Im losing my mind trying to pick a lens for my new X-T5. I saw everyone raving about the 18-55mm kit lens but then people say the 16-55mm is sharper despite being a brick. I need something for street photography and travel in NYC but I only have 1200 bucks. What is the actual best all-around lens?
Honestly, skip the kit lens if you want that crisp professional look. I have shot on the X-series for years and the 16-55mm is a tank that stays on my camera 90 percent of the time. Yeah, it is heavy, but the image quality is just unreal for street work and travel. Here is what I would do with your 1200 budget:
- Fujifilm XF 16-55mm f/2.8 R LM WR because it is basically three primes in one zoom range
- A decent wrist strap so your arm doesnt fall off after a long day of walking around Manhattan If the brick size really bugs you, look into the Fujifilm XF 16-80mm f/4 R OIS WR. It is way lighter and has better reach, tho you sacrifice that f/2.8 aperture. For NYC, stick with the 16-55mm if you can handle the weight.
> the 16-55mm is a tank ^ This. Also, check out the Sigma 18-50mm f/2.8 DC DN Contemporary. It is way more compact for street work and consistently sharp.
If you want something smaller for walking around NYC, look at the Fujifilm Fujinon XF 16-80mm f/4 R OIS WR. It is super versatile and honestly, that extra reach is a lifesaver for travel. I have been really happy with how it performs for street shots since the stabilization is solid. You save a ton of cash compared to the heavy glass too, which leaves budget for a nice strap or extra battery.
TIL! Thanks for sharing
