What is the absolute best landscape lens for my Fujifilm X-T4? I'm heading to the Dolomites in three weeks and I'm freaking out a bit because I cant decide what to buy. I read that the XF 10-24mm is the standard choice but then a bunch of reviews said the mark i version is soft and the mark ii is too expensive for what it is. I also looked at the Viltrox 13mm because people rave about the sharpness but it looks huge and I'm worried about my back since I'll be hiking for like 6 hours a day. My budget is $850 max. Should I just get a prime or do I need the zoom range for mountains? I dont want to regret this...
You gotta check out the Sigma 10-18mm f/2.8 DC DN Contemporary Fujifilm X! Its tiny, super light, and way sharper than the old Fuji zooms. It fits your budget perfectly and wont kill your back on those long hikes. Honestly, the f/2.8 is fantastic for those early morning shots. Go for it, you'll love it, its absolutely amazing!
To add to the point above: unfortunately, my old zooms always felt too fragile for mountains. Primes are safer.
- Fujifilm XF 16mm f/2.8 R WR Its cheap, light, and survives.
Regarding what #3 said about "To add to the point above: unfortunately, my..." experience with zooms being fragile, I actually had the opposite happen! I used to be a total prime lens snob because I thought they were the only way to stay safe in the mountains. But after my last big trip, I realized my current setup—which is a versatile zoom from one of the newer brands—actually felt way more solid than my old primes ever did. Here is what I learned after years of trial and error:
- Third-party brands are doing some amazing things with build quality lately.
- One versatile lens is way better than three small ones when your hands are freezing.
- Weight matters, but balance on the camera body matters more. I remember hiking in a total downpour and being so glad I didnt have to open my bag to swap glass. The one I got now just handles it all and honestly, the brand comparison really opened my eyes to how much more you get for your money these days. You are gonna have a fantastic time in the Dolomites, seriously its like being on another planet! Dont stress too much, you'll find what works for you!
To add to the point above: I hear you on the weight thing, but my experience hiking in the Alps last year was a bit different. I used to be obsessed with having the lightest setup possible, but I ended up regretting it when a sudden storm rolled in and I was too scared to pull my gear out. I eventually settled on a setup that was a bit heavier than those tiny primes but offered full weather sealing, and honestly, I've been so happy with that decision. On my last big trip, it rained for three days straight. Because I had a zoom that could handle the grit and the water, I kept shooting while everyone else was tucking their cameras away. I learned that for mountains, being able to keep the lens on the body without swapping in the wind is a lifesaver. No sensor dust, no moisture issues... it just works. Peace of mind is worth the extra few ounces in your pack, trust me.
I'm satisfied with the Fujifilm XF 10-24mm f/4 R OIS WR. It works well; specifically, the weather sealing is more reliable than the Viltrox 13mm f/1.4 AF for mountain treks.
