FujiFilm X-T1 IR vs X-T20: In-Depth Camera Comparison for Discerning Photographers

When it comes to mirrorless cameras from FujiFilm, the X-T series frequently tops wishlists for photographers seeking compact bodies with serious photographic chops. Today, we pit the Fujifilm X-T1 IR, a niche, infrared-modified variant of a 2015 stalwart, against the stylish and versatile Fujifilm X-T20, a 2017 entry aimed squarely at advancing enthusiasts and prosumers. Both share Fuji’s celebrated APS-C X-Trans sensor lineage and SLR-style ergonomics, but diverge in sensor generations, feature sets, and specialties.

Having spent weeks shooting side-by-side in varied scenarios - from carefully lit studio portraits to unpredictable wildlife chases - I’m excited to unpack what these cameras bring to the table, their trade-offs, and to recommend who should consider shelling out for each. Let’s dive in.

Getting Physical: Size, Handling, and Build Quality

First impressions matter - especially when you’re holding a tool meant for long shoots or travel photo safaris. The FujiFilm X-T1 IR and X-T20 both sport the classic retro-modern SLR-style mirrorless design Fuji pioneered. But subtle differences in dimensions, weight, and control layout create distinct handling experiences.

The X-T1 IR, being a ruggedized, infrared-specialized derivative of the original X-T1, feels noticeably chunkier at 129 x 90 x 47 mm and tipping the scales at 440 grams with battery. Its magnesium alloy body is weather-sealed, engineered to endure dusty environments, occasional rain, and temperature swings. While it lacks freezeproof or crushproof claims, the sealing is a reassuring bonus for outdoor and mission-critical shoots. The heft and grip shape translate into a comfortable, confident hold, especially when paired with Fuji’s extensive lineup of sizable primes and telephotos.

In contrast, the X-T20 is a sleeker, lighter craft, measuring 118 x 83 x 41 mm and weighing only 383 grams with battery. The build uses a composite chassis rather than full metal, losing any weather sealing but gaining portability and a less intimidating foot-print for street and travel photographers. The controls are compact but well-laid out, with a much-improved touchscreen interface (more on that shortly).

Handling-wise, neither is pocketable per se, but the X-T20 feels far less burdensome during all-day carry, while the X-T1 IR screams “professional tool” by feel.

At a Glance: Top-Side Design and Controls

The charm of Fuji’s X series is how much tactile control they manage to pack into a relatively small footprint - the dials, switches, and buttons that let you shoot fast and intuitively.

The X-T1 IR sticks to a classic approach: dedicated mechanical dials for shutter speed (maxing at 1/4000s, plus an electronic shutter option all the way to 1/32,000s) and ISO (200–6400 native, expandable to 51,200). Aperture is controlled via the lens. Notably, the IR modification comes with no touchscreen but includes tilting 3.0” LCD, 1040k-dot resolution screen, and a high-res electronic viewfinder with 0.77x magnification and 100% coverage - excellent for manual focus and precision framing.

Conversely, the X-T20 brings a newer X-Processor Pro2 CPU paired with the upgraded X-Trans III 24MP sensor and incorporates a tilting 3.0” touchscreen (920k dot resolution) for a more modern shooting workflow - especially helpful for touch AF and menu navigation. The electronic viewfinder maintains the same 2360k-dot resolution but has a smaller 0.62x magnification, slightly less immersive but still very sharp. Continuous shooting rates jump to a blistering 14 fps versus 8 fps on the older X-T1 IR, pleasant news for sports and wildlife shooters.

The X-T20 also includes an internal pop-up flash (effective up to 5 meters) versus no built-in flash on the X-T1 IR, which mandates an external unit. Both share standard hotshoe options and a front control dial customization that Fuji fans will appreciate.

Under the Hood: Sensor Technology and Image Quality

Sensor design impacts every pixel you capture, affecting everything from dynamic range to color reproduction and noise performance.

The Fujifilm X-T1 IR employs a 16MP APS-C ‘X-Trans II’ CMOS sensor. What’s special here is that this particular X-T1 model is modified for infrared photography, catering to niche applications like forensic imaging, scientific purposes, or artistic IR photography. Normal visible light is filtered out, letting you capture the often surreal IR spectrum. This specialty, however, comes at the cost of everyday usability - though the sensor itself is capable of great colors and dynamic range in normal mode, the IR filter reduces its versatility.

By contrast, the X-T20 sports the newer 24MP APS-C X-Trans III sensor, offering higher resolution files (up to 6000 x 4000 pixels) with no anti-aliasing filter - a boon for detailed landscapes and large prints. This sensor shows significant improvements in dynamic range and high ISO noise reduction compared to the older X-T1 IR sensor. Native ISO extends from 200 to 12,800 with boostable 51,200 for extreme low light or creative exposure.

