Canon EF vs TTArtisan

Overview of the Canon EF 50mm f/1.8 STM Lens

The Canon EF 50mm f/1.8 STM lens is a prime lens that excels in various photography scenarios, particularly for portraits and low-light conditions. Priced at $169.00, it offers a bright maximum aperture of f/1.8, which allows for excellent image quality and beautiful background blur. This lens is compact and lightweight, making it an ideal choice for daily use. Its stepping motor technology provides near-silent autofocus, which is beneficial for both stills and video recording.

Overview of the TTArtisan 35mm F1.4 APS-C Lens

The TTArtisan 35mm F1.4 APS-C manual focus lens is significantly more affordable at $80.00, making it about 53% cheaper than the Canon lens. This lens is designed for APS-C mirrorless cameras and offers a natural field of view that is excellent for portraits and street photography. Its f/1.4 aperture allows for increased brightness and stunning bokeh effects, enhancing creative possibilities in low-light environments. The sturdy construction and lightweight design further add to its appeal for photographers on the go.

Image Quality Comparison

When it comes to image quality, the Canon EF 50mm f/1.8 STM lens shines with its circular 7-blade design that contributes to gorgeous background blur. The lens construction features 6 elements in 5 groups, ensuring sharp images with excellent color balance while minimizing ghosting and flare. In contrast, the TTArtisan 35mm F1.4 lens, while also capable of great image quality, has a construction of 6 groups with 7 elements and 10 diaphragm blades, providing a different aesthetic in bokeh and overall image sharpness. Both lenses cater to specific artistic styles, but the Canon lens may have a slight edge in low-light performance due to its f/1.8 aperture.

Build and Design

The Canon EF 50mm f/1.8 STM lens is compact, measuring approximately 2.7 x 1.5 inches and weighing around 5.6 ounces, making it easy to carry and handle. It features a rugged metal mount and a redesigned exterior that improves manual focus adjustments. On the other hand, the TTArtisan 35mm F1.4 lens is also lightweight at just 0.4 lbs and constructed from aviation-grade aluminum alloy, offering durability. Both lenses prioritize portability, but the Canon lens has a more refined design that may appeal to professional photographers.

Autofocus Mechanism

The Canon EF 50mm f/1.8 STM lens utilizes a stepping motor for autofocus, which ensures fast and nearly silent operation, making it ideal for shooting both photos and videos. This feature allows photographers to capture fleeting moments without the distraction of focusing noise. Conversely, the TTArtisan 35mm F1.4 lens relies on manual focus, which can appeal to photographers who prefer full control over their focus points. However, this may be a disadvantage for those who need quick autofocus capabilities.

Versatility in Use

The Canon EF 50mm f/1.8 STM lens is versatile enough to function well across various photography genres, including portraits, action shots, and nighttime photography. Its effective focal length of 80mm on APS-C cameras provides a comfortable distance for portraiture. Meanwhile, the TTArtisan 35mm F1.4 lens offers a natural perspective for similar genres but requires manual focus, which may limit its versatility for some users. Each lens has its strengths, but the Canon lens may cater better to those who prefer a quick and adaptive shooting experience.

Price Comparison

With a price of $169.00, the Canon EF 50mm f/1.8 STM lens is positioned as a more premium product compared to the TTArtisan 35mm F1.4 lens, which retails at $80.00. This makes the TTArtisan lens about 53% cheaper. While the Canon lens provides advanced autofocus features and a renowned brand reputation, the TTArtisan lens appeals to budget-conscious photographers who still seek quality optics. The significant price difference may influence a buyer's decision, particularly for those who are just starting their photography journey.

Which should you buy?

Choosing between the Canon EF 50mm f/1.8 STM lens and the TTArtisan 35mm F1.4 lens ultimately depends on your specific needs as a photographer. If you value autofocus capabilities, superior build quality, and versatility across various shooting styles, the Canon lens is likely the better choice despite its higher price. However, if you are looking for an affordable option that offers excellent image quality and you are comfortable with manual focus, the TTArtisan lens presents a compelling alternative. Each lens serves different photography styles, so your decision should align with your shooting preferences and budget.