What is the best all-around zoom lens for the Fujifilm X-T5?

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What is the best all-around zoom lens for the Fujifilm X-T5 because honestly I am so lost right now and I feel like I am drowning in all these numbers. I just bought the camera for my trip to Japan next month and I spent way more than I planned on the body so I only have like 750 dollars left for a lens. I dont know what the difference between the 18-55 or the 16-80 is and it makes me so anxious that I'll buy the wrong one and ruin my vacation photos. I just want one lens that can do it all for food and streets without me having to change it. sorry if this is a stupid question I just have no idea what I am doing...

MelvinBrony · Accepted Answer

I've been sitting here thinking about your Japan trip and honestly, you should look at the Fujifilm XF 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 R LM OIS WR. I used this lens for my own trek through Kyoto a while back and was incredibly happy with the results. Most people skip it because it isnt a fast f2.8 lens, but the versatility is just insane for travel. I remember wandering through Nishiki Market with just this one setup and I never felt like I was missing a shot. It captures the steam coming off the street food perfectly and then reaches all the way across a busy intersection for those candid shots of the neon signs. The best part is it's weather-sealed. Japan gets pretty rainy sometimes and having that peace of mind while walking around with an expensive body like the X-T5 is a total lifesaver. I never had any complaints about the image quality for my prints and the stabilization is solid. You can usually find a used copy for around $500, which keeps you way under that $750 limit. Quick tip: since you're stressed about the numbers, just stick the camera in Aperture Priority and let it do the heavy lifting. Also, buying used from a place like MPB or KEH is a total pro move... saves you tons of cash for more sushi and train tickets. Just enjoy the trip and dont sweat the gear too much.

Melvinbaism · Answer

Totally get why you're overwhelmed, the fuji lens lineup is basically alphabet soup. Since you're heading to Japan and need to stick to $750, you should seriously look at the Sigma 18-50mm f/2.8 DC DN Contemporary for Fujifilm X. It is super compact, which is a lifesaver when you're walking miles through Kyoto. The main reason I'd pick this over the Fujifilm XF 16-80mm f/4 R OIS WR is the f/2.8 aperture. A lower number means more light, which you’ll definitely need for indoor food photos and night streets. The 16-80mm has more zoom range, but it lets in less light, making it harder to get those blurry backgrounds you probably want. The Fujifilm XF 18-55mm f/2.8-4 R LM OIS is another solid, cheaper option, but the Sigma's constant aperture is just easier to learn on... you got this.

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What is the best all-around zoom lens for the Fujifilm X-T5?