X-T30 III or used something else?

I’m sorry in advance for the long post and fully understand most people won’t read it all. I don’t know how to not give too much useless information 😅

Some backstory… In 2015, shortly after its release, I bought my first Fujifilm camera, the X-T10 after having shot a Nikon DSLR (D90) for a number of years. I’ve only ever been a hobbyist/travel photographer and instantly fell in love with the compact size and vintage feel.

Sadly, almost exactly four years ago, I was in need of some extra cash after a career change resulted in a few months without a paycheck, and I sold the camera and my small kit of three lenses that I had put together. At the time, I hadn’t really been using it for quite a while and it was a painful, but relatively easy decision to make.

Since then, I am doing well enough financially and have started traveling a bit more and getting back into the hobby. I bought a used X100F a couple years ago, took it on one trip and then promptly returned it. I felt way too gross about having paid the retail price of a new X100V for it and just couldn’t enjoy it.

After returning the X100F, I managed to find a Ricoh GR III in stock and bought that, and while I do enjoy it for its image quality to size ratio, and will likely keep it because of what a great EDC camera it is, it’s doesn’t quite give me that tactile user experience I crave when out on a photo walk, mainly due to the lack of an EVF. I’m also craving the ability to change focal lengths.

I’ve made the decision to buy another Fuji camera and originally decided on a used X-E2 or X-E3, heavily leaning toward the 3. For an X-E3 in excellent condition (I’m picky and don’t want someone else’s road rash) the price is really not that far off from its original 2017 retail price, and while I understand that’s just the nature of the market right now, I take issue with it but I could be convinced to get over it.

What I’d really like is an X-E5, and while I can technically afford it, I just can’t really justify the price when I know I’d get pleasing results with a much less expensive camera.

ALL OF THAT being said, I’m down to deciding between the X-T30 III, which I can get from Adorama for just under $900 USD after tax with my girlfriend’s student discount, or a used X-E3 from MPB or KEH for just under $800 USD after tax.

I know Fuji’s older sensors have a certain charm about them that people love, and I’ll admit that when I had my X-T10, I didn’t quite understand or utilize the film simulation to its full potential. Part of me wants to go back to an older sensor and experience it the right way this time, but I also love new tech and am interested in what’s improved over the years.

I will mention that I don’t care AT ALL about video. If Fuji made cameras that only shot stills, I’d buy one in a heartbeat.

I’ve watched a million videos over the last several weeks and can’t decide. I guess I’m just curious if anyone else has been in a similar situation and if there’s anything about old tech vs new that maybe I haven’t thought of. Again, sorry for the long post and thanks to anyone who shares an opinion.