Canon EF-S 18- vs TTArtisan

Price Comparison

The Canon EF-S 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 is STM is significantly more expensive than the TTArtisan 35mm F1.4, priced at $329.95 compared to $80.00. This means the Canon lens is over four times the price of the TTArtisan lens. While the Canon lens is designed for versatility with its zoom capabilities, the TTArtisan lens offers a budget-friendly option that may appeal to those looking to explore manual focus without breaking the bank. The price difference of about $249.95 is a crucial consideration for photographers on a budget or those just starting in photography.

Build Quality and Design

The build quality of the Canon EF-S 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 is STM reflects its status as a premium lens, featuring an inner focusing system and a refined image stabilization system. It weighs 16.9 oz, which, while heavier than the TTArtisan, contributes to its robust feel. In contrast, the TTArtisan 35mm F1.4 is crafted from aviation-grade aluminum alloy, making it lightweight at only 0.4 lbs. This compact design enhances portability, ideal for street photography and travel. The difference in construction materials and weight makes the TTArtisan easier to carry, especially for longer shooting sessions.

Focal Length and Aperture

The Canon EF-S 18-135mm lens offers a versatile focal length range from 18mm to 135mm, making it suitable for various photography styles, from landscapes to portraits. It has a maximum aperture of f/3.5-5.6, which is decent but not particularly fast. On the other hand, the TTArtisan 35mm lens has a fixed focal length of 35mm, which is equivalent to 52mm on APS-C cameras. Its f/1.4 aperture allows for excellent low-light performance and beautiful bokeh, catering to portrait and detail-oriented photography. This substantial difference in aperture size provides the TTArtisan with a clear advantage in creative control over depth of field.

Autofocus Versus Manual Focus

The Canon EF-S 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 features a sophisticated autofocus system designed for both stills and video, with support for Canon's Movie Servo AF for smooth focus transitions. This makes it highly user-friendly, especially for beginners or those who frequently shoot video. In contrast, the TTArtisan 35mm lens is a manual focus lens, which may require more skill and practice to achieve precise focus. This difference means that while the Canon lens is ideal for quick shooting situations, the TTArtisan lens appeals to photographers who enjoy the creative process of manual focusing.

Intended Use and Versatility

The Canon EF-S 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 is STM is designed to accommodate a wide range of photography needs, from video to still imagery, making it highly versatile. Its zoom capabilities allow photographers to adapt to various scenarios without changing lenses. However, the TTArtisan 35mm F1.4 is specifically tailored for certain styles, such as portraits and street photography, due to its natural field of view and large aperture. This specificity provides a unique creative avenue, but it lacks the versatility of a zoom lens. The intended use of each lens significantly influences the choice depending on the photographer's style and requirements.

Image Quality and Performance

The Canon EF-S 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 is designed with advanced optics, including one UD and one PMO aspheric lens, resulting in high-resolution images with minimal chromatic aberration. Its image stabilization system further enhances performance, particularly at slower shutter speeds. In comparison, while specific image quality metrics for the TTArtisan 35mm lens are not provided, its f/1.4 aperture suggests it can produce excellent bokeh and perform well in low-light conditions. The Canon lens may be superior in terms of overall image quality, but the TTArtisan's aperture allows for creative shots that might not be achievable with the Canon lens.

Compatibility and Use Cases

The Canon EF-S 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 is STM is compatible with Canon's APS-C DSLR cameras, making it a suitable choice for Canon users looking to enhance their photography experience. The lens supports features like Movie Servo AF, enhancing its appeal for videographers. Conversely, the TTArtisan 35mm F1.4 is designed specifically for Fuji X mount cameras, which limits its compatibility but allows for excellent performance within its niche. Both lenses serve different user bases effectively, highlighting the need to consider camera compatibility when making a choice.

Which should you buy?

Choosing between the Canon EF-S 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 is STM and the TTArtisan 35mm F1.4 ultimately depends on your photography style and budget. If you prioritize versatility, autofocus performance, and high-quality image stabilization for both stills and video, the Canon lens is the better option despite its higher price. However, if you are looking for a budget-friendly lens that excels in low-light conditions and offers creative control through manual focus, the TTArtisan lens is a compelling choice. Both lenses have their strengths, making the decision hinge on specific needs and preferences.