Fujifilm XF 18mm f/2 R vs Samyang AF 12mm f/2.0 XF
The bottom line
These cover different focal lengths — the Fujifilm XF 18mm f/2 R is 18mm, the Samyang AF 12mm f/2.0 XF is 12mm — so they're not really substitutes. Pick by the field of view you actually need: the Fujifilm XF 18mm f/2 R for wide-angle, the Samyang AF 12mm f/2.0 XF for wide-angle.
Choose the Fujifilm XF 18mm f/2 R if…
- ✓You need more reach — it goes to 18mm vs 12mm for distant subjects, wildlife and sport.
- ✓You value portability — at 116g (4.1 oz) it's lighter than the 236g (8.3 oz) alternative for travel and all-day carry.
Choose the Samyang AF 12mm f/2.0 XF if…
- ✓You shoot wide — it starts at 12mm vs 18mm for landscapes, interiors and architecture.
Where they differ
- ›Focal range: Fujifilm XF 18mm f/2 R is 18mm, Samyang AF 12mm f/2.0 XF is 12mm — different framing and reach.
- ›Weight: the Fujifilm XF 18mm f/2 R is 116g (4.1 oz) vs 236g (8.3 oz) — you'll feel the difference handheld.
Frequently asked
Is the Fujifilm XF 18mm f/2 R or the Samyang AF 12mm f/2.0 XF better?
These cover different focal lengths — the Fujifilm XF 18mm f/2 R is 18mm, the Samyang AF 12mm f/2.0 XF is 12mm — so they're not really substitutes. Pick by the field of view you actually need: the Fujifilm XF 18mm f/2 R for wide-angle, the Samyang AF 12mm f/2.0 XF for wide-angle.
Who should choose the Fujifilm XF 18mm f/2 R?
Choose the Fujifilm XF 18mm f/2 R if you need more reach — it goes to 18mm vs 12mm for distant subjects, wildlife and sport. Choose it if you value portability — at 116g (4.1 oz) it's lighter than the 236g (8.3 oz) alternative for travel and all-day carry.
Who should choose the Samyang AF 12mm f/2.0 XF?
Choose the Samyang AF 12mm f/2.0 XF if you shoot wide — it starts at 12mm vs 18mm for landscapes, interiors and architecture.
What is the main difference between the Fujifilm XF 18mm f/2 R and the Samyang AF 12mm f/2.0 XF?
Focal range: Fujifilm XF 18mm f/2 R is 18mm, Samyang AF 12mm f/2.0 XF is 12mm — different framing and reach.
| Product | ||
|---|---|---|
| Optical Design | ||
| Focal Length | 18mm | 12mm |
| Lens Type | Prime | Prime |
| Optical Elements | 8 | 11 |
| Optical Groups | 7 | 8 |
| Aperture & Iris | ||
| Maximum Aperture | f/2 | f/2 |
| Minimum Aperture | f/16 | f/16 |
| Aperture Blades | 7 | 9 |
| Rounded Aperture | No | No |
| Coverage & Angle | ||
| Format Coverage | APS-C | APS-C |
| Lens Mount | Fujifilm X | Fujifilm X |
| Angle of View | 76° | 99° |
| 35mm Equivalent | 27-27mm | 18-18mm |
| Focus | ||
| Autofocus | Yes | Yes |
| Focus Motor | Stepping | STM |
| Focus Limiter | No | No |
| AF/MF Switch | No | No |
| Min Focus Distance | 18 cm | 13 cm |
| Max Magnification | 0.1x | 0.1x |
| Stabilization & Video | ||
| Optical Stabilization | No | No |
| Aperture Ring | Yes | No |
| Declickable Aperture | No | No |
| Parfocal | No | No |
| Internal Zoom | No | No |
| General | ||
| Price (MSRP) | $449 | $499 |
| Filter Size | 52mm | 67mm |
| Diameter | 64.5mm | 72.5mm |
| Length | 41mm | 58.4mm |
| Weight | 116g (4.1 oz) | 236g (8.3 oz) |
| Weather Sealed | No | No |
| Tripod Collar | No | No |
