If you're thinking of purchasing a new midrange mirrorless camera, you might want to take a look at Fujifilm's new XS10 once it's released in November.

As a promising new entry for Fujifilm, we were interested in learning more about it. Keep in mind that this is only an initial assessment, as the actual camera isn't released yet. We conducted our research using various resources. With time, we might have a different opinion, but we rather doubt it. The camera seems to live up to what it promises.

Introduction

The recently released camera is a cross between the brand's X-H1 and X-T4 and is not a new line per se. The previously unexciting X-S has been around for a while. The XS10, however, sounds more promising.

Technical Specifications

Here are the specifications provided by Fujifilm:

• $999 body only

• $1,399 with the XF 18-55mm

• $1,499 with the XF 16-80mm

• 5-axis IBIS delivers up to 6 stops

• Same autofocus system as the X-T4

• Four custom settings on the single-mode dial

• Controllable focus points in auto mode

• All magnesium alloy construction

• No weather sealing

• IBIS unit is 30% smaller and lighter than the IBIS in X-T4

• Same X-Trans sensor (26mp) and processor as X-T4

• 2.36 million dot EVF with 100fps refresh rate

• 8fps mechanical – up to 30fps with the electronic shutter

• Fully articulating screen with 1.08 million dot LCD

• The control set has been simplified to attract a new customer base.

• 4K 4:2:2: 10-Bit external

• 30 min record time at 4K30

• 240 FPS mode in video

• RAW capture in auto mode

• New auto film simulation will apply either Provia, Velvia, or Astia based on the scene

• Foolproof video capture button that will record straight into video program mode

Ergonomics

The makers of the XS10 clearly understood the frustrations of using smaller cameras with diminutive grips. They have corrected those shortcomings and made a camera that's easy to pick up and easy to use.

Right off, the new, larger grip of the XS10 is its most attractive - and useful - feature. Users will appreciate the better grip every time they pick up this camera. Its ergonomics are brilliant. Simply stated, the camera should feel secure and comfortable in your hands, even if you have larger hands.

Design basics

Fujifilm styled previous cameras strictly along the lines of film-era cameras, and that vintage look has plenty of fans. However, the XS10's modern design changes some of that, bringing its design more in line with other manufacturers. Fujifilm retained its original aesthetic but sacrificed nothing with its simplified controls:

• A control wheel selects film simulations and filters

• A lever at the base of the control wheel pops up the built-in flash. 

• The main mode dial has an on-off switch, a Q button, and a dedicated ISO button. 

• The camera has a shutter dial and a dedicated record button. 

• The aperture control wheel is near the top of the grip.

• The lens release button is on the front of the camera.

Other notable things with the XS10:

• The small thumb rest is well-positioned to help with overall grip comfort.

• The camera's right side is blank, but the left side houses a flap that hides a USB-C port and a mini HDMI connector. 

• The shooting modes button and a playback button are to the left of the EVF button, while to the EVF's right is a custom function button. 

• Then there is the control for the AF ON and the AEL button. There are three controls to the right of the 3-inch LCD: a menu/OK button, a joystick, and a display/back button. 

• The SD card goes in the battery compartment on the bottom of the camera. The headphone jack is conveniently positioned away from the articulating screen.

Construction

If you want a solidly built camera, you'll be happy with XS10. The body, including the switches, buttons, and dials, is well built. The body is made from magnesium alloy and should hold up to the wear and tear of daily use. The buttons and dials all feel solid, dependable, and instantly responsive.

The one issue with the construction - and it could be a dealbreaker for some - is that there is no weather sealing - likely due to the camera's size. If weather sealing matters to you, then you might want to look at other midrange cameras. But besides the nonexistent weather sealing, our first impressions are that this is a well-built camera that can hold up to heavy use in decent weather. 

Functionality

Aside from the lack of weather sealing, there's no touch functionality, which is surprising in the new design. While Fujifilm offers a touch-friendly interface in other models, they eliminated it in the XS10 is puzzling. Overall, the functionality of this model is good. Regular Fujifilm users should be pleased. Non-users will find it easy to pick up and use.

• The EVF for the XS10 is 2.36 million dots, which might be less than other models but does its job. 

• The LCD is 3-inches and has a resolution of 1.08 million dots. 

• There are 18 film simulations and 13 filters. 

• The camera accommodates one SD card slot (UHS-I). 

• You can charge the camera via USB-C.

• There's a fully articulating screen. 

• One second handheld exposures are not a problem. However, after 178 shots, the NP W126S battery was down to 50%. We will need to do further shooting to really test the battery. If you've used Fujifilm cameras before, you'll feel right at home. If you're new to Fujifilm, this camera will break you in easy.

Findings

The Fujifilm XS10 seems to be a reliable midrange camera in the Fujifilm line up. It's somewhere between the entry-level X-T200 and the X-T4. While there might be some firmware changes once it fully launches, overall, this is a good camera with a performance closer to the X-T4. The IBIS system seems very promising.

Its entry price of $999, body only, is reasonable for what you can expect from this camera, and it's the same price as the now-older X-T3. 

There are two lens options for the XS10:

•  18-55mm f2.8-4, cost $1,399 

• 16-80mm f4, cost $1,499

Overall, we think the Fujifilm XS10's design is well done and addresses most previous concerns for users.