Fujifilm X-E3 vs Leica T Type 701: A Hands-On Comparison for Serious Photography Enthusiasts

Selecting your next mirrorless camera is never easy, especially when the contenders hail from two very different worlds - one a popular Japanese powerhouse with a cult following, the other a German luxury brand known for minimalist design and heftier price tags. Here, I dig into the Fujifilm X-E3 and the Leica T Type 701 - both rangefinder-style mirrorless cameras, but with distinctive philosophies, specs, and real-world performance.

Having clocked thousands of hours testing cameras across genres, I’ll break down which of these cameras really delivers value and functionality for photographers who want more than just a pretty badge. Whether you shoot portraits, landscapes, wildlife, or video, this comprehensive comparison will help you weigh pros, cons, and whether the price premium of the Leica makes sense.

First Impressions: Size, Handling & Build Quality

When picking up cameras that weigh in at roughly 337g (Fujifilm X-E3) versus 384g (Leica T Type 701), size and ergonomics immediately set the tone for your daily shooting experience.

Fujifilm X-E3 (left) vs Leica T Type 701 (right) - Notice the subtle but notable differences in grip and thickness.

The Fujifilm X-E3 feels very compact and solid with a traditional rangefinder-style form that still manages to provide a decent grip, especially if you add Fuji’s optional thumb rest or half-case. The Leica T is slimmer front-to-back but wider left to right, with a wonderfully tactile aluminum unibody that exudes quality. However, that gloss-magnesium finish means it’s a little slipperier in hand and can feel less secure without an added grip accessory.

The X-E3’s more conventional layout and deeper grip edges it out for comfortable shooting over long days - especially for genres requiring quick handling, like street or sports photography. The Leica’s elegance and minimalist form factor appeal more to those who prioritize design and shallow pockets aren’t in the picture.

Top view reveals Fujifilm’s clusters of physical dials vs Leica’s pared-down controls.

The X-E3 sports dedicated dials for ISO, shutter speed, and exposure compensation, which Fuji users will appreciate for fast, tactile adjustments without diving into menus. Leica’s top plate is sparse with just a shutter speed dial and power switch, which some might find refreshing but others might see as limiting.

Sensor Tech and Image Quality: Punching Above Their Weight

At the heart of any camera, the sensor’s size, resolution, and processing determine how good your images will turn out under different conditions.

Both cameras boast APS-C sensors, yet Fujifilm’s 24MP X-Trans III and Leica’s 16MP CMOS sensors differ significantly in technology.

The Fujifilm X-E3 sports a 24MP X-Trans III APS-C sensor. This unique sensor design eschews the traditional Bayer filter array in favor of a randomized pixel pattern to reduce moiré and false colors - without an optical low-pass filter (OLPF). In real-world shooting, this results in crisp, fine detail and excellent color fidelity straight out of the camera. Additionally, the X-Trans sensor is well-regarded for robust dynamic range and high ISO clarity.

Contrastingly, the Leica T Type 701 has a 16MP APS-C CMOS sensor with a conventional Bayer array and an optical low-pass filter. While it’s no slouch - in fact, Leica sensors are generally known for excellent color rendering - the 16MP resolution feels a little underwhelming by today’s standards, missing out on the fine-grained detail you get from Fujifilm’s 24MP count.

ISO-wise, Fujifilm’s native range is 200–12800 (expandable to 100-51200), roughly matching Leica’s 125–12500 ISO ceiling. However, testing confirms the Fuji delivers cleaner images at higher ISOs thanks to modern sensor tech and EXR III processing.

If you shoot predominantly landscapes, portraits, or detailed scenes requiring punchy RAW files for post processing, the Fujifilm edges the Leica for flexibility and image quality willingness to push your files in post.

User Interface and Handling on the Back: LCD and EVF Insights

How you interact with your camera matters - a lot - especially when you’re out on assignment or trekking in the wild.

Fuji’s 3” touchscreen vs Leica’s larger 3.7” display. Both touch-enabled, but different usability vibes.

The X-E3 offers a 3-inch fixed touchscreen with 1.04 million dots. It’s responsive and intuitive, allowing for touch autofocus and menu navigation - the sort of modern convenience that makes those fast-changing street shots easier to nail.

