Canon EFS 55- vs YONGNUO YN35mm F2 Lens 1:2 AF/MF Wide-Angle

Overview of the Canon EFS 55-250mm f/4.0-5.6 is II Telephoto Zoom Lens

The Canon EFS 55-250mm f/4.0-5.6 is II Telephoto Zoom Lens is designed specifically for Canon's EOS digital SLR cameras, offering versatility for various photography styles. Priced at $317.59, this lens features a focal length range of 55-250mm, equivalent to 88-400mm in 35mm format. The lens is particularly suitable for telephoto photography, making it a great choice for wildlife and sports enthusiasts. It incorporates Canon's Image Stabilizer technology, which allows for shooting at slower shutter speeds without noticeable blur. This lens is an excellent option for photographers looking for quality and performance.

Overview of the YONGNUO YN35mm F2 Lens

The YONGNUO YN35mm F2 Lens is a budget-friendly option priced at $106.00, making it about 67% cheaper than the Canon lens. This wide-angle prime lens boasts a fast aperture of F/2, allowing for great low-light performance. Its minimum focusing distance is just 0.25m (0.8ft), enabling close-up shots while maintaining a natural wide-angle effect. The lens supports both auto focus and manual focus modes, offering versatility for different shooting scenarios. Overall, the YONGNUO lens is ideal for those seeking an affordable lens that delivers excellent optical performance.

Lens Design and Build Quality

The build quality of the Canon EFS 55-250mm is robust and designed specifically for the needs of digital SLR camera users. It consists of 12 elements in 10 groups, including one UD-glass element, which contributes to its high image quality. The lens is compact and lightweight, which is advantageous for photographers on the go. In contrast, the YONGNUO YN35mm features a simpler design with 5 sets and 7 pieces of glass, and while it offers a solid construction, it may not provide the same level of durability as the Canon lens. However, YONGNUO has included features like a chrome high-precision metal bayonet for better fit and strength, enhancing its durability.

Optical Performance

Optically, the Canon EFS 55-250mm lens excels with its versatile zoom range and Image Stabilizer feature, which compensates for camera shake and allows for slower shutter speeds. This is particularly beneficial in low-light situations or when photographing moving subjects. The YONGNUO YN35mm, while offering a wide-angle perspective and fast aperture, has a maximum magnification of 0.23X and is more limited in zoom capability. Both lenses are equipped with multi-coated glass to suppress ghosting and flare, but the Canon lens may have the edge in terms of overall versatility and image quality due to its advanced optical design.

Focusing Capabilities

Focusing is a significant aspect of any lens. The Canon EFS 55-250mm uses a DC motor for focus adjustment, which allows for quick and accurate focusing, especially beneficial when tracking moving subjects. The lens has a closest focusing distance of 3.6 ft. (1.1m), which is suitable for a telephoto lens. On the other hand, the YONGNUO YN35mm supports both auto focus and manual focus, giving photographers the flexibility to choose their preferred focusing method. Its minimum focusing distance of 0.25m allows for excellent close-up photography, making it a good option for portrait or macro-style shots.

Price Comparison

The price difference between these two lenses is notable, with the Canon EFS 55-250mm priced at $317.59 compared to the YONGNUO YN35mm at $106.00. This makes the YONGNUO lens about 67% cheaper than the Canon option, which could be a significant factor for budget-conscious photographers. However, while the YONGNUO provides significant savings, the Canon lens offers features and capabilities that cater to more specialized photographic needs, particularly in telephoto scenarios.

Use Cases and Versatility

The Canon EFS 55-250mm lens is highly versatile, making it suitable for a variety of photography types, including wildlife, sports, and portrait photography. Its zoom range allows photographers to capture distant subjects with clarity and detail. Conversely, the YONGNUO YN35mm lens excels in wide-angle shots, making it ideal for landscapes, street photography, and low-light conditions. Both lenses serve distinct purposes; thus, the choice ultimately depends on the specific needs of the photographer.

Which should you buy?

Deciding between the Canon EFS 55-250mm f/4.0-5.6 is II Telephoto Zoom Lens and the YONGNUO YN35mm F2 Lens comes down to your photographic needs and budget. If you require a versatile telephoto lens with advanced features like Image Stabilization for capturing distant subjects, the Canon lens is the superior choice, albeit at a higher price of $317.59. However, if you're looking for a budget-friendly option that performs well in low-light situations and offers a wide-angle perspective, the YONGNUO lens at $106.00 is an excellent pick. Ultimately, your decision should align with your shooting style and the types of photography you wish to pursue.