Last Updated on May 16, 2023 by cameraconsumer
When it comes to photography, the debate between full-frame and crop-sensor cameras is a hot one.
Generally speaking, people recognize full-frame cameras as the superior option. But crop-sensor cameras have their die-hard fans too. Similarly, Canon is the more popular brand, while Fujifilm has more of a cult following. So, a Fujifilm X-H2S is definitely the underdog in a matchup against Canon’s R5.
And the Canon EOS R5 is still popular today, as a full-frame camera. But we’re here to tell you, that the Fujifilm X-H2S is the better camera – even with its crop sensor. I know, an APS-C camera can’t be better than a comparable full-frame camera. And yet it is.
And the X-H2S is a much better deal too!
The Fujifilm X-H2S is a crop sensor camera. But it has standout features – its autofocus performance, the lens lineup, video specs and performance, and image quality – that makes it the better choice!
If you tend to shoot events, wildlife, weddings, etc, you’ll love the X-H2S’s performance, but also the weight difference too. Not just the camera, but the lenses as well!
With the camera + lenses, we’re talking about a weight difference in pounds, not ounces.
This video explains it all in about 10 minutes…
Anyways, let’s get into it…
The BSI Stacked Sensor
The X-H2S’s standout feature is its 26.1-megapixel BSI (Backside Illuminated) stacked sensor.
This technology makes sensors a stop better than the previous non-BSI sensors. This means the X-H2S gains better low-light capabilities due to the BSI.
The stacked sensor also brings faster readout speeds, allowing for 40 frames per second versus the Canon EOS R5’s 20 frames per second.
X-Processor 5
Where you end up in this debate probably has a lot to do with your opinion on the processors. X-Processor 5 vs Digic!
The Digic line of processors has seen a lot of progress and improvements over the years. But Fujifilm has also been developing its X-Processor line too. While we give the nudge to Digic, Fuji’s X-Processor can more than handle its own.
The Digic X version supports AI-processing technology, but so does the X-Processor 5. Both processors have reduced power consumption and better noise reduction than previous generations.
Overall, the X-Processor 5 combined with the stacked sensor provides great performance for the X-H2S.
Autofocus Performance
Autofocus has been the Achilles heel of Fujifilm cameras, but the X-H2S has upped the game. The X-Processor 5 and the stacked sensor have really closed the gap between the X-H2S and Canon’s R5.
On paper, the Canon EOS R5 does have better autofocus capabilities, especially given its 45mp. But in our testing, especially for portraits, autofocus was actually a draw.
The combination of faster AF frequency readout with the X-Processor 5’s AF algorithm resulted in impressive autofocus performance for the Fuji X-H2S.
APS-C vs. Full-Frame
In case you haven’t heard, APS-C technology has definitely improved.
A full-frame camera isn’t automatically the better option like it used to be. And the X-H2S is a good example.
Full-frame cameras offer a larger sensor and higher image quality, but they come with a hefty price tag and larger, heavier lenses. On the other hand, APS-C cameras like the X-H2S offer a more affordable price point and lighter, smaller lenses, making them a great choice for those who prioritize portability and ease of use.
The X-H2S can produce image quality equal to full-frame cameras, making it a great option for on-the-go photography.
Lens Cost and Selection
We can debate which camera is better. But then you still need to think about the lenses too. And this is where Fuji doubles down on its weight-to-performance ratios.
Fujifilm offers a wide range of high-quality lenses at a lower price point than Canon. And the lenses are smaller and lighter, making them more portable and easier to handle on shoots.
For example, let’s compare the Fujinon XF56mmF1.2 R WR lens with a focal equivalent, the Canon RF 85mm F1.2 L USM lens.
The Fujinon 56mm F 1.2, with its compact size and lightweight design, weighs 14 ounces. In comparison, Canon’s RF 85, the focal length equivalent, is three times the weight at 42 ounces.
And the Canon lens usually costs more than twice as much as the Fujinon.
And these are relatively small lenses. The weight difference is also there in larger zoom lenses as well. For example, a Fujinon 50-140mm lens weighs around 2.1 lbs. Canon’s focal length equivalent, the RF 70-200mm weighs 2.6 lbs.
If you’re into wildlife photography for instance, and you have to hike for your shots, a Fuji kit is going to weigh significantly less than a Canon kit.
Video
Video specs in cameras can be a little misleading at times. For instance, the Canon R5 does shoot in 8k, but it’s coupled with a poorly-performing video codec.
The X-H2S boasts a 6.2 open gate resolution, allowing for flexibility to crop and edit footage without sacrificing quality.
It also has an impressive dynamic range and the ProRes codec recorded internally on the X-H2S just sails through Final Cut Pro without a hitch. It also has next to no rolling shutter in video, as the X-H2S can read the whole sensor in five milliseconds, whereas the Canon R5 reads it all in 50 milliseconds.
Dynamic range also goes to the X-H2S. Fuji’s F-Log 2 codec consistently outperforms Canon’s C-Log. Both cameras use CFexpress cards, but with the better video codec, the X-H2S has much faster import times as well.
And finally, the Fujifilm X-H2S doesn’t have the same overheating issue. The Canon EOS R5 will overheat from just 20 minutes of recording at 8K resolution! Check out the chart below to see how quickly it overheats in different video settings.
Real Life Performance
This is where the X-H2S’s 26 megapixels come into play. The “focus” of this camera is on pure speed, rather than just resolution.
The X-H2S has a better autofocus system, and a lower pixel count, which is obviously ideal for low-light photography. We’ve spent some time talking about the specs in terms of numbers, but the AI capabilities deserve some love as well.
The X-Processor 5’s deep learning provides intelligent object recognition for birds, animals, and vehicles, and is very impressive.
And then you couple that with a 40 fps electronic shutter burst or a 15 fps mechanical burst, both with autofocus – and a viewfinder that’s active during the whole burst, with no blackouts.
So, the X-H2S is an excellent choice for a photographer who shoots at multiple venues.
At a car race? Yes, this camera was built for speed and fast action. Wildlife shots? Yes, the AI processor performs at its best with animals as the subject! Wedding photography? The XH2s mix of beautiful colors and fast low light autofocus make this camera most at home shooting wedding events and portraits.
Price & Warranty
Depending on which store, and the time of the year, prices will naturally vary. But expect to pay 30-35% less for the Fujifilm X-H2S.
But the camera itself is only half of the battle. As we saw earlier, the lenses are also significantly cheaper. For the price of a Canon R5, you can buy the X-H2S, and 1 or 2 lenses.
Both cameras come with a standard 1-year warranty.
Conclusion
Overall, we’ve been incredibly impressed with the X-H2S and its capabilities as a versatile and portable camera for photography and videography. If you’re someone who values portability, affordability, and high-quality results, the X-H2S is a great option.
Fujifilm embraced and hopped on the mirrorless train well before Canon. And the results definitely show in the X-H2S vs EOS R5 matchup!
