BENOISON vs Canon RF28mm F2.8 STM Lens, RF Mount, Wide-Angle

Introduction

When it comes to choosing between the 85mm f1.8 Portrait Lens by BENOISON and the Canon RF28mm F2.8 STM Lens, photographers must consider their specific needs and preferences. The BENOISON lens is priced at $96.22, while the Canon lens costs $299.00, making the BENOISON option about 68% cheaper. This price difference might influence your decision based on your budget and the type of photography you intend to pursue.

Lens Type and Focus Mechanism

The BENOISON 85mm f1.8 Portrait Lens is a manual focus lens, meaning it requires the photographer to adjust the focus manually. This lens is ideal for those who enjoy taking control of their photography, especially in portrait and street photography scenarios. In contrast, the Canon RF28mm F2.8 STM Lens features an automatic focus mechanism that uses Canon's stepping motor for smooth and quiet operation, particularly useful for video work. The choice between manual and automatic focus can significantly affect your shooting experience and the results you achieve.

Image Quality and Performance

Both lenses deliver excellent image quality, but they cater to different styles of photography. The BENOISON lens offers a large f1.8 aperture that creates stunning background bokeh, enhancing shallow depth-of-field effects, making it perfect for portraits. On the other hand, the Canon RF28mm F2.8 STM Lens is designed with three aspheric elements and Canon Super Spectra Coating, which minimizes ghosting and flare. If you prioritize artistic portrait photography with blurred backgrounds, the BENOISON lens may be more appealing. However, for everyday photography and video, the Canon lens provides versatility and clarity.

Compatibility and Usage

The BENOISON 85mm lens is compatible with a wide range of Nikon DSLR cameras, specifically the D-Series models, from D3400 to D850. However, it is not suitable for Nikon's Z-series mirrorless cameras, which may limit its appeal for users transitioning to newer camera systems. In contrast, the Canon RF28mm lens is designed for full-frame EOS R series cameras but can also be used on APS-C sensors, providing coverage equivalent to approximately 45mm. This flexibility makes the Canon lens a better choice for photographers who may own multiple camera types.

Size and Portability

Portability is another crucial factor when choosing a lens, especially for travel and street photography. The BENOISON 85mm lens is quite compact and relatively lightweight for an 85mm lens, allowing for easy handling in various shooting situations. The Canon RF28mm F2.8 STM Lens is notably more compact and lightweight, often described as a pancake lens, making it incredibly easy to carry around. If you frequently travel or shoot on the go, the Canon lens might be the more practical option due to its size.

Price and Value

The price difference between the two lenses is quite significant, with the BENOISON lens retailing at $96.22 and the Canon lens at $299.00. This means that the BENOISON lens is about 68% less expensive than the Canon option. For those on a budget or just starting in photography, the BENOISON lens offers great value for its price, especially considering its capabilities in portrait photography. However, the Canon lens, while more expensive, provides features that may justify its higher price for those looking for a versatile, high-quality lens for both photography and videography.

Intended Use Cases

Each lens serves different photography niches effectively. The BENOISON 85mm f1.8 lens excels in portrait and street photography, making it ideal for photographers who want to capture intimate and detailed shots. Its manual focus allows for creative control, which can be a significant advantage in these genres. Conversely, the Canon RF28mm F2.8 STM lens is perfect for general-purpose photography, including travel, street, and videography. Its wide-angle perspective provides a distinct look without being overly wide, making it suitable for a variety of shooting scenarios.

Which should you buy?

Choosing between the BENOISON 85mm f1.8 Portrait Lens and the Canon RF28mm F2.8 STM Lens ultimately depends on your specific needs and shooting style. If you are focused on portrait photography and appreciate the finer control of manual focus, the BENOISON lens is a fantastic, budget-friendly option. However, if you seek versatility for various photography styles and the convenience of automatic focus, the Canon lens is worth the investment despite its higher price. Each lens has its strengths, making the decision highly personal based on what you value most in your photography journey.