FUJINON XF16-55mm F2.8 R LM WR II and XF500mm F5.6 R LM OIS WR Lenses Announced

Lens News

by Alexandra ThompsonToday

Alongside of the X-M5 camera release, FUJIFILM has introduced two new lenses: the second-generation XF16-55mm F2.8 R LM WR II and a super-telephoto prime lens, the XF500mm F5.6 R LM OIS WR. Let’s have a look at the upgrades in the XF16-55mm and see what the XF500mm can deliver!

In August, FUJINON introduced the Duvo HZK14-100mm PL Zoom lens which we wrote about here FUJINON Duvo HZK14-100mm PL Zoom Lens Now Available | CineD. At IBC in September, Johnnie had a chance to talk to Stosh Durbacz of FUJIFILM/FUJINON regarding the differences between prime and zoom lenses, and where the company sees itself in the future, which you can watch here FUJIFILM Talks: Zoom vs Prime Lenses in Filmmaking | CineD. Now, they’ve introduced two lenses – a zoom upgrade and a new prime.

XF16-55mm F2.8 R LM WR II – the next level

FUJINON has made several improvements to this lens, which FUJINON calls their “workhorse”, that have elevated its performance to the next level. One of the major updates is in its design. This lens is more compact, and it’s 37% lighter than its predecessor, weighing 410g/0.9 lbs. The lens is also dust and weather-resistant with 12 sealing points on the body, and there is a fluorine coating on the front element to protect the lens from water and smudges. 

In regards to imaging performance, the lens features an F2.8 aperture throughout the range. Lens construction features 16 elements in 11 groups that include 4 aspherical lenses, 1 Super Extra-low Dispersion (ED) lens, and 3 ED lenses. The lens AF uses an inner focusing system with a quiet, high-speed linear motor that can focus in 0.02 seconds (based on specific CIPA guidelines). The minimum focusing distance is 0.3m/11.81in across the zoom range (max magnification of 0.21x). 

New De-click switch 

The XF16-55mm now features an “Aperture De-Click Switch” that offers users the flexibility to switch between a stepped aperture control for still photography and a smooth, continuous aperture control for video recording. Additionally, the lens minimizes focus breathing.

XF16-55mm F2.8 II  – specs

• Focal length: 16-55mm (24-84mm – (35mm format equiv)
• Lens construction: 16 elements in 11 groups (includes 4 aspherical elements, 3 ED elements, 1 Super ED element)
• Close focusing distance: 0.3m
• Max. aperture: F2.8
• Min. aperture: F22
• Diaphragm blades: 11 (rounded diaphragm opening)
• Dimensions: (D x L): W: ø78.3 x 95mm, T: ø78.3x122mm 
• Weight: 410g/0.9 lbs
• Filter size: ø72mm

XF500mm F5.6 R LM OIS WR – Super-Telephoto for nature and wildlife photography

The XF500mm F5.6 is the longest prime lens in FUJIFILM’s current X Series lineup, offering a 35mm equivalent focal length of 762mm. It’s specifically designed for capturing distant subjects such as birds, wildlife, or sports in outdoor environments.  It features linear-motor driven autofocus and5.5 stops of Optical Image Stabilization(OIS), which allows for handheld shooting at long focal lengths, even in the ultra-telephoto range. The lens features two Super ED elements and five ED elements (21 elements in 14 groups).

For an even further reach, the lens is compatible with the FUJINON 1.4x teleconverter, increasing the focal length to 700mm F8 and providing a 1067mm equivalent field of view; while the FUJINON 2x teleconverter boosts the focal length to 1000mm F11, offering a 1524mm equivalent, which should be ideal for extreme telephoto shots. In addition, the minimum focusing distance is 2.75m/9 feet.

Quick to focus

The lens offers a Focus Preset function that lets users shift focus to a pre-set point, eliminating the need to constantly re-focus on the subject. The Focus Limiter helps speed up autofocus by restricting the focus range, which is especially useful for subjects around 16 feet (5 meters) away or more. There’s also a Focus Control button near the front of the lens barrel, giving users quick access to any assigned functions for smoother operation. Additionally, FUJINON says that the inner focus system, paired with a high-speed linear motor, delivers fast and silent autofocus, locking focus in as little as 0.33 seconds (per CIPA guidelines when Detection AF is activated). 

The lens is lightweight and weather-resistant, weighing only 1335gr/2.94 lbs. It has 20 sealing points on the barrel to keep dust and moisture out, and the fluorine-coated front element is protected against the elements. The lens is 25.6cm/10.1 in length, so is easily hand-held.

XF500mm F5.6 R LM OIS WR – specs

• Lens construction: 21 elements in 14 groups (includes 5 ED and 2 super ED elements)
• Focal Length: 500mm (762mm – 35mm format equiv)
• Angle of view: 3.3°
• Max. aperture: F5.6
• Min. aperture: F22
• Diaphragm blades: 9 (rounded diaphragm opening) 
• Dimensions (D X L): ø 104.5×255.5 mm/distance from front of lens to lens mount flange
• Weight: 1335g/2.94 lbs
• Filter size: ø95mm

Price and availability

Both lenses will be available in December 2024. The new XF16-55mm F2.8 II is priced at $1,199.95, and the XF500mm F5.6 is $2,999.95. For more information, please visit the FUJIFILM website here. 

What do you think about those new lenses? Do you see yourself upgrading your current XF16-55mm to this newer lighter lens? Please share your thoughts with us in the comment section below.