FujiFilm X-A5 vs Sony NEX-5T: A Hands-On Comparison for Photography Enthusiasts

When it comes to entry-level mirrorless cameras, there are plenty of options vying for your attention. Two models that often pop up in this category - especially for keen beginners and budget-conscious hobbyists - are FujiFilm’s X-A5 and Sony’s older but still respectable NEX-5T. I’ve spent extensive time shooting with both systems across a wide range of photography genres, from crisp landscapes to street-level storytelling to studio-style portraits. Today, I want to share the full lowdown on how these cameras stack up, helping you make an informed decision grounded in real-world use - not just marketing specs or pixel wars.

Let’s dive right in and see which gear suits your needs best, whether you are dipping your toes into mirrorless for the first time or building a secondary compact system.

First Impressions: Size, Build, and Handling

One of the earliest factors you'll notice when picking up a mirrorless camera is how it feels in the hand - and that often dictates how much you end up shooting, frankly. Here, both cameras catch the eye with their compact, rangefinder-style bodies, but with some notable differences worth discussing.

FujiFilm X-A5:
Measuring 117 x 68 x 40 mm and weighing in at 361g, the FujiFilm X-A5 is slightly larger and heavier than the Sony NEX-5T but not unwieldy by any means. It sports a retro-inspired rangefinder look with clean lines and a mild grip extension, making it more comfortable for longer sessions. The control placement feels intuitive for quick exposure adjustments and manual focusing - important if you prefer tactile interaction over touchscreen-only interfaces.

Sony NEX-5T:
Sony’s NEX-5T is smaller at 111 x 59 x 39 mm and lighter at 276g, making it more pocketable and potentially less fatiguing during extended street shoots or travel. However, the drawback here is a narrower grip and fewer clubs for thumbs, so holding it steady - especially with longer lenses - can require more conscious attention. Its build feels plasticky compared to the Fuji, and there’s less visual flair, though that minimalism suits stealth photography.

In terms of pure handling, if you have bigger hands or want a camera that feels substantial yet portable, the X-A5 holds an edge. Sony’s smaller footprint appeals if you value lightweight stealthiness above all.

Design and Control Layout: Balancing Tradition and Modernity

Both cameras cater to beginners with touchscreen LCDs and simple menus, but they approach control accessibility differently. A camera’s user interface is vital because it dictates how efficiently you can shoot once inspiration strikes.

FujiFilm X-A5:
The X-A5 retains classic dials for shutter speed and exposure compensation, plus customizable Fn buttons to assign frequently used functions. Although it lacks a top LCD screen, Fuji’s bright, button-driven design suits photographers who liked to twist physical dials without digging into menus - something traditionalists appreciate. The touchscreen is responsive and ideal for navigating menus or focusing on the fly. However, there’s no electronic viewfinder (EVF), which means framing in bright sunlight can be tricky.

Sony NEX-5T:
On the other hand, Sony prioritizes simplicity and touchscreen interaction. The NEX-5T features a tilting TFT LCD that flips 180° for selfies and touch-to-focus, perfect for vloggers and social media buffs. Controls are minimalistic, with no dedicated dials for exposure but accessible via the rear dial and menus. It also lacks a built-in EVF, though Sony offers optional accessories if an EVF is a must-have.

Between the two, Fuji’s tactile approach gives more direct manual control and suits photographers wanting control without screen dependency. Sony’s clean, touchscreen-dominant design is friendlier for casual shooters adapting to mirrorless.

Sensor Tech and Image Quality: The Heart of the Matter

Image quality is naturally paramount, and understanding sensor nuances can prevent buyer’s regret later on. Both cameras pack APS-C CMOS sensors - but they differ in resolution, ISO range, and processing capabilities.

FujiFilm X-A5:
Sporting a 24.2MP sensor - the highest among entry-level Fuji models at its time - the X-A5 offers good pixel density without severely compromising dynamic range. Fuji equips it with an anti-aliasing filter, slightly smoothing images to reduce moiré but potentially losing the razor-sharpness pixel peepers chase.

The ISO range spans 200 to 12,800 natively, boostable to 51,200 - more than enough for moderate low-light scenarios. Although Fuji never subjected this model to DxO lab scores, its sensor size and architecture suggest solid color reproduction and decent dynamic range, especially when paired with Fuji’s renowned film simulations.

Sony NEX-5T:
Sony’s 16MP APS-C sensor here is slightly older tech but still respectable. It supports ISO from 100 to 25,600 native. According to DxO, the sensor scores 78 points overall, with a notably solid color depth (23.6 bits) and dynamic range (~13 stops), outperforming the Fuji in lab metrics by a margin.

The lower megapixel count means images will have less resolution for large prints or heavy cropping, but it generally translates into cleaner files at higher ISOs - great for dim environments and fast shooting.

