Canon EF vs TTArtisan Auto Focus

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

The Canon EF 50mm f/1.8 STM Lens is priced at $155.99, making it a solid choice for photographers who need a versatile prime lens. This lens is particularly known for its bright maximum aperture of f/1.8, which excels in low-light conditions and provides excellent control over depth of field. It is designed for both full-frame and APS-C cameras, with an effective focal length of 80mm on APS-C sensors. The lens features a stepping motor (STM) that offers near-silent autofocus, making it ideal for both photography and videography.

Overview of the TTArtisan Auto Focus 35mm F1.8 Mark II APS-C Lens

The TTArtisan Auto Focus 35mm F1.8 Mark II APS-C Lens is available for $125.00, making it about 17% cheaper than the Canon lens. This lens is designed specifically for Fuji X-mount cameras and provides an equivalent full-frame focal length of 53mm. It also boasts a maximum aperture of f/1.8, which allows for beautiful bokeh effects and great performance in low light. The lens has been upgraded to reduce its weight, making it more convenient for travel and on-the-go shooting, and features advanced autofocus capabilities for precise focusing.

Build Quality and Design

In terms of build quality, the Canon EF 50mm f/1.8 STM Lens is compact and lightweight, designed for everyday shooting. It features a Super Spectra coating to minimize flare and ghosting, enhancing color accuracy and contrast. The TTArtisan lens, while also compact, has been further improved with a reduced weight of 176g, making it even more portable. Both lenses have been designed for ease of use, but the TTArtisan’s lighter weight may make it more appealing for photographers who prioritize portability.

Focusing Mechanism

The Canon lens uses a stepping motor (STM) for its autofocus system, which ensures smooth and silent operation. This feature is particularly beneficial for videographers who require quiet autofocus during filming. On the other hand, the TTArtisan lens features an upgraded lead screw-type stepping motor, which also delivers smooth and precise autofocus. The Canon lens has a minimum focusing distance of 1.15 ft, while the TTArtisan improves upon this with a closer minimum focusing distance of 0.4m, allowing for more intimate and detailed shots.

Versatility in Photography

The Canon EF 50mm f/1.8 STM Lens is known for its versatility, making it suitable for a wide range of photography styles, including portraits, action shots, and nighttime photography. Its effective focal length of 80mm on APS-C cameras allows for tight framing of subjects, making it a favorite among portrait photographers. The TTArtisan Auto Focus 35mm F1.8 Mark II, while slightly wider, is also versatile, excelling in various settings from portraits to landscapes. Its equivalent full-frame focal length of 53mm offers a good balance for everyday shooting scenarios.

Low-Light Performance

Both lenses shine in low-light conditions, thanks to their maximum aperture of f/1.8. The Canon lens's Super Spectra coating helps reduce flare and ghosting, enhancing performance in challenging lighting scenarios. Similarly, the TTArtisan lens also excels in low-light situations, allowing photographers to capture clear images with beautiful bokeh. While both options provide excellent low-light capabilities, the choice may depend on the specific camera system compatibility and personal brand preference.

Price Comparison

The Canon EF 50mm f/1.8 STM Lens is priced at $155.99, while the TTArtisan Auto Focus 35mm F1.8 Mark II is available for $125.00. This price difference of about $30 may influence buyers on a budget. If cost is a significant factor, the TTArtisan lens offers an attractive alternative that doesn't compromise on essential features, making it a great value for photographers looking for quality at a lower price point.

Which should you buy?

Choosing between the Canon EF 50mm f/1.8 STM Lens and the TTArtisan Auto Focus 35mm F1.8 Mark II largely depends on your specific needs and camera system. If you’re using a full-frame Canon camera or require a lens that performs exceptionally well across various photography styles, the Canon lens is a great choice. However, if you own a Fuji X-mount camera and are looking for a more budget-friendly option with excellent portability and close focusing capabilities, the TTArtisan lens is an appealing alternative. Ultimately, both lenses offer excellent performance, but your choice should align with your photography style and equipment.