I test the XF 33mm f1.4 to find out if it’s the best standard lens for Fujifilm X-mount! Fujifilm XF 33mm f1.4 at B&H: bhpho.to/3LJGbYT / WEX UK: tidd.ly/2WO2edk Buy Gordon a coffee: www.paypal.me/cameralabs Gordon's In Camera book: amzn.to/2n61PfI / Amazon uk: amzn.to/2mBqRVZ Cameralabs merchandise: redbubble.com/people/cameralabs/shop Gordon’s retro gear channel: kzread.info Check eBay to find vintage gear: rover.ebay.com/rover/1/711-53200-19255-0/1?icep_ff3=1&pub=5574908462&toolid=10001&campid=5338329149&customid=&ipn=psmain&icep_vectorid=229466&kwid=902099&mtid=824&kw=lg Lost photos? I recover mine with: www.dpbolvw.net/click-100568658-13808570?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.stellarinfo.com%2Fphoto-recovery-software.php Equipment used for producing my videos Sony A6400: amzn.to/3hul53c Sony e 24mm f1.8: amzn.to/2TqWNzk Rode NT USB mic: amzn.to/3AdHcUp Rode Wireless Go II mic: amzn.to/3xkCvGo Rode Lavalier Go mic: amzn.to/3ygzzKY Godox UL150 light: amzn.to/2VpVbXE Godox QR-P70 softbox: amzn.to/3yQfGdF MacBook Pro 14in (16GB / 1TB): bhpho.to/3HiafJL 00:00 - Introduction and alternatives 02:20 - XF 33mm vs XF 35mm design and controls 03:47 - XF 33mm vs XF 35mm autofocus for stills and video 04:59 - XF 33mm vs XF 35mm focus breathing 05:42 - XF 33mm vs XF 35mm quality sharpness 07:39 - XF 33mm vs XF 35mm portrait quality 08:25 - XF 33mm vs XF 35mm bokeh quality 09:52 - XF 33mm samples and verdict Music: www.davidcuttermusic.com / @dcuttermusic As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases

Great review and done very thoroughly. Thanks Gordon! Nice to see it compared against the XF35 f2. I was surprised how close they are in performance. I’ve bought the XF35 f2 second hand last year and thought of buying the new XF33mm after it came out, but I think I will stick to the nice and small XF35mm for a bit longer. Although it does look a bit silly on a XT-4 :)

Excellent review, concise and yet provides the details needed to make a comparison between the f2 35 and f1.4 33. Thanks for a great video review!

@cameralabs

7 ай бұрын

You're welcome!

Thanks. Great and useful comparison

Hi Gordon, thank you for your crisp reviews balancing examples of use cases with just enough technical aspects of the lens. The 35 f/2 was my first lens which I now will be definitely holding onto (despite owning the new 33 and 35 1.4s). Did I mention that this was my favourite focal length? 🍻

Thanks for the good review. I've owned both lenses. I did really like the 35mm f2 but one negative I did find was that the 35mm f2 relies quite heavily on software distortion correction and you can find yourself losing quite a bit of the image at the edges. Yes, the 33mm f1.4 is more expensive and heavier (personally I don't find it a problem on my XT-4) but IMO it's all-round, much better performer, in fact it is basically permanently bolted on to my camera now!!!

@flearhcp

Жыл бұрын

do you think that this 33mm could replace the kit 18-55 lens? or would that be a comparison between apples and oranges?

@josephdu1952

11 ай бұрын

@@flearhcp Hey, I got the 33mm recently. And comparing it to the 18-55 would certainly be very difficult as they are tools for different situtations. ...but hey, we can still compare them! If you are comfortable using the 50mm equivalent focal range for the majority of the things you shoot, then yea I would say it can be used for often than your 18-55....... only in the situations where you don't need the range. Both are light enough to be used all day, and the 33mm have much better image quality (though 18-55 is still solid) If you have a 40 megapixel sensor, losing the 55mm telephoto end of the kit lens is not really a consideration, since you can easily crop in, and with the 33mm fully resolving the higher resolution, in my experience it is actually better than trying to crop in with the 55mm end of the kit lens (which is the weaker end of the zoom range in terms of image quality). So really it comes down to... how often you use the 28mm equivalent end (18mm) of the kit lens. If that is something you think you can get around, then yea... I'd say you can probably in a way replace the 18-55 with the 33mm, but if you main shoot with the wide end of the 18-55, then the 33mm will likely be more of a complimentary tool to your main zoom.

Great review Gordon. Thanks so much, mate.

@cameralabs

2 жыл бұрын

You're welcome! Look out for my XF 23mm f1.4 review this Monday!

