So I finally upgraded to the X-T5 from my old trusty X-T2 and man, that 40MP sensor is something else. Ive been a 23mm f2 guy for years because its so tiny for street work, but now im overthinking everything. My logic was that small and light is king when you're walking around all day but im worried the old f2 lenses wont really resolve all that detail properly.
Was looking at the 18mm f1.4 since I'm heading to Tokyo next month and want something wide for those tight alleys, but its so much bulkier. Then there is the 27mm pancake which is tempting for stealth... I just dont know if the trade off in glass quality is worth the size on this specific body.
Agreed, the sensor is demanding. The Sigma 18-50mm f2.8 DC DN Contemporary is honestly a great compromise for Tokyo because its tiny but still plenty sharp for that high res body.
tbh i had high hopes for sticking with my old f2 glass when i got my x-t5 but it was a total letdown. that 40mp sensor is just brutal on older optics. it really shows every little flaw and softness, especially toward the corners where the older designs really struggle. i tried the Fujifilm Fujinon XF 27mm f/2.8 R WR thinking the pancake size would be perfect for stealth but the image quality is just not as good as expected on this specific body. it feels like a waste of a high-end camera to put glass on it that cant even resolve the detail you actually paid for. unfortunately, if you want that tack-sharp look for your tokyo trip, you basically have to deal with the extra weight. i tested the Fujifilm Fujinon XF 18mm f/1.4 R LM WR and while the images are mind-blowing, its way too bulky for a long day of walking. it totally kills the balance. honestly your best bet is probably the Fujifilm Fujinon XF 23mm f/1.4 R LM WR. its bigger than the f2 version for sure but its the only way youre gonna actually see the benefit of that new sensor. it sucks that the tiny fuji experience is kinda dying with these high-res sensors but thats just where we are now...
tbh i was really worried about my gear failing me in a big city. older lenses were kinda a letdown because they felt too flimsy for travel. the Fujifilm Fujinon XF 33mm f1.4 R LM WR is my go-to now since it is built like a total tank. no need to worry about the weather sealing failing if it starts drizzling in shibuya. basically why i trust it:
- build quality is way more robust than those tiny f2 lenses.
- the autofocus is actually reliable and doesnt hunt like crazy in low light.
- handles that 40mp sensor without looking like a blurry mess. honestly spent all morning worrying about the flight more than the camera tho. heard some airlines are getting really strict about carry-on weight and now the paranoia is hitting. maybe ill get one of those vests with a million pockets just to hide my chargers and batteries lol. imagine me walking through security looking like a tactical fisherman... anyway, the 33mm is definitely the safer bet for that sensor.
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