In practical shooting, Fuji’s images felt rich in color gradations and pleasing skin tones, thanks partly to the film simulations which are an asset for portrait and street photographers aiming for characterful JPEGs out of camera. Sony’s sensor produces cleaner shadows and more latitude for recovery in post, which landscape or professional shooters may prefer.

Viewing and Interface: Finding Your Frame

Most mirrorless systems rely on LCD screens or EVFs to compose - and since neither camera includes a built-in EVF, the quality, articulation, and responsiveness of the LCDs matter.

Fujifilm X-A5:
The 3.0-inch, 1.04 million-dot tilting touchscreen is bright and crisp, making it easy to compose from waist level or overhead. Its tactile feedback feels natural, and menu navigation is straightforward without overwhelming options - ideal for first-timers. The screen is selfie-friendly, tilting upwards to cater to vloggers or self-portrait enthusiasts.

Sony NEX-5T:
Sony’s 3.0-inch TFT LCD is slightly less resolved at 922k pixels but tilts both up 180° and down 50°, offering more flexibility for angles and selfies. The touch controls work well, and the interface is clean and minimalist, though a tad more menu-layered than Fuji’s.

Neither camera has a built-in EVF, which can feel like a serious omission for photographers in bright daylight or those accustomed to eye-level framing. Sony partially remedies this with an optional external EVF accessory - a potentially costly add-on. Fuji’s lack thereof means learning to rely on the LCD fully.

Between these two, the Fuji’s screen edges slightly ahead in resolution and responsiveness, while Sony’s superior tilt range makes framing creative angles more practical.

Autofocus Systems Put to the Test

Autofocus (AF) is a dealbreaker for many photographers, particularly those focusing on fast-moving subjects like wildlife, sports, or children. Here's where hands-on experience really shines - lab specs don’t always tell the entire story.

Both cameras employ hybrid AF systems, combining contrast and phase detection.

FujiFilm X-A5:
The X-A5 includes 91 AF points with both contrast and phase detection, allowing for relatively fast, accurate focusing in good light. Touch AF is responsive, especially in single AF mode, and face detection performs reliably for portraits and casual shooting. Continuous AF tracking follows moderately paced movement decently well, but this camera is not built for aggressive sports or wildlife shooting.

Sony NEX-5T:
Sony’s NEX-5T boasts 99 phase-detection points and 25 cross-type points, which on paper gives it a comprehensive AF spread. Its AF system is nimble, delivering up to 10 frames per second in continuous shooting mode - almost twice the Fuji’s 6 fps burst rate. Tracking is a strength, aided by the 25 cross points that help maintain focus on subjects against complex backgrounds.

In real-world tests, NEX-5T edges out the Fuji in speed and accuracy during action scenes, but both struggle in dim, low-contrast lighting. Neither supports advanced animal-eye or human-eye AF found in newer models, limiting professional wildlife portraitists’ capabilities.

How Do These Cameras Handle Different Genres?

Understanding the best fits for these cameras means looking beyond specs to specialized shooting styles. Here’s a breakdown based on hands-on testing across major photography disciplines.

Portrait Photography

FujiFilm’s superior color science and film simulations give it an edge. Skin tones appear warm and natural, and the 24MP sensor produces pleasing detail while the included lenses offer decent bokeh for subject isolation. Face detection is effective but not cutting-edge eye AF.

Sony’s 16MP sensor delivers sharp images and good dynamic range but flatter color out of JPEG, usually benefiting from post-processing for pleasing skin tones. Autofocus is fast but lacks eye prioritization.

Winner: FujiFilm X-A5 for warm, characterful portraits.

Landscape Photography

Sony’s cleaner dynamic range and higher max ISO reduce noise in shadow areas for shadow detail retrieval. The lower megapixel count isn’t a big drawback here because wide landscapes often benefit from stitching or panoramic processing. Fuji’s sensor is sharper but slightly less forgiving on exposure latitude.

Weather sealing is absent in both, so protective gear is needed outdoors.

Winner: Sony NEX-5T for a wider dynamic range and high ISO resilience.

Wildlife and Sports Photography

Sony wins hands down here with a faster 10 fps burst, more sophisticated AF points, and reliable tracking. The camera body’s weight and size also reduce shake when using longer tele lenses.

Fuji’s 6 fps continuous rate and simpler AF system limit potential for capturing fast-moving subjects. It’s more suited for casual pet shots than serious wildlife photography.

Winner: Sony NEX-5T for speed and autofocus prowess.

Street Photography

Fuji’s larger grip and retro style happily pair with prime lenses for street use. The X-A5’s quieter shutter and color profiles produce aesthetically pleasing, natural images.

Sony's smaller size and superior burst rate can be beneficial but the plasticky feel and minimal grip may reduce handling comfort during extended street sessions.

Winner: FujiFilm X-A5 for handling comfort and aesthetics, Sony a close runner-up.

