Very good examination of the pros and cons of these two cameras. I’ve been looking at the X-PRO1 and think I need to also consider the X-E1 based on your observations.
Glad it helped, I almost decided on giving up on Fuji but have decided to keep the xe1 purely because it offers something my other cameras don't, it's like a film camera without the inconvenience of film.
Thanks for this, Chris. As an X-E1 owner, I have often considered purchasing the X-pro1as well. The thing that put me off was the high price they sell for. Fuji is an interesting company in that they have frequently put improvements in the later cheaper versions of their flagship models. As a point of interest, I have 'upgraded' to an x-t30, but the X-E1 still gets plenty of use. Kind regards B
The x-e1 has a magic of it's own. I won't sell mine. It can be a challenge to use if you're used to newer Fuji gear. But it's worth the effort. Great review
Great comparison. I bought the X-E1 new in 2013. It is my first Fuji camera. I have never regretted it and still use it quite often. It's a great, compact travel camera. Since then, I have gone on to own the X-T2s, X-T5s, and GFX 100. I love the Fuji products and their customer support for improvements. The image quality is second to none. Cheers!
Thank you. It's a shame that I didn't get on with the x-h1 and don't fancy any of the other Fuji cameras but I do still enjoy the images from the X-E1.
Always stick with the camera that feels right, regardless of new models with increased megapixels, etc, etc.. sometimes manufacturers get it right with the first iteration, that’s not to say the x pro 1 isn’t a great camera (never used one but it obviously does the job).. personally I don’t think there is a ‘bad’ Fuji film model at all.. all the ones I’ve had (and regretted selling) were wonderful.
Despite being a lowly kit lens, it’s not just for beginners. I’ve been shooting for more than 50 years, have a few much more expensive Fujifilm lenses, but the vastly underrated plays a large part in my street photography. Diminutive, light as a feather design, sharp, wider than most, image stabilization, and cheap as dirt on the used market ta boot! A Real Sleeper….. SHHHH 🤫
Hi Chris, this is a great video. I currently own both the X-E3 & X-T3. The X-E3 was bought recently (second hand) for travel. I just love the size and handling. It is my new number one camera. The official leather half case is far nicer to hold than the extended grip you show, I have both 😉
Thanks for that Scott although I've been using a Fuji XH1 for the past 9 months or so but think that I prefer the look still of the XE1 so I'm probably going to part with the XH1 in the near future.
Outstanding video Chris. For similar reasons to yours I just received a minty X-Pro1. I also own the first generation x-trans sensor X-M1 and was curious to see the difference if any of the magic that the X-Pro1 may deliver. In addition to the X-M1 I also own the X-E2. The M1 brings a lot of joy in shooting vintage lenses from the pavement level to arms above thanks to its flippy screen. The X-E2 with its view vinder allows a better setup for lens evaluation. I am anxious to see if I will find similar outcome to yours. I am an eye glass wearer so the lack of diopter adjustment may prove to be a negative for me, as the X-E2 has it
No problem, glad you enjoyed it. I want to try and X-T2 or an X-H1 (X-Trans3) in the future to see whether they lose any magic compared to these original X-Trans 1 sensor cameras. Not all my cameras have diopters but I feel like the X-Pro1 needed one. Yes you can buy after market ones but its just not the same.
Hi Chris, an interesting video comparing the two. I think the X-e1 already has your heart. My story was a bit different. I couldn’t get on with the X-e1 but then again I used the X- Pro 1 first. I prefer the better build quality, size and ergonomics. It’s probably what we get used to. Eyesight is a factor in choosing these cameras though. The photos at the end of your episode were excellent.
Eyesight is not the factor, you can put correction lens on the X-pro 1 so not sure what eyesight has to do with choice especially if you want to use OVF which XE-1 does not have.I have x-pro 1,2&3 and XE-1 .Later one is used when going compact with f2 lenses.
