Fujifilm XF 18-135mm F3.5-5.6 R LM OIS WR (Weather Resistant) Lens (35mm Format Equivalent: 27-206mm)

The Fujifilm XF 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6R M IOS WR lens is the first weather-sealed lens in the fast-evolving X-series lineup of mirrorless interchangeable-lens camera system, and has the world’s most advanced image stabilization technology. Based on the lineup’s APS sensors, the lens covers the 35mm equivalent range of 27-206mm. At its introduction, the Fujifilm XF 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6R M IOS WR was fully compatible with the Fujifilm X-T1, which is the only other weatherproofed camera in the X-series lineup.

The lens has 20 dust-proof and weather-proof sealed points, including a waterproof structure and compact design, and is being marketed to photographic enthusiasts looking for an all-around travel lens that can be used in extreme weather on their Fujifilm X-T1 cameras. Let’s take a closer look at this lens.

Classy glass: Fujifilm has put some impressive glass in this lens: It has 4 aspherical glass lenses, 2 ED glass elements, and multi-layer HT-EBC coating, which has high permeability (99.8%) and low reflectance and reduces lens flare and ghosting.

Fast, quiet: The electronics are also well-matched to the X-series system, with Fujifilm claiming an inner linear focusing mechanism and a claimed AF speed as fast as 0.08 second when shooting in Performance Mode (based on CIPA standards). Focus noise is said to be very low, allowing for quiet operation when shooting video.

5-Stop Stabilization: Fujifilm claims this lens has the world’s most advanced image stabilization technology, boasting a 5-stop range. This is made possible thanks to a new, high-precision gyro sensor with quarts oscillators that detect movement from high frequency to low frequency bandwidths. The ability to detect low-frequency band movement, along with a newly-developed algorithm that interprets the information, has lead to what Fujifilm says is a doubling of usable slow shutter speeds. This enables users to shoot in low light without a tripod.

Protection: The lens has been weather-sealed in 20 different areas of the lens barrel so sudden rain, dust and water splashes won’t affect the optics or operation of the lens. To compensate for the weather seals (which could make zooming the lens feel stiff) a ventilator was placed inside the lens barrel. The Fujifilm XF 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6R M IOS WR lens is designed to be paired with the Fujifilm X-T1, which is currently the only weather-resistant Fujifilm MILC currently available.