Which budget-friendly prime lens do you recommend for Fujifilm cameras?

Question

What is the absolute best budget prime lens for a Fuji X-T30 that wont break the bank? I've been obsessing over this for days because I'm traveling to Chicago for a wedding in two weeks and I only have about $180 left to spend after buying the camera body.

I saw the XC 35mm f2 is supposedly super sharp for the price but then I read that the TTArtisan 27mm is way better for travel because its a pancake lens. I'm really anxious about the 27mm being f2.8 though because I'm worried itll be too slow for the reception lighting and the XC doesnt have an aperture ring which feels kinda weird. I just want something that wont let me down for street photography and some family shots without spending a fortune...

PixelPioneer · Accepted Answer

I would suggest the Fujifilm XC 35mm f/2. Be careful with f/2.8 lenses because you might struggle in dark halls and wont have enough light.

CobaltCoyote · Answer

Building on the earlier suggestion, the TTArtisan 27mm f2.8 AF is really the way to go for travel. I've used many lenses over the years and f2.8 isnt the end of the world for a wedding if you just bump the ISO. It has that aperture ring you're missing on the XC and makes the X-T30 super pocketable. For around $150, it fits your budget and wont let you down on the street.

Amelia Winterbourne · Answer

^ This. Also, if youre okay with manual focus, you absolutely gotta check out the TTArtisan 35mm f1.4 Fujifilm X-mount! Its dirt cheap and I love it because that f/1.4 is basically magic for dim receptions.

incredible low light performance

super fun tactile feel

leaves you $100 for pizza! I've used manual glass at weddings and its so rewarding... definitely more vibe than the pancake lens!