Canon EF vs BM Premium High-Power 420-
Updated July 2026 — Canon EF wins on autofocus and aperture, BM Premium High-Power 420- wins on weight and size.
The Canon EF 50mm f/1.8 STM Lens excels in low-light performance and autofocus, making it ideal for everyday photography. The High-Power 420-1600mm lens is better for specialized long-distance shots.
Why Canon EF is better
Low-Light
f/1.8 aperture is superior for low-light conditions
Autofocus
Near-silent STM autofocus for stills and video
Portability
Compact and lightweight design for easy transport
Why BM Premium High-Power 420- is better
Zoom Range
Focal length of 420mm to 1600mm for distant subjects
Price
10% cheaper than the Canon lens
Manual Control
Manual focus allows for precise adjustments
Overall score
Specifications
| Spec | Canon EF | BM Premium High-Power 420- |
|---|---|---|
| Brand | Canon | BM Premium |
| Max Aperture | f/1.8 | f/8.3 |
| Focal Length | 50mm | 420-1600mm |
| Autofocus | Yes | No |
| Weight | 0.5 lbs | 1.5 lbs |
Dimension comparison
Introduction to the Lenses
When it comes to capturing stunning images, the choice of lens can significantly impact your photography. In this comparison, we’ll look at two Canon-compatible lenses: the Canon EF 50mm f/1.8 STM Lens International Version and the High-Power 420-1600mm f/8.3 HD Manual Telephoto Zoom Lens. The former is priced at $155.99, while the latter is available for $139.99, making the telephoto option about 10% cheaper. Both lenses cater to different photography needs, making it essential to understand their unique features.
Focal Length and Versatility
The Canon EF 50mm f/1.8 STM Lens has a standard focal length of 50mm, ideal for portraits and everyday photography, providing an effective focal length of 80mm on APS-C cameras. In contrast, the High-Power 420-1600mm lens boasts an impressive zoom range, allowing for focal lengths from 420mm to 1600mm, which is perfect for capturing distant subjects such as wildlife or sports. This vast difference means that while the 50mm lens excels in versatility for general photography, the telephoto lens offers specialized capabilities for long-range shooting.
Aperture and Low-Light Performance
The Canon EF 50mm f/1.8 STM Lens features a maximum aperture of f/1.8, which excels in low-light conditions, allowing for brighter images and greater control over depth of field. This is particularly beneficial for isolating subjects in portraits or capturing nighttime scenes. Meanwhile, the High-Power 420-1600mm lens has a maximum aperture of f/8.3, limiting its effectiveness in low-light scenarios. This means if you often shoot in less-than-ideal lighting, the Canon EF 50mm f/1.8 lens will likely serve you better.
Autofocus and Operation
The Canon EF 50mm f/1.8 STM Lens incorporates a stepping motor (STM) for near-silent autofocus and smooth focus transitions, making it an excellent choice for both stills and video. This feature is particularly beneficial for filmmakers and those who shoot in quiet environments. On the other hand, the High-Power 420-1600mm lens is a manual focus lens, which may appeal to photographers who prefer full control over their focusing but could be less convenient for those accustomed to autofocus systems. Thus, the 50mm lens is more user-friendly for general photography.
Compatibility with Camera Models
Both lenses are designed to be compatible with a wide range of Canon cameras. The Canon EF 50mm f/1.8 STM Lens is suitable for full-frame and APS-C models, making it a versatile addition to any Canon camera kit. The High-Power 420-1600mm lens is also compatible with several Canon models, including the EOS 80D, 90D, and various Rebel series cameras. This broad compatibility ensures that both lenses can be utilized effectively across different Canon camera bodies, enhancing their appeal.
Size and Portability
The Canon EF 50mm f/1.8 STM Lens is compact and lightweight, making it an excellent choice for those who value portability. It’s easy to carry around for daily photography sessions without adding significant weight to your gear. In contrast, the High-Power 420-1600mm lens, while offering impressive zoom capabilities, is bulkier and heavier, which could be a drawback for photographers on the move. If you prioritize ease of transport, the 50mm lens is the more practical choice.
Price and Value Proposition
At $155.99, the Canon EF 50mm f/1.8 STM Lens is slightly more expensive than the High-Power 420-1600mm lens, which retails for $139.99. This makes the telephoto lens about 10% cheaper. However, the value proposition depends on your photography needs. The 50mm lens offers superior low-light performance and autofocus features, while the telephoto lens provides an extensive zoom range for specific shooting scenarios. If you need versatility for various situations, investing in the slightly pricier 50mm lens may be worthwhile.
Conclusion on Application and Use Cases
In summary, the Canon EF 50mm f/1.8 STM Lens is ideal for everyday photography, portraits, and scenarios requiring low-light performance, thanks to its f/1.8 aperture and autofocus capabilities. On the other hand, the High-Power 420-1600mm lens is tailored for specialized long-distance photography, making it perfect for wildlife and sports photography. Your choice ultimately depends on your specific needs and shooting style.
Which should you buy?
Deciding between the Canon EF 50mm f/1.8 STM Lens and the High-Power 420-1600mm lens hinges on your photography goals. If you prioritize versatility, low-light performance, and ease of use, the Canon EF 50mm f/1.8 lens is the better option, despite its higher price. However, if your focus is on capturing distant subjects and you are comfortable with manual focus, the High-Power 420-1600mm lens offers exceptional value for long-range photography. Each lens serves distinct purposes, so consider your typical shooting scenarios before making a purchase.

