Satisfied with your 16mm and 16-55 lenses?

I have 18-55, 16-55, 10-24 and 50-140. For me that is a complete set of useable lenses for Fuji. I wouldn't mind at some point getting the 16 1.4 as every manufacturer seems to really nail one lens that makes it special. So that and the 56 1.2 I find appealing for the future.

I tested the 18-55 against my 16-55. I have since gotten my copy of the 16-55 replaced with another copy as I had some decentring on the first copy. The 2nd copy is good.

18-55 is anything seems sharper in the centre but definitely softer in the edges. Perhaps my 18-55 is not as good as the 18-55 I originally had but sold as I don't recall that with the earlier copy. But I think I am just being more critical and have something else to compare its performance to.

I don't think it is sharper in the centre but that is more an illusion because the centre contrasts with the edges more. The 16-55 is more evenly sharper across the frame and is probably more of a flat field than the 18-55 which perhaps has more curvature.

So yes there is an IQ improvement with the 16-55.

But its not massive. I would describe as a medium improvement.

For me though, I don't want one of the highest IQ cameras (24mp APSc is up there right?) and then pair it with something less than the best unless I want convenience and weight saving.

The 18-55 is an incredible value. Its a lesson for other manufacturers about how to make a superb kit lens.

Also I noticed using the latest firmware for the 18-55 that the OIS is noticeably better than it was. I see the scene freezing just before I finish pressing the shutter. Impressive.

16-55 is a bit of a beast but less so than other brands 24-70 F2.8 zooms.

The 18-55 might be a bit better for low light indoor shots when you are using 18mm F2.8 as the OIS will make the difference between having to use a noisy high ISO setting or getting the shot with a more reasonable less noisy ISO setting and still get sharpness.

In summary in my opinion if you want ultimate IQ get the 16-55 and put up with the weight and bulk and higher expense. If you are happy with 90% of the performance and want low weight and bulk, OIS, low expense and an all round great performer the 18-55 is the lens to have.

Greg.