I just picked up the X-T5 because I wanted that 40 megapixel sensor for some large prints I'm planning, but man, I'm having a serious crisis with my glass. Ive been shooting Fuji for like six years now and always relied on the 18-55mm kit lens for travel but it looks honestly kinda soft on this new body. I didnt expect the resolution jump to be this punishing on older lenses. I have a flight to Tokyo in exactly 12 days and I am freaking out because I dont have a solid walk-around lens that can actually keep up with the sensor.
I need something that handles everything from street stuff at night to some landscape work out by Fuji. I was looking at the 16-55mm f2.8 because everyone says its the gold standard but the lack of OIS is making me nervous for handheld video even with the IBIS in the T5. Then there is the 16-80mm which has the range but I hear mixed things about the corner sharpness on the high-res sensor. My budget is capped at about $1000 since I just dropped a fortune on the body. Should I just bite the bullet and get the red badge 16-55 or is there something newer I missed that balances the weight better for a long trip? I really need to get this ordered by tomorrow if I want it to arrive before I leave...
Honestly, the Fujifilm XF 16-55mm f2.8 R LM WR is the safest bet for 40MP.
- 16-55mm: Elite sharpness
- Fujifilm XF 16-80mm f4 R OIS WR: Soft corners IBIS works well for video.
^ This. Also, I've spent way too many years lugging heavy glass through Narita to tell you that weight matters just as much as resolution. Over the years, I've learned that "best" usually means what you'll actually keep on your camera. That 16-55mm is a total brick, honestly. I took it on a trek once and by day three, my neck was killing me... it basically ruins the point of a compact system. In my experience, that 40MP sensor really demands the best optics. You should definitely look up the official list Fuji put out called Lenses that maximize the resolution of the 40MP sensor over on their support site. It lists which glass actually resolves that detail properly.
- Fujifilm XF 16-55mm f2.8 R LM WR: It is the gold standard for a reason. If you are doing large prints, you want this. The IBIS on the X-T5 is actually quite good for video as long as you arent doing crazy pans.
- Sigma 18-50mm f2.8 DC DN Contemporary: if you want to stay under budget and keep it light, this is the one. Its tiny but punches way above its weight class. Whatever you pick, get it ordered soon. I usually check out sites like MPB or KEH for used deals to save cash for the actual trip. Just dont settle for the 16-80... its a versatile lens but it wont give you the "wow" factor for those prints you mentioned.
I had high hopes, but honestly:
- Fujifilm XF 16-80mm f4 R OIS WR was unfortunately blurry on my T5.
- Tamron 17-70mm f2.8 Di III-A VC RXD felt super clunky for travel.
