Fujifilm X-E4: The Compact Camera Without Compromises That Keeps Rising in Value

We review a second-hand Fujifilm X-E4 in grade B with excellent physical condition. The compact APS-C that Fujifilm discontinued and that now commands a premium on the used market.

The Fujifilm X-E4 is, for those who don’t know it, the Japanese company’s bet on maximum compactness without giving up the 26.1-megapixel APS-C sensor found in the X-T4 or X-Pro3. It’s a camera that divides opinion: some love it for its pocket-sized dimensions, others criticize it for overly minimalist ergonomics. What nobody disputes is that Fujifilm discontinued it in 2023, and since then the used market has done what it usually does with cameras that stop being manufactured: push prices up.

The unit we have in the workshop today corresponds to identifier 69c4fac937b27510863911cf and arrived with a grade B that, after our verification, falls short. The lab reports a physical condition of excellent and we’ve found no issues with the sensor, autofocus, video, or screen. It’s one of those units you’d expect to find in grade A+ and that proves the initial classification sometimes errs on the conservative side. That said, it doesn’t come with accessories: just the body, so you’ll need to source the hot shoe cover and strap yourself.

Details of this unit

The model in general

The X-E4 is the natural evolution of the X-E line, which has always been the entry point to the X system for those who prioritize size. At 315 grams for the body alone, it’s among the lightest APS-C mirrorless cameras available. The 26.1MP X-Trans CMOS 4 sensor with X-Processor 4 is the same one found in the X-T4, and that shows in image quality: generous dynamic range, controlled noise up to ISO 3200, and above all, the film simulation modes that make many users forget about post-processing.

The autofocus is the hybrid phase-detection system with 425 points we already knew from the X-T4. It’s not the fastest on the market in 2026 — Sony and Canon have an edge in tracking erratic subjects — but for street photography, portraits, or travel, it’s more than adequate. Video reaches 4K at 30p and Full HD at 240p for slow motion, though without IBIS, handheld results will suffer.

The three-way tilting screen is a win for vlogging or selfies, but the electronic viewfinder is small with a 0.39x magnification that feels limited. And here we reach the big debate: the X-E4 has no in-body stabilization. If you’re coming from a camera with IBIS, the difference is especially noticeable with longer focal lengths or in low-light conditions.

What works

Portability is the main argument. This camera fits in a jacket pocket with a pancake lens like the 27mm f/2.8, making it the perfect companion to always have on you. Image quality, as we’ve said, is on par with much larger cameras. The default colors, especially with Velvia or Classic Chrome simulations, are among the best you can get without touching a RAW file.

Physical handling is simple: three top dials for ISO, shutter speed, and exposure compensation, plus a customizable front dial. It’s a camera that invites you to shoot in manual without looking at the screen. Build quality is solid, with a magnesium alloy top plate and base, and the black finish on this unit is flawless.

What weighs it down over time

The first weak point is ergonomics. The grip is practically non-existent, and with heavy lenses like the 16-55mm f/2.8, the camera becomes uncomfortable. Fujifilm sells an optional grip, but it adds cost and bulk. The second is the lack of IBIS, which limits use with unstabilized lenses in low-light conditions. The third, and this is more of a market issue than a camera issue, is that being discontinued has driven prices up: this unit sells for €919, when two years ago you could find it new for less.

We should also mention that the USB-C port is only USB 2.0, so file transfer is slow. And the NP-W126S battery, with around 380 shots per charge, falls short for a full day of intensive shooting. These are details that don’t ruin the experience, but they’re worth knowing before paying what the market asks.

Who is this unit for?

This specific unit, with its excellent physical condition and no accessories, is for the photographer looking for a lightweight secondary camera or a primary street camera without professional video aspirations. If your priority is maximum image quality in the smallest possible size, the X-E4 is hard to beat. If you need stabilization, a large viewfinder, or serious video, look toward the X-T4 or X-S20.

The €919 price is above the €869 market average, but the scarcity of units — only 2 available right now — and the impeccable condition of this piece justify part of the difference. That said, keep in mind you’ll need to invest in a card, spare battery, and perhaps the optional grip, so the real cost exceeds €1,000.

Verdict

The Fujifilm X-E4 is one of the best APS-C compact cameras ever made, and this specific unit is in near-new condition. Its price reflects the demand for a discontinued model, and while it’s not a bargain, it is a sensible purchase for those who value portability without giving up Fujifilm quality. If size is your priority and you accept its limitations, you won’t regret it.