Fujifilm Fujinon XF35mmF2 R WR - Black vs OM SYSTEM Olympus M.Zuiko Digital ED

Overview of the Fujinon XF35mmF2 R WR and OM SYSTEM Olympus M.Zuiko Digital ED 60mm F2.8 Macro

The Fujinon XF35mmF2 R WR is priced at $449.00, making it about 18% cheaper than the OM SYSTEM Olympus M.Zuiko Digital ED 60mm F2.8 Macro, which retails for $549.99. Both lenses are designed for photographers looking for high-quality optics, but they cater to different needs and styles. The Fujinon lens is a versatile prime lens suitable for everyday photography, while the Olympus lens excels in macro photography, offering detailed close-up capabilities.

Build Quality and Design

The Fujinon XF35mmF2 R WR boasts a weather-resistant design with eight sealing points, allowing it to operate in conditions as low as 14 degrees. This makes it a strong choice for outdoor photography in various weather conditions. Conversely, the OM SYSTEM Olympus M.Zuiko Digital ED 60mm F2.8 Macro also features a dust and splash-proof design, ensuring durability during intense shooting sessions. Both lenses are built to withstand the rigors of outdoor use, making them reliable companions for adventurous photographers.

Optical Performance

When it comes to optical performance, the Fujinon XF35mmF2 R WR offers a maximum aperture of F2.0, which provides excellent low-light performance and the ability to create smooth bokeh with its nine-blade aperture. The lens is designed to deliver sharp images with minimal ghosting and flare, thanks to its Nano-GI coating. On the other hand, the OM SYSTEM Olympus M.Zuiko Digital ED 60mm F2.8 Macro has a slightly narrower aperture of F2.8 but features an advanced optical design with 13 lens elements arranged in 10 groups. This configuration allows it to achieve a life-size 1:1 magnification, making it ideal for capturing fine details in macro photography.

Autofocus and Focusing Capabilities

The Fujinon XF35mmF2 R WR boasts an impressive autofocus speed of just 0.08 seconds, making it suitable for capturing fast-moving subjects. Its inner focus system ensures nearly silent operation, which is a significant advantage for stealthy photographers. In contrast, the OM SYSTEM Olympus M.Zuiko Digital ED 60mm F2.8 Macro features a High-Speed Imager AF (MSC) system, along with a focus limit switch that speeds up autofocus. While the Fujinon lens excels in quick shooting scenarios, the Olympus lens's macro capabilities require precision focusing at close distances, emphasizing the different shooting styles each lens supports.

Minimum Focusing Distance

The Fujinon XF35mmF2 R WR has a minimum working distance of approximately 13 inches, which allows for decent close-up photography but is not specialized for macro work. On the other hand, the OM SYSTEM Olympus M.Zuiko Digital ED 60mm F2.8 Macro excels with a minimum focusing distance of just 7.4 inches, enabling it to achieve a 1:1 life-size magnification. This feature is particularly appealing for photographers who wish to capture intricate details of small subjects, such as insects or flowers, showcasing the specialized nature of the Olympus lens.

Bokeh and Aesthetic Quality

The Fujinon XF35mmF2 R WR is designed with a nine-blade aperture that produces smooth and circular bokeh, making it an excellent choice for portraits and artistic photography. The lens's optical quality ensures that out-of-focus areas are rendered beautifully, enhancing the overall aesthetic quality of images. In contrast, while the OM SYSTEM Olympus M.Zuiko Digital ED 60mm F2.8 Macro has a bright f2.8 aperture, its primary focus is on detail reproduction rather than bokeh. It is optimized for macro work, where the subject's clarity takes precedence over background blur.

Price Comparison

The Fujinon XF35mmF2 R WR is priced at $449.00, which is about 18% lower than the OM SYSTEM Olympus M.Zuiko Digital ED 60mm F2.8 Macro, priced at $549.99. This price difference may influence a buyer's decision, especially for those who are budget-conscious. While both lenses offer exceptional quality, the Fujinon lens presents a more affordable option for photographers looking for a versatile prime lens without compromising on performance.

Which should you buy?

Choosing between the Fujinon XF35mmF2 R WR and the OM SYSTEM Olympus M.Zuiko Digital ED 60mm F2.8 Macro ultimately depends on your specific photography needs. If you're seeking a versatile, weather-resistant lens ideal for everyday photography and portraits, the Fujinon lens is the better choice, especially given its lower price of $449.00. However, if macro photography is your focus and you require a lens that excels in capturing fine details at close distances, the Olympus lens is worth the investment at $549.99. Each lens shines in its respective domain, catering to different styles and preferences.