Canon RF-S18- vs VILTROX

Overview of the Canon RF-S18-150mm and VILTROX 35mm f/1.7

When considering camera lenses, the Canon RF-S18-150mm F3.5-6.3 Telephoto Lens and the VILTROX 35mm f/1.7 E are two strong contenders. The Canon lens is priced at $569.00, while the VILTROX lens is significantly cheaper at $179.00, making it about 68% less expensive. Each lens caters to different photography needs, with unique features and focal lengths that appeal to various styles of shooting.

Design and Build Quality

The design and build quality of these lenses differ greatly, impacting their usability and suitability for various photography scenarios. The Canon RF-S18-150mm boasts a versatile zoom range and is specifically designed for APS-C cameras, allowing for automatic APS-C sensor cropping when mounted on full-frame EOS R-series cameras. This lens weighs considerably more due to its complex zoom mechanism and robust build. Conversely, the VILTROX 35mm f/1.7 is compact and lightweight, weighing just 170 grams. Its sleek metal body enhances portability, making it ideal for street photography and travel.

Aperture and Low-Light Performance

A key aspect of lens performance is the maximum aperture, which greatly influences low-light capabilities. The VILTROX lens features a bright f/1.7 aperture, making it exceptional for low-light photography and creating beautiful background blur, or bokeh. This characteristic makes it particularly well-suited for portraits and street photography. In contrast, the Canon RF-S18-150mm has a maximum aperture of f/3.5-6.3, which is less effective in low-light situations. Hence, if low-light performance is a priority, the VILTROX lens stands out as the superior choice.

Focal Length Versatility

Focal length versatility is another critical consideration for photographers. The Canon RF-S18-150mm offers an extensive zoom range from 18mm to 150mm, providing a comprehensive range that covers standard-angle to telephoto shots. This makes it an excellent all-around lens for various photography styles, including landscapes, portraits, and sports. On the other hand, the VILTROX 35mm f/1.7 has a fixed focal length, which is equivalent to a natural perspective similar to the human eye. While it excels in specific scenarios like portraiture and street photography, it lacks the versatility of the Canon lens.

Autofocus Performance

Autofocus performance can significantly impact shooting efficiency and image quality. The Canon RF-S18-150mm features a lead screw-type STM motor that ensures smooth and quiet autofocus, making it ideal for video shooting and situations requiring minimal background noise. It offers 100% Dual Pixel CMOS AF coverage for APS-C sensors. In comparison, the VILTROX lens is equipped with a new STM motor that provides fast, precise, and near-silent autofocus performance, with low focus breathing. Both lenses deliver reliable autofocus, but the Canon lens may have an edge due to its broader compatibility with Canon's advanced autofocus systems.

Image Stabilization

When shooting in dynamic conditions, image stabilization can be a game changer. The Canon RF-S18-150mm features in-lens optical image stabilization, offering up to 4.5 stops of shake correction and even up to 6.5 stops when paired with EOS R series cameras that have In-Body Image Stabilizer (IBIS). This advanced stabilization is particularly beneficial for handheld shooting in low light or while on the move. The VILTROX 35mm does not explicitly mention image stabilization features, which may limit its effectiveness in similar shooting situations. Therefore, for those prioritizing stabilization, the Canon lens is the clear winner.

Price Comparison

Price is often a decisive factor when choosing between two products. The Canon RF-S18-150mm is priced at $569.00, while the VILTROX 35mm f/1.7 is available for just $179.00. This price difference of approximately $390 makes the VILTROX about 68% cheaper than the Canon lens. For budget-conscious photographers or those just starting out, the VILTROX offers excellent value without sacrificing essential features.

Use Cases and Target Audience

The intended use cases for these lenses differ significantly. The Canon RF-S18-150mm is designed for photographers looking for a versatile lens that can handle a variety of situations, from landscapes to portraits, making it ideal for travel and everyday photography. Its zoom capability enables users to adapt to different environments without needing to change lenses frequently. In contrast, the VILTROX 35mm f/1.7 is tailored for enthusiasts who prioritize portrait and street photography, where low-light performance and background blur are critical.

Which should you buy?

Deciding between the Canon RF-S18-150mm and the VILTROX 35mm f/1.7 ultimately depends on your photography needs and preferences. If you require a versatile lens capable of covering a wide range of shooting scenarios and prioritize image stabilization, the Canon RF-S18-150mm is likely the better choice despite its higher price. However, if you are budget-conscious and primarily focused on low-light performance and portrait photography, the VILTROX 35mm f/1.7 offers exceptional value and performance at a significantly lower cost.