Fujifilm X-E3 vs. Samsung NX5: A Detailed Comparison for Discerning Photographers

Choosing the right entry-level mirrorless camera is a pivotal decision for many photographers - whether you’re just embarking on your creative journey or upgrading from older gear seeking more modern features and reliability. In this in-depth comparison, I’ll draw on my extensive hands-on testing with both the Fujifilm X-E3 and Samsung NX5 bodies, assessing their strengths, technical capabilities, and real-world usability across a varied range of photographic applications.

Both cameras target budget-conscious enthusiasts, yet they hail from vastly different eras and design philosophies. The Samsung NX5, announced in mid-2010, represents an early generation mirrorless model that showed promise but is now somewhat dated. Meanwhile, the Fujifilm X-E3, introduced in late 2017, benefits from recent sensor technology and refined ergonomics. Understanding these differences will help you choose the best tool for your unique creative voice.

A Tale of Two Bodies: Ergonomics and Design Philosophy

Physical design and user interface are critical - because any camera, regardless of how advanced under the hood, must be intuitive and comfortable to hold during long photo sessions.

Form Factor and Handling

The Fujifilm X-E3 adopts a rangefinder-style mirrorless form - compact and understated, with an emphasis on portability and traditional controls designed for photographers who prefer manual input without excess bulk. In contrast, the Samsung NX5 embraces an SLR-style mirrorless body, slightly larger, with a deeper grip and more pronounced hand-hold features.

Comparing their dimensions, the X-E3 measures 121x74x43mm and weighs a lean 337g (without lenses or accessories), making it substantially lighter and more pocketable than the NX5, which comes in at 123x87x40mm and weighs a heftier 499g. This weight difference is immediately noticeable during handheld shooting, especially on extended trips, where fatigue can become a factor.

Top Control Layout and Accessibility

Both cameras present a conventional array of dials and buttons, yet the Fujifilm’s top panel reveals a much more refined and tactile interface:

The X-E3 sports dedicated dials for shutter speed and exposure compensation, providing quick tactile feedback without navigating menus - a plus for street and documentary photographers who need to adjust settings on the fly. Conversely, the NX5, more dated by design, includes fewer dedicated controls and relies more heavily on menu diving, which can interrupt shooting flow.

Whether you prioritize streamlined manual control or are content with a simplified approach will guide your preference here, but for photographers valuing speed and tactile certainty, the X-E3 leads.

The Heart of the Camera: Sensor Technology and Image Quality

At the core of any camera’s performance is the sensor, which directly impacts image resolution, dynamic range, noise performance, and ultimately the creative possibilities.

Sensor Specifications and Technology

The Fujifilm X-E3 features a 24.3-megapixel APS-C X-Trans CMOS III sensor with a proprietary color filter array that eschews the traditional Bayer filter pattern. This design helps reduce moiré and false color while maintaining high sharpness without the need for an optical low-pass filter (anti-aliasing filter). The sensor dimensions are about 23.6 x 15.6mm, standard for APS-C, delivering a sensor area of approximately 368.16 mm².

In contrast, the Samsung NX5 uses a 15.1-megapixel APS-C CMOS sensor sized 23.4 x 15.6mm, yielding slightly less resolution (4592 x 3056 max image size) and employing a Bayer filter with an optical anti-aliasing filter present.

This difference translates into the X-E3 delivering higher resolution detail, superior color rendering capabilities (thanks to the X-Trans filter), and better control over chromatic aberrations and aliasing artifacts. The absence of a low-pass filter on the X-E3 allows for crisper images especially critical in landscape, macro, and studio work where fine textures matter.

Image Processing and ISO Performance

The X-E3 is powered by Fujifilm’s EXR Processor III, a significant advancement over the Samsung's DRIM Engine found in the NX5. This newer processor facilitates faster operation, better noise reduction, and impressive JPEG engine quality - hallmarks of Fujifilm’s renowned color science.

Regarding native ISO ranges, the X-E3 supports 200 to 12,800, with extended sensitivity up to 51,200, enabling cleaner images in low-light environments. By comparison, the NX5’s ISO tops out at 3,200 native without extended boost options, constraining its usability in dim scenarios.

Usability in Diverse Photography Genres

To provide a thorough evaluation, I assessed both cameras across a range of photographic disciplines, seeking to understand their functional strengths and compromises.

Portrait Photography: Skin Tones and Autofocus Precision

Portraiture demands reliable autofocus (AF), attractive background separation (bokeh), and faithful skin tone reproduction.

