JINTU vs Fujifilm Fujinon XF35mmF2 R WR - Black

Overview of the 85mm f1.8 Portrait Lens and Fujinon XF35mmF2 R WR

The 85mm f1.8 Portrait Lens and Fujinon XF35mmF2 R WR cater to different photography needs, showcasing distinct features that appeal to various photographers. The 85mm f1.8 Portrait Lens, priced at $94.99, offers a manual focus experience designed primarily for portrait photography on Canon cameras. In contrast, the Fujinon XF35mmF2 R WR is priced significantly higher at $449.00 but provides advanced features like weather resistance and fast autofocus.

Build Quality and Design

When it comes to build quality, the 85mm f1.8 Portrait Lens boasts a strong metal body construction, making it durable for various shooting conditions. Its design incorporates a hybrid aspherical element aimed at delivering exceptional clarity with minimal distortion. On the other hand, the Fujinon XF35mmF2 R WR is also designed for durability, featuring eight sealing points that provide weather- and dust-resistance. This makes it suitable for outdoor shooting, even in extreme conditions as low as 14 degrees. The emphasis on weather sealing in the Fujinon lens makes it an excellent choice for photographers who frequently shoot in challenging environments.

Focusing Mechanism

The 85mm f1.8 Portrait Lens employs a manual focus system, giving photographers complete control over their focus points. However, this also means that the lens lacks electronic contacts, resulting in the camera not detecting the lens when mounted. In contrast, the Fujinon XF35mmF2 R WR features an inner focus system with a remarkable autofocus speed of 0.08 seconds, providing a nearly silent operation. This difference in focusing mechanism highlights the ease of use associated with the Fujinon lens, especially for those who prefer a hassle-free shooting experience.

Aperture and Image Quality

With a large aperture of f1.8, the 85mm f1.8 Portrait Lens allows photographers to achieve a shallow depth of field, creating beautiful blurred backgrounds that highlight the subject. This feature is particularly beneficial for portrait photography, where isolating the subject is often desired. The Fujinon XF35mmF2 R WR, with a maximum aperture of f2.0, also produces rich bokeh and sharp images, but its slightly smaller aperture may not offer the same level of background blur as the 85mm lens. Both lenses focus on delivering quality images, but the 85mm f1.8 lens has the edge in depth of field capabilities.

Versatility and Application

The 85mm f1.8 Portrait Lens is versatile enough for various photography applications, including landscapes, architecture, and wedding photography. Its focal length makes it particularly well-suited for portraiture, allowing for creative expression through shallow depth of field. However, the Fujinon XF35mmF2 R WR is designed with a 35mm focal length (53mm equivalent), making it a great option for street photography and everyday use. The versatility of the Fujinon lens is further enhanced by its weather-resistant design, making it suitable for outdoor conditions.

Price Comparison

The 85mm f1.8 Portrait Lens is priced at $94.99, while the Fujinon XF35mmF2 R WR comes in at $449.00. This represents a significant price difference, with the Fujinon lens being about 371% more expensive than the 85mm lens. For photographers on a budget or those just starting, the 85mm f1.8 lens offers excellent value without compromising on quality. However, the added features of the Fujinon lens, such as weather resistance and fast autofocus, may justify its higher price for professional photographers.

User Experience and Performance

Using the 85mm f1.8 Portrait Lens requires manual adjustment, which may appeal to photographers who prefer a hands-on approach. However, this can be a drawback for those seeking quick, automatic adjustments. The Fujinon XF35mmF2 R WR, with its fast autofocus and quiet operation, provides a more modern shooting experience, making it ideal for capturing fleeting moments without disturbing the environment. The choice between the two lenses will largely depend on the user’s preference for manual versus automatic focusing.

Which should you buy?

In summary, the decision between the 85mm f1.8 Portrait Lens and the Fujinon XF35mmF2 R WR hinges on your specific photography needs and budget. The 85mm lens offers exceptional value and is highly suited for portrait photography with its large aperture and manual focus. Conversely, the Fujinon lens excels in versatility, with weather resistance and rapid autofocus, making it ideal for outdoor and candid photography. If you prioritize manual control and affordability, the 85mm f1.8 is the better choice. However, if you need a robust lens that can handle a variety of conditions and offers quick focusing, the Fujinon XF35mmF2 R WR is worth the investment.