gdgt

The Fujifilm X-E1 is a solid mirrorless camera with an innovative image sensor, but it doesn't quite have the chops to unseat the Olympus OM-D E-M5 as our Editors' Choice.

Fujifilm's recent improvements to focusing, both manual and automatic, make a real difference to performance, the built-in EVF is excellent, and the enthusiast-friendly ergonomics are addictive. The only serious issue is the camera's video mode, which is sub-par compared to the competition.

This isn't a camera for video, for in-camera effects, wi-fi, or scene modes. It's for unadulterated photography, with fantastic image quality and control.

It's the final quality of the X-E1's shots that elevate it to such high standards - assuming the so-so autofocus and battery life, small screen size and electronic-only viewfinder are manageable considerations.

Overall, we think that the X-E1 will appeal to those who've been holding off buying the company's flagship mirrorless ILC due to its high price, as well as to serious enthusiasts who appreciate the mix of retro styling and manual controls.

Overall, the Fuji X-E1 is an extremely interesting proposition that we can see being incredibly successful. Combining the fantastic technology of the Fuji X-Pro1 with a more consumer-friendly price and a smaller, more streamlined CSC body will surely appeal to a wide range of people.

In the same way that Olympus has re-stoked enthusiasm for traditional SLR design with the OM-D E-M5, with this latest X Series model Fujifilm stands poised to do the same thing for the classic rangefinder. It's a beautifully designed and engineered camera that's a pleasure to use.

Gifted with the same premium grade construction and finish, the X-E1 feels more refined and balanced than it’s more expensive sibling ... The quality of the results and the detail rendered is excellent, delivering images that are some of, if not the best we’ve seen from an APS-C sized sensor.

On picture quality, the Fuji X-E1 is a reference for other interchangeable lens compacts to aspire to...But with its autofocus issues, a video mode that's not quite up to current market standards and its rather particular handling, the X-E1 won't suit everyone.

Whilst not quite as outwardly gorgeous as the X-Pro1, the X-E1 comes close, offering a more accessible option all round if you've the cash to stump up.

If you have the money, then the X-E1 is an excellent camera, and the lenses available are excellent, particularly the primes.

Overall I was pretty pleased with the quality feel and good heft of the Fujifilm X-E1: It's substantial without seeming too bulky... If image quality remains high, the X-E1 looks like another potential winner for Fujifilm.