SHOOTOUT: Fujifilm GF 55/1.7 vs Fujifilm GF 35-70: Mt Conness SE Ridge (GFX100 II)
This definitive shootout from f/1.7 to f/11 pits the Fujifilm GF 55mm f/1.7 WR against the Fujifilm GF 35-70mm f/4.5-5.6 uses a demanding distance scene. It confirms and extends the conclusions of Snow-Crusted Cliff and demonstrates the superiority of the 55/1.7 to a compelling degree. Together, the case is closed for which is the better lens.
The 35-70mm has a maximum aperture of f/5.2 at the 55mm zoom setting. For an inexpensive zoom lens on medium format, it is a remarkably strong performer but only when it is stopped-down ~1.5 stops or so from maximum aperture eg f/7.1 at the wide end and f/9 towards the long end. Note well that this aperture range (vs f/5.6 or brighter) is a guaranteed loser due to diffraction dulling.
SHOOTOUT: Fujifilm GF 55/1.7 vs Fujifilm GF 35-70: Mt Conness SE Ridge (GFX100 II)
Includes images up to full camera resolution from f/1.7 to f/11, plus crops.