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

Design and Build Quality

The Canon EF 50mm f/1.8 STM Lens has a compact and lightweight design, making it an excellent choice for photographers who prefer portability. Weighing approximately 5.6 oz., this lens features a robust metal mount, ensuring durability. In contrast, the YONGNUO YN35mm F2 Lens also has a solid build, adopting a chrome high-precision metal bayonet that enhances strength and corrosion resistance. While both lenses are designed to endure regular use, the Canon lens edges out slightly in terms of overall lightness and compactness, perfect for everyday carry.

Focal Length and Aperture

The Canon EF 50mm f/1.8 boasts a focal length of 50mm and a bright maximum aperture of f/1.8, which allows for exceptional low-light performance and beautiful background blur. This makes it particularly suitable for portraits and nighttime photography. The YONGNUO YN35mm F2, with a focal length of 35mm and a maximum aperture of f/2, offers a wider field of view but sacrifices some low-light capability compared to the Canon lens. The difference in maximum aperture can result in less pronounced background blur, making the Canon lens the better option for those prioritizing depth of field and low-light performance.

Focusing Performance

Focusing performance is a critical aspect of any lens, and here, the Canon EF 50mm f/1.8 stands out with its Stepping Motor (STM) technology. It provides near-silent and continuous autofocus, ideal for both stills and movies. The YONGNUO YN35mm F2 supports both auto-focus (AF) and manual focus (MF), giving users versatility, but lacks the refined quietness of the Canon’s STM. For videographers and those shooting in quiet environments, the near-silent operation of the Canon lens could be a significant advantage.

Minimum Focusing Distance

The minimum focusing distance is another essential factor for photographers who enjoy close-up shots. The Canon EF 50mm f/1.8 has a minimum focusing distance of 1.15 ft. (0.35m), allowing for decent close-ups but not quite as close as the YONGNUO YN35mm F2. Yongnuo’s lens features a minimum focusing distance of 0.8 ft. (0.25m), enabling users to capture more intimate details with a natural wide-angle effect. This makes the YONGNUO lens the better choice for macro-like shots or when shooting subjects closely.

Image Quality

Image quality is paramount when selecting a lens, and both the Canon EF 50mm f/1.8 and the YONGNUO YN35mm F2 offer commendable optical performance. The Canon lens features a circular 7-blade design that helps produce smooth bokeh and excellent color balance, alongside minimized ghosting and flare thanks to improved lens coatings. On the other hand, the YONGNUO lens also claims to suppress ghosting and flare with its multi-coated lenses, and it employs 7 aperture blades for pleasing out-of-focus highlights. While both lenses deliver quality images, the Canon lens has a more established reputation for outstanding sharpness and color rendering.

Price Comparison

In terms of pricing, the Canon EF 50mm f/1.8 is currently priced at $169.00, while the YONGNUO YN35mm F2 is significantly cheaper at $106.00. This means the YONGNUO lens is about 37% less expensive, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious photographers or those just starting out. However, the price difference reflects the varying features and performance levels of each lens. While the YONGNUO offers a compelling price point, the Canon lens may justify its higher cost with superior build quality and performance in certain areas.

Compatibility and Versatility

Both lenses are designed for Canon EF mount cameras, providing a seamless fit for Canon users. The Canon EF 50mm f/1.8 is particularly favored for its versatility as a prime lens for portraits and general photography, making it a staple in many photographers' kits. The YONGNUO YN35mm F2, with its wide-angle capabilities, is ideal for landscapes and street photography. While both lenses support full-frame and APS-C format cameras, the Canon's effective focal length of 80mm on APS-C sensors gives it an edge for portraiture, whereas the YONGNUO excels in providing a broader perspective.

Which should you buy?

Choosing between the Canon EF 50mm f/1.8 STM Lens and the YONGNUO YN35mm F2 ultimately depends on your specific needs as a photographer. If low-light performance, exceptional image quality, and silent autofocus are your top priorities, the Canon lens is worth the investment. However, if you're looking for a budget-friendly option that offers solid performance and a closer focusing distance, the YONGNUO lens is an excellent choice. Ultimately, both lenses cater to different styles and preferences, making your decision heavily reliant on the type of photography you wish to pursue.