Canon EF vs Canon RF

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

The Canon EF 50mm f/1.8 STM Lens is a versatile and compact option for photographers seeking a reliable prime lens. Priced at $155.99, it offers excellent performance for portraits, action shots, and low-light conditions. This lens features a maximum aperture of f/1.8, allowing for a shallow depth of field and beautiful background blur, which is ideal for isolating subjects. Its minimum focusing distance of 1.15 ft. and quick autofocus capabilities make it well-suited for both stills and video.

The lens's Super Spectra coating minimizes flare and ghosting, enhancing contrast and color accuracy. The stepping motor (STM) ensures nearly silent autofocus, which is particularly advantageous for video recording. As a lightweight and affordable option, the Canon EF 50mm f/1.8 STM Lens is perfect for everyday shooting and can be an excellent addition to any photographer's kit.

Overview of the Canon RF 85mm F2 Macro IS STM

The Canon RF 85mm F2 Macro IS STM is a more premium lens, priced at $589.00, designed for photographers who need a medium-telephoto option with macro capabilities. With a maximum aperture of f/2, this lens provides beautiful bokeh and is ideal for portraits, street photography, and low-light situations. Its impressive maximum magnification of 0.5x and a minimum focusing distance of 1.15 ft. make it versatile for both portrait and macro photography.

One of the standout features of the RF 85mm is its optical image stabilization, which compensates for up to 5 stops of shake correction. This is especially beneficial for low-light scenes or when shooting video. Additionally, it has a built-in control ring for easy access to settings, enhancing usability on Canon's full-frame mirrorless cameras. This lens combines quality, functionality, and performance, making it an excellent choice for serious photographers.

Price Comparison

When it comes to pricing, the Canon EF 50mm f/1.8 STM Lens is significantly more affordable at $155.99, compared to the RF 85mm F2 Macro IS STM, which costs $589.00. This puts the latter at about 276% higher in price. For budget-conscious photographers or those just starting, the 50mm lens offers a compelling entry point without sacrificing quality. However, for those who require a more specialized lens with macro capabilities and advanced stabilization features, the investment in the RF 85mm may be justified.

Build Quality and Design

The Canon EF 50mm f/1.8 STM Lens features a compact and lightweight design, making it easy to carry and handle. Its simplicity is appealing, especially for those who prefer a no-fuss approach to photography. However, while it is well-constructed, it lacks some of the advanced features found in higher-end lenses.

On the other hand, the RF 85mm F2 Macro IS STM boasts a more sophisticated build that includes a control ring for direct setting changes. This lens is designed to be used with Canon's full-frame mirrorless cameras, enhancing its compatibility and functionality. The added features and build quality of the RF 85mm make it more suited for professional use, while the 50mm lens remains an excellent choice for casual photography.

Autofocus Performance

Autofocus performance is critical for both lenses, but they cater to different needs. The Canon EF 50mm f/1.8 STM Lens utilizes a stepping motor (STM) for near-silent autofocus, which is particularly useful for video work. Its quick and accurate focusing capabilities make it a dependable choice for various shooting scenarios.

In contrast, the Canon RF 85mm F2 Macro IS STM offers advanced autofocus capabilities with hybrid image stabilization, making it ideal for macro and low-light photography. The combination of fast autofocus and stabilization ensures sharp results, even in challenging conditions. Therefore, while both lenses provide reliable autofocus, the RF 85mm is better equipped for demanding shooting environments.

Versatility in Photography

The Canon EF 50mm f/1.8 STM Lens is known for its versatility, making it suitable for portraits, street photography, and general use. Its 50mm focal length on full-frame cameras translates to an effective 80mm on APS-C cameras, providing a nice range for various shooting styles.

In contrast, the Canon RF 85mm F2 Macro IS STM excels in specialized areas, offering macro capabilities and excellent performance for portraits. The lens’s bright f/2 aperture allows for stunning bokeh, enhancing the subject's isolation and detail. While the 50mm lens is more versatile for everyday photography, the 85mm lens shines in specific scenarios where detail and background separation are paramount.

Image Quality and Performance

When comparing image quality, the RF 85mm F2 Macro IS STM has the upper hand due to its advanced optical design and image stabilization features. This lens is engineered to deliver high-quality images with sharpness and clarity, particularly in macro and low-light situations. The optical image stabilization system enhances its performance by allowing for steadier shots, even in challenging conditions.

The Canon EF 50mm f/1.8 STM Lens also offers impressive image quality for its price point, producing sharp images with good contrast and color accuracy. However, it may not match the optical sophistication of the RF 85mm, especially when it comes to macro photography. For general shooting, both lenses perform admirably, but the RF 85mm is geared more towards professionals seeking the best possible image quality.

Which should you buy?

Choosing between the Canon EF 50mm f/1.8 STM Lens and the Canon RF 85mm F2 Macro IS STM ultimately depends on your photography needs and budget. The 50mm lens is an excellent entry-level option, offering outstanding value for everyday photography at a price of $155.99. However, if you require more advanced features, such as macro capabilities and superior image stabilization, the RF 85mm lens is worth the investment at $589.00. Each lens has its strengths, so the decision should align with your specific photographic intentions.