In my side-by-side tests under controlled lighting, the X-T20 exhibits richer shadow retention and cleaner highlight drops, making for more forgiving post-processing latitude. Skin tones from the X-T20 are luscious, natural, and impressively accurate, crucial for portrait work. Meanwhile, the X-T1 IR’s unique IR response renders monochrome IR images that, while niche, are strikingly ethereal for creative types - certainly not your everyday camera.

Seeing Clearly: LCD and Viewfinder Performance

Whether you compose on the rear LCD or through the EVF, these interfaces define your shooting experience.

The X-T1 IR’s LCD screen has excellent resolution (1040k dots) and a 3-inch size with tilting functionality helpful for hip-level and overhead shots. However, it lacks touchscreen - meaning autofocus point selection and menu navigation rely on buttons and dials alone, which can feel archaic in comparison to modern designs. The electronic viewfinder is sharp and fast but slightly more magnified, making manual focusing pleasurable with legacy lenses.

The X-T20 upgrades with touchscreen support, facilitating quick AF point changes, live view gestures, and menu scrolling. The LCD maintains crispness at 920k dots and retains the 3-inch size, but usability improves markedly. The integrated EVF matches the X-T1 IR in resolution but has slightly less magnification, translating to a bit smaller viewing area - not a dealbreaker but something to test if you prefer huge EVFs.

Autofocus and Burst Shooting: Who’s Quicker on the Draw?

Autofocus performance can make or break a camera for wildlife and sports photographers, not to mention street snapshooters craving spontaneity.

The X-T1 IR’s autofocus system is a hybrid of contrast and phase-detection with face detection and selectable AF modes - yet it’s basic by today’s standards and lacks advanced tracking capabilities. Continuous shooting maxes out at 8fps, suitable for moderate action but struggles with fast-moving subjects or detailed tracking.

With the X-T20, Fujifilm brought a big leap forward: 325 AF points covering a wide area, tracking modes, eye detection, and continuous AF that’s remarkably fast and accurate. This camera’s 14 fps burst shooting allows you to capture fleeting moments with confidence - something I confirmed while photographing bird flights and street dancers. The AF-fused with the X-Processor Pro2 cuts focusing lag significantly, translating into sharp images when timing is critical.

Neither camera features specific animal eye AF, but general face detection works well on both, with the X-T20’s system being far more sophisticated.

Lens Ecosystem: How Does Compatibility Measure Up?

Both cameras use the Fujifilm X-mount, sharing compatibility with an extensive lineup of over 54 lenses ranging from ultra-wide primes to telephoto zooms and macro options. This ecosystem is one of Fuji's strongest suits, renowned for crisp optics, solid build quality, and creative color rendering.

Given the X-T1 IR’s introduction era, pairing it with older lenses - often with manual focus or no image stabilization - is not unusual. The lack of in-body stabilization (IBIS) in either camera means the choice of stabilized lenses becomes critically important for handheld macro or telephoto work.

The X-T20 is designed to leverage newer lenses with advanced electronics, offering autofocus and exposure refinement unavailable with vintage glass. It pairs especially well with the 16-55mm f/2.8 or 50-140mm f/2.8 zooms for professional work.

Battery, Storage, and Connectivity: Practical Workhorse Features

Battery life in mirrorless cameras is often a pain point, and both Fuji models here offer roughly 350 shots per charge using the standard NP-W126 batteries, adequate for day trips but might require a backup for pro assignments.

They both share single SD card slot supporting SD, SDHC, and SDXC formats, with UHS-II compatibility on the X-T20 enabling faster card write speeds - a boon when shooting 14 fps bursts or extensive 4K video clips.

Connectivity options are similar: built-in Wi-Fi for image transfer and remote control, micro USB 2.0 ports, full-size micro HDMI out, and microphone input jacks for external audio capture. Neither offers Bluetooth or a headphone jack, which may disappoint videographers desiring precise audio monitoring.

Toughness and Weather Resistance

A crucial difference lies here:

• The X-T1 IR boasts environmental sealing, making it dust-resistant and weather-resistant (though not waterproof or freezeproof). This builds confidence on rugged assignments - mountains, rain-soaked cities, dusty festivals - where camera failures can be career-enders.

• The X-T20, built as a lighter, less rugged camera, lacks weather sealing altogether. For outdoor enthusiasts prone to sudden weather changes, this is a vital consideration.

Ready for Video? Comparing Movie Features

While Fuji’s X-T series primarily attract still photographers, video capabilities have progressively improved.

The X-T1 IR is limited to Full HD 1080p at 30/60 fps, encoded via H.264, with no 4K recording step-up. It has a microphone input but no headphone jack. Video features are basic, decent for casual b-rolls but limited for serious filmmakers.

The X-T20 upgrades significantly to 4K UHD recording (up to 30p) alongside improved Full HD options (up to 60 fps). It supports more video formats, HDMI output, and microphone input. However, neither camera includes in-body image stabilization, relying on lens IS or gimbals for steady shots.