I think your videos are great, so great! Thank you :D

just took this 33mm f1.4 out for a first test run today. It's excellent. The fast continuous autofocus is working great (combined with my X-T5 camera with its all-important firmware update). Seems very sharp too. I bought it to provide a good low light alternative to my beloved 16-55 f2.8, but I'm also loving the little things like how the 33mm doesn't stick out as much - so doesn't feel like it's going to get bashed when I'm moving through crowds. I was afraid that 33mm on a crop sensor would be too tight for street photography, but it definitely isn't for mine. I still found myself having to walk in quite close. I think it'll be more challenging to use than some shorter focal length Fuji lenses, for street photography, as it lacks the immediate wow factor of their distortion and ability to keep all the background in-shot. But I think that's exciting, as the 33mm has to work harder to decide what to include or exclude from a shot. I'd still like using 16mm or 18mm capability on a separate lens for some 'fancy' close-in shots, but otherwise this 33mm gives me almost everything.

Nice! Have a good week!

Can’t wait to pair this to my future XT-5

Very interesting review! Much more sophisticated than other reviews of this lens. I own the Fuji 35mm 1.4 which I love for portraits. It’s a bit slow to focus when I’m in a hurry. Based on your (excellent) reviews I might buy the Sigma equivalent due to close focus or even the XF 33mm f2 because it’s quick to focus and has good bokeh close up. GREAT reviews!

@cameralabs

9 ай бұрын

Thankyou, I try to cover everything in a calm and fair way.

Great review as I once had the f2. But was hoping for a comparison based against the old 35 1.4 which I currently have as it’s basically a WR replacement with new motor.

@cameralabs

2 жыл бұрын

It's a completely different optical design. The new model is far superior optically compared to my results with the original model, but I have no formal comparison, so didn't share on this one.

Another 1st Class review Gordon. Ka Pai 🙂

@cameralabs

2 жыл бұрын

Thankyou!

I bought this lens and felt immediatly ''at home'' with it, love the built quality ,it's lightning fast, i just love the feel to work with, and the IQ is there . My favorite ! Thanks for the review .

After your 23 mm 1.4 WR lens review I will decide whether to get this or the new 23! Btw. Great video with Chris

@cameralabs

2 жыл бұрын

Thanks! My 23 review is next Monday. As a preview, it's very very good, but I thought the 33 was a bit better in my tests. I'd choose one based on which focal length is more important to you though.

I would probably go for the 35 f2. I don't need 1.x aperture lenses for my Fujifilm system so I can enjoy the smaller Fujicrons. For now, I'm using a Nikkor AF-D 35 f2 - excellent lens for infrared. :)

@cameralabs

2 жыл бұрын

I actually have a Nikkor 35mm f2D for another test at the moment - what makes it so good for IR, especially vs, say, the DX 35 1.8? is it that it'll focus beyond a certain point?

@Martin-nu6ym

2 жыл бұрын

@@cameralabs No hot spots, including temperature hot spots, which makes post processing in color IR a joy. I use it on Fujifilm X-T3 and Sony A7Rii IR converted cameras.

Interesting review. Did u ever compare these lenses in low light?

@cameralabs

2 жыл бұрын

Not this time, it was mostly daylight.

thanks for the review, probably this new lens is more future-proof, I bet it has been designed for the next gen higher res bodies which will probably have also a better af….

@cameralabs

2 жыл бұрын

Let's hope so!

Thanks for the review, Gordon. You've made me think twice about trading in my 35/2 for the 33/1.4

@cameralabs

2 жыл бұрын

My 35 f2 is still delivering the goods!

Any thoughts on the Voigtlander 35mm for x-mount?

@cameralabs

2 жыл бұрын

No, I've not tested it

As I own the 35 F1.4 i am not "upgrading" (I love the 35 F/1.4) if i did not have that lens i'd probably want the 33 F/1.4 but.... I also own the XC 35 F/2 and having tested the XF 35 F/2 the images are the same quality and in my opinion the XC 35 F/2 is the best value for money lens in the XF system Yes you lose the aperture ring, and the WR... but it is £169 and pairs perfectly with an entry level (or 2nd hand camera) to give a normal lens with a shallow DOF to pair with one of the XC Zooms that typically come with the cheaper bodies. If i did not own any 30/33/35mm lens, i'd be looking at the top or the bottom of the price scale, grabbing the 33 F/1.4 or the XC 35 F/2 but, If you can live without an aperture ring, with the budget for the XF33 F/1.4 you can buy the XC 35 F/2 and pick up the sigma. 56 or 16mm or for a few extra £ the Tamron 18-300

Excellent review. Just bought x-t5. Looking for prime lens that can match it.

@cameralabs

2 ай бұрын

Also consider the 23 f1.4

I'm thinking about getting the xs10 with this lens to start off

@cameralabs

2 жыл бұрын

Classy choice!

