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Fujifilm X30: Some nice design changes from the X20 (pictures)

Although the company didn't change much that will affect performance or photo quality, there are some updates that should enhance your shooting experience.

Lori Grunin
I've been reviewing hardware and software, devising testing methodology and handed out buying advice for what seems like forever; I'm currently absorbed by computers and gaming hardware, but previously spent many years concentrating on cameras. I've also volunteered with a cat rescue for over 15 years doing adoptions, designing marketing materials, managing volunteers and, of course, photographing cats.
Lori Grunin
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1 of 6 Stephen Shankland/CNET

No OVF

The most notable difference between the X20 and X30 as seen from the front is the lack of an optical viewfinder. You still rotate the lens to power the camera on.

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2 of 6 Stephen Shankland/CNET

Change in top controls

The exposure compensation dial now goes up to +/- 3, increased from 2. The mode dial has also changed: no more movie mode, since there's now a dedicated record button; added Filter and Panorama modes;  and the custom slots have changed name from "C" to "SP".

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3 of 6 Stephen Shankland/CNET

Tilting LCD

The tilting, higher-resolution display is a welcome update from the X20, which had a low-resolution fixed version.

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4 of 6 Stephen Shankland/CNET

Streamlined back and EVF

In addition to replacing the optical viewfinder with an electronic one, Fujifilm redesigned both the controls and the layout for the X30. There's no more macro button, and the AE-lock button is now in a better position where it can be reached with your right thumb. The other buttons down the left side of the X20 -- playback, white balance and drive mode -- now sit in more traditional locations on the right. It also drops the vertical dial and replaces the horizontal jog dial with a more traditional one.

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5 of 6 Stephen Shankland/CNET

No changes underneath

The tripod mount is still well-situated for swapping cards or a battery while on a tripod.

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6 of 6 Stephen Shankland/CNET

Connectors

The Fujifilm X30 has USB, Micro-HDMI, and a mic input.

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