As I commented on your other comment, I don't want the hassle of correction lenses.....It's obvious that you prefer the X-pro1; just understand that there are others that may prefer the XE1....This video hopefully explains why that is the case for me...
@@ChrisEdgecombePhoto I just mentioned that there is a screw on the cheap correction lens which might solve issue for some people.I use one from Bessa and it fits perfectly. Having both, I preffer bigger body for large hands and better build quality ober the other , and if you use OVF in stead of EVF then the choice is obvious.Anyway ,strange thing you mentioned exposure difference and AF which to be honest I did not notticed. Both doing exactly the same (underexposing by 1/3 of the stop.Processor and lightmeter is same and AF pretty much on pair,both suffer when backlight source is in the sceen.Have a nice shooting.
Xe -1 has plastic back and metal front,top and bottom plate,while x-pro 1 has all metal and more premium body.As diopter concern there are correction lenses available for X-pro 1 from Fujifilm,Nikon d19, Canon AE-1 or Voigtlander Bessa so you can also shoot without glasses. Overall build quality goes to x-pro due to material choice (all metal body).I use rear wheel press button to press the zoom in on screen and in EVF which is way faster then on XE-1 and you can oparate camera with one hand in stead of two hands.
It doesn't feel much different though IMO despite the different materials used. Also I don't want the hassle of putting on/taking off correction lenses. Such opinions are always going to divide people, this is just mine based on my feelings when using both. I also found the XE1 operation quicker compared to the x-pro1.
Nice images again. I watched this last week as a happy X-E1 shooter, but you got me thinking…. and then shopping for an X-T2. I loved my X-E1 but the attraction of improved AF and a few more years worth of bell and whistle innovation proved too tempting.
That's the route I want to go as well, try an X-T2 or X-H1 to see whether I want to switch to Fuji (and compare it to the X-E1). Thanks for watching and the kind comments.
Your right that the XE-1 does have better focus peaking than the X PRO 1. I got rid of my X PRO 1 and have kept my XE-1 as well. I have two XT-1's, an XT-3 , and an XE-2s also. I tend to prefer the older camera's as I like my results better. I'm looking for an X PRO 2 as a trade for my XT-3 now, I much prefer it and tend to use my XT-1's more anyway ! Really enjoy your well thought out reviews and have subbed. LarryMac
@@ChrisEdgecombePhoto thanks for the video. That’s awesome. It’s nice to see them compared at some point. Hahaha. Can’t wait to see the video then! Cheers from Indonesia, I’m subscribed! 😆
Quality review bro. In depth and informative. Button placement I prefer the play back button opposite the other "in playback mode" as you can zoom in the much quicker to see if the focal point is where you wanted it. Just my personal thoughts :)
Interesting review! I’ve had the X-Pro1 for almost ten years. I love the image but didn’t like some aspects of the camera thus I haven’t done a review yet. I might not ever bother with a review because your review is great!
I had them both. I bought them both twice, but I had to have the X-E1. It is just a better smaller & faster camera... with an excellent bounce flash. I have had the X-T1 & X-T2 as well. For me though. There is something very special about the original X trans in the X-pro1/X-E1. It seems to have more detail , nicer colors & better processing. Albeit subjective to everyone's personal preference. I even have a ricoh GRiiix which seems to have more accurate colors, but i still prefer the original X trans X-E1 with the 27 f2.8. This combo is as small as my Original X100 ( another amazing sensor in this model as well ) 12 mp bayer
Thanks for watching, I still have it although I'm contemplating selling it in the near future as the compact A7S is also magical with vintage lenses and I do struggle sometimes with the XE1's AF performance. Spoilt by the X-H1's fast performance I guess.
Great video, been think about moving to Fujifilm and x-pro is 150 quid more expensive here in Japan. Trying to place your accent btw? Devon? Cornwall? 🙋♀️ I’m from Torbaydos lol
EyE feels the same, except for the fact that I actually prefer the X-E2, which I wound up trading my X-E1 for. I like the tran2 sensor as much as I like the trans1, the X-E1 having too much shutter lag, too slow to focus & process, etc., all of which is brought up to a more acceptable level on the X-E2.
