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Nikon Z Fc Vs Fujifilm Xt3: Two Great Cameras, But Which Is Better?

Lindsey is a photographer based in Los Angeles. She has over 10 years of experience as a professional photographer specializing in portraits and events. Lindsey started her career with DSLR cameras but made the switch to Nikon's line of Z mirrorless cameras in 2020. Since then, she has been extensively...

What To Know

  • In this comprehensive comparison, we’ll delve into the similarities and differences between the Nikon Z fc and the Fujifilm X-T3, helping you make an informed decision about which camera is the ideal choice for your photography needs.
  • On the other hand, the X-T3 sports a more rugged and utilitarian design, with a weather-sealed magnesium alloy body and a deep handgrip.
  • As a result, the X-T3’s EVF offers a larger and more detailed view of the scene, making it easier to focus accurately and compose your shots.

In the world of digital photography, retro-styled cameras have made a resurgence, offering a blend of classic design with modern technology. Among the most notable contenders in this segment are the Nikon Z fc and the Fujifilm X-T3. Both cameras boast a distinctive retro aesthetic, but they also come packed with advanced features and capabilities. In this comprehensive comparison, we’ll delve into the similarities and differences between the Nikon Z fc and the Fujifilm X-T3, helping you make an informed decision about which camera is the ideal choice for your photography needs.

1. Design and Build Quality: A Tale of Two Retro Beauties

The Nikon Z fc and the Fujifilm X-T3 both embrace a retro design philosophy, harkening back to the classic film cameras of yesteryear. The Z fc, in particular, draws inspiration from the iconic Nikon FM2, featuring a sleek and compact body with a prominent top plate and mechanical dials. On the other hand, the X-T3 sports a more rugged and utilitarian design, with a weather-sealed magnesium alloy body and a deep handgrip.

In terms of build quality, both cameras are exceptionally well-crafted. The Z fc features a solid aluminum alloy construction, while the X-T3 boasts a durable magnesium alloy body. Both cameras feel substantial in the hand and are built to withstand the rigors of everyday use.

2. Image Quality: Unparalleled Detail and Color Reproduction

When it comes to image quality, both the Nikon Z fc and the Fujifilm X-T3 deliver outstanding results. The Z fc features a 20.9-megapixel APS-C CMOS sensor, while the X-T3 boasts a 26.1-megapixel APS-C X-Trans CMOS 4 sensor. Both sensors offer excellent resolution and dynamic range, capturing images with rich detail and vibrant colors.

In terms of low-light performance, the X-T3 has a slight edge over the Z fc, thanks to its higher native ISO range and improved noise handling capabilities. However, the Z fc still holds its own in low-light situations, producing images with minimal noise and good detail.

3. Autofocus Performance: Fast and Accurate Focusing for Dynamic Subjects

Both the Nikon Z fc and the Fujifilm X-T3 boast impressive autofocus systems that can keep up with fast-moving subjects. The Z fc utilizes a hybrid autofocus system that combines 209 phase-detection points with contrast-detection AF, resulting in quick and accurate focusing in a variety of lighting conditions.

The X-T3, on the other hand, employs a more advanced hybrid autofocus system with 425 phase-detection points and contrast-detection AF. This system delivers lightning-fast focusing speeds and excellent subject tracking capabilities, making it ideal for capturing action and sports photography.

4. Video Capabilities: Cinematic Expression and Creative Freedom

The Nikon Z fc and the Fujifilm X-T3 are both capable of capturing stunning videos, making them compelling options for videographers and content creators. The Z fc can record 4K UHD videos at up to 30fps, while the X-T3 offers 4K UHD video recording at up to 60fps. Both cameras also support Full HD video recording at up to 120fps for slow-motion effects.

In terms of video quality, both cameras produce sharp and detailed footage with accurate colors and good dynamic range. However, the X-T3 has a slight advantage in terms of video features, offering a wider range of video profiles, including the popular F-Log profile for greater flexibility in post-production.

