For me, one of the major differences between the three lenses has been in low light and poor light conditions. This is what I enjoy photographing as a hobbyist so the new lens has been wonderful.
I really appreciate the replies on all or at least MOST of the comments below! Some of the 'bloggers' ask for comments but don't reply or give feedback. This is a great way to build and keep your viewers. Oh, and I have the 23mm f/2 lens for my X-T4 and X-Pro2. Since I'm just a casual hacker I don't see the need for the 1.4. But I may change my mind in the future. Great content - thanks!
Hello David! Thanks a lot for your message and for noticing that 😌 I truly like to hear back from other fellow photographers and I like to know what people use for their art - hence my replies on pretty much all the comments I get back. Cool choice on the f2 version - I also have that one currently for my pro work and I like it a lot. Thanks for watching and take care!
I love the original 23mm F1.4. For all its quirks and noise, the images have always been sweet for me to the point that I never gave a moment’s consideration to the F2.0 version. HOWEVER, while I strongly prefer the look of the original F1.4 on a camera body for shooting on streets and other discreet situations, the new 40MP sensors demanded updates to the line of prime lenses. While I will have a bit of nostalgia for the original, the new F1.4 will be an effortless transition (for me), with a look that is, in fact, an improvement (again, to me).
For anyone else reading this later, there are tests that even if a lens isn’t on the optimized list for the 40 mp sensor, it’ll still work great. I can confirm this with my X-T5. My 23mm f2 is optimized for 40 mp but my 16mm f1.4 and Zeiss Touit 32mm f1.8 are not but the images look great regardless. The differences really show with the optimizes lens if you’re using the maximum aperture and pixel peeping at 200%. It’s negligible IMO. No need to sell old lenses for the sensor.
The new one, for pixel poopers, sharper of course. But - no character lens, no focus clutch, bigger, heavier, boring 08/15 lens barrel design, just a generic lens, and especially now with the square hood, it does look super big and silly, both at the same time. It doesn't have that creamy & character rendering style, the old 23/1.4 R does have. Yes, i wished the "old" one would have WR, but i'd *never* sell my original Fujinon 23/1.4 R....images do have a special feeling, -character..the new WR can't give me.
Nice. It’s hard to tell the differences because the picture comparisons were different sizes. What are your thoughts between these three lenses? Did you make another video letting the audience know your findings? I’m in the market for a 23mm. Thanks.
I’d love to hear your opinions as to which characteristics of the lenses you prefer. From the pictures I get the new 23 is sharper and has better contrast but I haven’t tested them side by side and I’m an enthusiast not a pro so maybe don’t have enough experience to make an assessment. I think you’re trying not to be biased however opinions (from an experienced user) are valuable as well as data. Sharing my views here. I like your style.
Thanks for watching. Imo, the new lens is sharper and better. But it is very suggestive, meaning I like the “perfection” of it but don’t dislike the “flaws” of the old model that gave it that “je ne sais quoi” and had a more organic look that was particular. The f2 is my least favorite be it in terms of pictures and mostly size (I like something bigger in my XT cameras) But they all will give you great photos, at this point it depends what budget one has, what use one will make of this lens and what side the scale tilts toward for one’s needs. I wouldn’t not recommend any of the 3. Hope that sheds some light for you Thanks a lot for your feedback and take care
@@cris_photography Thank you very much for the thoughtful reply. Appreciate your insights and effort. I forgot to mention I have the older 23mm which is my only prime and stays in the camera most of the time. My other lens is the kit 18-55 which I use for video only these days. I’m waiting for the updated 56mm which is what I would like to prioritise since I don’t have a dedicated portrait lens. If that works well I might also get the new 23mm. To me optically superior, faster focus and weather sealing are all compelling reasons to upgrade from the old 23. Thanks again good day.
I wonder just how much weather-sealing actually means in terms of dealing with water . I've been using the non-weather sealed 35mm in the rain without problems. Not that I will use it in the rain, but i'm going to buy the old 1.4 - not because of the reduced price. It's proven quality and it just looks better
Hello Johan, never had a problem with non-wr lenses. In fact I used non-wr lenses most of the time in my photography career. That been said, going out when it rains doesn’t necessarily mean that water will enter your sensor. Having WR is great also for dust - for example in a worksite, for VERY humid places like in a tropical area, for the desert where there is sand, etc. Which I don’t live near to. So hard for me to say if it’s a pro you should pay more for or not (depending on where u live which seems pretty much ok per what you said). In terms of quality and looks - I agree with you 100%! Take care
The thing is a little rain might not hurt it now, but if it did happen to enter the lens and for some reason it gets left in a warm car/storage etc it can mold - usually what happens when a lens has internal mold.
I have the older version 23mm 1.4 - I love the focal length too. For video, I am using the 18-55mm, which is quiet and focuses well for video. I’m keeping the older 23 1.4 for now. Thanks for the review.
Yeah I use the kit lens when I'm want versatility without having to carry so many lenses. I treat it like a 18mm f2.8 and have a 50 f2 as a backup. Super lightweight and is useful for video, low light cityscapes, landscapes, etc. I agree as I love the 23 FL and the look from a f1.4 it's just simply pleasing. Although I find the 18mm useful if you want limited amount of lenses especially for wedding type scenario as it's less movement from 16-18-23mm range (multipurpose). So if I can start over from a documentary standpoint I probably would go with the new 18/33 and 56 ii when it comes out. This is when you really need to nail that focus at f1.4 but f2-4 perfectly fine for most things especially if your looking for context.
Would have liked an example on tracking a subject in a variety of conditions. I think that would be the difference for me. For now I find my old 1.4 will suffice.
@@cris_photography Thanks for the review as there hasn't been much uploaded at this time! With the expected xh2 hopefully it'll have improved algorithm to help squeeze as much out of the older lenses. If not it's nice to know we have a faster option.
