Canon RF-S55- vs YONGNUO YN35mm F2 Lens 1:2 AF/MF Wide-Angle

Overview

When comparing the Canon RF-S55-210mm F5-7.1 IS STM and the YONGNUO YN35mm F2, the key takeaway is their distinct purposes and price points. The Canon lens, priced at $409.00, offers a versatile telephoto zoom range ideal for capturing distant subjects, while the YONGNUO lens, at only $106.00, is a budget-friendly wide-angle prime lens suitable for close-up and low-light photography.

The Canon lens is designed for APS-C mirrorless RF mount cameras, providing an equivalent focal length of approximately 88–336mm. In contrast, the YONGNUO lens is compatible with Canon EF mount cameras and supports both auto and manual focus modes, making it a versatile choice for various shooting scenarios.

Price Comparison

In terms of pricing, the YONGNUO YN35mm F2 is significantly more budget-friendly, costing $106.00 compared to the Canon RF-S55-210mm at $409.00. This makes the YONGNUO lens about 74% cheaper than the Canon option. The price difference may greatly influence the decision for those on a tighter budget or those looking for a lens to complement their existing camera without a hefty investment.

While the Canon lens provides advanced features such as Optical Image Stabilization and superior optical quality, the lower price of the YONGNUO lens makes it an attractive option for beginners or casual photographers who may not require extensive zoom capabilities.

Image Quality

When it comes to image quality, the Canon RF-S55-210mm stands out with its optical design, featuring two Ultra-low Dispersion (UD) glass elements and one aspheric element. This advanced construction minimizes chromatic aberration and enhances overall image clarity. Additionally, the lens is equipped with Canon's Super Spectra Coating to reduce ghosting and flare, ensuring vibrant and sharp images across various conditions.

Conversely, the YONGNUO YN35mm F2, while offering decent optical performance, does not have the same level of sophisticated lens construction. Nevertheless, it features multi-coated lenses that improve transmittance and reduce ghosting. While the YONGNUO lens is capable of capturing good quality images, it may not match the exceptional sharpness and contrast offered by the Canon lens, especially in challenging lighting conditions.

Versatility

The Canon RF-S55-210mm is designed as a telephoto zoom lens, making it highly versatile for various photography styles, including landscapes, portraits, and travel photography. Its focal length range allows photographers to capture subjects that are far away, which is particularly useful for wildlife or sports photography. With a minimum focusing distance of approximately 28.7 inches, photographers can achieve a maximum magnification of 0.28x, enhancing its usability for detailed shots.

In contrast, the YONGNUO YN35mm F2 serves as a wide-angle prime lens, providing a diagonal view angle of 63 degrees. Its minimum focusing distance of 0.8 feet allows for captivating close-up shots with a natural wide-angle effect. This makes it ideal for street photography, environmental portraits, and low-light situations due to its fast f/2 aperture. However, its fixed focal length limits its versatility compared to the zoom capabilities of the Canon lens.

Build Quality and Design

The build quality of the Canon RF-S55-210mm lens is robust, designed to withstand the rigors of outdoor photography. Its compact and lightweight design makes it an excellent choice for photographers who need a portable option without sacrificing performance. Additionally, the Canon lens features a six-group zoom system that contributes to its compact form.

On the other hand, the YONGNUO YN35mm F2 has a well-constructed design with a chrome high precision metal bayonet that enhances durability and fit. Although it is not as compact as the Canon lens, its design supports a sturdy feel. The 52mm filter diameter is standard, allowing for easy use of various filters. However, it lacks some of the advanced features seen in the Canon lens, such as Optical Image Stabilization.

Autofocus Performance

The autofocus performance of the Canon RF-S55-210mm is enhanced by its STM (Stepping Motor) technology, which provides smooth, quiet, and continuous focus adjustments. This is particularly beneficial for videographers who need to maintain focus without distracting noise. The lens is designed to work seamlessly with Canon’s Movie Servo AF, ensuring reliable autofocus during video recording.

The YONGNUO YN35mm F2 also supports both auto focus (AF) and manual focus (MF) modes, making it adaptable for different shooting styles. However, while it performs adequately for most situations, it may not match the speed and quietness of the Canon's STM technology. This difference in autofocus capabilities could be significant for users focused on video production or capturing fast-moving subjects.

Compatibility

The Canon RF-S55-210mm is specifically designed for APS-C mirrorless RF mount cameras, making it an excellent choice for owners of models like the EOS R50, R10, and R7. Its optical design maximizes the potential of APS-C sensors, providing an ideal focal length for various shooting scenarios.

In contrast, the YONGNUO YN35mm F2 is compatible with Canon EF mount EOS cameras, supporting both full-frame and APS-C formats. This versatility allows users with a wider range of camera bodies to benefit from its capabilities. Additionally, the lens supports multiple shooting modes, including M/AV/TV/P, providing flexibility for different photographic needs.

Which should you buy?

Ultimately, the choice between the Canon RF-S55-210mm F5-7.1 IS STM and the YONGNUO YN35mm F2 comes down to your specific photography needs and budget. If you require a versatile telephoto zoom lens with exceptional image quality and advanced features, the Canon lens is the superior option at $409.00. However, if you are looking for an affordable and capable wide-angle prime lens for casual photography, the YONGNUO lens at $106.00 presents a compelling value. Each lens serves its purpose well, catering to different types of photographers and shooting situations.