Is it even worth grabbing a conversion lens for the X100V, or should I just stick with the built-in glass? I keep going back and forth on this because I love the camera but sometimes I feel like the 35mm equivalent is just a bit too tight for the tight alleyways here in Chicago where I do most of my shooting.
Im currently looking at the WCL-X100 II wide conversion lens versus maybe just picking up a dedicated street lens like the 18mm f2 or maybe the 23mm f2 if I want a different look. Budget is kinda tight since I already dropped a grand on the body, so spending over 300 bucks on a piece of glass that only works on one camera feels a bit steep. I really want something compact because I dont carry a bag most days, I just toss the cam in my jacket pocket. Im planning a trip to Tokyo in about two months and I really need to get my setup sorted before then, but the idea of lugging around extra lenses makes me nervous. Does the WCL hurt the image quality much? Has anyone here actually compared the two and felt like one was noticeably sharper or faster to focus for candids?
Jumping in here. Honestly, if you want to save cash, look for a used Fujifilm XF 18mm f/2 R instead of new glass. I used one for ages on my X-Pro and it is tiny enough to pocket. It gives you that wider FOV without needing a bulky adapter. Sharpness is solid for street work, and you wont feel bad about the price tag if you find a deal on the used market.
If you feel 35mm is too tight for Chicago alleys, honestly just try cropping in post or stepping back. If you really need wider, skip the adapter and grab a used Fujifilm XF 18mm f/2 R. Its a pancake lens, so it wont bulk up the X100V much. Buying native glass is smarter than a conversion lens that locks you into one focal length forever. Good luck in Tokyo!
Saw this thread earlier but just getting to it now. Before you drop any cash, are you mainly looking for better corner-to-corner sharpness, or is the 28mm equivalent field of view your only priority for these alleyway shots? If you want a different focal length on a different body later, buying an adapter for the X100V is basically a dead end. Since you are worried about bulk for your Tokyo trip, consider these options instead:
- Fujifilm XF 16mm f/2.8 R WR if you want a wider FOV that is weather-sealed and has snappy autofocus.
- Fujifilm XF 18mm f/2 R which is definitely the smallest option but lacks the modern internal focus motor tech of the newer lenses. Adding glass to the X100V with the Fujifilm WCL-X100 II Wide Conversion Lens does add weight and changes the center of gravity, which sounds like what you're trying to avoid. Have you checked the lens rental prices for your trip? Sometimes trying a lens for a week is better than committing to the purchase.
Honestly, the Fujifilm WCL-X100 II Wide Conversion Lens is perfect since you dont need to swap glass. It stays sharp and keeps your setup small enough for any jacket pocket.
To add to the point above: be careful with those adapters. I had issues with the weight distribution throwing off the balance of the camera, and frankly, the build quality on some of those attachments feels cheap compared to the body. Honestly, just stick with the built-in lens. Buying more gear before a big trip usually just creates more anxiety. TL;DR: avoid the adapters, just learn to love your current focal length.
