What is the actual best all-around lens for the X-T5 because I am honestly about to throw my kit lens out the window. I have been using the 18-55mm for months and its just constantly disappointing me with how soft it gets in lower light situations and the zoom ring is starting to feel all gritty like theres sand inside it or something which is driving me insane when I am trying to shoot street photos in downtown Chicago.
I have a trip coming up in about three weeks to visit my sister and I really dont want to be dealing with gear that feels like its falling apart. I just want one solid piece of glass that handles portraits and some wider shots without me having to obsess over settings every single time. My budget is around 1000 bucks maybe a little more if it means I never have to deal with this frustration again. Should I just bite the bullet and go for the 16-55mm f2.8 or is that thing way too heavy to carry around all day? I just need something reliable because Im getting so anxious that I am going to miss all my shots on this trip...
Honestly, ditching the kit lens is the best move you can make for your sanity. I used the Fujifilm XF 16-55mm f/2.8 R LM WR for years and yeah, it is a tank, but the image quality is night and day compared to the kit glass. If you want something that feels reliable, that lens is basically indestructible. However, if that thing ends up feeling too heavy for a full day of street shooting in Chicago, here is what I would do instead:
- Look at the Fujifilm XF 16-80mm f/4 R OIS WR. It is lighter and gives you more reach, plus the stabilization is killer.
- Grab the Fujifilm XF 18-55mm f/2.8-4 R LM OIS again but find a mint used copy if you actually liked the focal range but just got a lemon. Honestly, just go for the 16-55mm if you want professional sharpness. You'll get used to the weight pretty quick.
Just get the Fujifilm XF 16-80mm f/4 R OIS WR. It is the absolute sweet spot for travel versatility and that stabilization is a total lifesaver for low light. Love mine!
Jumping in here. Regarding what #1 said about ditching the kit lens, they arent wrong about the upgrade path, but that 16-55mm is honestly a massive brick to lug around downtown for a whole trip. I personally value portability way more when I am walking miles through a city. Before you drop a grand, consider these things:
- Do you prioritize low light performance over having a versatile zoom range?
- Would you prefer a smaller prime that forces you to move around a bit more, or do you absolutely need that flexibility to zoom? If you hate the grit and the softness, you definitely need a weather-sealed prime or a higher-end constant aperture zoom. Just dont buy something heavy if you are gonna leave it in the hotel room because your neck hurts.
