Ive been shooting with the X-T series since the X-T2, so I feel like I know my way around the sensor pretty well, but upgrading to the 40MP sensor on the X-T5 has me questioning everything. My go-to used to be the 18-55mm kit lens because it was just so easy to travel with, but now Im noticing some softness when I pixel peep. Im planning a trip to Japan in November and I really dont want to haul a massive bag of primes everywhere, but I also dont want to compromise on the resolving power of this new sensor. I was looking at the 16-55mm f/2.8 but damn, that thing is a tank and my wrists are already shot from carrying my kid around. Is the weight worth it for the sharpness? Or should I just look at the 18-120mm for the sake of versatility? Im trying to stay under maybe 1200 bucks if I go used. Has anyone actually made the jump to the high-res sensor and kept the older zooms, or am I gonna be forced into buying the newer glass just to keep up? My logic is that if I have all these megapixels I might as well use them but I really dont want to sacrifice the compact Fuji vibe... what are you guys using as your walkaround lens these days?
Honestly, the 40MP sensor is unforgiving and the old 18-55mm just cant keep up. If your wrists are already hurting, definitely avoid the Fujifilm XF 16-55mm f/2.8 R LM WR. It is a brick, trust me. I would suggest looking at these instead to save your back and stay under budget:
- Fujifilm XF 16-80mm f/4 R OIS WR
- Its decent for travel, though be careful with corner sharpness at 16mm.
- Fujifilm XF 18-55mm f/2.8-4 R LM OIS
- If you buy used, just make sure you get a sharp copy, but honestly, itll still struggle with that high res sensor. Personally, I went with the Fujifilm XF 16-55mm f/2.8 R LM WR only because I found a killer deal used, but I regret the weight. Just stick to your budget and maybe grab a prime for the evenings.
@Reply #3 - good point! But honestly, if you want that zoom versatility without the bulk, check out the Tamron 17-70mm f/2.8 Di III-A VC RXD. It handles the 40MP sensor surprisingly well and the stabilization is a lifesaver for night shots in Tokyo. I used it on my last trip and never felt like I was missing out on sharpness. Just watch the weight, its lighter than the Fuji red badge glass but still solid.
Just saw this thread. Honestly, that 40MP sensor is super demanding. If you want a good balance of weight and sharpness without lugging a brick, look at the Fujifilm XF 16-80mm f/4 R OIS WR.
- It is much lighter than the pro zooms.
- Stabilisation helps a lot for travel.
- You get that extra reach for Japan shots. It keeps the compact vibe while handling the resolution way better than the old kit glass.
@Reply #2 - good point! Honestly, just grab any modern compact prime from Fuji. They are super light, plenty sharp for 40MP, and way better for walking around Japan all day.
