GFX 35-70 zoom - IQ compared to overlapping primes?

Hi,

I have the opportunity to buy a used GFX50R. I've used MF film extensively, so I understand shooting MF. My question is not about the camera but about the lenses I'd then need to buy.... My interest is purely landscapes. As an overnight hiker I need to minimize weight. Expense is an issue for me as a retiree. I like the concept of two small primes - definitely the 30mm and possibly the 45mm or 50mm, plus I'd probably adapt one small longer MF lens. Question : how good is the GFX 35-70 compared to the GFX primes in its zoom range - the 45mm, 50mm and 63mm? NB that I'm interested in IQ at landscape apertures - the loss of maximum aperture isn't a concern. Has anyone actually been able to use and compare them?

Many thx, Rod

My first GFX lens was the GF50mm and I recently purchased the 35-70. From my experience for your use case there shouldnt be any noticeable difference. I recently took both lenses and (as you are planning a longer adapted lens) a Zeiss 135 on a trip to St. Augustine, FL. I used the 35-70 for the majority of the trip and felt limited the one time I took out the GF50mm. For what you are wanting just get the 35-70 and carry one lens instead of three primes, it is a great lens. I will probably end up selling my 50 and get a GF100-200 to add to the 35-70 to make a versatile travel pair.

Hi Stephen,

Thanks. I've read a few reviews - I'm suspecting that the primes might still extract the best from the format. The 30mm and 45mm aren't too big. The GXF lenses certainly get a lot bigger when you start looking beyond the standard range. Undecided - will think on it a bit more.

Thanks again, Rod

For what its worth the 35-70 fully collapsed is almost the same size as the 50, while also being slightly lighter. I was at the same decision tree as you and decided to give the 35-70 a try, for $500 why not. I have been strictly a prime shooter, but having used the 35-70 there is no way I would carry the 50 and 30 over using just the 35-70. Just not having to change lenses is worth it and I see no IQ difference at landscape apertures.