I haven't tried an Xtrans2 sensor camera but I wasn't impressed with xtrans3 IQ compared to my X-E1 so am a little relevant to try any other Fujis at the present time. Thanks for watching.
How do you remove the green focus frame? I can’t seem to find a setting that will remove it. I shoot with manual lenses often and I prefer a natural viewfinder with no frills.
Well, old for me 😬; probably my oldest digital camera (until I try a Canon 5D again...). On the flip side, my oldest film camera is circa 1915, a No. 2 Autographic Brownie Folding Camera...
Anyhoo - you're a brilliant composer. Really enjoyed your images. (Re-watched the whole review :D) I have a similar grip on my X-Pro1. Makes it even bigger. And I had a heap of trouble with the rear wheel, until I gave it a few squirts of de-oxidizer. I use a +1 Nikon screw in diopter in the eyepiece. Will you be looking into getting the higher megapixel versions, you think? Fujifilm put diopter adjustment on the later models. I am curious about the X-T models as well. In the meantime I'll take my X-Pro 1 for a walk. The X-Trans sensor is great for BW.
@Lars A G Thanks Lars. I just bought an X-H1 for a good price as the IBIS and better grip appealed coming from Olympus cameras with IBIS so am currently comparing it with the X-E1. I definitely found the wheel on the XE1 much more reliable than the XP1s wheel.
Spot on! As digital cameras have progressed so much now, the X-Pro1 is THE filmic digital camera more than ever before.
Thanks, I'm just trying out a D200 with a CCD sensor for this very reason. Initial results seem to produce better looking images than the XE1....
Very good examination of the pros and cons of these two cameras. I’ve been looking at the X-PRO1 and think I need to also consider the X-E1 based on your observations.
Glad it helped, I almost decided on giving up on Fuji but have decided to keep the xe1 purely because it offers something my other cameras don't, it's like a film camera without the inconvenience of film.
Thanks for this, Chris. As an X-E1 owner, I have often considered purchasing the X-pro1as well. The thing that put me off was the high price they sell for. Fuji is an interesting company in that they have frequently put improvements in the later cheaper versions of their flagship models. As a point of interest, I have 'upgraded' to an x-t30, but the X-E1 still gets plenty of use.
Kind regards B
Thanks BB. I'm also looking at a newer Fuji (probably the X-T2) to see whether I can envisage a switch to Fuji and away from m43 in the future.
The x-e1 has a magic of it's own. I won't sell mine. It can be a challenge to use if you're used to newer Fuji gear. But it's worth the effort. Great review
Thanks Stephen, yes out out of all the camera's I've used, I definately prefer the look from the Fuji X-E1 files SOOC.
Great comparison. I bought the X-E1 new in 2013. It is my first Fuji camera. I have never regretted it and still use it quite often. It's a great, compact travel camera. Since then, I have gone on to own the X-T2s, X-T5s, and GFX 100. I love the Fuji products and their customer support for improvements. The image quality is second to none. Cheers!
Thank you. It's a shame that I didn't get on with the x-h1 and don't fancy any of the other Fuji cameras but I do still enjoy the images from the X-E1.
Very thoughtful comparison. Thank you for your work.
Thanks for the kind comments.
Always stick with the camera that feels right, regardless of new models with increased megapixels, etc, etc.. sometimes manufacturers get it right with the first iteration, that’s not to say the x pro 1 isn’t a great camera (never used one but it obviously does the job).. personally I don’t think there is a ‘bad’ Fuji film model at all.. all the ones I’ve had (and regretted selling) were wonderful.
Thanks Derek, I am keen to try more Fuji's to see whether they could replace my m43 system. The X-T2 or T-20 is looking likely.
I love how you using XC lens kit because that what mostly beginners using so we can relate to the video. Nice video btw
Thanks for the comment, the lens despite being a pain to use (I'm not a fan of the power zoom), for the price it performs pretty well.
