Canon RF-S18- vs Canon RF100-

Overview of the Canon RF-S18-150mm and Canon RF100-400mm

The Canon RF-S18-150mm F3.5-6.3 Telephoto Lens is priced at $569.00, while the Canon RF100-400mm F5.6-8 IS USM comes in at $699.00, making it about 23% more expensive. Both lenses are designed for Canon's mirrorless EOS R-series cameras, offering distinct focal ranges and features suitable for various photography needs.

Focal Length and Versatility

The Canon RF-S18-150mm offers a versatile zoom range of 18-150mm, suitable for standard-angle to telephoto photography. In contrast, the Canon RF100-400mm extends that range significantly, going from 100mm to an impressive 400mm. This means if you're focused on wildlife or sports photography, the RF100-400mm provides about 167% more zoom capability than the RF-S18-150mm, making it a superior choice for capturing distant subjects.

Image Stabilization Capabilities

When it comes to image stabilization, the Canon RF-S18-150mm features in-lens optical stabilization that provides up to 4.5 stops of shake correction, which can increase to 6.5 stops when paired with an EOS R series camera equipped with In-Body Image Stabilization (IBIS). On the other hand, the RF100-400mm offers slightly better stabilization, with up to 5.5 stops on its own and 6 stops when used with IBIS. This 0.5 stop advantage can be crucial in low-light conditions, making the RF100-400mm a better choice for handheld shooting in challenging lighting.

Autofocus Performance

Both lenses utilize advanced autofocus technologies, but they differ in their implementation. The RF-S18-150mm incorporates a lead screw-type STM for smooth and quiet autofocus, ideal for video recording. The RF100-400mm, however, features Canon's Nano USM technology, which is designed for high-speed and silent focusing, making it more efficient for capturing fast-moving subjects. This is particularly advantageous in wildlife and sports photography, where quick and accurate focus is essential.

Weight and Portability

In terms of weight, the RF-S18-150mm is a compact and lightweight option, making it easier to carry during long shoots. The RF100-400mm is also designed to be lightweight for a telephoto lens, but it does have a slightly bulkier build due to its extended focal range. If portability is a top priority, the RF-S18-150mm may be the better fit for those who prefer a less cumbersome lens for everyday use.

Minimum Focusing Distance

The RF100-400mm has a minimum focusing distance of 2.89 feet at 200mm, allowing for impressive close-up shots with a maximum magnification of 0.41x at 400mm. In comparison, the RF-S18-150mm is designed for general photography and doesn't specify a minimum focusing distance in the same way. This close focusing capability makes the RF100-400mm particularly appealing for those interested in macro photography or detailed wildlife shots.

Build Quality and Design

Both lenses boast high-quality Canon optics, but they are tailored to different uses. The RF-S18-150mm is designed with smaller APS-C sensors in mind and features automatic APS-C sensor cropping when mounted on full-frame EOS R-series cameras. The RF100-400mm, meanwhile, includes a control ring for quick setting adjustments, enhancing user convenience. The construction of both lenses reflects Canon's commitment to durability, but the RF100-400mm is engineered to handle more demanding conditions due to its broader focus range.

Which should you buy?

Choosing between the Canon RF-S18-150mm F3.5-6.3 and the Canon RF100-400mm F5.6-8 IS USM ultimately depends on your specific photography needs. The RF-S18-150mm is more budget-friendly at $569.00 and offers versatility for everyday photography, making it ideal for casual shooters and those who value portability. Conversely, the RF100-400mm, priced at $699.00, excels in long-distance shooting, rapid autofocus, and superior image stabilization, making it better suited for wildlife, sports, and detailed nature photography. If your focus is on capturing distant subjects with the best technology available, the RF100-400mm is worth the investment. However, for general use and a lighter setup, the RF-S18-150mm is a solid choice.