One of the major improvements is close focus image quality.. The 23mm f/2 is notorious for looking like a vaseline smeared vintage lens at minimum focus distance. Old 1.4 version, I personally didn't quite like for the motors. Focus clutch was fun to use, kinda wish Fuji kept the clutch in new lenses. But the old 1.4 was super soft when I rented it. It wasn't designed to resolve the 26MP sensor, at least according to Fujifilm tech staff I spoke to.
I just came across another review and the difference in sharpness is huge. ruclips.net/video/4V5ZAf-fVHw/видео.html Though I'm not sure if it is an advantage? It depends, I liked the softer vibes of the old lens for portrait, but then again, you can always make a lens less sharp with diffusion but it is impossible to sharpen a soft lens.
Good comparison ,thx. I have these 3 lenses ; looking at your samples at 1080p on my large TV I cannot see any differences... I would need to view in at least 4K, of course. Anyway, I agree this is the "base" focal length from which everything else starts either towards tele or wide.
Thanks for this helpful video. Out of curiosity, have you tried out the Sigma 23mm 1.4 DC DN? How do you think that compares to the newer Fujifilm 23mm 1.4 WR lens?
Hi there, thanks for your message. I did a review of the Sigma 23mm for X-mount on this channel as well if you want to check it out. I think it's a great lens (like all the Sigma lenses overall) and it is on-par with the Fuji counterpart (IMO). I got really good shots with it so it really comes down to personal preferences about build quality, branding and a few other little things ;) Take care!
I understand the updated version is "new and improved", but that doesn't seem to translate into faster focusing or better overall performance. Other than being quieter to focus and weather sealed, why bother upgrading? What are you actually getting for that additional size and weight? Better low-light performance? Sharper images?
Hello there, focusing speed is a tad better but I don’t personally care for that (I focus the good ol way). If sealing is important to you and the sharpness it provides (mostly on the new sensors) then it’s worth upgrading, otherwise I personally still love the old one. Lowlight performance will mostly depend on the maximum aperture so no difference there. Also, “sharper” images to me is suggestive and some people will like the feel of the old one better. Take care
Hey there! Great review! Really cool that we now have a weather sealed version of the 23mm 1.4. Great for rainy streets at night :) I was wondering: how does it handle things like shooting trees straight into the sun? Is the chromatic aboration a bit better controlled?
Hello there, I did a few shots upwards towards the sun but I didn’t have that problems - and no, no CA in sight. I think it does control them better. Take care
I enjoy shooting on my F2, but it is time for an update. It's hard to justify buying the new F1.4 when you can snag the older one for a fraction of the price. Once I own the older one and the newer one goes down in you used market, I will update again without breaking the bank.
I took a shot of succulents in open shade a year ago with the 23mm 2.0 at 5.6, and the edge to edge sharpness and overall excellence blew me away. Thank god I shot in raw. And I shoot with the 90 2.0 and the 16 1.4. If I were to shoot a mural there would be no question it would be my first choice.
Simple my fave is the old lens (XF 23/1.4 R) here, because of: 1) lens character 2) lens design (smaller, more cute, no boring generic lens barrel) 3) focus clutch 4) cheaper 5) a great image isn't being made by uber sharpness from corner to corner, but by telling a story, about the mood, the atmosphere, the impact to the eye of the beholder 6) it's all about your very own creative vision & -composition 7) last but not least, pixel poopers, err -peepers are *not* being photographers, but gearheads, lens testers, etc.
Thanks Alvin. I used to use the f2 version for weddings but have since swapped to an 18mm f1.4 which is an absolute delight for wedding photography! Take care
Thanks for this! Was really helpful as I am also trying to figure out where to spend my next lens money. Aside from the review, great pictures also! May I ask did you use a "common" recipe for the outside pictures: the one with the farm, kids, etc.? Or was the editing done in post? Really like the tones.
I actually like the older lenses, they have that certain je ne sais quoi that you don't get with newer lenses. A lot of the newer lenses are supercrisp... which is great for crazy mp resolution. But I think they do so at the expense of a certain dreamy look that I prefer in the older lenses. I shoot canon ef and have seen the same thing with the 35mm f1.4 mkI and the mkII, where they made it actually too crisp. Also... and I know this is a weird criteria: my first fuji lens was the 16 f/1.4, and I LOVE the clutch mechanism. So that was a big factor. btw, I own the same Hamilton
Many people think that way too - and I am also one of those for the most part. I think it really depends on what you’re shooting. Cool on the Hami! Great watch 😉
@@cris_photography good point. I'm a photojournalist and also archivist at a museum. So for the journalism the lenses I have are more storytelling. For the museum, it's more the crisp tamron.
Hi, I am thinking to buy the new 1.4 but I am a little concerned about its size to be mounted on an x-e4. I already own the 16 1.4 and it is absolutely too large. The 18-55 f2.8-4 still fits enough well on that body. The old 23 1.4 could be a little larger crosschecking its size with the 16 1.4, but the 23 is thinner. What do you think about that?
Hey there, honestly I’d go with the f2 version for an XE4 - it will be way too front heavy otherwise (in comparaison). Unless u actually need the linear motors and the extra stop of light/bokeh I’d go with the smaller one.
I don't see a big enough difference. Good idea to test them this way. Sometimes we think we need to get the best no matter how small an improvement. I don't think anyone who has the f/2 should feel that their lens is holding them back.
Extra bokeh is always welcome and wr is a must. If the f2 was a pancake lens, it would be awesome but it isn’t. I would go with new f1.4 or f2.8 pancake lens.
If you using x-pro You do care what you have at the front.New 23f1.4 will block OVF completely and thqn on x-pro (3) the OVF has no any purpose.I mentioned terrible OVF on x-pro 3 which can handle only lenses in focal range from 23 to 50mm.If you use new 23 f1.4 you will block one quarter of the OVF. Btw mine 23 f2 is made in Japan they moved production in 2018 to new factory where QC and build is not same as in Japan.
