using big lenses.
The rear screen is touch-sensitive and can be tilted up and down but it’s not fully-articulated, so you won’t be able to see yourself while recording in “selfie mode”.
Additionally, it has an EVF, a built-in flash and a hot-shoe.
26.1 megapixels APS-C sensor
As mentioned above, this camera has the same APS-C sensor as the pricier X-T3. It has a 26.1 megapixels resolution and a sensitivity range of ISO 160-12800 (which can be expanded to 80-51200).
It also has a back-illuminated design for better performance in low-light conditions.
Autofocus and image stabilization
The Fujifilm X-T30 has an improved hybrid AF system that provides fast and accurate performance for most situations, regardless if it’s video or stills.
It has Face and Eye detection as well, and it works fine for tracking moving subjects, but it’s not faultless.
Now, leaving aside the awesome AF system, there is some sad news: the X-T30 doesn’t have image stabilization.
Of course, this won’t be an issue if you usually record videos with a tripod at home, but if you are the “walking-and-talking” type of vlogger, you’ll have to look for stabilized lenses or extra equipment for more steadiness.
Video and time-lapse functions
This camera might be small but it offers great video capabilities for its price.
It can shoot 4K video at up to 30 fps using the entire width of the sensor, as well as Full HD video at up to 120fps for some slow-motion fun.
Not everything is perfect, though. The maximum recording time for 4K video is just 10 minutes and there’s a 1.3x crop when recording at 120 fps.
On another note, just like many new cameras in the market, the Fujifilm X-T30 has a time-lapse mode.
Battery and connectivity
Although the battery is small, battery life is pretty decent; it lasts about 45 minutes of video recording per charge, which is average among cameras in this range.
Luckily, it supports USB charging, so if you have a portable power source, you can charge the battery anywhere in-camera, even while it’s turned on.
It has a USB-C port, as well as micro HDMI and microphone ports.
Unfortunately, it doesn’t have a headphone jack but you can connect your headphones to the USB-C port with an adapter.
As for the storage options, there’s only one memory card slot and it doesn’t support UHS-II.
Probably this won’t concern most vloggers because they simply don’t need anything more advanced. But, for experienced video creators, it might be a shame.
Besides all of this, the Fujifilm X-T30 has Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, so you can connect it to your smartphone and use it as a remote control or easily transfer images thanks to the Fujifilm Camera Remote app (available for Android and iOS devices).
Film Simulation modes
Following the tradition in Fujifilm cameras, the X-T30 includes many different Film Simulation modes that you can use to get a vintage look for your photos and videos.
One of the most popular modes is Eterna, which produces soft colors for more flexibility in post-production.
Is the Fujifilm X-T30 Good for Vlogging?
At this moment, we all know this camera is small, lightweight and offers great image quality for photo and video applications.
For all of this, the Fujifilm X-T30 is, undoubtedly, a good camera, BUT, it’s not very vlogger-friendly.
Let’s make a quick recap:
The camera is very easy to carry around; it’s super compact. Autofocus is amazing for a camera in this price range and video capabilities are great as well. It’s an excellent choice for travelers.
Nevertheless, it doesn’t have a fully-articulated screen nor has image stabilization, which are key features for most vloggers.
We recommend you check instead the more expensive Fujifilm X-T4, or the cheaper Canon EOS M50.
Best YouTube and Vlogging Lenses for the Fujifilm X-T30
As usual, no review is complete without some recommended lenses to get the best out of the camera.
That’s why, if you decide to buy the X-T30, you can take a look at these two great lenses for it (which, btw, are also compatible with the X-T3 and the X-T4):
YouTube lens: Fujinon XF35mmF2 R WR
This is a good choice to record on a tripod at home. It has a maximum aperture wide enough to handle low-light conditions. It also has a solid construction and a compact design.
Vlogging lens: Fujinon XF16mmF2.8 R WR
To record yourself while walking on the streets, you’ll need a wide-angle lens. This 16mm has a wide aperture, it’s small, lightweight, and weather-sealed. It is a great lens for recording yourself anywhere you go.
What do you think of the Fujifilm X-T30? Would you buy it?
Leave a comment below!
Will has been a full-time content creator since 2014. He’s an audio, video, and tech hobbyist dedicated to reviewing products and giving you the best tips he knows to grow your audience.