The Fujifilm X-E3’s 325-point hybrid AF system combines phase and contrast detection, greatly improving speed, accuracy, and tracking over contrast-only systems like that on the NX5, which has a modest 15-point contrast-detect AF array. Additionally, the X-E3 supports eye-detection AF, a compelling feature enabling precise focus on subjects’ eyes, critical for professional headshots and candid moments.

Paired with Fujifilm’s celebrated film simulations, the X-E3 excels in rendering skin tones with warmth and natural vibrance. The lack of in-body image stabilization means lens choice for stabilized optics becomes more important here.

The Samsung NX5’s autofocus, while serviceable for general use, struggles with speed and accuracy on moving subjects, which may lead to frustration in portrait sessions requiring responsiveness.

Landscape Photography: Dynamic Range and Resolution

Landscape photographers benefit from high dynamic range (DR), resolution, and robust weather sealing for outdoor shoots.

While neither body offers weather sealing, the X-E3’s sensor and processing provide markedly better dynamic range - ensuring retention of highlight and shadow detail vital in high-contrast scenes like sunrises or forest interiors. Its 24MP resolution is also advantageous for large prints or extensive cropping.

The NX5’s lower resolution and narrower DR limit its performance under challenging light but can still produce pleasing results in favorable conditions.

Wildlife and Sports Photography: Autofocus Speed and Burst Rates

Speed and focus tracking capabilities are paramount for capturing fast-moving wildlife or athletes.

The X-E3’s continuous shooting speed reaches a commendable 14 frames per second (fps), facilitating fast capture of fleeting moments. Its hybrid AF system supports continuous AF and face-tracking, although the absence of animal eye-tracking limits wildlife-specific precision compared to some flagship models.

The NX5 caps at a more modest 3 fps burst and lacks phase detection AF. Consequently, its AF performance lags when tracking erratic movement, reducing keeper rates in action scenarios.

Street Photography: Discreteness and Portability

In street photography, compactness, subtlety, and quick responsiveness fuel success.

The X-E3’s compact size, low weight, and classic rangefinder aesthetic render it remarkably discreet - ideal for candid, unstaged shoots. Its touch-screen LCD and customizable dials further expedite setting adjustments without focusing away from the scene.

The NX5’s larger grip and slower control interface mean it’s less nimble and more conspicuous, potentially hindering street photographers who value mobility and discretion.

Macro Photography: Focusing Precision and Stabilization

For macro work, precise manual or AF focus, sharp image capture, and sometimes stabilization support are key.

Neither camera houses in-body stabilization, necessitating stabilized lenses or tripods. However, the X-E3’s superior sensor resolution and fast, accurate AF facilitate better fine-tuned focus, enhancing macro potential. Manual focus aids are helpful, and though the NX5 has manual focus capability, its less sophisticated focus confirmation and lower resolution constrain detail capture.

Night and Astrophotography: ISO Performance and Exposure Control

Shooting in near darkness demands excellent high ISO noise control and versatile exposure modes.

The X-E3’s clean ISO performance up to 6400–12800, paired with electronic shutter options allowing ultra-fast exposures (up to 1/32000s silent shutter), offers significant creative flexibility - valuable for night and astro photography. It also supports time-lapse recording, handy for celestial timelapses.

The NX5’s ISO limit of 3200 and lack of electronic shutter modes restricts long exposure and noise-sensitive applications, making it less ideal for night skies.

Video Capabilities: Resolution and Audio Support

Videography is increasingly integral to multimedia-focused creators.

The Fujifilm X-E3 records 4K UHD video at 20, 24, and 25 frames per second, alongside Full HD options, supported by high-quality H.264 compression. Crucially, it includes a microphone input, enabling external audio capture - a vital feature for serious video work. However, the lack of headphone monitoring is a drawback for critical sound evaluation.

The Samsung NX5 maxes out at 720p video fps with no microphone or headphone ports, delivering subpar video performance by today’s standards.

Travel Photography: Versatility and Battery Life

Travel photographers prize light weight, all-around capability, and strong battery endurance.

Here, the X-E3’s compact design, weight advantage, and advanced sensor make it an excellent choice for a versatile travel kit. Its battery yields approximately 350 shots per charge, reasonable for its class, while the NX5’s battery offers slightly longer 400 shots, though the weight penalty somewhat offsets this benefit.

Lens ecosystems vary: Fujifilm boasts a robust lineup of 54 native X-mount lenses, from primes to zooms, macro to telephoto, accessible via third-party options as well - vastly outpacing Samsung’s much smaller 32-lens NX mount ecosystem, which ceased production years ago.

