Just picked up an X-T5 and need a walkaround lens. Seen a lot of hype for the 18-55mm kit lens, but others swear by the 16-80mm. Im worried about the size, honestly.
- Budget: around 800 bucks
- Use case: street photography and travel
- Need something sharp but not heavy
Is there anything else I should be looking at?
Honestly, the 18-55mm is a solid performer, but if you want something that really pushes the X-T5 sensor while staying light, look elsewhere. I have used most of the X-mount glass over the years and keep coming back to the primes for street stuff. The 16-80mm is way too bulky for my taste and honestly feels a bit soft at the long end. You can get way better results for your budget with these:
- Fujifilm Fujinon XF 23mm f/2 R WR
- It is tiny, weather-sealed, and the focal length is perfect for street.
- Fujifilm Fujinon XF 35mm f/1.4 R
- Still my favorite for the rendering; it is sharp enough but gives character. Grab one of those and save your cash for some extra batteries or a decent strap. You wont regret dropping the zoom for prime sharpness.
Saw this earlier but just now getting to a keyboard. Honestly, if you want something sharp for the X-T5 but hate the bulk of those zooms, you really need to look at the f/2 prime trinity. They are way smaller and make street shooting so much more discrete.
- Fujifilm Fujinon XF 23mm f/2 R WR is basically the perfect field of view for street work. It is weather sealed too, which is huge for travel.
- If you prefer something a bit tighter, the Fujifilm Fujinon XF 35mm f/2 R WR is tiny and incredibly sharp. Be careful with the 16-80mm, it gets soft on the edges pretty easily and might frustrate you after a while. If you really need a zoom, try finding a used Fujifilm Fujinon XF 16-55mm f/2.8 R LM WR if you can stretch, but that is definitely on the heavier side. Stick to the primes for travel, it makes a huge difference.
Quick reply while I have a sec. I totally agree with the f/2 prime advice, but if you absolutely need a zoom and want to save some cash, check these out:
- Sigma 18-50mm f/2.8 DC DN Contemporary is tiny and sharp
- Fujifilm Fujinon XF 18-55mm f/2.8-4 R LM OIS used market is super cheap right now Be careful buying used, make sure to check the glass for scratches! The Sigma is a total steal for the size imo.
Works great for me