Hello, agreed on the EVF/OVF problem - like for any rangefinder camera. Regarding the production quality - I literally see no difference whatsoever, other than the name of the country of production. Am sure Fuji wants to make sure their products keep being the same high quality. But if you noticed a difference I believe you! Take care
@@cris_photography I notice difference in zooms and 56 f1.2 and 16 f1.4 made in Philippines .Most of them were not well centered, so one has to go through few copy's to get decent one.Other issue is paint job which seems to be weaker now days.
Great question! I am finalizing my follow up video about these 23mm lenses where I’ll go over what my thoughts are in terms of upgrading or not. Stay tuned should be on the channel latest tomorrow
Hey Cris, hey Community,Very cool Video you made but I have a question about der 23mm F:1.4 old version.I just bought it second hand, and now when I am filming I can here the mechanical sound and when the optic is focussing it is not really smooth.My question:is that normal, or should I sent the optic back?Thankxxxxxxxx for a quick answer
Hello Matthias, thanks for thé feed-back- much appreciated! Yes, it is normal. That lens is quite loud when used for video (check on my channel I believe I made another video comparing the 23mm f2 and the f1.4 version). Take care!
Hello Cris... I'm from India and professionally a Pharmacologist but I'm in love with Streetphotography. Today I bought FUJIFILM XT30 II with XC15-45mm ( Kit lens ) . Which lens should be great for Low light photography and Streetphotography ??? I'm having very little knowledge about Cameras and Lenses.... need your guidance 🙏
Hello there, I’d go with a 23mm for street photography and get the f1.4 version (2022 version) to have a wider aperture and therefore more light 💡 in lowlight. Take care
@@cris_photography Ohhh..... a big THANK YOU Cris 😊 🙏 for your guidance. I'm going for it . I have already subscribed your channel for more informations that'll enrich me . THANK YOU 😊
Dimensions comparison is unfair as the f2 is shown with its hood, not the others. Comparing the lenses all with and all without their hood would have let to an easier choice if bulkiness is important to you
Great review mate, thanks! I'm looking to buy the old 23mm f1.4 for cheap and just can't seem to find much of a difference between the old and new one that justifies the price difference other than the faster auto focus. Cheers!
Well it’s about half the price £400-450 vs £815 here in the uk. That’s a huge difference! Low light autofocus on the older one can be a problem if you have an older body (think XT1). And the weather resistance. But the older model also has advantages - weight, size, looks nicer arguably, not overly sharp photos if that’s an issue for you, manual focus clutch (although this stops the AFL button working in manual mode I think, so can be seen as a negative)
The new 23mm f/1.4 is a bit sharper and also I think the bokeh a bit nicer, which especially showed in the shot of the staircase railing. I'm surprised how well the f/2.0 holds up, really (other than at close focussing distance). Nice comparison!
Thanks a lot for your reviews, very interesting point of view. I really can't decide myself between the new 23 or the 18 1.4. I'm a new wedding photographer and I can't have the luxury to have these two lenses. So I need to choose between the two. If you have to actually choose your trinity lenses for a wedding day, what would be your choice ? I already have the 33 1.4 and 56 1.2
Hey there, thanks for the comment and for watching! I now use the 18mm LM for my weddings (you can find the video I made some months back about it) and replaced all my 23mm Hope that helps Take care Thomas!
I suggest getting the 18 1.4 for bigger groups in wedding scenarios (I shoot events and family photos and it's why I still have my XF 18-55 on my kit) It's also gonna be helpful if you're in tighter spaces in weddings and indoor events capturing more into the scene but you do gotta be mindful of what you include tho cause it's on the wider end of spectrum. Good luck out there!
The weird thing I notice in your video is that the field of view is a bit tighter, and the depth of field a bit shallower, from the new 1.4 to the old 1.4 to the 2. I'm not sure why that would be, though.
I currently own and use the Fuji 23mm f/2 and the old Fuji 23mm f/1.4 prime lenses. I am satisfied with both. The weather sealing is the only feature I like in the new 23mm f/1.4. When I need weather sealing for shooting landscapes in inclement weather, I use my Fuji 23mm f/2 weather resistant prime or my Fuji 16-55mm f/2.8 weather resistant zoom. One thing I do not like about the new 23mm f/1.4 is the change in filter size. If I want to use my 62mm infrared filter on the new 23mm f/1.4, I will have to get a 58mm to 62mm step-up ring. Plus, I do not even know how well the new 23mm f/1.4 handles infrared photography. The two 23mm lenses I now own and use, display no hot spot when shooting infrared.
The xf23mmf2 is for me the most boring lens in the Fujifilm lineup. It was the first lens I bought but also the first I sold. I got some great shots with it but it doesn't have the rendering of 18mmf2 or 35mm1.4 that I love. It’s just good, sharp and clean which is good for work. But when I want to get creative this lens does not have what it takes.
Great video. Thinking of getting the new one for low-light and intimate (low noise) environments but close to 1000 euros is a bit steep for just that scenario..
Thanks for stopping by and yes, amazing lens! I will be testing it with the XH2 in the coming days and see how it is with the new sensor. I hear you on the price in fact and I really like the original 1.4 version too! Take care
@@cris_photography Thanks for getting back to me! I was just thinking last night that the old one might be more affordable now second hand. I do think focussing speed might be a problem for me but the biggest scenario is low light bonfire / intimate shoot and neither requires lightning fast AF so this might be a really good idea. You take care too! Oh and also: Have fun with the XH2. Seems like an amazing camera!
bit confusing-interrupting making a video review of two models with the same F stop and mixing it alongside with a different f stop lens. In such a case I would make a separate video, such as old 1.4 vs 2.0 or new 1.4 vs 2.0. You could mention the f2 version at the beginning whatever but then focus only on the two F1.4. Cheers
Thanks for the feedback 👍🏼 I don’t think - from a user standpoint - that’s incorrect to show all 3 models. If I want to know about the 3 and which would be best for me I’d like to see them all compared to one another. But your idea ain’t wrong either by all means! Take care
I'd have to disagree, the used prices for the f2 and old 1.4 are very similar so it makes sense to compare the cheaper offerings to the newer version, this is exactly the video I was looking for!
