Canon EF-S 18- vs VILTROX

Overview of the Canon EF-S 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS STM and VILTROX 50mm F2

The Canon EF-S 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS STM has a price of $329.95, while the VILTROX 50mm F2 is priced at $199.00, making it about 17% cheaper. This price difference is significant, especially for photographers on a budget. Each lens is designed for different purposes, with the Canon lens aiming for versatility in zoom range, and the VILTROX lens focusing on prime performance ideal for portraits.

Design and Build Quality

The Canon EF-S 18-135mm features a compact design at 3.1 x 3.8 inches and weighs 16.9 oz. In contrast, the VILTROX 50mm F2 is even more lightweight at just 205 grams, offering exceptional portability. The Canon lens includes an inner focusing system and a zoom ring lock to prevent accidental extension, enhancing usability. Meanwhile, the VILTROX lens is built around a 9-group, 13-element structure, including three ED and one aspherical element, ensuring high-quality optics while maintaining a lightweight profile.

Optical Performance

For optical performance, the Canon EF-S 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS STM boasts a refined image stabilization system that provides up to four equivalent stops of shake correction. This feature is particularly beneficial for video shooting, allowing for smoother footage. The VILTROX 50mm F2, however, excels in close-up performance with a minimum focusing distance of 0.51m and a maximum magnification of 0.11x. Its 9-blade circular aperture enhances bokeh quality, making it ideal for portraiture, while the Canon lens's capabilities are more suited to a range of shooting scenarios.

Autofocus System

The Canon EF-S 18-135mm employs a high-speed autofocus system that benefits from an inner focusing mechanism, which is optimized by a high-speed CPU and an advanced AF algorithm. This setup is designed for both stills and video, featuring a Movie Servo AF for quiet and smooth focusing. On the other hand, the VILTROX 50mm F2 utilizes a Stepping Motor (STM) for fast and quiet autofocus. This capability makes it particularly appealing for video recording, as it minimizes noise during focus adjustments, an essential feature for videographers.

Versatility and Use Cases

The versatility of the Canon EF-S 18-135mm lens makes it suitable for a wide range of photography styles, from landscapes to portraits, thanks to its zoom capability and image stabilization. The maximum magnification of 0.28x at the telephoto end also allows for decent close-ups. In contrast, the VILTROX 50mm F2 is a prime lens, which typically offers superior optical quality but at the cost of flexibility. This lens is best for portrait photography and situations where a specific focal length is desired, emphasizing subject isolation through its bokeh effects.

Compatibility with Camera Systems

The Canon EF-S 18-135mm lens is designed specifically for Canon's EOS Rebel series and other EF-S compatible cameras, making it a great option for Canon users. In contrast, the VILTROX 50mm F2 is designed for Sony E-mount cameras, making it an excellent choice for those using Sony’s full-frame or APS-C systems. This specialization means that each lens is tailored to optimize the performance of its respective camera systems, giving users the best results based on their gear.

Price and Value

With the Canon EF-S 18-135mm priced at $329.95 and the VILTROX 50mm F2 at $199.00, the VILTROX lens offers a more budget-friendly option without compromising on quality. The price difference of approximately $130 makes the VILTROX an attractive choice for those seeking a high-quality lens at a lower price point. While the Canon lens provides more versatility with its zoom range, the cost-effectiveness of the VILTROX cannot be overlooked, especially for users focused on portrait photography or those who prefer prime lenses.

Which should you buy?

Choosing between the Canon EF-S 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS STM and the VILTROX 50mm F2 comes down to your specific photographic needs. If you value versatility and shoot a variety of subjects, the Canon lens is an excellent choice despite its higher price. However, if you are focused on portrait photography and prefer a lightweight, compact lens with superb optics, the VILTROX lens offers outstanding value at a lower price point. Your decision should reflect your shooting style and the camera system you use.