SmallRig Leather Case Kit for Fujifilm X-E5 review – vintage style meets practical protection
SmallRig’s leather half-case for the Fujifilm X-E5 brings vintage styling and practical protection in one smart package. Angela Nicholson has been testing it for our review.
Amateur Photographer verdict
SmallRig’s Leather Case for the Fujifilm X-E5 perfectly complements the camera’s retro design. It adds welcome protection and useful extra grip, without hindering the operation.
- Enhances camera handling
- Stylish design with neat fit
- Full access to camera controls
- Speaker flap needs holding open
- Strap may be too short for some
Fujifilm’s X-E5 is a compact and stylish camera, so it makes sense to protect it with something equally smart. The SmallRig Leather Case Kit adds a touch of retro charm while offering useful improvements in comfort and functionality. Available either in brown for a more traditional look, or in black for minimalists, the case hugs the camera body neatly and looks like an integrated part of the design.
SmallRig Leather Case Kit for Fujifilm X-E5 at a glance:
- $36.99 / £34.90
- Bespoke to Fujifilm X-E5
- Genuine leather half-case
- Built-in grip
- Access to battery and SD card
- Tripod compatible
- smallrig.com
The half-case is made from genuine leather with a soft microfiber suede lining, providing a snug fit and a layer of protection. The front of the case features a contoured grip that, while smoother than the X-E5’s own coating, is deeper and provides a more comfortable and secure hold during use.
Attaching the case is a simple process, using a bolt that screws into the camera’s tripod thread. The bolt is fitted with a flip-out D-ring for tool-free tightening, but there’s also a slot for a coin or flathead screwdriver if preferred. It takes a bit of pressure to align the screw at first, but once engaged, it tightens smoothly and feels very secure.
Unlike some SmallRig kits, there’s no magnetically stored tool here, but it’s simple and one less thing too lose.
Key features:
- Comfort Grip: The integrated foam grip improves comfort and handling
- Easy Access: Flaps provide quick access to the battery, memory card, speaker and Bluetooth button
- Secure Fit: Tool-free thumbscrew attachment with D-ring and 1/4-20 thread for tripods
- Strap Included: A braided shoulder strap with leather detailing included
- Retro Styling: Available in black or brown for a discreet or classic look
Importantly, the case doesn’t hinder access to the camera’s controls or ports. There are two flaps in the base that press into place neatly and allow access to the battery, memory card, Bluetooth button and speaker. The flaps are well designed, though you’ll need to hold one open to hear full volume from the speaker.
SmallRig also includes a slim braided strap with leather ends. It attaches using the supplied metal split rings, which should be fitted through the supplied leather tabs to avoid marking the camera body. I find the strap is long enough to wear cross-body, although photographers with broader builds or thick winter coats may find it more comfortable as a shoulder or neck strap.
While I typically prefer wider options like a Peak Design Slide Lite or 3 Legged Thing Axis, the included strap suits the X-E5’s lightweight build and traditional style.
Want extra purchase?
The Fujifilm X-E5 has a fairly modest thumb grip, but SmallRig has a solution. For $16.99 / £15.90, the SmallRig Thumb Grip for Fujifilm X-E5 slides into the hot shoe to provide a more substantial rest for your thumb. It’s available in silver or black and comes with a smart red screw-in shutter button.
Our Verdict
The SmallRig Leather Case Kit for the Fujifilm X-E5 is an affordable way to combine classic style with practical protection. It enhances the camera’s handling without obstructing access to essential controls. If you’re after vintage looks with modern usability, this comes highly recommended, but also check out SmallRig’s L-shaped Bracket with Silicone Grip, too.
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