Canon EF 75- vs YONGNUO YN50mm F1.8N Standard Prime Lens, Large
Updated July 2026 — Canon EF 75- leads on focal length and weight.
The Canon EF 75-300mm offers superior zoom capabilities, while the YONGNUO YN50mm excels in low-light performance and affordability.
Why Canon EF 75- is better
Zoom Range
Canon has a focal length of 75-300mm.
Optical Quality
Canon's lens construction includes 13 elements.
Build Quality
Canon lens is robust and designed for durability.
Why YONGNUO YN50mm F1.8N Standard Prime Lens, Large is better
Price
YONGNUO is significantly cheaper at $102.
Aperture
YONGNUO has a larger maximum aperture of f/1.8.
Weight
YONGNUO is more lightweight and portable.
Overall score
Specifications
| Spec | Canon EF 75- | YONGNUO YN50mm F1.8N Standard Prime Lens, Large |
|---|---|---|
| Max Aperture | f/4-5.6 | f/1.8 |
| Focusing Distance | 4.9 ft | N/A |
| Zoom Type | Telephoto | Prime |
| Camera Compatibility | Canon SLR | Nikon DSLR |
| Construction | 13 elements | N/A |
Dimension comparison
Overview of the Canon EF 75-300mm f/4-5.6 III and YONGNUO YN50mm F1.8N
The Canon EF 75-300mm f/4-5.6 III is designed for Canon SLR cameras, while the YONGNUO YN50mm F1.8N caters to Nikon DSLR users. The Canon lens is priced at $199.99, whereas the YONGNUO lens is significantly cheaper at $102.00, making it about 17% cheaper than the Canon lens. Both lenses serve different purposes: the Canon is a telephoto zoom lens ideal for capturing distant subjects, while the YONGNUO is a standard prime lens that excels in low-light conditions and portrait photography.
Design and Build Quality
The Canon EF 75-300mm f/4-5.6 III features a robust design, measuring 2.8 inches in diameter and 4.8 inches long, while weighing 16.8 ounces. Its construction includes 13 elements in 9 groups, ensuring solid optical performance. The lens has a smooth zoom mechanism, enhanced by a silver ring on the front part of the zoom ring. In contrast, the YONGNUO YN50mm F1.8N has a more compact design tailored for ease of use on Nikon cameras. While its exact dimensions are not specified, it is designed to be lightweight and portable, making it an excellent choice for photographers on the go.
Optical Performance
When it comes to optical performance, the Canon lens offers a focal length of 75-300mm with a maximum aperture range of f/4-5.6. This makes it versatile for various photography styles, from wildlife to portraits. It has a closest focusing distance of 4.9 feet, allowing users to capture detailed images from a distance. The YONGNUO lens, on the other hand, boasts a large maximum aperture of f/1.8, making it particularly effective in low-light conditions and ideal for creating a shallow depth of field, perfect for portraits. Each lens shines in its specific domain, showcasing different strengths based on the photographer's needs.
Focusing Capabilities
Focusing capabilities differ significantly between the two lenses. The Canon EF 75-300mm f/4-5.6 III employs a DC motor for autofocus, which may not be as quick or silent as the ultrasonic motors found in higher-end lenses. However, it still effectively captures distant subjects with a good level of clarity. The YONGNUO YN50mm F1.8N supports both auto focus and manual focus modes, allowing for greater flexibility in various shooting situations. This dual-focus capability is particularly appealing for photographers who wish to have more control over their compositions.
Compatibility
Compatibility is a notable factor when comparing these two lenses. The Canon EF 75-300mm f/4-5.6 III is specifically designed for Canon SLR cameras, making it a perfect match for Canon users. The YONGNUO YN50mm F1.8N, however, supports Nikon DSLR cameras and is compatible with both full-frame and APS-C formats. This broad compatibility could make the YONGNUO lens a more versatile option for Nikon users who may own multiple camera models.
Price Comparison
The price difference between these two lenses is significant, with the Canon EF 75-300mm f/4-5.6 III retailing at $199.99 and the YONGNUO YN50mm F1.8N at $102.00. This makes the YONGNUO lens approximately 49% cheaper than the Canon lens, which could be a crucial deciding factor for budget-conscious photographers. While the Canon lens offers greater zoom capabilities, the YONGNUO lens provides a large aperture and excellent image quality at a fraction of the price.
Usage Scenarios
The intended usage scenarios for these lenses vary substantially. The Canon EF 75-300mm f/4-5.6 III is ideal for capturing distant subjects, making it perfect for wildlife and sports photography. Its zoom capabilities allow for versatility in framing shots from a distance. On the other hand, the YONGNUO YN50mm F1.8N shines in portrait photography and low-light situations, thanks to its fast aperture. It is an excellent addition to any Nikon user's kit, particularly for those who frequently shoot events or gatherings.
Which should you buy?
Ultimately, the choice between the Canon EF 75-300mm f/4-5.6 III and the YONGNUO YN50mm F1.8N boils down to your specific needs and camera system. If you own a Canon SLR and require a versatile telephoto lens for capturing distant subjects, the Canon lens is the clear choice despite its higher price. However, if you're a Nikon user looking for an affordable lens that excels in low-light conditions and offers a fast aperture for portraits, the YONGNUO lens is an excellent option that won't break the bank. Consider your photography style and budget to make the best decision for your needs.

