Fujifilm Fujinon XF35mmF2 R WR - Black vs Sony SEL90M28G FE

Overview of the Fujinon XF35mmF2 R WR and Sony SEL90M28G

The Fujinon XF35mmF2 R WR is priced at $449.00, while the Sony SEL90M28G is significantly higher at $1,048.00, making the Fujinon about 57% cheaper than the Sony lens. Each lens serves different purposes in photography, with unique features that cater to various shooting styles. The Fujinon lens is compact and designed for everyday use, while the Sony lens is tailored for macro photography and telephoto needs.

Design and Build Quality

The Fujinon XF35mmF2 R WR boasts a weather-resistant design with eight sealing points, allowing it to operate in challenging conditions as low as 14 degrees. This makes it an excellent choice for outdoor photographers who need reliability in unpredictable weather. Conversely, the Sony SEL90M28G also features a dust and moisture-resistant design, confirming its durability. However, it’s heavier at 602 grams, which may affect portability. Both lenses are built for resilience, but the Fujinon offers a more compact option for those prioritizing weight and size.

Focal Length and Aperture

In terms of focal length, the Fujinon XF35mmF2 R WR offers a 35mm focal length (53mm equivalent), making it ideal for street, portrait, and everyday photography. Its maximum aperture of F2.0 allows for beautiful bokeh and vibrant image quality. On the other hand, the Sony SEL90M28G provides a longer focal length of 90mm, which is perfect for macro photography with a bright F2.8 maximum aperture. This lens excels in capturing fine details in close-up shots, showcasing the distinction in usage between the two lenses.

Autofocus and Performance

The Fujinon XF35mmF2 R WR features a fast inner focus system with an autofocus speed of just 0.08 seconds, combining precision with nearly silent operation. This speed makes it great for capturing spontaneous moments without the distraction of noise. In contrast, the Sony SEL90M28G incorporates Direct Drive SSM (DDSSM) for quiet and precise focusing, enhancing its usability for macro photography where silence is often crucial. While both lenses offer excellent autofocus capabilities, the Fujinon has the edge in speed, whereas the Sony provides reliable performance for specialized macro work.

Image Quality

For image quality, the Fujinon XF35mmF2 R WR is equipped with Nano-GI coating, which helps reduce ghosting and flare. This lens is designed to deliver sharp images with rich bokeh, making it ideal for portraits and low-light situations. The Sony SEL90M28G also excels in this category, utilizing advanced optics and coatings, including Super ED glass, to ensure corner-to-corner sharpness. Its 9-blade circular aperture contributes to exceptionally smooth bokeh, crucial for macro photography. Both lenses promise high-quality images, but the choice between them will depend on the specific photographic needs.

Minimum Focusing Distance

The Fujinon XF35mmF2 R WR has a minimum working distance of approximately 13 inches, making it versatile for general photography. It's suitable for a variety of compositions while maintaining a comfortable distance from the subject. The Sony SEL90M28G, however, has a minimum focus distance of 0.92 feet (0.28 m) and a remarkable maximum magnification ratio of 1.0x, which is essential for macro photography. This feature allows photographers to capture intricate details that the Fujinon lens cannot match, highlighting a clear advantage for specialized close-up work.

Price Consideration

The Fujinon XF35mmF2 R WR is priced at $449.00, making it a more budget-friendly option compared to the Sony SEL90M28G, which is priced at $1,048.00. This price difference of about $599.00 reflects the intended use of each lens, with the Sony being designed for serious macro photography enthusiasts willing to invest in its advanced features. Consequently, for casual photographers or those starting in the field, the Fujinon lens offers excellent value without compromising quality.

Which should you buy?

Deciding between the Fujinon XF35mmF2 R WR and the Sony SEL90M28G ultimately comes down to your specific photography needs. If you seek a versatile, compact lens for everyday use that performs well in various conditions, the Fujinon is the clear choice, especially given its price point of $449.00. However, if you are a macro photography enthusiast looking for exceptional detail and advanced features, the Sony lens, despite its higher price of $1,048.00, could be worth the investment. Both lenses are high-quality options, but your decision should align with your photographic goals and budget.