Not all standard zoom lenses are created equal, even when they cover similar focal ranges. Fuji has refreshed its lineup with two new lenses, while Sigma’s popular budget-friendly option remains in the mix. Whether you need the best sharpness, the fastest autofocus, or the most compact option, here's a good guide to what's best for your needs.
Coming to you from Dustin Abbott, this in-depth video compares three standard zoom lenses: the Sigma 18-50mm f/2.8, the Fujifilm 16-50mm f/2.8-4.8 R LM WR, and the Fujifilm 16-55mm f/2.8 R LM WR. Fuji’s two new lenses replace older models that had been showing their age. The 16-55mm, now significantly lighter than its predecessor, is positioned as the premium option, while the 16-50mm offers a more compact, budget-conscious alternative. Meanwhile, Sigma’s 18-50mm f/2.8 has been a strong performer at a lower price point, but the question is whether it can still hold its own.
Autofocus is an area where the Fuji lenses take the lead. The 16-55mm has the fastest and most confident autofocus, making it the best choice for stills. The 16-50mm is close behind, while the Sigma lens, which won last year’s comparison against Fuji’s older models, now lags slightly due to micro-pulsing and slower response times. For video, the 16-55mm again comes out on top, offering smooth focus transitions and minimal focus breathing. The 16-50mm performs well, especially with its internal zoom mechanism, but it struggles to react quickly in some situations. The Sigma, on the other hand, suffers from focus hunting and noticeable warping during zooming.
Sharpness and image quality favor the Fuji 16-55mm. It consistently delivers the best contrast, corner sharpness, and overall clarity. The Sigma and 16-50mm are closely matched, with each having strengths in different areas. The Sigma benefits from a constant f/2.8 aperture, which is useful in low light, while the 16-50mm has less distortion and vignetting but sacrifices some sharpness, especially at longer focal lengths. The biggest drawback of the 16-50mm is its slower variable aperture, which limits light intake and forces higher ISO settings in low-light conditions. Check out the video above for the full rundown from Abbott.
