As of now there were few fast standard zooms to choose from within the Fuji X mount. Tamron is now in the game and offers a compelling option that can be great for photo and video. Is this the fast standard lens to rule them all?
I've already put my preorder in so look out for a full review and gallery once I get to test it. This lens is already offered for Sony E mount APSC and received generally good reviews for its versatility, convenience, image quality, stabilization, and price.
The only competition is the Fuji 18-55mm f/2.8-4 and the Fuji 16-55 f/2.8. Comparing all three have very different pros and cons.
Fuji 18-55mm f/2.8-4
Pros:
- Compact size
- Weight
- Price (used market)
- Image stabilization
- Good build
Cons:
- No weather sealing
- Kinda fast aperture (max f/4 at the long end)
Fuji 16-55mm f/2.8
Pros:
- Superior build
- Fast aperture
- Weather sealed
- Top notch image quality
Cons:
- Expensive
- Heavy and large
Tamron 17-70mm f/2.8
Pros:
- Zoom range
- Size to weight ratio
- Fast aperture
- Weather sealed
- Decent build
- Good image quality
Cons:
- Still a large lens
Rumors has it Sigma is jumping into the game and will release the 18-50mm DC DN for X mount as they did for Sony E mount. They already said its in development so that will also add to the options. This is compelling option since its actually the same size as the Fuji 18-55 just with a constant f/2.8 and no image stabilization. I'm really excited for this lens and will definitely make the purchase once announced.
You can preorder the Tamron 17-70mm f/2.8 for Fujifilm X-Mount here at B&H Photo
Watch Christopher Frost's review of the Tamron 17-70mm f/2.8 on Youtube.
My name is Jason Logan. I'm a photographer based in Jersey City, NJ. You can get familiar with my work at www.jmtphotographymedia.com