So I finally upgraded to the X-H2S for the stacked sensor speed because I do a lot of wildlife, but now I have a family trip to Japan next month and I need a solid one-lens travel zoom. I was looking at the older 18-135mm but I heard the AF motor is way too slow to keep up with the H2S tracking and might bottleneck the body. I only have about $900 left in my budget after buying the body so I'm cutting it close and getting stressed about ordering in time.
Should I go with the 16-80mm f4 or maybe the Tamron 17-70mm? Which travel zoom actually keeps up with this AF system?
Saw this earlier but just getting around to replying now. If you want to actually utilize that insane stacked sensor AF on the X-H2S without bottlenecks, you need to be careful with your lens choice. The old 18-135mm is definitely a trap for tracking fast action, so good call avoiding that. I would strongly suggest going with the Tamron 17-70mm f/2.8 Di III-A VC RXD. It uses their RXD stepping motor which is incredibly snappy and quiet. Plus, that constant f/2.8 is going to be a lifesaver when you are shooting in dim Tokyo alleys or inside temples where f/4 just wont cut it. It usually goes for around 700 to 800 bucks new, so it fits nicely under your 900 dollar limit. Just a quick warning though, it is a bit bulky compared to Fuji primes, but the deep grip on the X-H2S balances it perfectly. Another option you might want to consider is the Fujifilm XF 18-120mm f/4 LM PZ WR since it has LM linear motors which are blazing fast, but you lose that low light performance of the f/2.8. If you go with the Tamron, make sure to update the lens firmware to the latest version as soon as you unbox it. They released some updates that specifically improve AF stability on newer Fuji bodies like yours. Have an awesome trip to Japan!
To add to the point above:
- Fujifilm XF 18-120mm f4 LM PZ WR: Internal zoom ensures better weather sealing reliability.
- Tamron 17-70mm f2.8 Di III-A VC RXD: F2.8 is fast, but the extending barrel increases dust ingress risks.
Are you shooting fast-moving kids or just static scenery? Autofocus on most Fuji zooms has unfortunately disappointed me. Check these:
I actually had the Fujifilm XF 16-80mm f4 R OIS WR and it was pretty disappointing. The AF motor just couldn't keep up with the H2S tracking and the details looked kinda mushy. Here is how they compare:
- Fuji 16-80mm: Nice range but unfortunately slow AF and mediocre sharpness.
- Tamron 17-70mm f/2.8 Di III-A VC RXD: Much faster f2.8, way better AF tracking, but it is bulkier. Get the Tamron, it actually lets the X-H2S shine.