Leica’s larger 3.7-inch screen boosts resolution slightly to 1.3 million dots, and while it’s also a touchscreen, some users report the interface feels more minimalistic and less customizable, consistent with Leica’s philosophy. The lack of an integrated EVF is notable; the Leica’s electronic viewfinder is optional and sold separately, which knocks points for those wanting an all-in-one solution.

The X-E3’s built-in EVF features 2.36 million dots at 0.62x magnification, which I found bright and detailed enough for most shooting tasks, although not as large or crisp as some flagship models. Leica’s optional EVF has a marginally higher magnification (0.7x) and resolution, but having to carry or purchase it separately adds to inconvenience and total system cost.

In day-to-day use, I favored Fuji’s seamless touchscreen combined with the built-in EVF, particularly when shooting portraits or fast-paced street scenes.

Autofocus: Speed & Accuracy Under Pressure

The autofocus system is where the rubber truly meets the road for many photographers - especially if you shoot wildlife, sports, or spontaneous moments.

The Fujifilm X-E3 features 325 hybrid phase-detection and contrast-detection autofocus points spread widely across the frame. It supports face and eye detection autofocus, providing great focus tracking for both portraiture and subjects in motion. Thanks to EXR Processor III, focus acquisition is fast and reliable, easily locking in under most lighting conditions.

Leica’s T Type 701 uses contrast detection autofocus only, with fewer autofocus points (exact number unspecified). It lacks phase detection, which generally means slower and less confident AF acquisition, especially in dimmer light or complex scenes.

In my hands-on tests, the X-E3’s AF system was undeniably more versatile. Tracking birds in flight or athletes racing across a field was far less frustrating than with the Leica, which often hesitated or “hunted” for focus.

While the Leica offers touch AF, face detection, and manual focus (a favorite for rangefinder purists), it clearly targets photographers who prioritize controlled, deliberate shooting - a studio portrait or street scene - over dynamic wildlife or sports photography.

Performance in Varied Photography Genres

Let’s give each camera a fair shake across major photography disciplines. Keep in mind that lens availability and system versatility also play significant roles here.

Portrait Photography: Skin Tones and Bokeh Beauty

Fujifilm’s X-Trans sensor is renowned for beautiful skin tone reproduction, with film simulation modes that mimic classic Fuji color films. The 24MP resolution combined with fast Fujinon X-mount lenses creates a creamy, natural bokeh that’s flattering for portraiture.

Leica’s L-mount lenses (fewer options though very sharp) paired with the 16MP sensor yield a more clinical image signature - sharper but less forgiving. The built-in flash on the Leica can be handy for fill light but may lead to harsher lighting compared to natural light favored on the Fuji side.

The X-E3’s eye detection AF is a big plus for keeping subjects sharp in headshots. Leica has no dedicated eye AF, making the Fuji the clear winner for pro portrait shooters focused on efficiency and image aesthetics.

Landscape Photography: Dynamic Range and Resolution

Higher resolution equals more room to crop and print large - attributes where the Fuji excels. Its excellent dynamic range preserves highlight and shadow details, crucial for the varied lighting in landscapes.

The Leica’s 12.7 stops of dynamic range (per DxOMark) is still solid, but its 16MP resolution and OLPF limit maximum image detail. Weather sealing is absent on both cameras, so if you shoot rugged nature scenes, consider protective accessories.

Wildlife and Sports: Autofocus and Burst Rates

Speed and tracking favor Fujifilm’s 14fps burst with continuous AF, versus Leica’s slower 5fps.

Fuji’s 325 phase-detect AF points and face/eye tracking put it miles ahead for fleeting wildlife or game-day sports shots. The Leica’s AF system and slower rate make it better suited to static subjects or deliberate compositions.

Street Photography: Discreteness and Portability

This is a close call. Leica’s slender, minimalist body and quiet shutter make it highly discreet (the camera is a classic street-photographer’s dream in appearance).

The Fujifilm’s silent electronic shutter mode matches that nearly as well, while offering a more user-friendly control layout and faster response.

Weight and size favor Fuji again for overall portability when you factor in lens options.

