Fujifilm XF 16-50mm f/2.8-4.8 R LM WR hand-on review: above standard zoom

The original XF 18-55mm was widely considered one of the best kit zooms ever, can its successor live up to that lofty reputation?

Fujifilm XF 16-50mm f/2.8-4.8 R LM WR lens attached on a camera sat on a green checkered table
(Image: © Gareth Bevan / Digital Camera World)

Early Verdict

The original XF 18-55mm lens is my favorite kit lens from any camera system – sharp, compact, and versatile, its successor had a lot to live up to. The XF 16-50mm is not quite the exact same lens, with a shorter reach at the top with a narrower aperture, but a little wider at the low end, which might not please every shooter. But the new additions of an internal zoom and weather sealing, as well as the ability to render all 40MP from the latest Fuji sensors make this a worthwhile update. On my initial testing, the quality looks every bit as good as the previous model.

Pros

  • +

    Now weather sealed

  • +

    Internal zoom makes balancing easier for video

  • +

    Suitable for rendering 40MP sensors

  • +

    Light and compact but with high-quality build

Cons

  • -

    Less reach at the top end than previously

  • -

    Narrower min aperture when zoomed than before

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The Fujifilm XF 18-55mm lens has been the default kit lens with Fujifilm cameras for over 10 years now, and that fact alone should serve as a testament to just how good of a kit lens it is. Or should I say; was, as Fujifilm has just debuted a replacement kit lens – the Fujifilm XF 16-50mm f/2.8-4.8 R LM WR.

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Lens MountFujifilm X (APS-C)
Focal Length16 to 50mm (35mm Equivalent: 24 to 76mm)
Maximum Aperturef/2.8 to 4.8
Minimum aperturef/22
Minimum focus0.24 m (9.45in)
Maximum magnification0.3x
Optical Image StabilizationNo
Filter Size58mm
Size (DxL)65mm (2.56″) x 71mm (2.8″)
Weight240 g (0.53 lb)
Fujifilm XF 16-80mm f/4 R OIS WR

Fujifilm XF 16-80mm f/4 R OIS WR
If you like the 16-50mm but wish it stretched further then the 16-80mm might be one to consider. The aperture is narrower at 16mm but is a steady f/4 throughout the range which makes it easier to work with.

Fujifilm XF 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 R LM OIS WR

Fujifilm XF 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 R LM OIS WR
If you really want the most zoom you can get in a Fuji lens then this lens offers a whopping 117mm of zoom. The lens also isn’t supersized, which is perfect for traveling while keeping your kit as light as possible.

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Gareth Bevan
Reviews Editor

Gareth is a photographer based in London, working as a freelance photographer and videographer for the past several years, having the privilege to shoot for some household names. With work focusing on fashion, portrait and lifestyle content creation, he has developed a range of skills covering everything from editorial shoots to social media videos. Outside of work, he has a personal passion for travel and nature photography, with a devotion to sustainability and environmental causes.