Macro Photography

Neither camera offers focus stacking or bracketing, limiting macro enthusiasts. Focus precision depends on the lens used. Stabilization is absent in both bodies, so external support or stabilized lenses are necessary for sharp close-ups.

Their APS-C sensors provide good resolution, benefiting macro image detail.

Winner: Tie, lens choice is more critical than the body here.

Night and Astrophotography

Sony's cleaner high ISO performance benefits night shooting. Maximum ISO 25,600 with better noise control helps capture stars and long exposures with manageable grain.

Fuji can push to ISO 51,200 but noise becomes intrusive much earlier. Both cameras lack built-in stabilization, so tripods and remote shutter controls are essential.

Winner: Sony NEX-5T for better low-light capability.

Video Capabilities

FujiFilm X-A5 offers 4K UHD video at a modest 15 fps - not suitable for smooth cinematic motion but usable for casual clips. 1080p recording supports up to 60 fps, and the presence of a microphone jack lets you attach an external mic, a significant advantage for vloggers or content creators.

Sony NEX-5T records 1080p at 60 fps but lacks 4K. It has no mic or headphone port, limiting serious audio control.

No in-body stabilization on either camera means relying on stabilized lenses or gimbals.

Winner: FujiFilm X-A5 for its 4K option and microphone port.

Travel Photography

For traveling light and versatile, size, battery life, and lens options count.

Fuji’s slightly bulkier build and 450-shot battery life outdo Sony’s 330 shots on a charge. Fuji’s Fujifilm X mount has a solid native lens ecosystem with over 50 lenses, while Sony’s E-mount ecosystem spans over 120 lenses including third-party options, beneficial for travelers who want options.

Winner: FujiFilm X-A5 on battery and ergonomics; Sony for lens choices.

Professional Use

Both cameras lack weather sealing and rugged build to fit into professional workflows that demand reliability in harsh conditions. The Fuji produces RAW files compatible with most workflows, as does Sony, but neither supports high bit-depth formats or tethering features professionals crave.

Winner: Neither is ideal for demanding professional environments but suitable as secondary or travel cameras.

Technical Extras and Connectivity

Wireless features often sway modern buyers.

• FujiFilm X-A5: Includes built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth and supports remote capture via smartphone apps. USB charging adds travel convenience.
• Sony NEX-5T: Has Wi-Fi and NFC but no Bluetooth, and requires external charger for battery recharge.

Neither includes GPS or environmental sealing. Both have single SD card slots; Fuji’s supports faster UHS-I cards, useful if shooting burst JPEGs or videos.

Detailed Performance Ratings

Here’s a snapshot of how these two cameras scored across core capabilities in my controlled and field tests:

• Fuji X-A5: Strong in image quality, battery life, and video, with mid-tier burst and AF speed.
• Sony NEX-5T: Tops in autofocus, burst shooting, and dynamic range but trails in battery and video specs.

Real-World Gallery Comparison

No review is complete without showing what these cameras can produce in the wild.

Fujifilm X A5 front Fujifilm X A5 screen back Sony NEX 5T front Sony NEX 5T screen back

You’ll note FujiFilm’s frames pop with warmth and creamy bokeh, excellent for portraits and street shots. Sony delivers cleaner, punchier shadows with excellent motion capture, ideal for action and landscape.

Pros and Cons Summary

Final Verdict: Which Should You Choose?

Both the FujiFilm X-A5 and Sony NEX-5T offer compelling value as entry-level mirrorless cameras, but the best choice boils down to your photographic priorities.

• Choose the FujiFilm X-A5 if you:

  • Want a higher resolution sensor for portraits, street photography, and general purpose shooting.
  • Appreciate tactile dials and manual controls.
  • Need a microphone input and 4K video for multimedia content.
  • Value longer battery life and slightly larger, more comfortable handling.
  • Prefer a modern touchscreen with selfie-friendly tilt.

• Pick the Sony NEX-5T if you:

  • Shoot sports, wildlife, or action requiring fast autofocus and burst rates.
  • Prioritize dynamic range and clean high ISO image quality for landscapes and night photography.
  • Need the lightest, most compact body for travel or street stealth.
  • Want access to a huge E-mount lens ecosystem, including third-party options.
  • Don’t mind trading battery longevity or video/frills for raw speed and autofocus performance.

In practical testing, neither camera offers flawless performance across all genres, but understanding their strengths means you can buy smarter. For portrait, travel, and video-centric use, FujiFilm’s X-A5 wins on versatility and image rendition. For sports, wildlife, and landscape enthusiasts, Sony’s NEX-5T remains a formidable contender despite its age.

If you’re pinching pennies but crave excellent image quality, either model will serve you well. Just remember the trade-offs each one makes to cater to different shooting styles.

Happy shooting and may your next camera be the perfect match to your creative vision!