All specs aside proving this lens is sharper or faster AF, most of us bought into the Fuji system because of its compact size. I have all the fujicron lenses and the 35/1.4 because they are not only great and provide excellent results but also look unique and add to the overall experience of the system. These new lenses look like everything else out there, if I wanted to shoot generic and bland looking gear the size of its full frame equivalent I would just go back to Nikon.

@CianMcsweeney

Жыл бұрын

I think Fuji's logic is that these lenses aren't really meant to replace the original lenses, most of which will remain in production as far as I'm aware, these new lenses are to accommodate those who need(or just want lol) the best IQ possible whilst still being relatively compact compared to full frame alternatives.

@bigd7696

Жыл бұрын

Fair response. For myself I buy the gear that captures the images I want. You use Fuji due to how the lenses are styled? Since the new lenses still have the original aesthetic I really don't know what is upsetting you?

@CianMcsweeney

Жыл бұрын

@@bigd7696 there's definitely differences between the lens in terms of optical quirks etc. up to personal preference but they are there, I would love if Fuji did more 1.4 primes that were similar in size to the 35mm

@cloud-bytes

Жыл бұрын

Bought the lens last week. Used it in a storm by the sea in very challenging conditions. I really don't notice the weight. Balance is perfect on X-T5. Its got really nice colour and character. Also very quiet and fast focus. I'd not worry about it becoming generic it's a beautiful lens.

@Caballeroshot

Жыл бұрын

@@bigd7696 Now how the lenses are styled, their compact size and their unique attributes that add to the small form factor of the system. I'm not so concerned with weight, or clinically sharp detail, I like character and photography to me is a passion not a money maker. I buy gear that's exciting to me and Fuji just isn't doing it for me any longer.

I notice a bit of focusing sound for my xf33mm, is it normal?

@cameralabs

2 ай бұрын

Yes

Being new to aspc is it equivlant to 50mm or 46.2mm?

@cameralabs

Жыл бұрын

On all APSC apart from Canon, you multiply by 1.5x

@WhoIsSerafin

Жыл бұрын

@@cameralabs thanks thought it was 1.4

I didn't get on with the 35f2 for stills - all round performance is great but the shots just felt really surgical and bland. The old 35 1.4 is a totally different prospect - there is magic going on in there.

@cameralabs

2 жыл бұрын

I know what you mean - clinical performance isn't necessarily preferrable.

@halfalligator6518

2 жыл бұрын

well thanks for giving me a reason not to spend $$$$ . I really only like clinical when it comes to telephoto or macro (nature)

@aaronnelson1191

Жыл бұрын

Interesting. I have heard this now many times. Might need to check out the 1.4

The new lens looks great but when you can get a used 35/2 for under $300USD all day long…especially for photo, it’s an easy choice IMO. And if you shoot a lot of video, add a 23/2 (little to no breathing) and you’re still under the price of even a used 33/1.4.

@cameralabs

2 жыл бұрын

True, especially that little 23 having essentially no breathing! That was a surprise for me when I compared it to the new and old 23 1.4’s for my next review coming on Monday!

@SwitchbackGuitars

2 жыл бұрын

@@cameralabs somehow it also has the best eye AF of any Fuji lens I’ve tried, including the 16-55. I can see why so many Fuji KZreadrs use the 23/2 for their talking head stuff.

It’s a real shame Fuji don’t do a 50mm equivalent f1.2. A strange omission from their lineup I feel and a lens I would definitely buy.

@cameralabs

2 жыл бұрын

I hear you, but equally I never was left wanting for a shallower depth of field or more light when using the 33 1.4

@quikee9195

2 жыл бұрын

I don't think 1/3 to 1/2 of a stop would make much difference and we know a 33mm f/1 would be too large.

@cameralabs

2 жыл бұрын

@@quikee9195 as you know, they were developing a 33 f1.0, but abandoned it when it was going to be too big, so that's why we now have a 50 f1.0 and a 33 f1.4.

Would it be a waste to have this mounted on my old XT-1?

@cameralabs

Жыл бұрын

No, you'd still enjoy a really nice, crisp, high contrast, well-corrected image.

Great review Gordon but I think I'll stick with my favourite Fuji X-Sytem lens - the XF 35mm F2.

You didn't show any comparison with XF 35/1.4. I have serious doubts that its sharpness is worse anywhere in the image except in very far corners where it has some ghosting wide open

@cameralabs

2 жыл бұрын

I can't include comparisons with every lens due to time, resources and availability. I couldn't get hold of the original 35 for this comparison, so was basing my remarks on my previous experience with it. None of those ten year old lenses are amazing compared to a brand new one. But also with modest views and without sponsorship I can't make longer reviews work here as my full-time job. i already spent a week on this one.

