BENOISON vs Canon EF

Price Comparison

The 85mm f1.8 Portrait Lens - F Lens for Nikon is priced at $96.22, making it about 38% cheaper than the Canon EF 50mm f/1.8 STM Lens, which retails for $155.99. This significant price difference may appeal to budget-conscious photographers looking for quality without breaking the bank. The Nikon lens offers a manual focus experience, which can be an attractive feature for those who prefer a hands-on approach, while the Canon lens, despite its higher cost, provides advanced autofocus capabilities.

Build Quality and Design

Both lenses are designed for specific camera systems, with the Nikon lens tailored for various Nikon DSLR models and the Canon lens specifically for Canon cameras. The 85mm f1.8 Portrait Lens boasts a robust manual focus design, which can often lead to a more tactile experience during shooting. In contrast, the Canon EF 50mm f/1.8 STM features a compact and lightweight design, ideal for everyday shooting and portability. This difference in design philosophy reflects the unique target audiences for each lens, with Nikon catering to those who appreciate manual control, while Canon focuses on ease of use and convenience.

Focal Length and Aperture

The 85mm f1.8 Portrait Lens offers a longer focal length, making it perfect for portraits and close-up photography, while the Canon EF 50mm f/1.8 STM provides a versatile 50mm focal length suitable for a variety of shooting scenarios. The maximum aperture for both lenses is f/1.8, allowing for great low-light performance and beautiful background bokeh. However, the effective focal length of the Canon lens is 80mm on APS-C cameras, making it an excellent choice for those using Canon’s crop sensors as well. This versatility can be a deciding factor for photographers who frequently switch between full-frame and APS-C systems.

Autofocus Versus Manual Focus

One of the most significant differences between these two lenses is their focus mechanism. The 85mm f1.8 Portrait Lens is a manual focus lens, meaning it requires users to adjust focus manually, which can be challenging for beginners but rewarding for those who enjoy the art of manual photography. On the other hand, the Canon EF 50mm f/1.8 STM includes a stepping motor (STM) for near-silent autofocus, making it ideal for shooting video and capturing stills with minimal noise. This feature may appeal to those who prioritize convenience and speed in their photography.

Image Quality

Both lenses are designed to deliver excellent image quality, but they cater to different photographic styles. The 85mm f1.8 Portrait Lens excels in portrait photography, providing stunning background bokeh and depth-of-field effects that are often sought after for half-body and full-body shots. The Canon EF 50mm f/1.8 STM is also suitable for portraits but shines in versatility, making it great for action and nighttime photography as well. Each lens has its strengths, with the Nikon lens focusing on portraiture and the Canon lens excelling in various shooting conditions.

Compatibility and Use Cases

Compatibility is a critical factor to consider when choosing between these two lenses. The 85mm f1.8 Portrait Lens is compatible with a wide range of Nikon DSLR models, including the D3500, D850, and D7500, among others. However, it is not designed for Nikon’s Z-series mirrorless cameras. Conversely, the Canon EF 50mm f/1.8 STM lens is specifically made for Canon cameras and has the advantage of working seamlessly with both full-frame and APS-C formats. This broad compatibility makes the Canon lens a versatile option for users of different Canon camera systems.

User Experience and Learning Curve

The user experience differs significantly between these two lenses. The 85mm f1.8 Portrait Lens requires a learning curve due to its manual focus design, which may initially be daunting for novice photographers. Users must manually turn the focus ring to achieve sharp images, and those unfamiliar with manual settings may struggle initially. In contrast, the Canon EF 50mm f/1.8 STM offers a more user-friendly experience with its autofocus capabilities, making it easier for beginners to capture sharp images without extensive knowledge of manual settings. This difference can greatly influence a photographer's choice depending on their skill level and shooting preferences.

Which should you buy?

Ultimately, the choice between the 85mm f1.8 Portrait Lens - F Lens for Nikon and the Canon EF 50mm f/1.8 STM Lens comes down to personal preference and intended usage. If you are a Nikon user who enjoys the tactile experience of manual focusing and are looking for a budget-friendly option for portrait photography, the Nikon lens is a solid choice at $96.22. On the other hand, if you are a Canon user seeking versatility and ease of use, the Canon lens, priced at $155.99, offers advanced autofocus features and is well-suited for various shooting situations. Each lens serves its purpose effectively, catering to different types of photographers and their unique needs.