Image comparison of Fuji X-E1 and Nikon D800 using the same lens

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awilder

Alan Wilder
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Out of curiosity, I decided to compare the cropped image sharpness between the D800 and X-E1 on a tripod mounted 70-200/4 AF-S @ 200 mm shot wide open with a USAF resolution chart. The X-E1 was mounted on the lens using the Kipon Nikon G adapter. Focus was adjusted to critical sharpness on each body. Both were set for auto WB, ISO 400, spot meter, JPEG (L). There was no post processing in either image. Sensor resolution is stated as 16.3 MP on the Fuji and 15.4 MP on the Nikon (DX mode). The results were better by two groups (1,5 vs. 1,3) on the Fuji and it's auto white balance did a far better job in correcting the warm tungsten light. Taking into account test distance, resolution translates to 56 lp/mm on the X-E1 and 44 lp/mm on the D800. While, I expected the lack of ant-alaising filter to improve resolution, I wasn't sure by how much. Fuji also seems to do a much better job on auto WB and I wonder if it's due to their departure from the conventional Bayer array or just better WB since Fuji's have always had a good reputation in that department with their previous DSLRs. The X-E1 is on the left and the D800 on the right.
 

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One could easily guess outcome of this test without testing , given the fact that xe1 sensor lacks anti aliasing filter , yawn.
 
Michalm said:
One could easily guess outcome of this test without testing , given the fact that xe1 sensor lacks anti aliasing filter , yawn.
Click to expand...

I certainly could have guessed the outcome of this test, but I would have been wrong. I find the results surprising, although I'm not sure if shooting the lens wide open is the right approach if you're testing the camera vs. the lens. Not sure why the hostile attitude.
 
Thanks for the test and results. A little bit surprising, yes. My wife has the D7000 (handed down from me) and I have the X Pro 1. While I always thought the AWB on Nikon was good, the Fuji has been scary good. Out of about 2000 shots, I've only once seen it fail to nail the WB, and that was with several different odd light sources. As far as resolution, I thought the D800 would beat the X Trans sensor, but between our two, the Fuji bests the Nikon. I just love this camera more every day!
 
Images added back to posting. Size limitations by RFF on allowed image size makes it a little hard to see degree of detail but it's there. The take away keep in mind is back when I shot film, my Leica in addition to my Nikon gear was always a tad sharper but required more deliberation. The Fuji X system in light of it's high quality and intuitive compact design now meets this need in digital shooting although nothing beets Leica in difficult low light focusing. I'm sure their new M digital will be very nice but the cost of Leica lenses and the body puts it out of reach for many shooters.
 
I own the Xpro 1 and also the D800. The D800 smokes the Xpro in dynamic range. Something difficult to judge by looking at pictures over the internet. The D800 also has lower noise at high ISO but that's a given. The Xpro for what it is is a superb camera.
 
Read This!!!!!

Read This!!!!!

http://www.google.com/url?sa=t&rct=...GzO3sbYRFdFZVCMxgBN0wsg&bvm=bv.42080656,d.dmQ

What struck me is X-Trans goes full frame, it will smoke Nikon and Canon in their own juices according to this article!!! I have now doubt about this. The author claims clean ISO 50,000 if Fuji goes full frame. Maybe a bit overblown, but you get the idea. I believe Fuji is right in claiming the X-Trans can compete with full frame as an APS-C. Full frame would be a whole new ball game and I am sure they know it. If they make one with offset lenses to use ALL Leica M mount lenses, it should blow away any new offerings from Leica, Canon, Nikon, Olympus, or anyone else for that matter!
 
eleskin said:
http://www.digitalcameraworld.com/2012/03/13/fuji-x-pro-1-out-resolves-full-frame-dslrs-leica-m9/

I have an M8 and WAS considering a new M until I tested the X-Pro 1. I saved alot of $$$$$ and came out aheaad. Everything I am reading vindicates my judgement!
Click to expand...

Eleskin,
I share your enthusiasm! I was going to go for the M9, and at the last moment went with the X Pro. But, be careful! Any more positive posts like these, and we'll be labeled as Fuji Fan Boys. Oh, the disgrace... ;-)
 
If/When/Have the Fuji RAW file concerns been corrected relative to Adobe Lightroom? Or is this an Internet over-blown non-issue?

Wayne
 
I don't think anybody considering a D800 should consider an XPro1, or vice versa. Why don't you go ahead and do a similar comparisons: Like how does a stove compare to an oven? How does a radio compare to a television? How does a coffee cup compare to a pint glass?

Different tools for different jobs. Yawn.
 
"Yawn."

Take a nap.
Are you really trying to suggest this comparison can't have value to anyone else simply because you can't see past the tip of your own nose?

This (and the subsequent dialog) does answer a question for me.

I am actually considering a D800/5DIII or an XPro1. So there.
 
CameraQuest said:
Considering the D800E and D800 are ranked # 1 and #2 as the best sensors currently available by DXO and Fuji X100 at # 46

see http://www.dxomark.com/index.php/Cameras/Camera-Sensor-Ratings

I suspect something is not quite right with your test results.

Stephen
Click to expand...

Stephen,
Dxo tests only pure raw data straight off of the sensor. It fails to take into account any in camera processing. The OP stated he shot and compared jpeg images straight out of camera. That could likely dramatically affect the results between the two tests. Also, one has to be careful reading dxo results. Depending on which lens their test is shot with can impact results. I have seen like sensors in different models within the same camera company receive different ratings due, in large part, to the different lenses used. Same thing for lens tests with them. I have seen dramatic differences in lens test results based upon which camera model and sensor it was tested with. I would say our OP's home test did a very good job of keeping the playing field level for fair comparison by using the same Nikkor zoom on both cameras. For someone who never shoots jpeg, read the Dxo tests. For all the others, tests like this one show actual results that one can expect. And, BTW, I'm very much happy with the Nikon F Rayqual adapter I ordered from you for my X Pro.
As far as comparing the two cameras, yes, I considered both, along with the M9 and a few others. Neither one is a 100% perfect fit for all of my needs, but there is certainly enough overlap in the two diverse styles to suit most of my needs and style. I chose the X Pro 1 and have been overwhelmingly happy with this new system. I did hand down a few Nikon DSLR pieces to my wife, so I am covered for those few occasions I have to have a DSLR, such as sports.
And finally, to those nattering nabobs of negativity who delight in trying to tear down someone else's enthusiasm for something, really? Why? Are you so insecure in your self that you have to try to tear down someone's excitement to feel better about yourself? Absolutely no need to go into attack mode should someone like or "get" something you don't care for. Elementary school bullying 101.
 
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