Despite being a lowly kit lens, it’s not just for beginners. I’ve been shooting for more than 50 years, have a few much more expensive Fujifilm lenses, but the vastly underrated plays a large part in my street photography. Diminutive, light as a feather design, sharp, wider than most, image stabilization, and cheap as dirt on the used market ta boot! A Real Sleeper….. SHHHH 🤫
Hi Chris, this is a great video. I currently own both the X-E3 & X-T3. The X-E3 was bought recently (second hand) for travel. I just love the size and handling. It is my new number one camera. The official leather half case is far nicer to hold than the extended grip you show, I have both 😉
Thanks Nick. I still have the XE1 and 35mm f1.4 which I enjoy using still from time to time.
Great video Chris really In depth from a real user off the cameras and good to see another Fuji lover like myself 👍
Thanks for that Scott although I've been using a Fuji XH1 for the past 9 months or so but think that I prefer the look still of the XE1 so I'm probably going to part with the XH1 in the near future.
Thanks again for another informative video very interesting and some great photos as normal
Thank you David.
Outstanding video Chris. For similar reasons to yours I just received a minty X-Pro1. I also own the first generation x-trans sensor X-M1 and was curious to see the difference if any of the magic that the X-Pro1 may deliver. In addition to the X-M1 I also own the X-E2. The M1 brings a lot of joy in shooting vintage lenses from the pavement level to arms above thanks to its flippy screen. The X-E2 with its view vinder allows a better setup for lens evaluation. I am anxious to see if I will find similar outcome to yours. I am an eye glass wearer so the lack of diopter adjustment may prove to be a negative for me, as the X-E2 has it
No problem, glad you enjoyed it. I want to try and X-T2 or an X-H1 (X-Trans3) in the future to see whether they lose any magic compared to these original X-Trans 1 sensor cameras. Not all my cameras have diopters but I feel like the X-Pro1 needed one. Yes you can buy after market ones but its just not the same.
Hi Chris, an interesting video comparing the two.
I think the X-e1 already has your heart.
My story was a bit different.
I couldn’t get on with the X-e1 but then again I used the X- Pro 1 first.
I prefer the better build quality, size and ergonomics.
It’s probably what we get used to.
Eyesight is a factor in choosing these cameras though.
The photos at the end of your episode were excellent.
Thanks CR 😊, it probably does but I really was expecting the build quality to be better. I personally didn't notice much difference in the hand.
Eyesight is not the factor, you can put correction lens on the X-pro 1 so not sure what eyesight has to do with choice especially if you want to use OVF which XE-1 does not have.I have x-pro 1,2&3 and XE-1 .Later one is used when going compact with f2 lenses.
As I commented on your other comment, I don't want the hassle of correction lenses.....It's obvious that you prefer the X-pro1; just understand that there are others that may prefer the XE1....This video hopefully explains why that is the case for me...
@@ChrisEdgecombePhoto I just mentioned that there is a screw on the cheap correction lens which might solve issue for some people.I use one from Bessa and it fits perfectly. Having both, I preffer bigger body for large hands and better build quality ober the other , and if you use OVF in stead of EVF then the choice is obvious.Anyway ,strange thing you mentioned exposure difference and AF which to be honest I did not notticed. Both doing exactly the same (underexposing by 1/3 of the stop.Processor and lightmeter is same and AF pretty much on pair,both suffer when backlight source is in the sceen.Have a nice shooting.
Xe -1 has plastic back and metal front,top and bottom plate,while x-pro 1 has all metal and more premium body.As diopter concern there are correction lenses available for X-pro 1 from Fujifilm,Nikon d19, Canon AE-1 or Voigtlander Bessa so you can also shoot without glasses. Overall build quality goes to x-pro due to material choice (all metal body).I use rear wheel press button to press the zoom in on screen and in EVF which is way faster then on XE-1 and you can oparate camera with one hand in stead of two hands.