Macro Photography: Focus and Stabilization

Neither camera has in-body image stabilization (IBIS), so macro demands depend heavily on lenses. Fuji boasts an extensive lens lineup including dedicated macro options and benefits from focus peaking for manual focusing precision.

Leica has fewer native lenses, so macro specialists may need to adapt lenses or consider other systems.

Night and Astro Photography: High ISO and Exposure Flexibility

Night shooting is another arena where sensor design and ISO performance shine.

Fuji’s clean high ISO images (up to ISO 51200 with boost) let you capture star fields and night scenes with less noise.

Leica tops out at ISO 12500, with slightly noisier results above ISO 3200 by my tests.

Additional advantage to Fuji here includes hybrid shutter options (electronic and mechanical) for precise exposure control.

Video Capabilities: Who Wears the Pants?

Neither camera targets heavy video shooters, but Fuji at least offers:

• 4K UHD video up to 25fps
• External mic port for quality audio
• Timelapse recording

Leica tops out at 1080p/30fps with no mic input, limiting creative video work.

For vloggers or hybrid shooters, the Fujifilm X-E3 is the practical choice.

Battery Life and Storage: Power When You Need It

Fuji’s NP-W126S battery yields about 350 shots per charge, whereas Leica’s BP-DC13 pushes slightly farther to 400 shots. Both cameras have a single SD card slot.

Neither record RAW burst files at blazing speed due to storage limitations, but Fuji’s buffer and processing are more forgiving for extended shoots.

Lens Ecosystem and Connectivity: Where Each Camera Shines

The Fujifilm X-mount boasts a diverse catalog - 54 lenses and climbing - including affordable primes, zooms, and specialty optics. This variety arms photographers across all genres.

Leica’s L-mount system was still young at this camera’s release, with only 4 native lenses - excellent quality but limited choice and high cost. Made for enthusiasts who don’t mind paying a premium or using adaptors.

Connectivity-wise, Fuji includes Bluetooth and WiFi, making simple wireless transfers and remote control easy. Leica has built-in WiFi but misses Bluetooth or NFC and no HDMI out.

Price and Value: The Club for Your Budget

Let me be frank: Fuji X-E3’s street price around $700 USD is an absolute steal for a camera with this sensor, AF system, and video capability. It’s a “cheapskate’s” dream that doesn’t feel cheap when shooting.

Leica comes in at more than double that, around $1600 USD, with a sensor and specs that do not justify the premium in pure performance terms. The design, brand prestige, and build quality (plus collectible status) drive that cost.

If your budget is tight or you want bang for your buck, Fuji is the clear winner. Leica demands you value style, exclusivity, and craftsmanship above specs.

Summary of Key Strengths and Weaknesses

Fujifilm X E3 front Fujifilm X E3 screen back Leica T Type 701 front Leica T Type 701 screen back

How Do They Score Overall?

Taking everything into account, here are my well-tested performance scores based on technical tests, image quality, and shooting experience:

Type-Specific Tips: Which Camera Excels in Your Genre?

Final Verdict: Which Should You Buy?

If you want a camera that delivers excellent image quality, fast reliable autofocus, versatile video, and the benefits of a thriving lens ecosystem, all for a very friendly price point, the Fujifilm X-E3 is a steal. It suits both enthusiast and even some professional needs with ease, ideal for photographers who shoot a broad range of subjects from portraits to sports.

On the other hand, if you’re a Leica collector, prefer minimalist design, seldom need video, and value exclusive build quality over specs, then the Leica T Type 701 might appeal. But be prepared for compromises in autofocus speed, sensor resolution, and paying a premium that’s more about brand prestige than outright performance.

My 15+ Years of Experience Tell Me…

Look, no camera is flawless, but the Fuji X-E3 strikes the best balance between real-world usability and image quality at its price point. The Leica T feels like a love letter to classic craftsmanship, best suited for deliberate shooting styles where speed and versatility are secondary.

Choosing between these two comes down to your priorities - performance and value with Fujifilm, or design and exclusivity with Leica. Whichever you pick, you’re stepping into rangefinder-inspired mirrorless that’s small, sleek, and capable.

Happy shooting, and may this guide help you find the tool that makes your creative vision come alive!