JINTU vs Rokinon

Overview of the 85mm f1.8 Portrait Lens

The 85mm f1.8 Portrait Lens is designed specifically for Canon EOS cameras and offers a manual focus experience. Priced at $94.99, this lens is significantly more affordable than the Rokinon 14mm f/2.8, making it an attractive option for photographers on a budget. It features a robust metal body and a large f/1.8 aperture, which allows for excellent depth of field control and the ability to create stunning portraits with beautifully blurred backgrounds.

The lens is compatible with a wide range of Canon cameras, including models like the EOS Rebel T8i, T7, and 90D. Its manual focus capability and lack of electronic contacts mean that it requires a bit more effort to use, but for those who appreciate hands-on control, this lens provides a rewarding experience.

Overview of the Rokinon 14mm f/2.8 IF ED Super Lens

The Rokinon 14mm f/2.8 IF ED Super Lens, priced at $231.25, is an ultra-wide-angle lens that excels in landscape and astrophotography. It offers a remarkable 115.7° angle of view, capturing expansive scenes with remarkable detail. This lens is built for professional use, featuring a robust design that weighs 31.7oz, making it slightly heavier than the 85mm Portrait Lens.

The Rokinon lens includes advanced optical designs with 14 elements in 10 groups, ensuring exceptional sharpness and clarity across the frame. Its fast f/2.8 maximum aperture enhances low-light performance, allowing photographers to capture crisp images even in challenging conditions. This lens is ideal for those looking to expand their creative horizons with ultra-wide shots.

Image Quality Comparison

When it comes to image quality, the Rokinon 14mm lens excels with its advanced optical design, featuring 14 elements that minimize distortion and aberrations. This lens is specifically crafted to deliver exceptional sharpness and clarity, making it an excellent choice for landscape and architectural photography.

In contrast, the 85mm f1.8 Portrait Lens offers high-quality images as well, with a strong emphasis on portraiture. The large f/1.8 aperture allows for shallow depth of field, creating pleasing bokeh effects that highlight the subject. While both lenses provide impressive image quality, the Rokinon may have the edge in terms of overall sharpness and detail due to its intricate optical design.

Versatility in Usage

The 85mm f1.8 Portrait Lens is versatile and suitable for various photography styles, including portraits, landscapes, and events. Its compatibility with numerous Canon EOS models makes it a great choice for hobbyists and professionals alike. However, its manual focus might limit its appeal to those who prefer automatic settings.

On the other hand, the Rokinon 14mm lens is particularly suited for specific genres such as landscape, astrophotography, and real estate photography. Its ultra-wide perspective allows for creative compositions that the 85mm cannot achieve. Thus, while the 85mm lens is more general-purpose, the Rokinon shines in specific scenarios where wide-angle shots are required.

Build Quality and Design

The build quality of both lenses is commendable, but they differ in their construction and intended use. The 85mm f1.8 Portrait Lens features a strong metal body, which is essential for durability, especially in demanding shooting environments. Its design emphasizes portability and ease of handling, making it a practical choice for portrait photographers.

Conversely, the Rokinon 14mm lens is built for professional use, with a weight of 31.7oz and a robust design that can withstand various conditions. This durability makes it ideal for outdoor shoots, especially in rugged environments. However, the added weight may be a consideration for those looking for a lightweight setup.

Price Point and Value

At $94.99, the 85mm f1.8 Portrait Lens is about 59% cheaper than the Rokinon 14mm lens, which retails for $231.25. This significant price difference makes the 85mm lens an attractive option for budget-conscious photographers who still want quality performance. For those just starting out or looking to expand their lens collection without a hefty investment, the 85mm lens presents a compelling value.

In contrast, the Rokinon 14mm lens, while more expensive, offers specialized features that cater to specific photography needs. Photographers who require an ultra-wide-angle lens for landscapes or architectural work may find the investment worthwhile for the enhanced capabilities it provides.

User Experience and Ease of Use

The 85mm f1.8 Portrait Lens requires manual focus, which may be a drawback for some users who prefer automated settings. However, for those who enjoy the art of manual focusing, this lens allows for complete control over composition and sharpness. The learning curve may be steep for beginners, but experienced photographers may appreciate the creative potential.

The Rokinon 14mm lens also features manual focus, but its design allows for precise control, making it easier to achieve the desired focus even in wide-angle shots. The lens is optimized for low-light performance, making it user-friendly for photographers working in challenging lighting conditions.

Which should you buy?

Choosing between the 85mm f1.8 Portrait Lens and the Rokinon 14mm f/2.8 lens largely depends on your photography needs and preferences. If you are looking for a budget-friendly option that excels in portrait photography with excellent bokeh, the 85mm lens is a fantastic choice, especially at its price of $94.99.

However, if you require an ultra-wide-angle lens for landscapes or astrophotography and are willing to invest more for superior image quality and versatility, the Rokinon 14mm at $231.25 may be the better option. Ultimately, your decision should align with your specific photographic style and the types of images you wish to create.