Fujifilm X-S20 Mirrorless Camera: Hands-On Review

Written by Seth Miranda
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Published on May 24, 2023
Seth Miranda
Adorama ALC

The new Fujifilm X-S20 Camera offers excellent image quality, advanced features, intuitive controls, and compact form factor — making it a compelling choice for those seeking a high-performance camera in a portable package. As the next evolution to the Fujifilm X-S10, this series camera is a tool designed for content creators, including both stills and video creation. Let’s look at its main functions, plus how it matches up to its predecessor.

Fujifilm X-S20 Creator Camera | Hands-On Outdoor Photography and Live Streaming with Seth Miranda

Key Features of the Fujifilm X-S20 Camera

  • X-Mount
  • 26.1 megapixel APSC X-Trans sensor
  • New autofocus system
  • Internal in-body stabilization
  • 2k 30p, 4k 60p
  • Vari-angle, flip-out screen
  • USB-C and HDMI port
  • Single SD card slot
  • Mic input

What to Expect of the Fujifilm X-S20 Camera

New Processor

The X-S20 features a 26.1 megapixel APSC X-Trans sensor like the previous version. Although, this time Fujifilm has paired it with the new X Processor 5. This updated processor means a performance boost in many ways. For one, it has a new and improved autofocus system with a jump in speed and accuracy. It now has subject detection algorithms that are found in the top tier X-H2S from Fujifilm including Human (eye), Animal (eye), and Vehicle detection.

It doesn’t just stop at autofocus though. The internal body image stabilization also sees improvements, getting shooters approximately seven stops of stability from camera shake for those slower shutter speeds.

Photo by Fahad Jafarullah / Adorama

Upgraded Video Capabilities

This new processor means an overall step up in performance, including more functionality in video specifically. The X-S20 now allows users to get up to 6.2k 30p, along with 4k 60p 4:2:2 10-bit all internal video recording and even 240p for some slow motion in Full HD 1080.

The camera also has a high-resolution electronic viewfinder (EVF) and a vari-angle touchscreen, providing flexibility for composing shots from various angles.

Photo by Fahad Jafarullah / Adorama

New Ports

One unique characteristic of this camera is the ability to hook up a computer via USB-C for power and video output… in 4k 60p! Usually, we see 560p — maybe 720, and some brands even charge for 1080 — via this connection method within their own software. Here, Fujifilm can capture 4k resolution at 60 frames for webcam capability and even power via just one USB cable. This means you do not need HDMI (even though the camera has an HDMI port as well).

The X-S20 is a discoverable video capture device in programs like OBS. So, basically, you can set this camera on a tripod, plug it in to your computer via USB-C, get yourself a USB mic, and you’re streaming with a clean crisp video signal.

Photo by Fahad Jafarullah / Adorama

Film Simulation Modes

Fujifilm is known for their color. The X-S20 has 18 of film simulations photographers love to mess with. On top of that, you have a filter mode on the dial for looks like Toy Camera, Sepia, and more. On that same dial you have Vlog Mode. This sets the camera into everything you need to self-film.

Photo by Fahad Jafarullah / Adorama

Optional Fan Accessory

With this camera being so small, and 4k being so much data, the camera will build up heat and could impact longer run times. However, Fujifilm does have an optional fan accessory (FAN-001) that’s compatible with the X-S20. Two quick thumbscrews on the back and it will help you shoot a little longer. My recommendation would be to stream in 1080 (since almost all streaming platforms are only 1440 at most) and save the 4K for recording clips for edited videos.

X-Mount

You’ll have a ton of great glass to choose from with the Fujifilm X-mount and all the Fujinon lenses. The X-S20 takes the same battery (NP -W235) as the rest of Fujifilm’s APS-C line of cameras. This is great if you’re already in the system and already have lenses, battery, and even memory type as this camera is a single SD card slot.

Mic Input

There is also a mic input for things like a mini shotgun, or maybe hook up a lavalier mic and a headphone jack. This is nice to have when you need to check your audio — whether it’s yourself or when filming someone else.

Photo by Fahad Jafarullah / Adorama
Photo by Seth Miranda / Adorama

Fujifilm X-S20 vs X-S10

The primary difference between the X-S20 and its predecessor is its video capabilities. It’s upgraded sensor and processor also provides a quicker, stickier auto focusing system that matches that of its flagship. And while the X-S10 has many offerings that will make a content creator happy, the X-S20’s Vlog Mode makes it fool-proof to capture beautiful videos.

X-S20 X-S10
Sensor Upgraded 26.1 Megapixel APSC X-Trans sensor 26.1 Megapixel APSC X-Trans sensor
Processor X Processor 5 X Processor 4
Video 6.2k 30p, 4k 60p 4k 30p
Vlog Mode Yes No

Overall, the Fujifilm X-S20 is a sleek, stylish, feature-packed tool for today’s content creator. It even has a super discrete hidden pop-up flash when you need it to just fill in some shadows or break up those silhouettes. The Fujifilm X-S20 is a compact camera that’s easy to use. It has a ton of creative options and a massive selection of lenses that will deliver the quality you need for today’s world of content creation.

Seth Miranda
Seth is currently a host and content producer at Adorama. With experience running the spectrum of all formats of film, his versatile style has been featured in DigBMX, RideBMX, Juxtapoz, MakeUp Artist Magazine and Transworld media publications as well as billboard and print ads for agencies like Deustch. Follow him on Instagram @LastXwitness for his latest work.