The Fujifilm XF 16-50mm f/2.8-4.8 R LM WR is the company’s latest standard zoom lens, replacing the aging XF 18-55mm f/2.8-4 OIS. With updates in optical performance, autofocus, and weather resistance, it’s positioned as the new kit lens for select Fujifilm cameras. The removal of optical image stabilization and a shorter telephoto reach, however, raise some important considerations.
Coming to you from Dustin Abbott, this detailed video takes a close look at how the Fujifilm XF 16-50mm f/2.8-4.8 R LM WR compares to its predecessor and competing options. The lens offers some solid improvements, including a wider 16mm field of view, internal zooming, and better autofocus optimized for high-resolution sensors. Its build quality is solid, and the weight has been reduced to 240 grams, making it easier to carry. The lens also achieves a higher 0.3x magnification and a closer minimum focus distance of 24 cm, which adds versatility for close-up work. However, the lack of stabilization is a potential drawback, especially for users who rely on handheld shooting.
One of the biggest trade-offs with this lens is the variable aperture, which drops to f/4.8 at 50mm—half a stop slower than the previous model. This means less light-gathering ability at the telephoto end, which could affect low-light performance. Abbott notes that this lens performs well optically but isn’t as consistently sharp as the premium XF 16-55mm f/2.8, particularly at its longest focal length. Color rendition is strong, contrast is solid in most areas, and chromatic aberrations are well controlled. The corners at 16mm never quite reach the sharpness levels of the 16-55mm, but performance improves significantly in the middle of the zoom range.
Key Specs
- Focal Length: 16-50mm (35mm equivalent: 24-76mm)
- Maximum Aperture: f/2.8-4.8
- Minimum Aperture: f/22
- Focus Type: Autofocus (Linear Motor)
- Image Stabilization: No
- Minimum Focus Distance: 9.45" (24 cm)
- Maximum Magnification: 0.3x
- Optical Design: 11 elements in 9 groups
- Diaphragm Blades: 9 (rounded)
- Filter Size: 58mm
- Dimensions: 2.6 x 2.8" (65 x 71.4mm)
- Weight: 0.5 lb (240g)
Abbott’s findings suggest that while the 16-50mm is a solid update, it’s not an obvious upgrade for everyone. If you already own the XF 18-55mm and don’t have a camera with in-body stabilization, the loss of OIS might be a dealbreaker. On the other hand, for users buying into the Fujifilm system with a new camera that has stabilization, this lens makes a lot more sense—especially when bundled at a lower price.
The autofocus system is one of the stronger points of the lens, performing faster and more reliably than its predecessor. In video mode, focus pulls are smoother, and eye detection is more precise, but some lag and hesitation are still present when tracking moving subjects. When comparing the lens to the Sigma 18-50mm f/2.8, Abbott highlights that the Sigma offers a constant aperture and a slightly lower price, making it a strong competitor, especially for those prioritizing low-light capability. Check out the video above for the full rundown from Abbott.
