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In April 2013, Fujifilm launched the XF 55‑200mm f/3.5‑4.8 R LM OIS, a versatile tele‑zoom that pairs seamlessly with the 18‑55mm f/2.8‑4 to complete the XF lens lineup for the X‑series mirrorless cameras.
With a full‑frame equivalent of 84‑305mm, this zoom incorporates built‑in optical image stabilization (OIS), 14 elements in 10 groups, two ED and one Super ED element to suppress chromatic aberration, a 62‑mm filter thread, and weighs 1.32 lb. The package includes a lens hood and a soft‑sided pouch that doubles as a cleaning cloth.
Visually, the lens is understated—no subject‑distance scale or brand markings, and the aperture ring lacks f‑stop numerals (the current aperture is shown on the camera’s LCD). It does feature a handy auto/manual aperture switch, and the included pouch is both protective and convenient for cleaning.
When mounted on the X‑E1, the lens feels slightly unwieldy at 200mm, yet autofocus remains quick and quiet. The manual focus ring turns 230° and offers fine control, though the absence of hard stops at either end can be a minor inconvenience.
DxO Analyzer tests confirm exceptional distortion control, with imperceptible pincushion across all focal lengths. Edge falloff is nonexistent, and OIS delivers an extra 3.3 stops of hand‑held sharpness. While sharpness and contrast are marginally below comparable Canon, Sigma, and Sony APS‑C zooms, the overall image quality remains highly competitive.
As Fujifilm’s sole current XF tele‑zoom, this lens delivers excellent value and optical performance. With an upcoming firmware update promising faster focusing speeds, it is a must‑own for X‑system enthusiasts.
SPECIFICATIONS
55‑200mm (57.25–199.98mm tested), f/3.5–4.8 (f/3.57–5.14 tested), 14 elements in 10 groups. Focus ring turns 230°. Zoom ring turns 50°. Focal length marked at 55‑, 70‑, 100‑, 135‑, and 200mm.
Diagonal view angle: 29‑8°
Weight: 1.32 lb
Filter size: 62 mm
Mounts: Fujifilm X‑mount
Included: Lenshood, lens wrapping cloth
Street price: $699
Website: fujifilmusa.com
TEST RESULTS
Distortion: At 55mm, 0.02% (imperceptible) pincushion; at 100mm, 0.01% (imperceptible) pincushion; at 200mm, 0.01% (imperceptible) pincushion
Light falloff: At 55mm, none; at 100mm, none; at 200mm, none
Close‑focusing distance: 40.33 inches
Maximum magnification ratio: At 55mm, 1:14.33; at 100mm, 1:8.04; at 200mm, 1:4.72
