JINTU vs Canon RF28mm F2.8 STM Lens, RF Mount, Wide-Angle

Overview of the 85mm f1.8 Portrait Lens and Canon RF28mm F2.8 STM Lens

The 85mm f1.8 Portrait Lens is priced at $94.99, while the Canon RF28mm F2.8 STM Lens comes in at $299.00, making the Portrait Lens about 68% cheaper. This price difference may heavily influence a buyer’s decision, especially for those on a budget. Both lenses cater to different photography styles—one focuses on portraiture and the other on wide-angle photography. Understanding their features and use cases is crucial for potential buyers.

Design and Build Quality

The 85mm f1.8 Portrait Lens features a strong metal body construction that enhances its durability, making it a solid choice for photographers who require a reliable lens. In contrast, the Canon RF28mm F2.8 STM Lens is described as a super-compact pancake lens, designed for portability without sacrificing quality. While the 85mm lens boasts a robust build, the lightweight nature of the RF28mm makes it ideal for travel and street photography, allowing photographers to carry it effortlessly.

Optical Performance

The optical performance of the 85mm f1.8 Portrait Lens is notable for its hybrid aspherical element, which contributes to exceptional sharpness and minimal distortion. The large f/1.8 aperture allows for beautiful background blurring, enhancing portrait shots. The Canon RF28mm F2.8 STM Lens also offers excellent image quality, featuring three aspheric elements and Canon's Super Spectra Coating to minimize ghosting and flare. While both lenses provide impressive optical capabilities, the 85mm is specifically tailored for portraiture, whereas the RF28mm excels in wide-angle photography.

Focus Mechanism

The 85mm f1.8 Portrait Lens utilizes a manual focus system, giving photographers full control over their focus, but it lacks electronic contacts, which can make it less convenient for some users. On the other hand, the Canon RF28mm F2.8 STM Lens includes a leadscrew type STM focus drive, designed for smooth and quiet autofocus, particularly beneficial for video shooting. This difference in focus mechanisms may sway videographers or those who prefer automated focus toward the RF28mm.

Versatility and Use Cases

The 85mm f1.8 Portrait Lens is primarily recommended for portraits but is also suitable for various photography styles, including landscapes and weddings. Its versatility makes it a great choice for those looking to capture creative shots with a shallow depth of field. The Canon RF28mm F2.8 STM Lens, however, is marketed as an excellent choice for travel and street photography, providing a wide-angle perspective that is perfect for capturing expansive scenes. This distinction makes the RF28mm more appealing for everyday use, while the 85mm lens shines in portrait-focused settings.

Compatibility

The 85mm f1.8 Portrait Lens is compatible with a wide range of Canon EOS cameras, including models like the EOS Rebel T8i and 5D Mark IV. Its extensive compatibility makes it a versatile choice for users of different Canon models. In contrast, the Canon RF28mm F2.8 STM Lens is specifically designed for full-frame EOS R cameras but can also be used on APS-C sensor cameras, providing an equivalent focal length of approximately 45mm. This compatibility is essential for buyers who own specific camera models, as it can dictate the lens they choose.

Price Comparison

At $94.99, the 85mm f1.8 Portrait Lens is significantly more budget-friendly compared to the Canon RF28mm F2.8 STM Lens, which is priced at $299.00. The 68% price difference can be a deciding factor for many photographers, especially those who are just starting or are looking for an economical lens option. However, potential buyers should weigh the cost against the capabilities and intended use of each lens to determine which offers the best value for their specific needs.

Which should you buy?

Choosing between the 85mm f1.8 Portrait Lens and the Canon RF28mm F2.8 STM Lens ultimately depends on your photography style and needs. If you’re focused on portrait photography and desire a lens with excellent optical performance and a stunning background blur, the 85mm f1.8, priced at a mere $94.99, is an outstanding choice. Conversely, if you’re looking for a lightweight, versatile lens for travel or street photography, the Canon RF28mm F2.8 STM Lens, despite its higher price of $299.00, offers features like a compact design and smooth autofocus that can enhance your shooting experience.