FUJIFILM X-T200 Announced – 4K Video, Digital Stabilization & Square Video

NewsIndustry

by Adam PlowdenJanuary 23^rd, 2020

The FUJIFILM X-T200 is the latest entry-level 24.2MP mirrorless camera with 4K video, capable of shooting 1:1 square format HD video and ‘Digital Gimbal’ stabilization. The standard video frame rates, flipped screen, faster autofocus and as a lightweight of only 370 grams, this new model improved in many ways compared to its predecessor.

FUJIFILM X-T200 – Image source: FUJIFILM

The latest mirrorless X-mount camera from FUJINON offers up a range of video features ideal for entry-level filmmaking and vlogging including 4K video up to 30p. A new 24.2MP sensor has a faster readout speed than the X-T100 which results in less rolling shutter. The inclusion of 1×1 ‘square’ aspect ratio in HD reflects a trend in shooting content for social media.

FUJIFILM X-T200 – Image source: FUJIFILM

‘Digital Gimbal’ Stabilization

The FUJIFILM X-T200 has a new feature that hasn’t been included in their other cameras before. ‘Digital Gimbal’ uses a gyro sensor to stabilize the image, reducing shaky footage. Mind you that this feature will be functional during HD recording only.

The body of the X-T200 follows the traditional yet modern FUJIFILM design, with control dials on the top of the body. Other settings can be adjusted via the vari-angle touch screen, which can also be used for touch focus too. It will be interesting to test how well the AF tracking works in video mode.

FUJIFILM X-T200 – Image source: FUJIFILM

Here is a breakdown of the FUJIFILM X-T200 Specifications:

• New 24.2MP high-speed APS-C sensor.
• 4K video recording up to 30p with a 15-minute limit.
• 1080 HD video recording up to 120p with a 30-minute limit.
• 1×1 aspect ratio (1080×1080) HD video recording up to 59.94p.
• ‘Digital Gimbal’ image stabilization through a gyro sensor.
• Eye and face detection AF through on-sensor phase detection.
• 8fps photo burst.
• Videos recorded in MPEG-4 H.264 codec.
• Microphone mini-jack input but no headphone output.
• 11 FUJIFILM simulation modes.
• Flip out touch screen.
• HDR movie mode.
• Electronic viewfinder with eye sensor

Video For Social Media With A New 1:1 Square Format Aspect Ratio

This is the first time that full HD ‘square’ format video can be recorded in camera in frame rates up to 59.94p. Additionally, users can now shoot in a film simulation (No F-Log), trim and resize clips in camera, send to a smartphone and upload to social media. This is potentially the beginning of a trend that allows content creators to capture and edit video clips destined for social media, directly in camera.

FUJIFILM X-T200, three different body colors – Image source: FUJIFILM

The X-T200 will be available body only, and also as a package with the XC 15-45mm F/3.5-5.6 OIS PZ lens in three colors. The bit-depth or bit-rate in video mode is yet to be confirmed, but I wouldn’t expect 10-bit color sampling to be included in an entry-level camera.

A 3.5mm mini-jack input is built into the camera, however, there is no headphone output which is a slight disappointment considering the many video-centric features that the camera has. Files are recorded onto an SD card (UHS Class 3 or above for 4K).

FUJIFILM X-T200 video recording resolution and frame rates chart

FUJIFILM X-T200 – Image source: FUJIFILM

New FUJINON XC 35mm F/2 APS-C Lens

Alongside the X-T200 announcement, this XC 35mm F/2 lens will also be available at the same time, offering a very small, fast prime lens equivalent to 52mm on a full frame camera, 46.5mm in length and only 130g.

Final Thought

The FUJIFILM X-T200 provides plenty of video features for an entry-level mirrorless camera, phase detected eye and face tracking as well as ‘digital gimbal’ stabilization are promising additions that could make the camera a good b-camera choice to the higher tier X-T2 and X-T3 cameras unless most of you work is being recorded in F-log (this picture profile feature is not supported with this model).  The in-camera editing features, 1:1 aspect ratio, and flip-out touch screen would particularly benefit content creators on the go too, making the X-T200 vlogger friendly.

The FUJINON X-T200, XC 15-45mm F/3.5-5.6 lens kit, and FUJIFILM XF 35mm F/2 are due to be available from late February.

What do you think? Can you see yourself benefiting from working with this kind of entry-level camera or you would prefer waiting for something a bit more capable to appear? Please share with us your thoughts in the comment section below.