BENOISON vs Canon EF-S 55-

Overview of the 85mm f1.8 Portrait Lens and Canon EF-S 55-250mm F4-5.6 is STM

The 85mm f1.8 Portrait Lens is priced at $96.22, while the Canon EF-S 55-250mm F4-5.6 is STM comes in at $329.99. This represents a significant difference, with the Canon lens costing about 243% more than the BENOISON lens. Choosing between these two lenses will depend heavily on your photography needs, as they cater to different styles and situations.

The 85mm f1.8 Portrait Lens is a manual focus lens, ideal for portraits and street photography with a large aperture that creates beautiful bokeh. In contrast, the Canon EF-S 55-250mm is a versatile telephoto zoom lens, featuring image stabilization and a broader focal range suitable for various subjects, including wildlife and sports.

Image Quality Comparison

When it comes to image quality, both lenses offer distinct advantages based on their intended use. The 85mm f1.8 Portrait Lens is designed for portraiture and excels in producing sharp images with a shallow depth of field, thanks to its f1.8 aperture. This feature allows for stunning background blur, making your subjects stand out.

On the other hand, the Canon EF-S 55-250mm includes a UD lens element that reduces chromatic aberration, ensuring high-resolution and high-contrast images throughout its zoom range. This lens is particularly beneficial for capturing distant subjects, providing excellent clarity at 250mm. Both lenses deliver quality images, but their effectiveness will depend on the context in which they are used.

Focusing Mechanism

The focusing mechanism is a critical point of differentiation between these two lenses. The 85mm f1.8 Portrait Lens is a manual focus (MF) lens, which requires users to adjust the focus ring manually to achieve clarity. This can lead to a more hands-on and creative shooting experience but may also present challenges for beginners.

Conversely, the Canon EF-S 55-250mm features an STM (Stepping Motor) system, which provides fast and silent focusing. This feature is particularly advantageous for video recording or capturing fleeting moments, making it more user-friendly for those who prefer automatic settings. Therefore, the choice between manual and automatic focusing can significantly impact your shooting style.

Compatibility and Use Cases

In terms of compatibility, the 85mm f1.8 Portrait Lens is specifically designed for a range of Nikon DSLRs, including models like the D3500, D850, and D7500, among others. It cannot be used with Nikon's Z-series mirrorless cameras. This lens is best suited for photographers focused on portrait and street photography.

The Canon EF-S 55-250mm is compatible with Canon's APS-C DSLR cameras and offers a much broader use case due to its zoom capabilities. It's ideal for capturing a variety of subjects, from portraits to sports and wildlife. If versatility is your priority, the Canon lens provides a more flexible option.

Price Analysis

The price difference between these two lenses is quite substantial. The 85mm f1.8 Portrait Lens is available for $96.22, making it an economical choice for photographers looking for a quality portrait lens. In contrast, the Canon EF-S 55-250mm is priced at $329.99, which is about $233.77 more than the BENOISON lens. This price gap reflects not only the differences in functionality but also the brand value associated with Canon.

For those on a budget or just starting, the 85mm lens offers incredible value without compromising on image quality for portraiture work. However, if you're willing to invest more for versatility, the Canon lens may justify its higher price.

Size and Portability

When considering size and portability, the 85mm f1.8 Portrait Lens is generally more compact and lightweight than the Canon EF-S 55-250mm. The smaller size of the BENOISON lens makes it easier to carry, particularly for street photography where mobility is essential.

In contrast, the Canon EF-S 55-250mm, with its telephoto zoom range, is bulkier and heavier, which may be a consideration for those who prioritize portability in their gear. While both lenses are designed to be user-friendly, the difference in size could influence your choice based on how you plan to use them.

User Experience and Control

The user experience differs significantly between the two lenses. The 85mm f1.8 Portrait Lens requires users to manually adjust focus and set exposure, which may be daunting for novice photographers. However, this manual control can lead to greater creative freedom and personalized results.

In contrast, the Canon EF-S 55-250mm is designed for ease of use, with features like image stabilization that help reduce camera shake, especially at longer focal lengths. This lens is ideal for those who prefer a more automated experience, enabling them to focus on composition rather than technical adjustments. Your level of experience and comfort with manual settings will heavily influence your enjoyment of these lenses.

Which should you buy?

Choosing between the 85mm f1.8 Portrait Lens and the Canon EF-S 55-250mm F4-5.6 is ultimately about your specific photography needs. If you're focused on portraiture and appreciate manual control, the BENOISON lens at $96.22 offers excellent value. However, for those who need a versatile zoom lens with automatic features, the Canon at $329.99 may be worth the investment. Consider your shooting style, budget, and the types of photography you plan to pursue to make the best choice for your needs.