BENOISON Telephoto Lens for Nikon - F Lens 420- vs Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR

Price Comparison

The BENOISON Telephoto Lens for Nikon is priced at $67.99, making it about 68% cheaper than the Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR 35mm f/1.8G Lens, which retails for $213.31. This significant price gap can be an essential factor for budget-conscious photographers. While the BENOISON lens offers an extensive focal range of 420-800mm, the Nikon lens is a prime option with a faster aperture of f/1.8. The choice between these two lenses may hinge on whether one prioritizes cost-effectiveness or the advantages of a prime lens in low-light conditions.

Lens Type and Focus Mechanism

The BENOISON Telephoto Lens operates as a manual focus lens, while the Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR 35mm lens features an auto-focus system with a manual override. The manual focus of the BENOISON lens may appeal to photographers who enjoy the precision of manual adjustments, particularly in wildlife photography where distance can vary significantly. On the other hand, the Nikon lens's silent wave motor allows for quick and quiet autofocus, making it a superior choice for capturing spontaneous moments without disturbing the scene. This distinction is crucial for users who may often work in dynamic environments.

Focal Length and Versatility

The BENOISON lens offers a remarkable focal length range of 420-800mm, providing immense versatility for telephoto photography, especially for wildlife and astronomy enthusiasts. In contrast, the Nikon lens has a fixed focal length of 35mm, equivalent to 50mm on a full-frame camera, which is ideal for general photography, portraits, and landscapes. While the BENOISON lens excels in long-range shots, the Nikon lens shines in its ability to render images with a natural perspective, making it a better choice for everyday shooting scenarios. The decision between these lenses will largely depend on the specific photographic needs of the user.

Aperture and Low-Light Performance

With a maximum aperture range of f/8.3 to f/16, the BENOISON Telephoto Lens is less suited for low-light conditions compared to the Nikon lens, which has a maximum aperture of f/1.8. This faster aperture allows the Nikon lens to capture more light, making it ideal for shooting in dim environments or for creating a shallow depth of field that enhances portraits. For photographers who frequently find themselves in low-light situations, the Nikon lens offers a significant advantage, providing greater creative flexibility in various lighting conditions.

Build Quality and Durability

Both lenses are constructed with high-quality materials, but their designs cater to different needs. The BENOISON Telephoto Lens is built with robust construction, designed specifically for long-range photography. Its lack of electronic contacts and autofocus motor means it is simpler in design but requires more effort from the user to achieve focus. Conversely, the Nikon lens includes features such as a rubber seal to minimize moisture ingress, which enhances its durability in challenging weather conditions. This makes the Nikon lens a more reliable choice for outdoor shooting, where weather can be unpredictable.

Compatibility and Mounting

The BENOISON Telephoto Lens is compatible with a wide range of Nikon DSLR cameras, including models like the D3500, D850, and D7500, offering extensive usability for various Nikon users. Its design allows for easy mounting without the need for additional adapters. In comparison, the Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR lens is specifically engineered for Nikon DX-format DSLRs but can also be used in DX crop mode on FX-format cameras. This flexibility makes the Nikon lens a versatile option for photographers who may own different camera formats, thereby maximizing its usability across various systems.

Image Quality and Performance

While the BENOISON lens is designed for telephoto shots, it lacks the advanced optical design found in the Nikon lens. The Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR lens features eight elements in six groups, which helps minimize distortion and enhances overall image quality. Its aspherical lens element further reduces aberrations, ensuring that images are sharp and clear. For photographers who prioritize image quality, especially in portraits and landscapes, the Nikon lens is likely to deliver superior results compared to the BENOISON lens, which is more focused on long-range capabilities.

Which should you buy?

Choosing between the BENOISON Telephoto Lens and the Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR 35mm f/1.8G Lens ultimately depends on your specific photography needs. If budget is a primary concern and your focus is on wildlife or distant subjects, the BENOISON lens, priced at $67.99, may be an excellent fit. However, if you value low-light performance, image quality, and the convenience of autofocus, the Nikon lens, despite its higher price of $213.31, would be the better investment. Each lens offers unique advantages that cater to different styles of photography, making it essential to evaluate what features align best with your photographic goals.