@@cris_photography what I meant was every time you compared the lenses the new one always was featured larger, this made it hard to compare without a bias.
This is a really terrible comparison. The shots where you are comparing and you have split the screen into 3 equal parts is good but when you use different sized photos this is not a direct comparison
What information do you think we can actually gain from having three little images in one frame on a RUclips video ? Really ? The big problem with all you RUclipsrs and photography is that in order to keep doing videos to try to get you either fame or fortune, the only thing you can think of is to do 'technical' stuff as the possibilities are almost endless. And the problem with that is that over the years the naive begin to believe that the technical stuff is the most important element in photography which everyone with any experience at all knows is absolute bollocks. Most of the worlds acknowledged greatest photographs are nothing to do with the technicals but to do with content. But RUclipsrs find that difficult to handle as they can't see a way of doing constant videos on such an esoteric and subjective topic. If you really want to do videos like this properly put the RAW images somewhere and leave links for people to download. Then they can make their value judgements themselves. But the videos themselves with tiny compressed images are pretty valueless.
I hear ya Mike. 2 things: 1) am not “RUclipsrs” - am Cris. Don’t give a damn about “all them RUclipsrs” cause you ARE using a generality that means absolutely nothing to me. 2) I helped hundreds of people - including on a personal one on one basis to improve their photography. So talking “fame” and “fortune” makes no sense. Wanna talk fortune? I make more money in my professional job as a photographer and videographer in one shoot than RUclips brings me in a YEAR. How about we keep the personal beef out of the equation and talk about the main (and really ONLY valid point here) and that is the comparison shots. I find that to be a good point and I’ll see to it to include raw download somehow in the future. Cheers
@@cris_photography It's not meant to be a personal beef, though I really don't understand the proliferation of self professed photography experts giving so much advice, particularly about the technical aspects of photography which is driving people to think that technicals create good pix. Which they really do not. You may have the best of motives, and I'm sure you have, but d'you really think there's a need for so much technical clap trap, which much of it is ? Yours could be the exception of course....
For me, one of the major differences between the three lenses has been in low light and poor light conditions. This is what I enjoy photographing as a hobbyist so the new lens has been wonderful.
Very true! Take care ☺️
I really appreciate the replies on all or at least MOST of the comments below! Some of the 'bloggers' ask for comments but don't reply or give feedback. This is a great way to build and keep your viewers. Oh, and I have the 23mm f/2 lens for my X-T4 and X-Pro2. Since I'm just a casual hacker I don't see the need for the 1.4. But I may change my mind in the future. Great content - thanks!
Hello David! Thanks a lot for your message and for noticing that 😌 I truly like to hear back from other fellow photographers and I like to know what people use for their art - hence my replies on pretty much all the comments I get back.
Cool choice on the f2 version - I also have that one currently for my pro work and I like it a lot. Thanks for watching and take care!
The new 23 is SOOO good.. it's SO good that it makes my 'old' X-T2 a better camera.. on my new X-T5 it's unbeatable
👍🏼😉
The old 1.4 looks SOOOOOO much nicer!
😊
I was thinking the same thing!
Ehmmm no. Dort See much difference
+1 absolutely. Would *never* sell this lens. Remember: Pixel Peepers are *not* being photographers, 'nuff said. 🙂
but autofocus Suck!
The older one is more than enough for me. Bought it used for 470€ and very satisfied since first photo shooting. With Fujifilm X-T3 it's a beast
Awesome!
I paid 400 bucks into original box & papers, grade A - just like new. And 12 months warranty. Best deal ever for Fujifilm, since 2012 my X-E1.
I love the original 23mm F1.4. For all its quirks and noise, the images have always been sweet for me to the point that I never gave a moment’s consideration to the F2.0 version. HOWEVER, while I strongly prefer the look of the original F1.4 on a camera body for shooting on streets and other discreet situations, the new 40MP sensors demanded updates to the line of prime lenses. While I will have a bit of nostalgia for the original, the new F1.4 will be an effortless transition (for me), with a look that is, in fact, an improvement (again, to me).
I hear y’a - makes sense!
For anyone else reading this later, there are tests that even if a lens isn’t on the optimized list for the 40 mp sensor, it’ll still work great. I can confirm this with my X-T5. My 23mm f2 is optimized for 40 mp but my 16mm f1.4 and Zeiss Touit 32mm f1.8 are not but the images look great regardless. The differences really show with the optimizes lens if you’re using the maximum aperture and pixel peeping at 200%. It’s negligible IMO. No need to sell old lenses for the sensor.
The new one, for pixel poopers, sharper of course. But - no character lens, no focus clutch, bigger, heavier, boring 08/15 lens barrel design, just a generic lens, and especially now with the square hood, it does look super big and silly, both at the same time. It doesn't have that creamy & character rendering style, the old 23/1.4 R does have. Yes, i wished the "old" one would have WR, but i'd *never* sell my original Fujinon 23/1.4 R....images do have a special feeling, -character..the new WR can't give me.
Nice. It’s hard to tell the differences because the picture comparisons were different sizes. What are your thoughts between these three lenses? Did you make another video letting the audience know your findings?
I’m in the market for a 23mm.
Thanks.
Thanks! Yes I made another video a few days after that video to talk about my personal conclusions. Feel free to check it out! 😉
I’d love to hear your opinions as to which characteristics of the lenses you prefer. From the pictures I get the new 23 is sharper and has better contrast but I haven’t tested them side by side and I’m an enthusiast not a pro so maybe don’t have enough experience to make an assessment. I think you’re trying not to be biased however opinions (from an experienced user) are valuable as well as data. Sharing my views here. I like your style.
Thanks for watching. Imo, the new lens is sharper and better. But it is very suggestive, meaning I like the “perfection” of it but don’t dislike the “flaws” of the old model that gave it that “je ne sais quoi” and had a more organic look that was particular. The f2 is my least favorite be it in terms of pictures and mostly size (I like something bigger in my XT cameras)
But they all will give you great photos, at this point it depends what budget one has, what use one will make of this lens and what side the scale tilts toward for one’s needs. I wouldn’t not recommend any of the 3.
