Fujifilm Fujinon XF35mmF2 R WR - Black vs SIRUI

Price Comparison

The Fujinon XF35mmF2 R WR is priced at $449.00, while the SIRUI 20mm T1.8 Anamorphic Lens costs $599.00. This makes the Fujinon about 25% cheaper than the SIRUI lens. The difference in price can be attributed to their respective features and intended uses. The XF35mmF2 is a prime lens known for its versatility and compact design, ideal for street photography and low-light conditions. On the other hand, the SIRUI lens offers a unique anamorphic design that appeals to filmmakers and videographers looking for cinematic visuals.

Design and Build Quality

The Fujinon XF35mmF2 R WR boasts a weather-resistant design with eight sealing points, ensuring reliability in various environmental conditions. This feature makes it suitable for outdoor photography, even in damp or dusty situations. Additionally, it operates efficiently in temperatures as low as 14 degrees Fahrenheit. The compact size and lightweight design further enhance its usability for everyday shooting.

Conversely, the SIRUI 20mm T1.8 Anamorphic Lens, while also compact at 1.06 lbs, focuses on cinematic quality with its 1.33x squeeze factor that allows for a wider 2.35:1 aspect ratio. This design targets filmmakers who desire a broader perspective without the need to crop their footage, thus enhancing the visual storytelling aspect. However, it does not explicitly mention weather resistance, which could be a consideration for outdoor shooting.

Optical Performance

The Fujinon XF35mmF2 R WR delivers sharp images with a maximum aperture of F2.0, enabling beautiful bokeh thanks to its nine-blade aperture design. This lens is optimized for high image quality, making it a preferred choice for portrait and street photography where depth of field and subject isolation are crucial. The lens is designed to minimize ghosting and flare, resulting in clear and vibrant images.

In comparison, the SIRUI 20mm T1.8 lens features an ultra-fast T1.8 aperture that allows for exceptional low-light performance and soft bokeh. It covers Super 35 sensors, providing excellent clarity across the frame. The lens also incorporates eye-tracking capabilities, enhancing its autofocus system, which is vital for capturing fast-moving subjects in both photography and videography. This makes the SIRUI lens particularly appealing for dynamic shooting environments.

Autofocus Technology

The Fujinon XF35mmF2 R WR employs an inner focus system that achieves autofocus in just 0.08 seconds, making it suitable for capturing spontaneous moments with accuracy and speed. Its nearly silent operation is an added benefit, especially for stealthy photography or when shooting in quiet environments. The lens's autofocus performance is geared toward still photography, where quick focus is essential.

On the other hand, the SIRUI 20mm T1.8 lens features a precision STM stepping motor that allows for smooth and quiet autofocus. It also includes an AF/MF switch and autofocus lock, giving videographers and cinematographers the control they need while filming. The advanced tracking capabilities of this lens cater to the dynamic needs of video production, where smooth transitions and focus adjustments are crucial.

Intended Use

The Fujinon XF35mmF2 R WR is designed primarily for photographers. Its 35mm equivalent focal length of 53mm makes it versatile for various photography styles, from portraits to street photography. The lens's weather-resistant build adds to its appeal for outdoor photographers who need reliable equipment in unpredictable conditions.

In contrast, the SIRUI 20mm T1.8 lens is tailored for filmmakers and content creators. Its anamorphic design and wide-angle perspective make it ideal for capturing expansive landscapes and cinematic scenes. The ability to switch between manual and autofocus modes provides users with the flexibility to adapt to different shooting scenarios, which is particularly valuable in the fast-paced world of video production.

Compatibility

The Fujinon XF35mmF2 R WR is compatible with Fujifilm X-mount cameras, making it a great choice for users of the Fujifilm ecosystem. Its design and features are optimized for APS-C sensors, ensuring that photographers can take full advantage of its capabilities without any compromise in quality.

Meanwhile, the SIRUI 20mm T1.8 lens is compatible with E-mount cameras, including popular models such as the Sony A6500, A6700, FX3, and A7 series. This compatibility makes it an excellent option for professionals already invested in the Sony camera system, allowing for a seamless integration into their existing gear.

Which should you buy?

Choosing between the Fujinon XF35mmF2 R WR and the SIRUI 20mm T1.8 Anamorphic Lens ultimately depends on your specific needs and shooting style. If you're a photographer looking for a reliable, weather-resistant lens with quick autofocus and excellent image quality, the Fujinon lens is the better choice, especially given its more affordable price of $449.00. However, if you're a filmmaker seeking to achieve cinematic visuals with an anamorphic lens capable of handling low-light situations, the SIRUI lens at $599.00 offers features tailored for video production. Consider what type of shooting you will be doing most often, and choose accordingly.