It doesn't feel much different though IMO despite the different materials used. Also I don't want the hassle of putting on/taking off correction lenses. Such opinions are always going to divide people, this is just mine based on my feelings when using both. I also found the XE1 operation quicker compared to the x-pro1.
Nice images again. I watched this last week as a happy X-E1 shooter, but you got me thinking…. and then shopping for an X-T2. I loved my X-E1 but the attraction of improved AF and a few more years worth of bell and whistle innovation proved too tempting.
That's the route I want to go as well, try an X-T2 or X-H1 to see whether I want to switch to Fuji (and compare it to the X-E1). Thanks for watching and the kind comments.
Your right that the XE-1 does have better focus peaking than the X PRO 1. I got rid of my X PRO 1 and have kept my XE-1 as well. I have two XT-1's, an XT-3 , and an XE-2s also. I tend to prefer the older camera's as I like my results better. I'm looking for an X PRO 2 as a trade for my XT-3 now, I much prefer it and tend to use my XT-1's more anyway ! Really enjoy your well thought out reviews and have subbed. LarryMac
Thanks Larry, I now have an X-H1 as well but do prefer the output from my x-e1 but the usability/handling is better with the X-H1.
XE1 is magical by itself. I owned XE3 and also Sony a7 mark3. But for general casual street shooting day, I still prefer the XE1 over the other 2
It certainly is,, thanks for the comment. I've since bought an X-H1 and will be doing some similar comparisons on these two cameras in the future.
@@ChrisEdgecombePhoto thanks for the video. That’s awesome. It’s nice to see them compared at some point. Hahaha. Can’t wait to see the video then!
Cheers from Indonesia, I’m subscribed! 😆
This is an excellent comparison!
Thanks very much for the comment Andy.
Quality review bro. In depth and informative. Button placement I prefer the play back button opposite the other "in playback mode" as you can zoom in the much quicker to see if the focal point is where you wanted it. Just my personal thoughts :)
Thanks BP, I try to be truthful in my videos based upon my own experiences with the gear I try for my photography.
Interesting review! I’ve had the X-Pro1 for almost ten years. I love the image but didn’t like some aspects of the camera thus I haven’t done a review yet. I might not ever bother with a review because your review is great!
Thanks CL, I'm sure you can add your own CL spin on any such review. What works well for one person might be more of a hinderance for someone else...
Great video! Solid points and lovely pics!
Thanks for the great comments.
Both cameras are great 😊
Thank you.
Thanks! Well done! I will search for a good copy of the X-E1.
No problems CJ, thanks for watching and commenting.
I have xh2s but I may sell it for Sony counterpart in the future.
But, never have I ever thought of selling my beloved XE1.❤
I am in the same boat with the XH1...
Thank you Chris!!!!!!!
No probs.
I had them both. I bought them both twice, but I had to have the X-E1. It is just a better smaller & faster camera... with an excellent bounce flash. I have had the X-T1 & X-T2 as well. For me though. There is something very special about the original X trans in the X-pro1/X-E1. It seems to have more detail , nicer colors & better processing. Albeit subjective to everyone's personal preference. I even have a ricoh GRiiix which seems to have more accurate colors, but i still prefer the original X trans X-E1 with the 27 f2.8. This combo is as small as my Original X100 ( another amazing sensor in this model as well ) 12 mp bayer
Thanks for watching, I still have it although I'm contemplating selling it in the near future as the compact A7S is also magical with vintage lenses and I do struggle sometimes with the XE1's AF performance. Spoilt by the X-H1's fast performance I guess.
I like my XE1 so much , I bought another at used price of $299. they are fantastic cameras.
Thanks Gordon, it still is a great camera for me to, I'm currently comparing it to the X-H1.
Thank you
Thanks for watching.
Very informative video thanks
Thank you.
