The Fuji X-S20 is a crop-frame mirrorless camera that packs a powerful feature set into a sleek, compact package. It’s an update to the X-S10 that incorporates features found in higher-end Fuji cameras. Key features include:
26.1MP APS-C X-Trans 4 BSI CMOS sensor
6.2K 30p open-gate, 4K 60p, & Full HD 240p 10-bit video
Video modes designed for vloggers and content creators
Seven-stop image stabilization; hybrid autofocus system
26.1MP X-Trans BSI-CMOS Sensor. The Fuji X-S20’s proven X-Trans 4 CMOS sensor boasts a back-illuminated design and a randomized pixel array that promotes high image quality throughout its normal ISO range of 160-12,800. In addition to facilitating exceptional low-light use, the X-Processor 4 Engine also supercharges operation speed. Image processing, startup time, shutter lag, and general navigation are all quick, and maximum continuous shooting is a brisk 30 fps cropped or 20 fps uncropped.
X-Processor 5 Engine. The X-Trans 4 sensor works in tandem with the X-Processor 5 engine, which uses 64-bit processing to complete video and photo operations up to three times faster than its predecessors. It enables internal video recording at up to 6.2K 30 fps, and it gives you faster still-shooting rates to more easily capture moving subjects. When using an electronic shutter, you get continuous shooting at up to 20 fps, while you can get speeds up to 8 fps using the mechanical shutter. Finally, this sensor helps the AI-backed autofocus system track quickly, gives you a 13-stop dynamic range, and enables ISO 125-12800 sensitivity.
Video Powerhouse. The X-S20 has a 3:2 open-gate 6.2K 30 fps recording mode that’s great for anamorphic applications. It’s also capable of internal 4:2:2 10-bit recording in DCI/UHD 4K at up to 60 fps and in Full HD at up to 240 fps for ultra slow-motion playback. You can record video for up to 36 minutes at a time using the 6.2K mode if you’re using a memory card that can handle it, but you’ll probably want to use the separately available Fuji FAN-001 Cooling Fan, which can extend recording time to 78 minutes, to keep the camera running on extended shoots if temperatures creep above 100°F.
External RAW Recording. You can use the X-S20’s Micro-HDMI port to record ProRes RAW or Blackmagic RAW video to a compatible external recorder. You have the option of working with the F-Log or F-Log 2 profiles, and either format lets you work in resolutions up to DCI and UHD 4K at up to 30 fps.
Vlog Mode, Video Modes, and UAC Webcam Functionality. The X-S20 has a few new shooting interfaces that cater to content creators. Vlog mode, which you can activate by simply pressing a button on the touchscreen, gives you quick-access buttons for stabilization, eye/face detection, product priority autofocus, and other features commonly used for vlogging. Background Defocus mode lets you blur out the background of your footage, giving you a cinematic look at the push of a button. The X-S20’s webcam functionality is impressive, offering 4K 60 fps streaming via the USB-C port, all in the UAC standard that eliminates the need for XWebcam software.
In-Body Sensor-Shift Image Stabilization. The X-S20’s five-axis image-stabilization system markedly reduces the effects of camera shake on your footage so that you can easily shoot in low light. It can compensate for up to seven stops of shutter speed, depending on the lens you’re using, and it works in conjunction with most X-series lenses, including non-stabilized ones.
Hybrid Autofocus System. This camera’s on-sensor hybrid autofocus system uses 425 selectable points to cover almost the entire sensor area, and it’s sensitive down to -7 EV for working in truly low light. This focusing system uses a deep-learning backed AI-adaptive algorithm to offer improved tracking of a wide range of subject types. The Face and Eye Detection capabilities have been refined for even greater accuracy, and to account for features and accessories like glasses, masks, and hairlines. The autofocus system can now recognize an even greater array of subjects, including cars, motorcyclists, trains, planes, cats, dogs, birds, horses, and more. If you’re coming from a modern-day DSLR, you’ll be happy to know the X-S20 has a dedicated joystick for intuitive AF-point selection.
Touchscreen LCD and OLED Electronic Viewfinder. The 3.0-inch, 1.84m-dot rear touchscreen LCD features a three-way tilt mechanism for easy viewing in most any position, including front-facing angles, and there’s a bright, crisp 2.36m-dot OLED electronic viewfinder with 0.62x magnification and a 100 fps refresh rate.
Memory and Power. The X-S20 has one UHS-I compatible SD-card slot for quick, flexible file storage. It’s powered by an NP-W235 battery that gives you about 750 shots per charge.
Ergonomics, Build, and Connectivity. This camera features large dials, more pronounced buttons, intuitive controls, and a substantial handgrip. The magnesium-build body is sealed to protect against dust, moisture, and the cold. There’s a Micro-HDMI port for video output, a USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C port for tethering and data transfer, and 3.5mm headphone and external-mic jacks for audio monitoring and recording. Built-in Bluetooth and Wi-Fi connectivity let you use a mobile device to wirelessly share images or remotely control the camera.
