I just got the X-S20 for my Japan trip next month and I'm honestly pulling my hair out trying to pick a lens for vlogging. Everyone online says the Fuji 10-24mm is the gold standard but it looks huge and I dont want to carry a brick around all day. Then I saw people swear by the Sigma 10-18mm but I heard the autofocus can be jumpy on Fuji bodies?? I just need something that doesnt make my arm fall off while walking around.
- Budget is $800 max
- Must be light enough for handheld or a tiny gimbal
- Wide enough so my face isnt filling the whole frame
- Decent in low light for night markets
Which one actually works best? I'm tired of watching conflicting youtube reviews...
I would suggest looking at the Fujifilm XF 8mm f/3.5 R WR as it fits your budget and weight requirements perfectly. It weighs only 215g, which is ideal for handheld vlogging. However, make sure to watch your settings in low light because f/3.5 is somewhat slow for night markets. Be cautious with your ISO levels at night... its basically the widest you can get for the X-S20.
I compared the data and the Sigma 10-18mm f/2.8 DC DN Contemporary is likely your best option. Its 260g vs the 385g Fujifilm XF 10-24mm f/4 R OIS WR. I shot in some dim Kyoto alleys and the f/2.8 let me keep my ISO way lower than f/4. The AF-C tracking on the X-S20 works great with it, havent noticed any jitter in my footage at all.
I've tried many setups and for walking around Japan, you should look at the Samyang 12mm f/2.0 AF Fuji X. It is super light at 213g, which is a dream for vlogging all day. It's plenty wide for the X-S20 and that f/2 aperture is a life saver for night markets. tbh it leaves plenty of room in your $800 budget for extra batteries or sushi.
Just catching up on this thread. If you want to stay well under that $800 limit and still have cash left for food in Tokyo, look at the Viltrox AF 13mm f/1.4 XF. I've been incredibly satisfied with how this glass performs. The f/1.4 aperture is basically cheating for those dim night markets, and the metal build feels safer and more reliable than cheaper plastic alternatives. It's a bit heavier, but the value is basically unbeatable. If you prioritize reliability against the elements, the Fujifilm XF 16mm f/2.8 R WR is a solid choice. It's fully weather-sealed, tiny, and works well for travel. I've had no complaints using it during rainy days in Osaka. It's not quite as wide, but 16mm gives a natural look without distortion... plus its way under budget.
