First Impressions of the Fujifilm XF 27mm f/2.8 Pancake Lens
To kick off 2021, Fujifilm announced two new X-Series lenses and a new X-Series body. One of those lenses is the XF 27mm f/2.8 R WR pancake lens, an update to the current 27mm.
The new XF 27mm improves on the outgoing version by adding weather-resistance, and an aperture ring with an “A” position lock. The current version is an extremely popular lens that is a great all-purpose lens with its 41mm FX equivalent focal length, fast aperture, and pancake style size. Now you can take it out in less than ideal conditions with its weather-resistance, and Fuji loyalists welcome the addition of an aperture ring.
The new XF27mm improves on the outgoing version by adding weather-resistance, and an aperture ring with an “A” position lock. The current version is an extremely popular lens that is a great all-purpose lens with its 41mm FX equivalent focal length, fast aperture, and pancake style size. Now you can take it out in less than ideal conditions with its weather-resistance, and Fuji loyalists welcome the addition of an aperture ring.
The lens also includes a screw-on dome hood that comes with a slip-on lens cap. It looks nice, and in theory, is a pretty convenient addition, but if you’re wearing gloves, or have short fingernails, it can be a pain to get off quickly. A notch or tab on the cap for a better grip would make it a lot easier to remove.
Autofocus and optical performance are the same as the outgoing model as the optics have not changed. We were hoping for it to be a bit quieter for video use, but unfortunately, it’s not as quiet as some of the other Fuji primes (not a surprise considering its small size).
Sample photos (taken with X-T3 & X-T4):
The best thing about the new XF27mm? A new price – $399. That’s right, the new 27mm with an aperture ring and weather-resistance only costs $399, compared to the current model which is $449. This new low price makes it a great choice for entry-level photographers looking to upgrade their kit lenses to get into primes, street photographers looking for a small setup to avoid strange looks, and professionals looking for a quality prime for everyday use.
The new XF27mm f/2.8 R WR is anticipated to be released on March 25th and can be pre-ordered here.
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