Great video, been think about moving to Fujifilm and x-pro is 150 quid more expensive here in Japan. Trying to place your accent btw? Devon? Cornwall? 🙋♀️ I’m from Torbaydos lol
Devon (Plymouth). Glad it helped and thanks for commenting.
i just bought an X-E1. I prefer the images I get out of it compared to my wife's X-T10. There's something about the X-Trans 1 sensor I guess.
I agree, I just wish in a way it performs faster but it is fine when you want to slow things down.
the xe-1 and the xpro-1 have the same sensor their both amazing
Agree, thanks for the comment.
I’ve just got the xe4 but my interest is peaked in the xe1 after watching this.
I've also got an X-H1 since this but there is something special about the xtrans1 images and I still enjoy using the XE1. Thanks for the comment.
EyE feels the same, except for the fact that I actually prefer the X-E2, which I wound up trading my X-E1 for. I like the tran2 sensor as much as I like the trans1, the X-E1 having too much shutter lag, too slow to focus & process, etc., all of which is brought up to a more acceptable level on the X-E2.
Plus the fact that the X-E1 doesn’t have Classic Chrome, my go to color simulation.
I haven't tried an Xtrans2 sensor camera but I wasn't impressed with xtrans3 IQ compared to my X-E1 so am a little relevant to try any other Fujis at the present time. Thanks for watching.
I'm not a massive fan of any of the film Sims TBH beyond the original provia on the Xtrans1 sensor cameras.
How do you remove the green focus frame? I can’t seem to find a setting that will remove it. I shoot with manual lenses often and I prefer a natural viewfinder with no frills.
I had a look yesterday and I don't think you can with the XE1.
What glass old or new du you think has the best colores on the fuji x1 ? Thanks
Hi, thanks for watching, I haven't really got much glass to make a reasonable judgement but it's hard not to enjoy using the 35mm f1.4.
@@ChrisEdgecombePhotothank you !
None are weather sealed?
None of the xtrans1 sensor cameras.
I sold the pro 1 and bought 2 E1
I took the X-E1 out on an overcast day with dull light expecting to get dull pictures, but colors were beautiful.
Its a great camera although I don't tend to find the colours that accurate after trying the Canon 5D classic.
@@ChrisEdgecombePhoto Try samsung nx mini
@@jan-martinulvag1953 I did look at that one but I don't think I want another interchangeable camera system at the moment....
Old? I still use Nikon dslr's from 2008 and earlier. Some are still better than todays yunk.
Well, old for me 😬; probably my oldest digital camera (until I try a Canon 5D again...). On the flip side, my oldest film camera is circa 1915, a No. 2 Autographic Brownie Folding Camera...
Please stop saying "Kinda" every second, it ruins a very solid and good narrative.
Sorry, I will endeavour to do better in the future.
Interesting review.
The amount of "kinda" in every other sentence got to me, though.
Sorry about that. In future videos I've kinda tried to stop saying it as much or just kinda edited them out 😁, thanks for the comment.
@@ChrisEdgecombePhoto ha ha :D
Anyhoo - you're a brilliant composer. Really enjoyed your images. (Re-watched the whole review :D)
I have a similar grip on my X-Pro1. Makes it even bigger. And I had a heap of trouble with the rear wheel, until I gave it a few squirts of de-oxidizer. I use a +1 Nikon screw in diopter in the eyepiece.
Will you be looking into getting the higher megapixel versions, you think?
Fujifilm put diopter adjustment on the later models.
I am curious about the X-T models as well.
In the meantime I'll take my X-Pro 1 for a walk.
The X-Trans sensor is great for BW.
@Lars A G Thanks Lars. I just bought an X-H1 for a good price as the IBIS and better grip appealed coming from Olympus cameras with IBIS so am currently comparing it with the X-E1. I definitely found the wheel on the XE1 much more reliable than the XP1s wheel.
@@ChrisEdgecombePhoto Can't wait to see your review of that one. Congrats! I have looked hard at that model too.
No OVF no party
I personally don't mind not having the OVF, I tended to prefer using the EVF on these cameras.