Fujifilm XF 100-400mm F4.5-5.6 R LM OIS WR

Fujifilm X

Review

The Fujifilm XF 100-400mm F4.5-5.6 R LM OIS WR is an impressive telephoto zoom lens designed for Fujifilm X-mount cameras. It offers a versatile focal length range, making it ideal for various photography styles, including wildlife, sports, and landscape photography. With its weather-resistant design and advanced optical features, this lens certainly catches the eye of many photographers looking for high performance in different shooting scenarios.

One of the standout features of the XF 100-400mm is its exceptional image stabilization system. The Optical Image Stabilization (OIS) allows for up to 5 stops of compensation, which is particularly beneficial when shooting at longer focal lengths. This feature significantly enhances the usability of the lens in low-light conditions and when capturing fast-moving subjects. Coupled with Fujifilm's X-series sensor capabilities, the images produced tend to have excellent clarity and sharpness throughout the zoom range.

In terms of build quality, the lens feels robust and well-constructed. The weather-resistant (WR) feature allows photographers to work in less-than-ideal conditions without fearing for the safety of their gear. The addition of a focus limiter switch further enhances the shooting experience, enabling quicker autofocus performance by restricting the focusing range. This can be particularly useful for wildlife photography where speed and precision are crucial.

On the flip side, the lens can be quite bulky and heavy, which might be a drawback for those who prefer a more lightweight setup for portability. It can be challenging to balance with smaller Fujifilm X-series bodies, especially during long shoots. Additionally, while the autofocus system is generally fast and reliable, there can be occasional hunts in low-contrast situations or in very low light, which may be frustrating for some users.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Exceptional Optical Image Stabilization (OIS) with 5-stop compensation.
• Weather-resistant construction, making it suitable for various environments.
• Excellent image quality with sharpness across the zoom range.
• Versatile focal length great for wildlife and sports photography.
• Fast and generally reliable autofocus performance.

Cons

• Bulky and heavy, which may interfere with the portability of the setup.
• Autofocus may occasionally struggle in low-light and low-contrast situations.

Verdict

The Fujifilm XF 100-400mm F4.5-5.6 R LM OIS WR lens is an outstanding option for Fujifilm X-mount users seeking a high-quality telephoto zoom lens. With its blend of image stabilization, weather sealing, and optical performance, it caters well to those who aspire to capture stunning long-range imagery. However, potential buyers should consider the weight and size before purchasing, especially if they prioritize a lightweight kit. Overall, this lens is a solid investment for enthusiasts and professionals alike, looking to expand their photographic capabilities.