Canon RF-S18- vs VILTROX

Overview

The Canon RF-S18-150mm F3.5-6.3 Telephoto Lens and the VILTROX 85mm F2 EVO FE Lens cater to different photography needs and styles. While the Canon lens offers a versatile zoom range ideal for various scenarios, the VILTROX lens specializes in portrait photography with its wide aperture. Understanding their unique features will help photographers decide which lens best suits their shooting preferences.

Price Comparison

The Canon RF-S18-150mm is priced at $569.00, while the VILTROX 85mm is significantly cheaper at $275.00, making it about 52% less expensive. This considerable price difference may appeal to photographers on a budget or those who prioritize cost-efficiency in their gear. However, the price of a lens often reflects its capabilities and target audience, so it's essential to consider what each lens offers beyond the price tag.

Design and Build Quality

Both lenses have been designed with specific uses in mind. The Canon RF-S18-150mm features a compact design suitable for APS-C cameras, making it versatile for various photography types, from landscapes to portraits. On the other hand, the VILTROX 85mm is compact and lightweight, weighing only 340g, which enhances its portability and ergonomics for handheld shooting during extended sessions. This makes the VILTROX a convenient choice for photographers who require mobility and ease of use.

Autofocus Performance

Autofocus is a critical feature for both lenses. The Canon RF-S18-150mm utilizes a lead screw-type stepping motor (STM) that provides smooth and quiet autofocus, ideal for shooting videos where audio clarity is essential. The VILTROX 85mm also employs a Stepping Motor (STM), ensuring precise and quiet autofocus performance, which is advantageous for both photography and videography. With both lenses offering reliable autofocus, the choice may hinge on the specific shooting scenario each lens is designed for.

Image Stabilization

Image stabilization is essential for achieving sharp images, especially in low-light conditions or when shooting handheld. The Canon RF-S18-150mm boasts in-lens optical image stabilization with up to 4.5 stops of shake correction, and it can achieve up to 6.5 stops when paired with EOS R series cameras featuring In-Body Image Stabilizer (IBIS). The VILTROX 85mm lacks a specific image stabilization feature but focuses on sharpness and color accuracy through its optical design. For photographers who frequently shoot in dynamic environments, the Canon lens’s stabilization may offer a significant advantage.

Optical Quality

Optical performance is where the VILTROX 85mm shines, thanks to its large F2.0 aperture, which facilitates stunning background blur (bokeh) ideal for portrait photography. Its optical design includes 10 elements in 8 groups, which effectively reduces chromatic aberration, delivering crisp and vivid results. Conversely, while the Canon RF-S18-150mm lens is designed for versatility, it does not specifically emphasize optical performance for portraits. The choice between these lenses may come down to the importance of optical quality in your photography.

Versatility

The Canon RF-S18-150mm offers a zoom range of 18-150mm, making it highly versatile for various photography styles, including landscapes, sports, and portraits. Its automatic APS-C sensor cropping feature allows it to adapt to full-frame EOS R-series cameras effectively. In contrast, the VILTROX 85mm is a prime lens specifically designed for portraiture with a close-up excellence at a minimum focus distance of just 0.74 meters. While the Canon lens suits a wider range of scenarios, the VILTROX lens excels at its focused specialization.

Target Audience

The Canon RF-S18-150mm is aimed at photographers who need a reliable all-purpose lens for everyday use, from casual shooting to more serious photography. It's particularly suitable for those who own APS-C cameras or full-frame EOS R-series cameras. The VILTROX 85mm, however, targets portrait photographers looking for a lens that excels in creating professional-quality images with beautiful bokeh. This distinction in target audience can significantly influence a photographer's decision based on their primary photography needs.

Which should you buy?

Ultimately, the choice between the Canon RF-S18-150mm and the VILTROX 85mm depends on your photography style and budget. If you require a versatile all-around lens that performs well in various situations, the Canon RF-S18-150mm at $569.00 is a solid choice. However, if your focus is primarily on portrait photography and you prefer a lens that offers stunning bokeh and optical quality at a more budget-friendly price of $275.00, the VILTROX 85mm is the better option. Each lens has its strengths, so your decision should reflect your specific needs as a photographer.