BENOISON Telephoto Lens for Nikon - F Lens 420- vs Canon RF28mm F2.8 STM Lens, RF Mount, Wide-Angle
Updated July 2026 — full head-to-head comparison.
Price Comparison
When considering price, the BENOISON Telephoto Lens for Nikon is significantly cheaper at $67.99, compared to the Canon RF28mm F2.8 STM Lens, which costs $299.00. This marks a price difference of $231.01, making the BENOISON lens about 77% less expensive than its Canon counterpart. This substantial difference could be a deciding factor for budget-conscious photographers or those just starting out. However, the lower price of the BENOISON lens comes with certain limitations, particularly its manual focus feature, which may not appeal to everyone.
Build Quality and Design
In terms of build quality, both lenses are designed with durability in mind, but they cater to different user needs. The BENOISON Telephoto Lens emphasizes its robust construction, suitable for wildlife and moon photography, reflecting a more specialized use case. Meanwhile, the Canon RF28mm F2.8 STM Lens is marketed as a lightweight and compact pancake lens, ideal for travel and everyday use. Its small size makes it easy to carry, complementing the full-frame EOS R series cameras elegantly. While both lenses are sturdy, the choice here hinges on whether you prioritize portability or specialized telephoto capabilities.
Autofocus Features
A critical difference between these two lenses lies in their focus features. The BENOISON Telephoto Lens is a manual focus lens, meaning photographers must adjust focus manually, which may be challenging for some users. In contrast, the Canon RF28mm F2.8 STM Lens is equipped with a stepping motor for smooth and quiet autofocus operation, making it more suitable for video work and fast-paced photography. The absence of autofocus in the BENOISON lens may deter those looking for quick adjustments, especially in dynamic shooting environments.
Compatibility
Both lenses cater to different camera systems and user needs. The BENOISON Telephoto Lens is compatible with a wide range of Nikon DSLR cameras, making it a versatile option for Nikon users. It works with models such as the D3500, D850, and D7500, among others. On the other hand, the Canon RF28mm F2.8 STM Lens is designed specifically for Canon's RF mount, suitable for full-frame EOS R series cameras and providing an equivalent coverage of about 45mm on APS-C sensor cameras. This specialized compatibility makes the Canon lens an ideal choice for photographers invested in the Canon ecosystem.
Image Quality
When it comes to image quality, the Canon RF28mm F2.8 STM Lens has the upper hand with its advanced optical design. It incorporates three aspheric elements and Canon's Super Spectra Coating, which significantly minimizes ghosting and flare. This results in superior image clarity and contrast, especially in challenging lighting conditions. In contrast, while the BENOISON Telephoto Lens offers a long focal length of 420-800mm, it lacks electronic contacts and relies on manual adjustments, which may affect the overall image quality. Therefore, for those who prioritize high image fidelity, the Canon lens is likely the better option.
Intended Use
The intended use of each lens significantly impacts their appeal. The BENOISON Telephoto Lens is geared towards photographers focused on capturing distant subjects, such as wildlife or celestial bodies, thanks to its impressive zoom range. This makes it a specialized tool for enthusiasts in those fields. Conversely, the Canon RF28mm F2.8 STM Lens is marketed as a versatile tool for everyday photography, travel, and video, providing a standard wide-angle perspective. This broader usability may attract a more general audience looking for an all-around lens.
User Experience
User experience varies widely between these two lenses. The BENOISON lens, while offering a low price, requires a steeper learning curve due to its manual focus and the necessity to operate in manual mode. This can be a barrier for novice photographers. On the flip side, the Canon lens is designed for ease of use, with autofocus capabilities that cater to both still and video applications. Its minimum focus distance of approximately 9 inches enhances its usability for close-up shots, making it more user-friendly for a wider audience.
Which should you buy?
Deciding between the BENOISON Telephoto Lens for Nikon and the Canon RF28mm F2.8 STM Lens ultimately depends on your specific needs and photography style. If you're looking for an affordable option to explore telephoto photography and you're comfortable with manual focus, the BENOISON lens offers excellent value at $67.99. However, if you prioritize image quality, ease of use, and compatibility with Canon's RF mount cameras, the Canon RF28mm F2.8 STM Lens, despite its higher price of $299.00, may be the better investment due to its superior optical features and user-friendly design.