Fuji 16-55 f2.8 vs Sigma 18-50 f2.8
In this blog I will be comparing the Fujifilm 16-55mm f2.8 and the Sigma 18-55mm f2.8. Both of these lenses offer the same aperture and similar focal range but in two different packages and at vastly different price points. I will also answer which one I would recommend and why.
Common Strengths & Weaknesses
Both of these lenses have incredible image quality. I would go as far as saying that there is no clear difference between them when it comes to sharpness and colour rendering. If your main criteria is image quality, then there is no way to pick a clear winner here. Both of these lenses come with weather sealing that includes a gasket around the lens mount. Both work with all the latest Fuji autofocus features such as object tracking. No common weaknesses to note.
50mm f2.8 zoomed in. Fuji Left Sigma Right
50mm f2.8 zoomed out. Fuji Left Sigma Right
Fuji Strengths
There are three main points that would sway many people towards the Fuji. First of all the 16-55 has a proper aperture ring. This allows you to set the aperture when the camera is switched off and to adjust it much quicker than via the thumb dials on the camera body. It also allows you to know what aperture you’re in without the need to look at the screen. The second strength is that the focus tracks when you zoom in and out. If you prefocus on a subject but then decide you need to zoom in a little more, the Fuji will keep the subject in focus. The Sigma will be thrown completely out of focus to the point where the entire scene is one uniform colour. It would then take a long time for it to reacquire focus both in photo and video mode. This will result in missed shots. The focusing motors in the Fuji are quicker and more accurate. Finally the Fuji has a much better and sturdier metal build where’s the Sigma feels cheaper.
Sigma Strengths
The Sigma has many strengths and for many people will be a better choice. First of all it’s half the price of the Fuji. There is no getting around the fact that this lens is much better value. Secondly it’s a lot smaller and lighter. It’s even smaller and lighter than the Fuji 33mm prime. I would say it’s at least 50% smaller and lighter than the 16-55. Although the focusing motors are a little slower, they do seem quieter. Finally the Sigma has a much better close focusing distance compared to the Fuji.
Summary
Although these lenses ultimately offer the same thing, they do so in different packages. The main thing to take away is that the image quality is pretty much the same. As for which one I’d recommend, it’s pretty simple. For 90% of people, the Sigma is the clear choice mostly due to the price and package. I would only recommend the Fuji if you’re not on the tight budget, you can’t live without an aperture ring and maintaining focus while shooting is essential. Personally I fall into the group that needs the Fuji however I find it hard to recommend to first time buyers when the Sigma is such an amazing value for money package.
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