Fuji 16 55 Vs Primes

Sure, the 16-55mm is even larger and heavier, but it's also a lot like carrying a whole bag of primes from 16-55mm. It has absolutely amazing IQ for a zoom that really does approach prime quality. In terms of image quality and the enjoyment of taking photos, in my opinion, the prime lenses are exceptional, far surpassing the 16-55.

The 50-140, although a zoom lens, is excellent to handle. Its internal zoom, sharpness, and autofocus speed are outstanding, even for a lens from 2014. The Fujifilm 1655mm f/2.8 II is an excellent standard zoom that gets impressively close to Fujis primes in sharpness, autofocus and overall image quality, while staying much smaller and lighter than you might expect for a professional f/2.8 lens.

The 16mm on the 16-55/2.8 is excellent but it is no substitute for the wider lens. Its nice to have 55mm and there is a surprising amount of subject separation when shot at f2.8. Fuji Zooms are very impressive, sharp and great colour but obviously not going to rival a prime lens.

I find the images even from the kit zooms very impressive, the 16-55 2.8 will be even better and allow more creative possibilities. The Fujifilm xf16-55 f2.8 LM WR zoom lens is meant to be a professional alternative to carrying a bag full of primes. Indeed, the build, fast AF motors, constant f2.8 aperture through-out the range (16mm-55mm) and weather resistant WR designation all help qualify it as a fantastic pro-level lens.

The very best faster primes are going to have some IQ advantages over the 16-55, but Id say the bag of primes moniker is still appropriate - a bag of older f/2.8 primes. In a dream world I would own primes in the 16, 35, and 56 focal lengths. I got the 16-55 because I wasn't sure what I would need as far as focal length/couldn't afford to buy a bunch of primes.

Generally Fuji zooms are comparable to prime quality and better in some cases. If you don't mind the weight and size and don't need the extra stops the zooms are the best way to go. If youve been holding out for a zoom that can replace multiple primes or want smoother control for video, this may be the lens for you.

Check out the video above for the full rundown from Branch.