5. Viewfinder and Display: Clear and Detailed Composition and Playback

The Nikon Z fc and the Fujifilm X-T3 both feature high-resolution electronic viewfinders (EVFs) for precise composition and focusing. The Z fc’s EVF has a resolution of 2.36 million dots, while the X-T3’s EVF boasts a higher resolution of 3.69 million dots. As a result, the X-T3’s EVF offers a larger and more detailed view of the scene, making it easier to focus accurately and compose your shots.

Both cameras also feature tilting LCD screens that allow for flexible shooting angles. The Z fc’s LCD screen has a resolution of 1.04 million dots, while the X-T3’s LCD screen has a higher resolution of 1.62 million dots. Both screens provide clear and detailed playback of images and videos, making it easy to review your work in the field.

6. Connectivity and Sharing: Seamlessly Transfer and Share Your Creations

The Nikon Z fc and the Fujifilm X-T3 both offer a range of connectivity options for easy transfer and sharing of images and videos. Both cameras feature built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity, allowing you to wirelessly connect to your smartphone or tablet for remote camera control and image transfer.

Additionally, both cameras have USB ports for wired connectivity to your computer. The Z fc features a USB Type-C port, while the X-T3 has a more traditional USB Type-A port. Both ports allow for fast data transfer speeds, making it easy to back up your images and videos to your computer.

7. Battery Life: Power Through Your Photography Adventures

Battery life is an important consideration for photographers who want to shoot for extended periods without interruption. The Nikon Z fc is powered by a single EN-EL25 battery, which provides a CIPA-rated battery life of approximately 330 shots per charge.

The Fujifilm X-T3, on the other hand, uses a more powerful NP-W126S battery, which offers a CIPA-rated battery life of approximately 390 shots per charge. Additionally, the X-T3 has a dual battery slot, allowing you to extend the battery life even further by using two batteries simultaneously.

Not-A-Conclusion: A Symphony of Retro Charm and Modern Performance

The Nikon Z fc and the Fujifilm X-T3 are both exceptional retro-styled mirrorless cameras that offer a unique blend of classic design and modern technology. The Z fc stands out with its compact and stylish design, while the X-T3 impresses with its rugged build and advanced autofocus system. Both cameras deliver outstanding image quality, impressive video capabilities, and a range of connectivity options.

Ultimately, the choice between the Nikon Z fc and the Fujifilm X-T3 depends on your individual preferences and shooting needs. If you prioritize a compact and lightweight camera with a classic design, the Z fc is an excellent choice. However, if you’re looking for a more rugged and feature-rich camera with exceptional autofocus performance, the X-T3 is the way to go.

Information You Need to Know

Q: Which camera has a better autofocus system, the Nikon Z fc or the Fujifilm X-T3?

A: The Fujifilm X-T3 has a more advanced autofocus system with faster focusing speeds and improved subject tracking capabilities, making it better suited for capturing action and sports photography.

Q: Which camera offers better video capabilities, the Nikon Z fc or the Fujifilm X-T3?

A: The Fujifilm X-T3 has a slight edge in terms of video capabilities, offering 4K UHD video recording at up to 60fps and a wider range of video profiles, including the popular F-Log profile for greater flexibility in post-production.

Q: Which camera has a longer battery life, the Nikon Z fc or the Fujifilm X-T3?

A: The Fujifilm X-T3 has a longer battery life, with a CIPA-rated battery life of approximately 390 shots per charge compared to the Z fc’s 330 shots per charge. Additionally, the X-T3 has a dual battery slot, allowing you to extend the battery life even further.

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Lindsey

Lindsey is a photographer based in Los Angeles. She has over 10 years of experience as a professional photographer specializing in portraits and events. Lindsey started her career with DSLR cameras but made the switch to Nikon's line of Z mirrorless cameras in 2020. Since then, she has been extensively testing and reviewing Nikon's latest mirrorless cameras like the Z5, Z6, Z7 and Z50 on her blog. Through her writing on lindseyshoots.com, Lindsey aims to help other photographers make the transition from DSLRs to mirrorless. She shares detailed hands-on reviews, comparisons between different mirrorless camera models, tips for beginners, and photo tutorials. When she isn't testing cameras, Lindsey enjoys landscape, street and travel photography. Her work has been published in several magazines and online publications. Lindsey is also a member of the Nikon Professional Services program.
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