Image Quality
The XT-3 could very well be the best APS-C camera on the market. The 26MP BSI ‘X-Trans CMOS 4’ sensor is wonderful and produces great images. The XT-3 now offers native ISO at 160-12,800 (expandable from 80-51,200) and noise handling has been improved from the XT-2 at lower ISOs, but appears to be a little worse at higher ISO values. Dynamic range has improved 1/3 EV from the XT-2 as well. Although full frame sensors will always have an advantage in noise handling and dynamic range, the XT-3 does pretty darn good (and you’ll save some money over full frame). Image and video quality plus the expansive feature set definitely put it in the category of elite APS-C crop sensor cameras.
People have been raving about the video quality and features on the XT-3. It records 4K video at 60 fps with 10-bit color depth. That puts the XT-3 on par with some of the best cameras out there in terms of video. It also supports super-efficient H.265 compression, which really speeds up recording bit-rate.
The one downside is no in-body stabilization system (IBIS). The Fujifilm X-H1 offers IBIS so it’s disappointing to not see it in the XT-3.
Closing Thoughts
The XT-3 is a jack of all trades and you will be impressed. The combination of size, image quality, video quality, and autofocus system make this one of the best cameras available right now. Yes, full frame bodies will get you better image quality, but the balance of features in the XT-3 make it the APS-C camera to own. The value for the money is really unbeatable. The traditional dial controls are great, autofocus is fast, RAW and JPEG stills have great quality, and 10-bit 4K video is class leading. This is a really good camera, period. Compare the XT-3 to the Sony A6500, the Nikon D500, and the Panasonic GH-5. Let us know what you think if you picked a XT-3 up.