Hope that sheds some light for you
Thanks a lot for your feedback and take care
@@cris_photography Thank you very much for the thoughtful reply. Appreciate your insights and effort. I forgot to mention I have the older 23mm which is my only prime and stays in the camera most of the time. My other lens is the kit 18-55 which I use for video only these days. I’m waiting for the updated 56mm which is what I would like to prioritise since I don’t have a dedicated portrait lens. If that works well I might also get the new 23mm. To me optically superior, faster focus and weather sealing are all compelling reasons to upgrade from the old 23. Thanks again good day.
I wonder just how much weather-sealing actually means in terms of dealing with water . I've been using the non-weather sealed 35mm in the rain without problems. Not that I will use it in the rain, but i'm going to buy the old 1.4 - not because of the reduced price. It's proven quality and it just looks better
Hello Johan, never had a problem with non-wr lenses. In fact I used non-wr lenses most of the time in my photography career. That been said, going out when it rains doesn’t necessarily mean that water will enter your sensor. Having WR is great also for dust - for example in a worksite, for VERY humid places like in a tropical area, for the desert where there is sand, etc. Which I don’t live near to. So hard for me to say if it’s a pro you should pay more for or not (depending on where u live which seems pretty much ok per what you said). In terms of quality and looks - I agree with you 100%! Take care
Exactly - I bet the non WR lenses are very good at keeping water out
The thing is a little rain might not hurt it now, but if it did happen to enter the lens and for some reason it gets left in a warm car/storage etc it can mold - usually what happens when a lens has internal mold.
I love RUclips for this exact reason.. I had this same question and you created a comprehensive video to answer it.. thank you kind sir!
And I love comments like yours! Glad this could be helpful to you! Take care
Good to see such a great review, may I ask... getting older 23mm f1.4 over new viltrox 23mm f1.4 for fast autofocus worth it thanks
Thanks Israr, I don’t have the Viltrox at the moment so can’t compare them, but per what I remember they are very similar. Take care
I have the older version 23mm 1.4 - I love the focal length too. For video, I am using the 18-55mm, which is quiet and focuses well for video. I’m keeping the older 23 1.4 for now. Thanks for the review.
Yes it’s a great focal length indeed! Cool on your setup for filming! Cheers
Yeah I use the kit lens when I'm want versatility without having to carry so many lenses. I treat it like a 18mm f2.8 and have a 50 f2 as a backup. Super lightweight and is useful for video, low light cityscapes, landscapes, etc.
I agree as I love the 23 FL and the look from a f1.4 it's just simply pleasing. Although I find the 18mm useful if you want limited amount of lenses especially for wedding type scenario as it's less movement from 16-18-23mm range (multipurpose). So if I can start over from a documentary standpoint I probably would go with the new 18/33 and 56 ii when it comes out. This is when you really need to nail that focus at f1.4 but f2-4 perfectly fine for most things especially if your looking for context.
Would have liked an example on tracking a subject in a variety of conditions. I think that would be the difference for me. For now I find my old 1.4 will suffice.
Not a bad idea! Will keep that in mind for my next video (or maybe make one on that topic specifically - why not 😃)
@@cris_photography Thanks for the review as there hasn't been much uploaded at this time! With the expected xh2 hopefully it'll have improved algorithm to help squeeze as much out of the older lenses. If not it's nice to know we have a faster option.
Nice video. The new f1.4 version doesn’t seem appreciably sharper than the old version, in my opinion.
Yes I can see what you mean. Probably the difference will be more important with the new sensors… let’s see!
One of the major improvements is close focus image quality.. The 23mm f/2 is notorious for looking like a vaseline smeared vintage lens at minimum focus distance. Old 1.4 version, I personally didn't quite like for the motors. Focus clutch was fun to use, kinda wish Fuji kept the clutch in new lenses. But the old 1.4 was super soft when I rented it. It wasn't designed to resolve the 26MP sensor, at least according to Fujifilm tech staff I spoke to.
I just came across another review and the difference in sharpness is huge. ruclips.net/video/4V5ZAf-fVHw/видео.html
Though I'm not sure if it is an advantage? It depends, I liked the softer vibes of the old lens for portrait, but then again, you can always make a lens less sharp with diffusion but it is impossible to sharpen a soft lens.
Good comparison ,thx. I have these 3 lenses ; looking at your samples at 1080p on my large TV I cannot see any differences... I would need to view in at least 4K, of course. Anyway, I agree this is the "base" focal length from which everything else starts either towards tele or wide.
Yes, the differences are subtle indeed and all 3 are great lenses overall! Take care
Thanks for this helpful video. Out of curiosity, have you tried out the Sigma 23mm 1.4 DC DN? How do you think that compares to the newer Fujifilm 23mm 1.4 WR lens?
Hi there, thanks for your message. I did a review of the Sigma 23mm for X-mount on this channel as well if you want to check it out. I think it's a great lens (like all the Sigma lenses overall) and it is on-par with the Fuji counterpart (IMO). I got really good shots with it so it really comes down to personal preferences about build quality, branding and a few other little things ;)
Take care!
I understand the updated version is "new and improved", but that doesn't seem to translate into faster focusing or better overall performance. Other than being quieter to focus and weather sealed, why bother upgrading? What are you actually getting for that additional size and weight? Better low-light performance? Sharper images?
Hello there, focusing speed is a tad better but I don’t personally care for that (I focus the good ol way). If sealing is important to you and the sharpness it provides (mostly on the new sensors) then it’s worth upgrading, otherwise I personally still love the old one. Lowlight performance will mostly depend on the maximum aperture so no difference there. Also, “sharper” images to me is suggestive and some people will like the feel of the old one better. Take care
Hey there! Great review! Really cool that we now have a weather sealed version of the 23mm 1.4. Great for rainy streets at night :) I was wondering: how does it handle things like shooting trees straight into the sun? Is the chromatic aboration a bit better controlled?
