Canon RF vs TTArtisan AF

Overview of the Canon RF 85mm F2 Macro is STM

The Canon RF 85mm F2 Macro is STM is a medium-telephoto lens priced at $589.00. It offers a bright f/2 aperture, ideal for capturing stunning portraits and macro shots with excellent bokeh. The lens is designed specifically for Canon's full-frame mirrorless cameras, making it a versatile choice for photographers looking to enhance their image quality.

With a maximum magnification of 0.5x and a minimum focusing distance of 1.15 feet, this lens allows for detailed close-up photography. It also features Optical Image Stabilization, which compensates for up to 5 stops of camera shake, making it suitable for low-light conditions. The lens is lightweight and includes a customizable control ring, enhancing the overall shooting experience.

Overview of the TTArtisan AF 27mm F2.8

The TTArtisan AF 27mm F2.8 is a compact lens priced at $159.99, making it significantly more affordable than the Canon RF lens at about 73% less. This lens is compatible with various Fujifilm X-Mount cameras and features an STM stepping motor for smooth and quiet autofocus.

The lens supports eye-detecting autofocus, which is particularly beneficial for portrait photography. With a closest focusing distance of 0.35 meters, it allows photographers to capture intricate details. Additionally, the lens includes a USB-C interface for firmware upgrades, ensuring it remains technologically up-to-date. The independent click aperture ring also provides a quicker shooting experience compared to adjusting settings on the camera.

Image Quality Comparison

The Canon RF 85mm F2 Macro is STM excels in image quality, thanks to its bright f/2 aperture and macro capabilities. This lens provides a beautiful bokeh effect and is designed for low-light conditions, making it suitable for indoor events and portraits. Its optical image stabilization is particularly advantageous for reducing blurriness caused by camera shake.

On the other hand, the TTArtisan AF 27mm F2.8, while less expensive, offers decent image quality for everyday shooting. Its f/2.8 aperture is adequate for various lighting situations, but it may not match the bokeh quality produced by the Canon lens. The lens's smaller aperture may limit its performance in low-light scenarios compared to the Canon RF lens.

Autofocus Performance

The autofocus performance of the Canon RF 85mm F2 Macro is bolstered by its advanced stabilization features, making it highly effective for portraits and macro photography. The hybrid image stabilization helps in capturing sharp images even in challenging shooting conditions. However, it does not provide a specific autofocus detection feature.

Conversely, the TTArtisan AF 27mm F2.8 includes eye-detection autofocus, which enhances its usability for portrait photographers. The STM motor ensures quick and smooth focusing, allowing photographers to capture fleeting moments easily. This feature may prove beneficial for those who prioritize speed and efficiency in their shooting workflow.

Build Quality and Design

The Canon RF 85mm F2 Macro is designed with a focus on durability and ease of use, featuring a lightweight build that is still robust enough for regular use. Its compact size makes it an excellent travel companion. The customizable control ring allows photographers to change settings quickly without having to navigate through the camera menu.

In contrast, the TTArtisan AF 27mm F2.8 is designed with portability in mind, making it an excellent option for street photography or casual outings. The lens is compact and lightweight, easily fitting into a camera bag. However, its lower price point may suggest less premium materials compared to the Canon lens, potentially affecting its long-term durability.

Versatility in Usage

The Canon RF 85mm F2 Macro is highly versatile, making it suitable for a wide range of photography styles, including portraits, street photography, and macro work. Its ability to switch between these styles seamlessly is one of its strongest features. The lens's macro capabilities allow for detailed close-ups, expanding its use case significantly.

The TTArtisan AF 27mm F2.8 is versatile in its own right, particularly for general photography and street shooting. Its wider field of view compared to the Canon 85mm makes it easier for capturing landscapes and group shots. However, it lacks the specialized macro capabilities that the Canon lens offers, which may limit its versatility for those interested in close-up photography.

Price Consideration

The price difference between the two lenses is significant, with the Canon RF 85mm F2 Macro priced at $589.00 and the TTArtisan AF 27mm F2.8 at $159.99. This means that the Canon lens is about 267% more expensive than the TTArtisan lens, which could be a critical factor for budget-conscious photographers. While the Canon lens offers advanced features and superior image quality, the TTArtisan lens provides a solid performance at a fraction of the cost.

Which should you buy?

Choosing between the Canon RF 85mm F2 Macro is STM and the TTArtisan AF 27mm F2.8 largely depends on your photography needs and budget. If you are looking for a high-quality lens with macro capabilities, excellent low-light performance, and you own a Canon full-frame mirrorless camera, the Canon RF 85mm F2 is the better choice despite its higher price. However, if you need an affordable, lightweight lens for everyday use and are a Fujifilm user, the TTArtisan AF 27mm F2.8 offers great value and decent performance for its price.