@brettpatching

2 жыл бұрын

I think it was a great idea comparing these two lenses specifically. Sales of the 35mm f2 really took Fujifilm by surprise, and this was the start of the whole "Fujicron" series. Seeing them together makes you appreciate just how good the little lens is, but also shows what the designers prioritised optically with that form factor and price point. You're a star Gordon. I totally understand your focus on your hourly rate.

The 35mm f2 is definitely the best of the f2 range in my opinion. I just can’t justify spending the money on the 33mm for the small benefits.

@Caballeroshot

2 жыл бұрын

I love my 23/f2 personally, it's the best focal length for all day carry, I do regret selling my 35/f2 but I completely agree with you. Fuji made this lens as an upgrade but forgot to add the charm they're known for.

@jeroenmeijer19

2 жыл бұрын

Don’t forget the 50mm. F2 ! Amazing lens !

@JeffreyHauser

Жыл бұрын

I am fortunate to have the 33mm 1.4 & the images that this lens delivers are exceptional, particularly wide open. I also use the 23,35,&50mm lenses, all f/2. I love their compact size & I find the image quality for the “Fujicrons” are quite good. 😊

If you are shooting wide open at max aperture, then in all probability you are aiming for a shallow depth of field effect which mitigates the terrible corner performance of the f2 lens. In the lab the soft corners are a disadvantage but in real world shooting I think it's unlikely you'd notice.

@cameralabs

2 жыл бұрын

I agree, but I do the test to illustrate the differences.

I feel like Fuji landed on a great set off products 6ish years ago and has only managed marginal improvements since. A lot is depending on the x-h2.

the 35mm f2 behaves like a zoom lens when focusing, very disappointing

First

@cameralabs

2 жыл бұрын

True, but I posted a version earlier which i had to remove due to a mistake!

I really don't understand people saying these fuji lenses are "very well" built high quality lenses, compared to my vintage pentax lenses they all feel like plasticky toys. I dunno.

Thanks for the review, Gordon. The issue I have with most of the APS-C world and specially the Fuji X system, is that is rather pointless. These cameras, specially with large aperture primes attached, are really not that much smaller or cheaper than their FF competitors. Actually some of Fuji's top X primes and Zooms are costlier than FF equivalent and just as bulky (when not more) while vastly weight and form unbalanced as a complete setup. Add to APS-C's image quality being far inferior to that of FF (I have both systems and zero bias about the matter, just the facts) plus Fuji's AF totally sucking compared to the most basic of, for example Sony FFs cameras (specially foe video) and this whole system is just an all-together joke. In todays' state of things and imaging market, none of this makes any sense and I have no clue why this still exists. And lets not even talk about M43 because that is even more absurd.. price, features, performance, all of it. Great video as always, but sorry, the day I sold all my Fuji X gear was one of the happiest of my life :)

@mountainhobo

2 жыл бұрын

"lets not even talk about M43 because that is even more absurd.. price, features, performance, all of it" - Actually, I would argue that you might find more value in MFT than in APSC because in MFT you can still buy _decent_ inexpensive setup that will place somewhere between a cellphone and a FF camera. Of course it won't compete with a good FF camera (I owned both systems, I know), but it will be lighter, smaller, and much cheaper. Naturally, once you start going into truly top of the line MFT cameras and lenses, the value proposition evaporates.

@Snapit551

2 жыл бұрын

You just carnt beat the colour science of the Fuji , focus speed is fast enough in most cases

@mountainhobo

2 жыл бұрын

@@djstuc So he believes that there is no value proposition in the Fuji X system, and he provided his reasoning why. He did not call anyone names. You disagree with that view, so you called him a troll without providing a single argument on your side. Oh, sorry, he is not just one troll according to you, he has multiples into "trolls". Got it. If someone's differing opinion triggers you, you shouldn't leave your safe room.

@richardhale9664

2 жыл бұрын

Did you wish to cause ructions by indulging in hyperbole or are these sincerely held beliefs? Yes, I am myself critical of M4/3rds and Fuji for making ever heavier,bulkier and more expensive gear which negates one of these systems' major advantages, but the systems themselves offer significant advantages over FF for many uses when they stick to their original ethos. Both of the crop formats offer more than adequate IQ for most users most of the time. FF, whilst technically better in IQ terms (if one has the best technique and suitable equipment for task), is not that much better and comes at a cost in terms of both expense and bulk. Both Fuji and M4/3rds can be justifiably criticised for some of their gear releases IMO (such as this lens), but so can all of the FF manufacturers. The current crop of FF mirrorless cameras are no longer significantly smaller (with just one or two exceptions) than their DSLR forebears and the prime lenses are getting bigger and bigger. FYI I shoot both APSC and FF. I choose which system suits which task best as and when needed. If I had the funds though, I would give FF a miss and have APSC and MF systems. To me FF is a compromise between the two. If I had less funds and only had to pick one system I would choose a crop one.