Hello there, I did a few shots upwards towards the sun but I didn’t have that problems - and no, no CA in sight. I think it does control them better.
Take care
@@cris_photography Ah thanks! Thank you for testing! I haven't had a chance because of covid!
I did upgrade from the old 1.4 to the new for upcoming Fujifilm body to replace my X-T3. I have the F2 version for my X-E4. Great review!
Awesome set of lenses u got there! Thanks for watching take care
I enjoy shooting on my F2, but it is time for an update. It's hard to justify buying the new F1.4 when you can snag the older one for a fraction of the price. Once I own the older one and the newer one goes down in you used market, I will update again without breaking the bank.
Thanks for your comment and I hear y’a on the price of the new one - I can see how that makes sense! Cheers
I did notice that the new 23mm f1.4 has the worst focus breathing of all three lenses, which surprised me.
Yup, same here!
I took a shot of succulents in open shade a year ago with the 23mm 2.0 at 5.6, and the edge to edge sharpness and overall excellence blew me away. Thank god I shot in raw. And I shoot with the 90 2.0 and the 16 1.4. If I were to shoot a mural there would be no question it would be my first choice.
Nice! Thanks for sharing your experience
"A" is also great for us who has the command dials changing aperture
Yes 👍🏼
Simple my fave is the old lens (XF 23/1.4 R) here, because of:
1) lens character
2) lens design (smaller, more cute, no boring generic lens barrel)
3) focus clutch
4) cheaper
5) a great image isn't being made by uber sharpness from corner to corner, but by telling a story, about the mood, the atmosphere, the impact to the eye of the beholder
6) it's all about your very own creative vision & -composition
7) last but not least, pixel poopers, err -peepers are *not* being photographers, but gearheads, lens testers, etc.
Very true - good points!
Thanks for sharing and take care
Very true - good points!
Thanks for sharing and take care
Very true - good points!
Thanks for sharing and take care
yes, just the points i've figured out.@@cris_photography
on paper I cant really justify it but I love the f/2 even on my xt3, i havent tried the other 23mm but i always pick the 23 f/2 over my 35 1.4
I hear ya! I only kept the f2 version as of right now for the same reasons…
Cheers!
Great follow-up review, I wonder which lenses now do you use in your wedding photography? Gteat pp as well. Thank you.
Thanks Alvin. I used to use the f2 version for weddings but have since swapped to an 18mm f1.4 which is an absolute delight for wedding photography! Take care
@@cris_photography so it is 18/1.4 and 56/1.4?
Exactly
I like the f2 since I don't shoot close up but the colours highlights and video aspect of the LM tempt me
💪🏼
Thanks for this! Was really helpful as I am also trying to figure out where to spend my next lens money.
Aside from the review, great pictures also! May I ask did you use a "common" recipe for the outside pictures: the one with the farm, kids, etc.? Or was the editing done in post? Really like the tones.
My pleasure. The outside shots were edited with a preset I created over time - not really a recipe per se. Take care!
I actually like the older lenses, they have that certain je ne sais quoi that you don't get with newer lenses. A lot of the newer lenses are supercrisp... which is great for crazy mp resolution. But I think they do so at the expense of a certain dreamy look that I prefer in the older lenses. I shoot canon ef and have seen the same thing with the 35mm f1.4 mkI and the mkII, where they made it actually too crisp.
Also... and I know this is a weird criteria: my first fuji lens was the 16 f/1.4, and I LOVE the clutch mechanism. So that was a big factor.
btw, I own the same Hamilton
Many people think that way too - and I am also one of those for the most part. I think it really depends on what you’re shooting.
Cool on the Hami! Great watch 😉
@@cris_photography good point.
I'm a photojournalist and also archivist at a museum. So for the journalism the lenses I have are more storytelling. For the museum, it's more the crisp tamron.
For me the f2 seems to have a wider field of view, every so slightly. I have the f2 by the way.
Very possible indeed 👍🏼
Hi, I am thinking to buy the new 1.4 but I am a little concerned about its size to be mounted on an x-e4. I already own the 16 1.4 and it is absolutely too large. The 18-55 f2.8-4 still fits enough well on that body. The old 23 1.4 could be a little larger crosschecking its size with the 16 1.4, but the 23 is thinner.
What do you think about that?
Hey there, honestly I’d go with the f2 version for an XE4 - it will be way too front heavy otherwise (in comparaison). Unless u actually need the linear motors and the extra stop of light/bokeh I’d go with the smaller one.
I don't see a big enough difference. Good idea to test them this way. Sometimes we think we need to get the best no matter how small an improvement. I don't think anyone who has the f/2 should feel that their lens is holding them back.
Exactly 👍🏼
Extra bokeh is always welcome and wr is a must. If the f2 was a pancake lens, it would be awesome but it isn’t. I would go with new f1.4 or f2.8 pancake lens.
Thanks for sharing your thoughts 👍🏼
If you using x-pro You do care what you have at the front.New 23f1.4 will block OVF completely and thqn on x-pro (3) the OVF has no any purpose.I mentioned terrible OVF on x-pro 3 which can handle only lenses in focal range from 23 to 50mm.If you use new 23 f1.4 you will block one quarter of the OVF. Btw mine 23 f2 is made in Japan they moved production in 2018 to new factory where QC and build is not same as in Japan.
Hello, agreed on the EVF/OVF problem - like for any rangefinder camera.
Regarding the production quality - I literally see no difference whatsoever, other than the name of the country of production. Am sure Fuji wants to make sure their products keep being the same high quality. But if you noticed a difference I believe you!
Take care
@@cris_photography I notice difference in zooms and 56 f1.2 and 16 f1.4 made in Philippines .Most of them were not well centered, so one has to go through few copy's to get decent one.Other issue is paint job which seems to be weaker now days.
still debating the fact should I sell the old version & the f2 , is it worth it or not ?
