BENOISON vs Canon EF

Overview of the Lenses

The 85mm f1.8 Portrait Lens - F Lens for Nikon is priced at $96.22, while the Canon EF 50mm f/1.8 STM Lens costs $169.00. This makes the Nikon lens about 43% cheaper than the Canon lens. Both lenses are prime options designed for portrait photography but cater to different camera systems, which affects their usability and target audience.

The Nikon lens is a manual focus lens compatible with various Nikon DSLR models, while the Canon lens is an autofocus lens designed for Canon cameras. This fundamental difference in focus capability and compatibility shapes the user experience significantly, especially for those who prioritize convenience in focusing.

Lens Compatibility

When it comes to camera compatibility, the 85mm f1.8 Portrait Lens is tailored specifically for Nikon DSLRs, compatible with a wide range of models including D3500, D850, and D7500 among others. This lens is not suitable for Nikon's Z-series mirrorless cameras. In contrast, the Canon EF 50mm f/1.8 STM Lens is designed for Canon's EOS series, delivering excellent performance on both full-frame and APS-C cameras.

The compatibility aspect is crucial for photographers who already own a specific camera brand. If you own a Nikon, the 85mm lens is a natural choice, while Canon users should lean towards the 50mm lens. Therefore, the choice hinges heavily on the camera system each photographer uses.

Focal Length and Aperture

The focal lengths of these two lenses differ significantly. The 85mm f1.8 Portrait Lens offers a longer focal length, which is ideal for half-body and full-body portraits, providing a natural perspective with stunning background bokeh. Meanwhile, the Canon EF 50mm f/1.8 STM Lens has a 50mm focal length, making it versatile for portraits, action shots, and even nighttime photography.

Both lenses feature a maximum aperture of f/1.8, allowing for effective low-light performance and the ability to achieve a shallow depth of field. However, the longer focal length of the Nikon lens can create a more pronounced bokeh effect, which is often desired in portrait photography.

Autofocus vs. Manual Focus

A significant distinction between these two lenses is their focus mechanism. The 85mm f1.8 Portrait Lens is a manual focus lens, meaning users need to adjust focus manually by turning the focus ring. This can be challenging for beginners, but it allows for precise control over focus, which some experienced photographers prefer.

The Canon EF 50mm f/1.8 STM Lens, on the other hand, features a stepping motor that provides near-silent and continuous autofocus. This is particularly beneficial for video shooting and makes it easier to capture spontaneous moments without the hassle of manual adjustments. For those who value ease of use and speed, the Canon lens has a distinct advantage.

Build Quality and Design

The 85mm f1.8 Portrait Lens focuses on functionality without excessive frills, while the Canon EF 50mm f/1.8 STM Lens boasts a more modern design with a rugged metal mount that enhances durability. The Canon lens is compact and lightweight, making it a convenient option for everyday use.

In terms of user experience, the Canon lens includes an improved focus ring placement for easier manual adjustments, making it more user-friendly. Although the Nikon lens is less sophisticated in design, its simplicity may appeal to purists who prioritize optical performance over aesthetics.

Image Quality

Both lenses have a reputation for producing sharp images with excellent color balance. The 85mm f1.8 Portrait Lens is praised for its ability to create stunning background bokeh, which enhances portrait shots. The large f/1.8 aperture contributes to its performance in low-light conditions, making it suitable for various shooting environments.

The Canon EF 50mm f/1.8 STM Lens also excels in low-light situations, thanks to its bright aperture. Its circular 7-blade design contributes to beautiful background blur, making it a solid choice for portrait photography as well. In terms of image quality, both lenses provide outstanding results, but the user’s preference for focal length and bokeh characteristics may sway their decision.

Price Comparison

The 85mm f1.8 Portrait Lens is priced at $96.22, while the Canon EF 50mm f/1.8 STM Lens is priced at $169.00, making the Canon lens about 76% more expensive than the Nikon lens. This price disparity is significant, particularly for entry-level photographers or those on a budget.

When considering which lens to purchase, potential buyers should weigh the price against the features and performance they value most. The Nikon lens provides great value for money, especially for Nikon users, while the Canon lens offers advanced autofocus features that justify its higher price for Canon users.

Which should you buy?

Choosing between the 85mm f1.8 Portrait Lens and the Canon EF 50mm f/1.8 STM Lens ultimately depends on your camera system and personal preferences. If you own a Nikon DSLR and appreciate manual focus for precise control, the 85mm lens is an excellent choice at a more accessible price point. Conversely, if you are a Canon user who values autofocus convenience and a versatile design, the Canon EF 50mm f/1.8 STM Lens may be worth the higher investment. Both lenses deliver impressive image quality, making them solid choices in their respective categories.