Canon EF 75- vs VILTROX

Overview of the Canon EF 75-300mm f/4-5.6 III and VILTROX 85mm F2 EVO FE Lens

The Canon EF 75-300mm f/4-5.6 III Telephoto Zoom Lens is priced at $199.99, making it about 27% cheaper than the VILTROX 85mm F2 EVO FE Lens, which retails for $275.00. While both lenses cater to different photography needs, they each provide unique features and capabilities. The Canon lens is versatile for various shooting scenarios, while the VILTROX lens excels in portrait photography with its wide aperture.

Build Quality and Design

The Canon EF 75-300mm lens measures 2.8 inches in diameter and 4.8 inches long, weighing 16.8 ounces, which makes it a moderately portable option for SLR camera users. The VILTROX 85mm, on the other hand, is compact and lightweight, weighing only 340 grams and measuring φ69mm x 76mm. This design makes the VILTROX a more ergonomic choice for long shooting sessions, especially in handheld scenarios. Both lenses are built to withstand various shooting conditions, but the VILTROX emphasizes reliability in challenging environments.

Focal Length and Aperture

In terms of focal length, the Canon EF 75-300mm offers a range from 75mm to 300mm, making it ideal for capturing distant subjects, such as wildlife or sports. It features a maximum aperture of f/4-5.6, which is versatile but does not provide the same level of low-light performance as the VILTROX. The VILTROX 85mm F2 EVO FE Lens has a fixed focal length of 85mm with a wide maximum aperture of f/2.0. This allows for exceptional background blur (bokeh) and is particularly advantageous for portrait photography, as it helps to isolate subjects beautifully.

Autofocus Performance

The Canon EF 75-300mm lens uses a DC motor for autofocus, which while functional, may not be as smooth or quiet as modern systems. In contrast, the VILTROX 85mm features a Stepping Motor (STM) that provides enhanced autofocus performance. This makes the VILTROX more suitable for both photography and video work, as it ensures quiet operation and precise focusing. Photographers who prioritize autofocus accuracy and speed may find the VILTROX to be the superior choice in this regard.

Optical Quality

When it comes to optical performance, the Canon EF 75-300mm lens includes 13 elements in 9 groups, providing decent image quality for various shooting conditions. However, it lacks advanced features like image stabilization. The VILTROX 85mm, with its 10 elements in 8 groups, is designed specifically for sharpness and color accuracy, thanks to its Extra-low Dispersion (ED) elements and high refractive index lenses. This results in reduced chromatic aberration and more vivid images, making the VILTROX better suited for professional portraiture.

Versatility in Usage

The Canon EF 75-300mm lens is highly versatile, capable of handling everything from sports to wildlife photography. Its zoom range allows for significant framing flexibility, making it a great all-around lens for Canon SLR users. However, the lack of image stabilization might limit its effectiveness in certain scenarios. The VILTROX 85mm, while not a zoom lens, excels in portrait photography and can also be employed effectively for close-up shots, thanks to its minimum focusing distance of just 0.74 meters. This makes it an excellent choice for photographers who specialize in capturing portraits or detailed subjects.

Price Comparison

The Canon EF 75-300mm lens is currently priced at $199.99, while the VILTROX 85mm F2 EVO FE Lens is priced at $275.00. This indicates a price difference of $75, with the VILTROX being about 37% more expensive than the Canon lens. For budget-conscious photographers, the Canon lens presents a more attractive option, especially for those who may not need the specialized features of the VILTROX. However, for those seeking superior optical quality and performance in portrait photography, the investment in the VILTROX may be justified.

Which should you buy?

Choosing between the Canon EF 75-300mm and the VILTROX 85mm F2 EVO FE Lens ultimately depends on your specific photography needs. If you require versatility and a more budget-friendly option, the Canon lens is a solid choice. However, for those focused on portrait photography and seeking exceptional optical quality and autofocus performance, the VILTROX lens stands out, despite its higher price. Both lenses have their merits, making your decision largely dependent on the type of photography you intend to pursue.