Great question! I am finalizing my follow up video about these 23mm lenses where I’ll go over what my thoughts are in terms of upgrading or not. Stay tuned should be on the channel latest tomorrow
I bought the old one in pristine condition for 280 € and i love it. Its by far good enough for me
Awesome! Enjoy 😉
So if I could buy any of these 3 lenses OR the Viltrox 23mm 1.4.... what's the recommendation?
Hard to tell Alex! I’d have to do a review of both with the Viltrox to see. Planning on doing it soon
Viltrox, if you need more you will know. Viltrox best value forbthe money. Check out some Reviews.
Hey Cris, hey Community,Very cool Video you made but I have a question about der 23mm F:1.4 old version.I just bought it second hand, and now when I am filming I can here the mechanical sound and when the optic is focussing it is not really smooth.My question:is that normal, or should I sent the optic back?Thankxxxxxxxx for a quick answer
Hello Matthias, thanks for thé feed-back- much appreciated!
Yes, it is normal. That lens is quite loud when used for video (check on my channel I believe I made another video comparing the 23mm f2 and the f1.4 version).
Take care!
Ciao,secondo me a parte il WR non conviene fare un upgrade....
Tu capisco! 😉👍🏼
Which of the 3 lens produce more depth? It seems the old f1.4. Is this accurate?
Hard to tell. I’d go old, new and f2 in that sequence
I like the watch you took photos off. What’d you call it?
It a Hamilton Khaki field bronze 38mm. You can see the full review I made of it on my watch channel (@watch luver)
Cheers
Hello Cris... I'm from India and professionally a Pharmacologist but I'm in love with Streetphotography. Today I bought FUJIFILM XT30 II with XC15-45mm ( Kit lens ) . Which lens should be great for Low light photography and Streetphotography ??? I'm having very little knowledge about Cameras and Lenses.... need your guidance 🙏
Hello there, I’d go with a 23mm for street photography and get the f1.4 version (2022 version) to have a wider aperture and therefore more light 💡 in lowlight. Take care
@@cris_photography Ohhh..... a big THANK YOU Cris 😊 🙏 for your guidance. I'm going for it . I have already subscribed your channel for more informations that'll enrich me . THANK YOU 😊
Dimensions comparison is unfair as the f2 is shown with its hood, not the others. Comparing the lenses all with and all without their hood would have let to an easier choice if bulkiness is important to you
Thanks for the feedback and good point 👍🏼
Great review mate, thanks! I'm looking to buy the old 23mm f1.4 for cheap and just can't seem to find much of a difference between the old and new one that justifies the price difference other than the faster auto focus. Cheers!
Thanks for watching and glad it could shed some light! Take care and hope you’ll find the lens you are looking for!
Well it’s about half the price £400-450 vs £815 here in the uk. That’s a huge difference! Low light autofocus on the older one can be a problem if you have an older body (think XT1). And the weather resistance. But the older model also has advantages - weight, size, looks nicer arguably, not overly sharp photos if that’s an issue for you, manual focus clutch (although this stops the AFL button working in manual mode I think, so can be seen as a negative)
And also closer focus distance on the new model!
The new 23mm f/1.4 is a bit sharper and also I think the bokeh a bit nicer, which especially showed in the shot of the staircase railing. I'm surprised how well the f/2.0 holds up, really (other than at close focussing distance). Nice comparison!
Thanks and yes, very true on the focusing of both the new and the f2 models! take care
Will the Fujifilm 23mm 1.4 R old version work proper on the XT5?
Yes 👍🏼
How does the x100v compare to the old f1.4 at f2?
Haven’t tried them so can’t really tell u. I’d have to try them - that’s a good idea!
Thanks a lot for your reviews, very interesting point of view. I really can't decide myself between the new 23 or the 18 1.4. I'm a new wedding photographer and I can't have the luxury to have these two lenses. So I need to choose between the two. If you have to actually choose your trinity lenses for a wedding day, what would be your choice ? I already have the 33 1.4 and 56 1.2
Hey there, thanks for the comment and for watching! I now use the 18mm LM for my weddings (you can find the video I made some months back about it) and replaced all my 23mm
Hope that helps
Take care Thomas!
I suggest getting the 18 1.4 for bigger groups in wedding scenarios (I shoot events and family photos and it's why I still have my XF 18-55 on my kit) It's also gonna be helpful if you're in tighter spaces in weddings and indoor events capturing more into the scene but you do gotta be mindful of what you include tho cause it's on the wider end of spectrum. Good luck out there!
The weird thing I notice in your video is that the field of view is a bit tighter, and the depth of field a bit shallower, from the new 1.4 to the old 1.4 to the 2. I'm not sure why that would be, though.
Y’a - there are differences indeed between the 3, I know it’s strange! Take care
I tend to hire the F2 version for my trekking in the rain forest in Vietnam =))
Nice! I can see why
56 classic is the best xf lens ever!
👍🏼😉
Great video! Thx!
Thanks!
the first review video where i can really see the sharpness differences between the old and new one. great review.
Glad this was helpful to you! Take care
Is it just me or does the 23mm 2.0 seem to be wider compared to the 1.4 lenses?
It is in fact (I also noticed while doing the tests)
@@cris_photography Good to know.. this makes the 23mm f2 a bit more interesting for me since I also have a 35mm 1.4 which I use a lot
It's also interestng that the new 23mm is a little narrower than the old 23mm and quite a lot narrower than the 23mm f2.
Yes - very true!
nice watch mate, dont you think i didn't notice
Haha glad you did Larvie! 😉
Some of the 23 f2 are made in Japan. I had one!
Nice 👍🏼
I currently own and use the Fuji 23mm f/2 and the old Fuji 23mm f/1.4 prime lenses. I am satisfied with both.
The weather sealing is the only feature I like in the new 23mm f/1.4. When I need weather sealing for shooting landscapes in inclement weather, I use my Fuji 23mm f/2 weather resistant prime or my Fuji 16-55mm f/2.8 weather resistant zoom.
