Fuji X-E2 with XF 55-200mm vs Nikon D4 with 28-300mm

Fuji X-E2, XF 55-200mm, ISO 6400, ƒ/4.8, 1/90

I didn't set out to compare these two cameras and lens, but just ended up shooting both of them.

There are a couple of variables that doesn't make this a perfect comparison.  I like shooting AUTO ISO on both cameras.  You cannot shoot RAW on the Fuji above ISO 6400 and so the camera is set up with that being the highest ISO, whereas on the Nikon D4 the high ISO default is set to ISO 12800.

Nikon D4, Nikon 28-300mm, ISO 12800, ƒ/5.6, 1/125

Both lenses have a vibration reduction system turned on and both were hand held during these photos. One thing of interest is the Fuji XF 55-200mm when zoomed all the way in gives you the same focal length proportion as the Nikon 28-30mm when it is zoomed in. The difference is the ƒ/4.8 on the Fuji verses the ƒ/5.6 on the Nikon.

Focusing performance was superior with the Nikon as compared to the Fuji. I had them both set to single frame focusing verses continuous. Both were on AUTO focus looking for faces.  Fuji would hunt every single time. The only way to stop that was to go to manual focus.

The one thing I can say about comparing the two cameras is I love the Fuji results better than the Nikon, but the Nikon is far superior for catching moments. The Fuji is trying to decide if the subject is in focus too often.

Here are two photos with the Fuji X-E2 and the Nikon D4

Fuji X-E2, 18-55mm, ISO 3200,  ƒ/4, 1/500

Nikon D4, 28-300mm, ISO 12800, ƒ/8, 1/125

Couple photos just from the Fuji X-E2

Fuji X-E2, 18-55mm, ISO 4000, ƒ/2.8, 1/500

Fuji X-E2, 18-55mm, ISO 6400, ƒ/4, 1/105

I think if you are trying to nail a moment just right the Fuji takes a moment too long to lock in on the focus as compared to the Nikon system.

If you are carrying the Nikons all day long as I was doing you then know why I am so interested in making the Fuji system work--WEIGHT.  I think I could deal with the small delay of the Fuji system for the weight I would save carrying them all day long like I have been doing covering a meeting.

If you are used to being able to shoot sports as I have with a auto focus system as quick as the Nikon D4, then you will be a little disappointed in the Fuji. However if you never shot with the best Nikon systems, then you might be OK and not notice the delay.