The Fujifilm XF 16-50mm f/2.8-4.8 R LM WR lens is an updated, versatile option for Fujifilm users, designed to replace older kit lenses while handling the demands of higher-resolution sensors. This lens is lightweight, well-suited for everyday use, and provides good performance across a wide range of photography needs. It’s aimed at those who want reliable image quality without the bulk.
Coming to you from Andy Mumford, this detailed video looks at the Fujifilm XF 16-50mm f/2.8-4.8 R LM WR lens and why it might be the ideal choice for you if you need versatility with lightweight convenience. Mumford compares the 16-50mm to other Fujifilm options, particularly the 16-80mm, which he notes lacks optimization for Fujifilm’s higher megapixel sensors. Unlike the 16-80mm, this new lens resolves higher levels of detail, making it a better match for Fujifilm’s 40-megapixel bodies, including the X-T5 and X-H2. Despite its compact size, the 16-50mm has weather-sealing and a solid, all-metal build, giving it durability for outdoor photography. Mumford points out that it offers an internal zoom, which keeps dust and dirt out, a significant advantage for shooting in varied environments. Key specs include:
- Focal Length: 16-50mm (35mm equivalent: 24-76mm)
- Maximum Aperture: f/2.8-4.8
- 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
- Weight: 0.5 lb / 240 g
In terms of usability, Mumford describes the control rings on this lens as generally well-balanced, with decent resistance for both the zoom and aperture rings, though he notes that the focus ring could benefit from added stiffness for improved manual control. The lens does lack optical image stabilization, which may be a downside if you’re using an older Fujifilm model that doesn’t have in-body stabilization. However, newer bodies like the X-T5 offer this feature, compensating for the lens’s absence of built-in stabilization.
One of the biggest draws of the 16-50mm lens, according to Mumford, is its light weight and compact form, which make it ideal for long treks, vacations, and street photography. In his testing, Mumford appreciated the minimal weight, especially while hiking, and found it easy to carry alongside other lenses. He observes that the compact size and low weight make it convenient without sacrificing essential features, which isn’t always the case with kit lenses.
Mumford also highlights the lens’ image quality. Although he isn’t one to focus on sharpness charts, he acknowledges that this lens resolves a noticeable amount of detail across the frame. While it doesn’t quite match the highest-end lenses in corner sharpness, it still performs well, especially at mid-range apertures like f/5.6 and f/7.1. If you tend to shoot landscapes or use a 40-megapixel sensor, this lens will deliver images that maximize the resolution potential of Fujifilm’s cameras. Check out the video above for the full rundown from Mumford.