One thing I do not like about the new 23mm f/1.4 is the change in filter size. If I want to use my 62mm infrared filter on the new 23mm f/1.4, I will have to get a 58mm to 62mm step-up ring. Plus, I do not even know how well the new 23mm f/1.4 handles infrared photography. The two 23mm lenses I now own and use, display no hot spot when shooting infrared.
Thanks for sharing your thoughts and experience with this focal length 😉
will there be a new f2?
Hey there, haven’t heard of a new version coming out any time soon
Cheers
Could you make a video about how you graded those processed pics? Thank you
Hello there, sure thing! Stay tuned 👍🏼
@@cris_photography Thank you Cris those pictures were wonderful. 👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻👌🏻
You betcha 😉
Great pic man 😎
Thanks a lot
you should put lable on each one in the video, i dont know which one is it as your English made me confuse
Thanks for your feedback
The xf23mmf2 is for me the most boring lens in the Fujifilm lineup. It was the first lens I bought but also the first I sold. I got some great shots with it but it doesn't have the rendering of 18mmf2 or 35mm1.4 that I love. It’s just good, sharp and clean which is good for work. But when I want to get creative this lens does not have what it takes.
I hear you! I can see how that is indeed. Take care
Lol, nice khaki field bronze… thought you looked familiar haha
😉😁
Born in east LA
✌🏻
0:49 Neuchatel?
Oui 😌
How funny, it's a small world. Excellent content and nicely presented opinions. Liked and subscribed ;)
Thanks 🙏 much appreciated!
CRAZY how much wider the field of view is on the F2.
Yep 👍🏼
Great video. Thinking of getting the new one for low-light and intimate (low noise) environments but close to 1000 euros is a bit steep for just that scenario..
Thanks for stopping by and yes, amazing lens! I will be testing it with the XH2 in the coming days and see how it is with the new sensor.
I hear you on the price in fact and I really like the original 1.4 version too!
Take care
@@cris_photography Thanks for getting back to me! I was just thinking last night that the old one might be more affordable now second hand. I do think focussing speed might be a problem for me but the biggest scenario is low light bonfire / intimate shoot and neither requires lightning fast AF so this might be a really good idea. You take care too!
Oh and also: Have fun with the XH2. Seems like an amazing camera!
I prefer the old one because it looks so much sexier.
I does indeed!
对比照片有局部放大就更好了！
I hear ya - I take note for next time! Cheers
bit confusing-interrupting making a video review of two models with the same F stop and mixing it alongside with a different f stop lens. In such a case I would make a separate video, such as old 1.4 vs 2.0 or new 1.4 vs 2.0. You could mention the f2 version at the beginning whatever but then focus only on the two F1.4. Cheers
Thanks for the feedback 👍🏼
I don’t think - from a user standpoint - that’s incorrect to show all 3 models. If I want to know about the 3 and which would be best for me I’d like to see them all compared to one another.
But your idea ain’t wrong either by all means!
Take care
I'd have to disagree, the used prices for the f2 and old 1.4 are very similar so it makes sense to compare the cheaper offerings to the newer version, this is exactly the video I was looking for!
I think the f2 has more character. I’m not that interested in sharpness.
Cool 👍🏼 ya often f2 is plenty of enough too! Cheers
"the f2 weights exactly half the weight (180g) than the new 1.4 (374g)". So, not "exactly" lol
Now THATs a useful and deciding comment and observation lol
Is this sponsored? Why did you feature new f1.4 larger than the others so many times. Seems like it encourages bias
What you mean by “larger than the others”? Size wise?
Ps: Nop, never sponsored unless I mentioned so
@@cris_photography what I meant was every time you compared the lenses the new one always was featured larger, this made it hard to compare without a bias.
Less is best mate... you can leave the mm's
The mm’s?
@@cris_photography The small stuff.. the millimeters fgs
@@justnoted2995 Focal length absolutely matters lmao
Чел просто не знает даже, что нужно сравнивать и куда смотреть.
How so?
This is a really terrible comparison. The shots where you are comparing and you have split the screen into 3 equal parts is good but when you use different sized photos this is not a direct comparison
Different sized photos? What you mean ?
I’d get the new wr if the wasn’t so ugly.
Hear ya
What information do you think we can actually gain from having three little images in one frame on a RUclips video ? Really ? The big problem with all you RUclipsrs and photography is that in order to keep doing videos to try to get you either fame or fortune, the only thing you can think of is to do 'technical' stuff as the possibilities are almost endless. And the problem with that is that over the years the naive begin to believe that the technical stuff is the most important element in photography which everyone with any experience at all knows is absolute bollocks. Most of the worlds acknowledged greatest photographs are nothing to do with the technicals but to do with content. But RUclipsrs find that difficult to handle as they can't see a way of doing constant videos on such an esoteric and subjective topic. If you really want to do videos like this properly put the RAW images somewhere and leave links for people to download. Then they can make their value judgements themselves. But the videos themselves with tiny compressed images are pretty valueless.
I hear ya Mike. 2 things: 1) am not “RUclipsrs” - am Cris. Don’t give a damn about “all them RUclipsrs” cause you ARE using a generality that means absolutely nothing to me. 2) I helped hundreds of people - including on a personal one on one basis to improve their photography. So talking “fame” and “fortune” makes no sense. Wanna talk fortune? I make more money in my professional job as a photographer and videographer in one shoot than RUclips brings me in a YEAR. How about we keep the personal beef out of the equation and talk about the main (and really ONLY valid point here) and that is the comparison shots. I find that to be a good point and I’ll see to it to include raw download somehow in the future. Cheers
@@cris_photography It's not meant to be a personal beef, though I really don't understand the proliferation of self professed photography experts giving so much advice, particularly about the technical aspects of photography which is driving people to think that technicals create good pix. Which they really do not. You may have the best of motives, and I'm sure you have, but d'you really think there's a need for so much technical clap trap, which much of it is ? Yours could be the exception of course....
@@MikeKleinsteuber make a better video then, don't be a critic without reason
I noticed that the background was more blurry at each aperture on the new F1.4 than on the old f1.4 and F2 !