For pro video work, these models fall short of more cinema-oriented cameras but the X-T20 is definitely more viable for vlogging, short films, or travel video diaries.

How Do They Really Perform Across Genres?

Time for some genre-specific commentary, backed by my hands-on tests:

• Portrait photography: The X-T20’s 24MP sensor and improved AF with face detection yield superior skin tones and bokeh control in both studio and natural light. The X-T1 IR’s IR sensor is impractical here - unless you specialize in infrared portraiture, a niche unto itself.

• Landscape photography: Both cameras offer APS-C sensors adequate for landscapes, but the X-T20’s higher resolution and greater dynamic range produce richer detail and tonality. The X-T1 IR’s weather sealing favors harsh outdoor shoots but resolution limits fine print size.

• Wildlife photography: The X-T20’s 14 fps burst and superior AF system trounce the X-T1 IR’s 8 fps and basic tracking, delivering more keeper shots on fast-moving animals. Lack of IBIS on both demands fast glass or tripods.

• Sports photography: Again, the X-T20’s faster frame rate and tracking AF shine, though neither camera rivals top-tier pro sports shooters’ options.

• Street photography: The X-T20’s smaller size and touchscreen make it a more discreet companion. The X-T1 IR’s bulk and ruggedness might intimidate street subjects but excels in deliberate compositions.

• Macro photography: Neither camera has built-in image stabilization, so you’re reliant on lenses or steady technique. X-T20’s higher MP count helps capture fine macro detail better.

• Night/astro photography: The X-T1 IR’s limited high ISO range (native max 6400) and older sensor tech lose to the X-T20’s improved noise handling at ISO 12,800. However, X-T1 IR’s longer shutter speed range lets you experiment creatively.

• Video: X-T20 surpasses X-T1 IR with 4K capabilities and faster frame rates.

• Travel photography: The X-T20’s compact size, light weight, and 4K video make it a better travel partner; however, some may prefer X-T1 IR’s rugged build in extreme conditions.

• Professional work: The X-T1 IR’s build quality and weather sealing fit demanding fieldwork; the X-T20 offers higher-quality stills and smoother operation, blending prosumer usability with impressive specs.

Putting It All Together: Performance Scores and Analysis

Time to look at a rounded assessment of both cameras’ overall and genre-specific capabilities based on my testing and trusted benchmarks.

The X-T20 scores noticeably higher in overall versatility, especially excelling in speed, autofocus, and resolution. The X-T1 IR scores emphasize durability, IR capabilities, and build quality but lag in imaging specs.

Real-World Image Samples

I shot landscapes at dawn, indoor portraits by window light, urban street scenes at twilight, and some fast-action wildlife - both cameras delivering images for your consideration:

Fujifilm X T1 IR front Fujifilm X T1 IR screen back Fujifilm X T20 front Fujifilm X T20 screen back

Notably:

• The X-T20’s images show cleaner shadows and finer detail retention.
• The X-T1 IR’s IR images create unique, dreamlike aesthetics impossible on X-T20 sans filters.
• Colors on both are signature Fuji warm but X-T20’s newer processor handles reds and skin tones more naturally.

Who Should Buy Which?

If you’re drawn to infrared photography, scientific imaging, or require a camera tough enough for demanding outdoor use, the Fujifilm X-T1 IR is a specialized tool that delivers good image quality with the bonus of IR sensitivity and weather sealing. It’s ideal for professionals and enthusiasts who need the durability and unique IR capabilities, and are comfortable with a 16MP file limit.

The Fujifilm X-T20 is an all-around superior performer for most users - photography enthusiasts, advanced amateurs, and prosumers seeking a capable, lightweight, versatile camera. With a sharper 24MP sensor, faster AF, higher burst rate, better video, and intuitive touchscreen, it’s perfect for portraits, landscapes, wildlife, street, and video work alike. Its lack of weather sealing is the main downside but acceptable for most casual to semi-pro applications out of harsh environments.

Final Thoughts: Finding Your FujiFit

After personally pounding the shutter on these cameras across scenarios, it’s clear Fuji has crafted two distinct but respectable hubs in the mirrorless market. The X-T1 IR is a niche powerhouse, perfect for IR imaging and robust outdoor work; the X-T20 is a versatile, refined, and playful tool for visual storytelling in the digital age.

Choosing between them boils down to your creative ambitions and practical needs: craving creative IR and ruggedness? The X-T1 IR has your back. Seeking sharper images, speed, and modern conveniences? The X-T20 is your trusted sidekick.

Whichever you choose, you’re investing in Fuji’s rich color science, legacy lens lineup, and an inspiring photographic experience. Just remember to pack extra batteries.

If you’re ready to immerse yourself deeper and see comparison charts, image galleries, and full specs, check out the linked resources and sample galleries. Happy shooting!

Summary Table

Image credits: FujiFilm official specs and sample shoots by the author.