Curious about one thing: what's your actual budget for this lens?? Honestly, the Fujifilm X-T5 is pretty demanding because of that 40MP sensor. I mean, I've tried many setups over the years, and even though I'm still learning some of the finer technical specs of the newest glass, it's clear that pixel density is highkey a challenge for older designs. Basically, the Fujifilm XF 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 R LM OIS WR is super versatile for travel, but its sharpness might not reallyyy do that sensor justice. Before I dive into a specific recommendation, are you gonna be shooting mostly in daylight, or do you need something for low-light too? If you're trying to keep costs down, the Fujifilm XF 16-80mm f/4 R OIS WR is usually the value king, but idk if it's sharp enough for what you're planning. Let me know! 👍

Similar situation here - I was stressing about this exact thing right before my big trip last fall. Basically, that 40MP sensor is a beast, but it really shows the flaws in older lenses because the pixel density is so high. If the glass isnt up to par, things look kinda mushy when you crop in. I spent weeks testing the Fujifilm XF 16-80mm f/4 R OIS WR against the Fujifilm XF 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 R LM OIS WR. Honestly, the 18-135mm is a classic, but i found it struggled to keep up with the resolution at the long end. The 16-80mm was definitely sharper and the constant f/4 is a lifesaver, but then I highkey got curious about the Fujifilm XF 18-120mm f/4 LM PZ WR. I tried it out and was honestly so satisfied. It stayed sharp across the whole range and the weather sealing works well. Plus, no lens creep! I mean, some people hate the power zoom, but i actually liked it for travel video stuff. I was really happy with how my shots turned out... hope that helps! 👍

Tbh that 40MP sensor is REALY picky tho. In my experience, you should definitely grab the Fujifilm XF 16-80mm f/4 R OIS WR cuz it’s sharp and light. You’ll be SO happy!

To add to the point above: i'm right there with you on the frustration. i actually bought the Fujifilm XF 16-80mm f/4 R OIS WR thinking it would be my dream travel setup but honestly... it was such a letdown for the price. spending that much cash just to see soft corners on my X-T5 is a total bummer. i even tried to save some money by hunting for a deal on a used copy, but even at a discount, it still feels like i overpaid for the performance i'm getting. its just so annoying when you invest in a high-res sensor and the glass makes everything look kinda muddy. i'm honestly just disappointed that we have to pay premium prices for lenses that struggle to keep up with the sensor tech. its a real wallet-drainer for mediocre results. TL;DR: super frustrated that these pricey zooms cant handle the 40MP sensor, total waste of money for the actual image quality you get.

Just saw this thread and had to jump in because i've been through this exact struggle! While I totally see the appeal of the 16-80 for the range, i'm gonna politely disagree about it being the best fit for that 40MP sensor. To be safe and really get what you paid for with the X-T5, you really gotta look at the Fujifilm XF 16-55mm f/2.8 R LM WR. It is absolutely fantastic! I know, it's a bit bigger and doesnt have OIS, but since the X-T5 has IBIS, it's a non-issue! Honestly, the sharpness you get is just amazing... basically like carrying a bag of primes. If you're spending the money on such a high-res body, you need glass that is actually compatible with that level of detail. You wont regret the extra weight once you see those files, trust me. Let me know if you want to see some of my travel shots with this combo, they're so crisp!

100% agree

@Reply #5 - good point! Honestly tho, am I the only one who thinks those zooms might not be the absolute best pick for that beast of a sensor? I'm not 100% sure but I recall seeing some talk online that the Fujifilm XF 16-80mm f/4 R OIS WR gets a bit soft at the edges when you're pushing 40MP. I've been DIY-ing my travel setup lately by totally ditching the big zooms and it's been amazing! I think I read somewhere that the Fujifilm XF 18-120mm f/4 LM PZ WR is actually better optimized for the newer tech, but personally, I've been loving the Fujifilm XF 23mm f/2 R WR and just digital cropping. With that many pixels, you can crop a crazy amount and still get fantastic shots! It makes the X-T5 feel so much lighter for all-day walking. It's a bit of a different approach but I absolutely love the results! You're gonna have a blast on your trip regardless, that camera is incredible.

Seconding the recommendation above. Honestly, for safety, just stick with any newer weather-sealed Fuji zoom. The linear motors and OIS are basically TOP-TIER. Im SO satisfied. TL;DR: High-end Fuji glass!

Any updates on this?