Fujifilm renews its 16-55mm F2.8 and launches a new 500mm
On the occasion of its fall 2024 X-Summit, Fujifilm made a big splash with the announcement of a new body, the X-M5 and 2 new X-mount optics for its X-System APS-C hybrids: the XF 16-55 MM F2.8 R LM WR II and XF 500 MM F5.6 R LM OIS WR.
A welcome renewal of the 16-55mm f/2.8
We start with the renewal of an essential lens for many professional photographers and videographers: the 16-55mm f/2.8. This new trans-standard zoom with constant aperture was eagerly awaited since the first generation of the lens dated from 2015 and began to show some signs of weakness compared to the high definition 40 million pixels of the latest Fujifilm X range cameras. (like the X-T50THEX-T5 or the X-H2). APS-C requires, a conversion coefficient of 1.5x must be applied to obtain the focal length range equivalent to 24×36 mm, namely 24-82.5 mm.
The new XF 16-55 MM F2.8 R LM WR II from Fujifilm. © Fujifilm
This lens has been completely revised, starting with its optical formula now composed of 16 lenses divided into 11 groups including 4 aspherical lenses, 3 ED glasses and 1 Super ED glass. The manufacturer announces high resolution from the center to the edges of the images while reducing chromatic aberrations, even at large apertures. Additionally, this lens benefits from an improvement in precision aspherical lens manufacturing technology that reduces “onion ring effects” for more consistent and elegant bokeh. On this point, it can also rely on a circular diaphragm with 11 blades.
The objective benefits from a weight loss cure with reduced weight and bulk. Version two of the 16-55mm f/2.8 weighs 410 grams, while the previous model weighed 655 grams. Likewise, it goes from 10.6 cm long (folded) to 9.5 cm.
The new XF 16-55 MM F2.8 R LM WR II from Fujifilm: more compact and lighter than the old model. © Fujifilm
This new high-end optic has all the options. The R designation refers to a manual diaphragm ring which is now “detachable” for use in video. The WR designation refers to enhanced protection against the elements with no less than 12 seals as well as a fluorine coating on the front lens. The LM designation refers to the fast, precise and responsive linear autofocus motor with focusing in 0.02 seconds. The minimum focusing distance is increased to 30 cm at all focal lengths for a maximum magnification of 0.21x. Finally, the lens is designed to limit the phenomenon of “focus breathing” in video.
A new 500 mm for sports and wildlife
The manufacturer is also announcing a new, unique lens that will delight photographers specializing in sports and wildlife. It's a 500mm telephoto lens with a maximum aperture of f/5.6 which is naturally reminiscent of the model released earlier this year for the medium format GFX system.
This lens, therefore equivalent to a 750 mm, is also compatible with the 1.4x and 2x focal length extenders in the Fujifilm catalog for a maximum equivalent of 1,500 mm! It is therefore a perfect tool for photographing from afar in the field.
The new XF 500 MM F5.6 R LM OIS WR from Fujifilm. © Fujifilm
On the program, an optical formula composed of 21 lenses divided into 14 groups with two Super ED lenses and five ED lenses. The lens is equipped with optical stabilization with a gain announced by the manufacturer of 5.5 EV. Despite its impressive characteristics, the lens remains relatively compact and light: around 1.3 kg on the scale (with a rear weight distribution) and a length of around 25 cm. It is therefore possible to manipulate it freehand. The lens is also protected against the elements with 20 seals to cope with the worst shooting conditions down to -10°C.
The optical formula of the new XF 500 MM F5.6 R LM OIS WR. © Fujifilm
On the autofocus side, we can count on a linear motor with very fast, responsive and silent internal focusing. The manufacturer announces a focus time of 0.33 seconds. There are many autofocus customization options: focus preset, focus limiter and a focus call button.
There is also a diaphragm adjustment ring (circular with nine blades) as well as a tripod mounting collar.
Availability and prices
The new XF 16-55 MM F2.8 R LM WR II and XF 500 MM F5.6 R LM OIS WR will be available in November and priced at €1,349 and €3,399 respectively.
First opinion
If the X-M5 is a device intended for the general public, these two new lenses are aimed more at enthusiasts and professionals. The second generation of the 16-55 mm is excellent news for users of the latest Fujifilm hybrids who will be able to take full advantage of the 40 million pixels of their sensor and the new 500 mm will appeal to sports and wildlife lovers. The prices are obviously quite high, but remain well below what can be found for equivalent characteristics in the 24×36 world.
