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

Overview of the Lenses

The Altura Photo 58MM 0.43x HD Wide Angle Lens is designed for photographers seeking to enhance their wide-angle capabilities, while the YONGNUO YN35mm F2 Lens offers a versatile prime lens experience for Canon EF mount cameras. The Altura lens is priced at $36.98, making it about 65% cheaper than the YONGNUO lens, which retails for $106.00. This price difference is significant for budget-conscious photographers looking to expand their lens collection.

Compatibility and Use Cases

The Altura Photo lens attaches directly to any lens with a 58mm filter thread, making it compatible with popular Canon models like the EOS Rebel series and the EOS 70D. In contrast, the YONGNUO lens is specifically built for Canon EF mount cameras and supports both full-frame and APS-C formats. This means that while the Altura lens is great for wide-angle photography and macro shots, the YONGNUO lens excels in versatility for various shooting situations, including low-light conditions thanks to its fast aperture of F/2.

Optical Performance

The optical performance of both lenses varies based on their design and intended use. The Altura Photo lens features a 0.43x wide-angle capability and includes a detachable macro lens, which is ideal for capturing high-resolution close-ups. On the other hand, the YONGNUO lens has a minimum focusing distance of 0.25m, allowing for a natural wide-angle effect even when shooting close-up. This makes it more suitable for portraiture and general photography where you want to maintain a wider perspective.

Build Quality and Design

The YONGNUO lens emphasizes solid construction with a chrome high-precision metal bayonet, enhancing its durability and fit on the camera body. This design choice contributes to its resistance against wear and corrosion. Conversely, while the Altura Photo lens is designed for easy attachment and detachment on compatible lenses, it does not specify material quality to the same extent as the YONGNUO. Photographers may prefer the robust build of the YONGNUO for long-term usage.

Focus Mechanisms

The YONGNUO lens supports both auto focus (AF) and manual focus (MF), offering flexibility depending on the photographer's needs. This is particularly advantageous in fast-paced shooting environments or when precise control is required. In comparison, the Altura Photo lens does not specify focus capabilities since it is intended as an accessory to existing camera lenses, which typically handle focusing.

Price and Value

At a price of $36.98, the Altura Photo lens is significantly more budget-friendly than the YONGNUO lens, which costs $106. This creates a price difference of approximately $69.02, making the Altura lens about 65% less expensive. For photographers on a budget or those just starting out, the Altura lens offers exceptional value for wide-angle photography without breaking the bank. However, the YONGNUO lens, while pricier, may justify its cost through superior optical performance and versatility.

User Experience and Feedback

While specific user feedback is not available in the provided data, the Altura Photo lens is tailored for ease of use, perfect for beginners looking to experiment with wide-angle shots. The YONGNUO lens, with its advanced features like a fast aperture and dual focus modes, caters to more experienced photographers seeking creative control and quality in their shots. This distinction in user experience may influence a photographer's decision based on their skill level and photography style.

Which should you buy?

Deciding between the Altura Photo 58MM 0.43x HD Wide Angle Lens and the YONGNUO YN35mm F2 Lens ultimately hinges on your photography needs and budget. If you are looking for an inexpensive way to expand your lens capabilities for wide-angle and macro photography, the Altura lens is a compelling choice at $36.98. However, if you require a versatile prime lens with better low-light performance and build quality, the YONGNUO lens, despite its higher price of $106.00, may be the better investment. Consider your specific requirements and budget to determine the ideal fit for your photography journey.