Fuji XF 14mm f2.8 R Lens First Impressions:
I love wide angle lenses. I just have so much shooting with them, which is why I can’t believe I haven’t reviewed the Fuji XF 14mm f2.8 R lens yet. I’ve reviewed almost all the Fuji X Series lenses already, so who knows, I guess it just slipped my mind :). I know this is one of the older lenses but it is a good one. So, expect a review to come here very soon, and for now, here are my first impressions of it.
In terms of build, the XF 14mm f2.8 is a solid lens. The barrel is metal, and so is the lens mount. I have actually been using this lens for several weeks already, and there are no signs of inferior workmanship, creaks, or rattles. It’s the typical Fuji build; overall, there are no complaints here. It also comes with a petal shape lens hood that is reversible too for easy storage.
It’s also worth mentioning that the size of the XF 14mm f2.8 R lens is nice. It’s neither too big or too small. To me, it’s just right, especially for a 21mm equivalent with a f2.8 maximum aperture. It balances nicely on my X-T2, and rangefinder styled bodies like the X-E Series. The weight is 235g, so you’re not lugging anything heaver either. You won’t experience any front heaviness or anything. I own the Zeiss 12mm f2.8, and it is a different focal length, so we have to take that into account but I have to say, I kind of wish it was the size of this 14mm :).
As for image quality, I am simply loving the results I get from the XF 14mm f2.8. This is one sharp little lens! Images are crisp, three dimensional, and I love the color rendering. This has actually become one of my favorite Fuji lenses.
At the asking price of $899, the XF 14mm f2.8 R lens definitely isn’t cheap, especially since there are plenty of third party alternatives. But I have to say, I am pretty darn impressed with this lens so far. The build quality is excellent, and the optics are absolutely superb. If I was looking for a 21mm for my X-T2, I think this might be it. Anyway, my full review will come soon, so stay tuned. Thanks for stopping by!
Hi Patrick,
When I first got into the Fuji lenses I got this lens and one other. Now the 56 f1.2 is gone and not missed and this one stays on. As you said, not big, not heavy, but sharp. I was also lucky when I got it as it was on sale for I think either $150 or $200 off. Either way it was a good deal!
Hi Steve,
That is a really good deal! I love trying out new gear but there is a downside: I want a lot of the things I try haha. This lens is one of them although strictly speaking, I don’t need it :). The other lens is that Mitakon I reviewed a few weeks back.
Best,
Patrick