My X-T5 finally showed up yesterday after waiting for ages but now I feel totally stuck on what glass to pick up first. Im planning a trip to the Pacific Northwest in about three weeks so I really need to get something solid on the camera before I leave. I dont have a huge budget left after dropping so much on the body honestly, probably want to stay under 1k if possible.
I keep seeing people rave about the 18-55mm kit lens as a jack of all trades, and some forums swear by the 16-80mm for the reach, but then I see folks saying the 16-80 is soft or just not worth it compared to the primes. Its so frustrating because every review contradicts the last one! Some say the 18-55 is dated and the newer sensors expose its flaws, but then others claim it is plenty sharp for travel. I really just need one reliable lens that can handle landscapes and some street shots without me having to swap gear in the middle of a hike. Does the 18-55 hold up on the 40mp sensor or am I gonna regret not just splurging on something like the 16-55 f2.8...?
Like someone mentioned, the sensor is demanding! Honestly, just snag a Fujifilm XF 18-55mm f/2.8-4 R LM OIS used for cheap. It is fantastic for travel and fits your budget perfectly.
Late to the party, but honestly, stop stressing about pixel peeping. The 40mp sensor is great, but you dont need to spend a fortune to get solid shots. Forget the bulky f2.8 zooms for hiking. Just grab these instead:
- Fujifilm XF 18-55mm f/2.8-4 R LM OIS
- Sigma 18-50mm f/2.8 DC DN Contemporary The Sigma is incredibly sharp and tiny for travel. Unfortunately, some people act like older glass is useless, but itll do just fine.
Honestly, the 18-55mm is fine for casual stuff, but on that 40mp sensor? Youre gonna notice the lack of detail. I had issues with it being soft in the corners, which really bummed me out during a trip. If you want something sharper for landscapes, grab the Fujifilm XF 16-80mm f/4 R OIS WR. It isnt perfect, but the extra reach is a lifesaver for hiking when you cant get closer. Skip the heavy stuff.
To add to the point above: having shot with the X-T5 since launch, I was honestly disappointed by how much corner softness shows up when you pixel peep those 40mp files with older glass. It just felt like the sensor was working harder than the lens could keep up with. Before I steer you toward something else, are you mostly shooting handheld or do you usually carry a tripod for those PNW landscapes?