Interface, Connectivity, and Workflow Integration

A modern camera must also meet expectations for ease of use and seamless integration.

LCD and Viewfinder

The Fujifilm X-E3 uses a 3-inch, 1.04 million-dot fixed touchscreen LCD - bright and responsive, facilitating intuitive focusing and menu navigation. Its electronic viewfinder sports 2.36 million dots with 100% coverage and ~0.62x magnification, offering clear framing even in bright ambient lighting.

The Samsung NX5, meanwhile, provides a 3-inch fixed OLED display but at a low 230k-dot resolution with no touch functionality, and a less detailed electronic viewfinder (~0.57x magnification), reducing framing accuracy.

Wireless Connectivity

The X-E3 includes built-in WiFi and Bluetooth, supporting remote control, wireless image transfer, and firmware updates via smartphone - advantages for social shooters and quick workflow sharing.

The NX5 lacks any wireless connectivity, limiting flexibility.

Storage and Battery

Both feature a single SD card slot; the X-E3 supports modern UHS-I standard cards for faster write speeds - a boon for high-res stills and 4K video.

Battery-wise, while the NX5’s rated 400 shots per charge nominally surpasses the X-E3’s 350, the latter’s modern lithium-ion cell (NP-W126S) is more readily available on the used and new market, supporting easier replacements on the go.

Build Quality and Environmental Durability

Neither of these entry-level mirrorless cameras offers weather sealing or ruggedized build - standard in this category during their respective launches. For real-world users, this means careful handling and protective accessories are a must in inclement weather or harsh environments.

Real-World Image Quality Comparison and Sample Gallery

To complement the technical overview, I conducted comparative field tests across various scenarios, from vibrant urban environments to controlled portrait setups.

Fujifilm X E3 front Fujifilm X E3 screen back Samsung NX5 screen back

The images confirmed expectations: Fujifilm’s X-Trans sensor yields noticeably finer detail and more faithful, nuanced color rendition - particularly in challenging lighting. The Samsung NX5 offers usable JPEGs in good light but struggles with noise and lag in dynamic range-heavy or low-light scenes. The cleaner, crisper portraits and landscapes from the X-E3 reflect its superior autofocus and sensor capabilities.

Final Performance Ratings and Genre-Specific Scores

Summarizing core capabilities into performance scores:

And drilling down by genre:

The Fujifilm X-E3 dominates in almost every category: portrait, landscape, street, macro, and video, while the Samsung NX5 reflects its era and limited technology with middling scores except for battery life and flash presence.

Who Should Choose Which?

Select the Fujifilm X-E3 if...

• You seek a compact, lightweight mirrorless camera with modern image quality and processing
• You require advanced autofocus with face and eye detection for portraits and moving subjects
• You want 4K video capability with external mic input for professional-grade multimedia projects
• You value an extensive, versatile lens ecosystem with high-quality primes and zooms
• You desire wireless connectivity and touchscreen convenience for streamlined shooting
• You prioritize dynamic range and ISO performance for landscapes, night photography, and travel

Consider the Samsung NX5 if...

• Budget is a strict constraint, and you seek a basic mirrorless solution
• You desire an integrated pop-up flash (which the X-E3 lacks)
• You are comfortable with slower AF and lower-resolution images for casual photography
• You prefer an SLR-style body for ergonomics despite its weight
• You do not require video beyond basic HD functionality or wireless connectivity

Conclusion: Balancing Legacy and Modernity in Mirrorless Choice

While both cameras are positioned as entry-level mirrorless models, their generational gap and consequent technological disparities are undeniable. The Fujifilm X-E3, released seven years after the Samsung NX5, embodies significant advancements in sensor design, autofocus, and multimedia versatility that resonate strongly with today’s photographer. Its superior image quality, ergonomic refinement, and robust lens lineup render it a compelling candidate for enthusiasts prioritizing image fidelity and creative flexibility.

Conversely, the Samsung NX5 remains a historical snapshot of early mirrorless innovation - capable in well-lit conditions, powered by a respectable sensor for its time, and geared toward casual shooters who prize simplicity. However, its dated features and limited video, autofocus, and connectivity fall short of meeting modern creative demands.

In sum, for photographers serious about building a reliable, future-proof system capable of excelling across portrait, landscape, street, wildlife, and video workflows, the Fujifilm X-E3 confidently leads in both performance and value.

Appendix: Technical Specifications Summary Table

This comparison leverages years of empirical testing and deep understanding of camera systems, providing a nuanced analysis meant to empower photographers in making informed gear choices aligned with their creative ambitions and practical needs.