BENOISON vs YONGNUO YN35mm F2 Lens 1:2 AF/MF Wide-Angle

Overview of the Lenses

The 85mm f1.8 Portrait Lens for Nikon is a manual focus lens priced at $96.22, while the YONGNUO YN35mm F2 Lens for Canon is an autofocus lens available for $106.00. The Nikon lens is designed for portrait photography, offering a large aperture for beautiful background bokeh, whereas the YONGNUO lens serves as a versatile wide-angle option for various photography styles.

Focusing Mechanism

The 85mm f1.8 Portrait Lens operates solely in manual focus mode, requiring users to adjust the focus ring manually. This can be a challenge for beginners but allows for precise control once mastered. In contrast, the YONGNUO YN35mm F2 supports both autofocus and manual focus modes, providing flexibility for users. This makes the YONGNUO more user-friendly, especially for those who prefer quick adjustments during shooting.

Aperture and Image Quality

The 85mm f1.8 lens features a wide aperture of f1.8, which excels in low-light conditions and provides stunning depth-of-field effects. This makes it ideal for capturing portraits where background blur enhances the subject. The YONGNUO lens, with a slightly smaller aperture of f2, still performs well in various lighting conditions but may not achieve the same level of bokeh as the Nikon lens. The difference in aperture size can significantly affect the aesthetic quality of photographs, especially in portraiture.

Compatibility and Mount

The 85mm f1.8 Portrait Lens is specifically designed for Nikon DSLR cameras, including models like the D3500 and D850. It is not compatible with Nikon's Z-series mirrorless cameras. Conversely, the YONGNUO YN35mm F2 is compatible with Canon EF mount cameras, making it a versatile addition for Canon users. The choice of lens will heavily depend on the camera system a photographer is using, as these lenses cater to different brands.

Price Comparison

The 85mm f1.8 Portrait Lens is priced at $96.22, making it about 10% cheaper than the YONGNUO YN35mm F2, which retails for $106.00. This price difference can be significant for budget-conscious photographers. However, considering the functionality and features each lens offers, the investment in the YONGNUO could be justified for those who need autofocus capabilities.

Build Quality and Design

Both lenses exhibit good build quality, but their designs cater to different user experiences. The 85mm f1.8 lens is straightforward, focusing on manual operation, which might appeal to traditionalists and those who enjoy the art of manual photography. The YONGNUO lens, on the other hand, boasts a chrome high-precision metal bayonet and multiple coated glass elements, enhancing durability and optical performance. This makes the YONGNUO lens a robust option for photographers who require a reliable lens for various shooting conditions.

Intended Use Cases

The 85mm f1.8 Portrait Lens is tailored for portrait photography, making it ideal for half-body and full-body shots, as well as detailed close-ups. Its large aperture allows for impressive background separation. In contrast, the YONGNUO YN35mm F2 is a wide-angle lens suited for a broader range of photography, including landscapes and street photography. This versatility can be beneficial for photographers looking for a single lens to cover multiple scenarios.

Which should you buy?

Choosing between the 85mm f1.8 Portrait Lens and the YONGNUO YN35mm F2 largely depends on your photographic needs. If you prioritize portrait photography and manual focus control, the Nikon lens at $96.22 offers excellent image quality with its wide aperture. However, if you require a more versatile lens that supports both autofocus and manual focus for various types of photography, the YONGNUO lens at $106.00 could be the better choice. Each lens has its strengths, making them suitable for different users and shooting situations.