BENOISON vs Fujifilm Fujinon XF35mmF2 R WR - Black

Overview of the Products

In this comparison, we have the 85mm f1.8 Portrait Lens - F Lens for Nikon and the Fujinon XF35mmF2 R WR - Black. The former is priced at $96.22, making it significantly more affordable than the Fujinon lens, which retails for $449.00. This price difference of approximately 79% makes the BENOISON lens a more accessible option for photography enthusiasts on a budget.

The BENOISON lens is designed specifically for Nikon DSLR models, emphasizing manual focus capabilities, while the Fujinon lens caters to users of Fujifilm cameras, offering advanced features like weather resistance and fast autofocus technology. Each lens targets different user needs and preferences, making this comparison particularly relevant for photographers considering their options.

Design and Build Quality

The 85mm f1.8 Portrait Lens features a classic design aimed at manual focus photography, suitable for various Nikon cameras. It is constructed with the essential elements for portrait photography, providing a sleek exterior that is straightforward to handle. In contrast, the Fujinon XF35mmF2 R WR boasts a weather-resistant design with eight sealing points, ensuring durability and performance even in challenging conditions, down to temperatures as low as 14 degrees.

While the BENOISON lens is lightweight and simple, it lacks the rugged build quality of the Fujinon lens. The latter’s design not only enhances its usability in adverse weather but also positions it as a premium choice for serious photographers who often shoot outdoors.

Focusing Mechanism

The focusing mechanism is another significant difference between these two lenses. The 85mm f1.8 Portrait Lens is a manual focus lens, meaning users must adjust focus manually, which can be challenging for those unfamiliar with this approach. This lens requires the camera to be set to manual mode, and adjustments must be made using the focus ring to achieve sharp images.

Conversely, the Fujinon XF35mmF2 R WR features an inner focus system that allows for an impressive autofocus speed of just 0.08 seconds. This makes it ideally suited for capturing fast-moving subjects or spontaneous moments, providing a level of convenience that the BENOISON lens cannot match.

Aperture and Image Quality

The aperture is a critical factor in lens performance, and here, the 85mm f1.8 lens shines with its wide f1.8 aperture. This allows for stunning background bokeh, making it ideal for portrait photography and creating images with a shallow depth of field. The lens's design facilitates excellent light intake, which is particularly advantageous in low-light conditions.

On the other hand, the Fujinon XF35mmF2 R WR offers a slightly narrower maximum aperture of f2.0. However, it compensates for this with its nine-blade aperture design, which creates smooth and circular bokeh. While both lenses provide beautiful image quality, the BENOISON lens may be more attractive for those focusing on portraiture, while the Fujinon would appeal to those seeking versatility across various photography styles.

Compatibility

Compatibility is another critical consideration when choosing a lens. The 85mm f1.8 Portrait Lens is explicitly designed for Nikon DSLR cameras, compatible with a wide range of models including the D3500, D850, and D7500, among others. This focus on Nikon cameras makes it a solid choice for Nikon users looking for a budget-friendly portrait lens.

In contrast, the Fujinon XF35mmF2 R WR is designed for Fujifilm cameras, particularly the X-series models. Its design and build cater exclusively to this ecosystem, meaning that users must have compatible Fujifilm equipment to utilize its features fully. This difference in compatibility could significantly influence a photographer's purchasing decision based on their existing camera system.

Price Comparison

When it comes to pricing, the 85mm f1.8 Portrait Lens offers substantial savings, priced at $96.22, compared to the Fujinon XF35mmF2 R WR at $449.00. This price difference of about $352.78 makes the BENOISON lens an attractive option for those who want to invest in a decent portrait lens without breaking the bank.

The large disparity in price highlights the target audience for each lens. The BENOISON lens is geared towards budget-conscious photographers or those just starting in portrait photography. In contrast, the Fujinon lens, with its advanced features and higher price point, appeals to professionals or serious enthusiasts who prioritize quality and performance over cost.

Use Cases

The intended use cases for these lenses differ significantly. The 85mm f1.8 Portrait Lens is perfect for photographers who specialize in portrait photography, delivering sharp images with beautiful bokeh effects. It excels in half-body and full-body portraits and is also suitable for street photography, thanks to its natural perspective.

On the flip side, the Fujinon XF35mmF2 R WR is versatile enough to cater to various photographic needs. Its weather-resistant design makes it suitable for outdoor shoots, while its fast autofocus system enables quick captures, beneficial for street photography, events, or wildlife photography. This lens's adaptability lends itself to a broader range of shooting situations compared to the BENOISON lens.

Which should you buy?

Choosing between the 85mm f1.8 Portrait Lens - F Lens for Nikon and the Fujinon XF35mmF2 R WR ultimately depends on your specific needs and preferences. If you are a Nikon user looking for an affordable option focused on portrait photography, the BENOISON lens is an excellent choice at $96.22. However, if you own a Fujifilm camera and seek a versatile, high-performance lens with weather resistance and fast autofocus, the Fujinon lens, though pricier at $449.00, would be the better investment. Each lens serves different purposes and audiences, so consider your photography style and requirements carefully before making a decision.