So whats the move for a single travel lens on the X-T5? Im finally taking my dream trip to Tokyo and Kyoto this October and I really dont want to be swapping glass every ten minutes while walking around. I looked at the 18-55 kit but since the T5 is weather sealed it feels like I should get the 16-80mm f4 instead to match the body. Problem is I keep seeing people online saying the 16-80 isnt sharp enough for that new 40mp sensor and it gets kinda mushy at the edges. Is that actually noticeable if Im just posting to IG and making a small photo book? My budget is $800 max so the fancy red badge zooms are out for now...
Honestly, I think you should just go for the Fujifilm XF 16-80mm f/4 R OIS WR and not overthink the online reviews too much. I've been using it on my X-T5 for about six months now and I'm perfectly happy with the results. People on forums love to complain about corner sharpness when they're looking at 400 percent crops, but in the real world... it works well. For an Instagram post or an 8x10 photo book, you will never see that mushiness people talk about. The main reason I recommend it for a trip like Japan is the peace of mind. Since you're going in October, you might hit some rain, and having a fully weather-sealed setup with that body means you dont have to baby the gear. I've taken mine out in light drizzles plenty of times and it hasn't skipped a beat. Plus, having that 16mm wide end is huge for the narrow alleys in Shinjuku or getting the full scale of a temple in Kyoto. If you go with the Fujifilm XF 18-55mm f/2.8-4 R LM OIS, you're gonna miss that extra width and the weather sealing. For under 800 bucks, it is easily the most reliable choice for a one-lens setup. It just works without the hassle and keeps your sensor clean since you wont be swapping glass in dusty streets.