Fujifilm Fujinon XF35mmF2 R WR - Black vs Sony E 55-

Price Comparison

The Fujinon XF35mmF2 R WR is priced at $449.00, while the Sony E 55-210mm F4.5-6.3 Lens is available for $328.00. This makes the Sony lens about 27% cheaper than the Fujinon lens. For those on a budget, the Sony lens offers a more economical choice while still delivering quality performance. The price difference may influence your decision, especially if you're looking for a versatile lens without breaking the bank.

Build Quality and Design

The Fujinon XF35mmF2 R WR boasts a weather-resistant design with eight sealing points, allowing it to operate in extreme conditions as low as 14 degrees. In contrast, the Sony E 55-210mm lens is designed with an elegant aluminum alloy exterior but does not feature weather sealing. The robust build of the Fujinon lens is ideal for outdoor shooting in various weather conditions, while the Sony lens prioritizes a compact form factor for portability.

Focal Length and Versatility

The Fujinon XF35mmF2 R WR has a focal length of 35mm, equivalent to 53mm in the 35mm format, making it an excellent choice for portraits and street photography. Meanwhile, the Sony E 55-210mm lens offers a wide zoom range equivalent to 82.5mm to 315mm, which is ideal for capturing distant subjects in sports or nature photography. The versatility of the Sony lens allows for a broader range of shooting scenarios compared to the fixed focal length of the Fujinon lens.

Autofocus Performance

The Fujinon lens features an inner focus system with an impressive autofocus speed of 0.08 seconds, ensuring quick and nearly silent operation. This makes it suitable for stealthy photography situations. On the other hand, the Sony E 55-210mm lens includes internal focusing that is smooth and quiet, making it particularly well-suited for video capture. While both lenses provide good autofocus capabilities, the Fujinon lens excels in speed, whereas the Sony lens shines in video performance.

Image Quality

Fujinon’s XF35mmF2 R WR is known for delivering sharp images with rich bokeh, thanks to its 9-blade aperture. The lens’s Nano-GI coating also reduces ghosting and flare, enhancing image quality in challenging lighting conditions. Conversely, the Sony lens features Optical SteadyShot image stabilization, which helps in achieving blur-free images, especially when zoomed in on distant subjects. Both lenses offer excellent image quality, but the Fujinon lens may provide superior sharpness and bokeh for still photography enthusiasts.

Minimum Focus Distance and Magnification

The Fujinon XF35mmF2 R WR has a minimum working distance of approximately 13 inches and a maximum magnification of 0.17x, making it suitable for close-up shots. In contrast, the Sony E 55-210mm lens has a minimum focus distance of 3.28 feet and a maximum magnification ratio of 0.23x. This difference means that while the Fujinon lens allows for closer photography, the Sony lens provides a better option for capturing distant subjects, particularly in outdoor environments.

User Experience

Users of the Fujinon XF35mmF2 R WR often praise its compact size and fast performance, making it a joy for photographers who appreciate stealthy shooting. The quiet operation aids in maintaining a low profile during shoots. The Sony E 55-210mm lens is favored for its versatile zoom range and smooth autofocus, which is particularly advantageous for videographers. Both lenses have their strengths, but the user experience may differ based on the specific photography needs of the user.

Which should you buy?

Ultimately, the decision between the Fujinon XF35mmF2 R WR and the Sony E 55-210mm F4.5-6.3 Lens comes down to your photography style and needs. If you're looking for a compact, weather-resistant lens with excellent image quality for portraits and street photography, the Fujinon lens is the better choice, albeit at a higher price of $449.00. However, if you need a versatile zoom lens for sports or nature photography at a more budget-friendly price of $328.00, the Sony lens is a compelling option. Both lenses cater to different types of photography, so consider your priorities before making a purchase.