Canon RF100- vs Nikon NIKKOR Z DX 12-

Overview of the Canon RF100-400mm F5.6-8 IS USM

The Canon RF100-400mm F5.6-8 IS USM is a versatile telephoto lens ideal for wildlife and sports photography. Priced at $699.00, this compact and lightweight lens offers a zoom range that extends from 100mm to 400mm, making it suitable for capturing distant subjects with clarity. The lens features an Optical Image Stabilizer that provides up to 5.5 stops of shake correction, enhancing image stability during handheld shooting. Additionally, when paired with compatible EOS R series cameras, it can achieve up to 6 stops of shake correction.

Overview of the Nikon NIKKOR Z DX 12-28mm PZ VR

The Nikon NIKKOR Z DX 12-28mm PZ VR is an ultra-wide-angle power zoom lens designed for creators and vloggers. With a price tag of $366.95, it presents a cost-effective option for those who require a versatile zoom lens for their APS-C size Z series cameras. The lens covers a focal length of 12mm to 28mm, allowing for immersive wide-angle shots. It also includes built-in Vibration Reduction (VR) that counteracts shakiness, offering up to 4.5 stops of stabilization, making it a great choice for handheld shooting in various conditions.

Image Quality and Performance

The Canon RF100-400mm F5.6-8 IS USM is designed with high-image quality in mind, featuring a single Ultra Low Dispersion lens element that corrects chromatic aberration across the zoom range. This design ensures that images are crisp and vibrant, particularly when zoomed in at 400mm. The lens also boasts a fast and quiet autofocus system powered by Canon’s Nano USM technology, making it suitable for capturing fast-moving subjects.

In contrast, the Nikon NIKKOR Z DX 12-28mm PZ VR emphasizes versatility in composition with its ultra-wide-angle capabilities. The lens is built for content creators, offering a close focus distance of just 11 inches from the subject. Its power zoom functionality, with 11 selectable speeds, allows for smooth and precise transitions, ideal for video work. However, while it excels in wide-angle shots, it lacks the long-range capabilities of the Canon lens.

Build and Design

The Canon RF100-400mm F5.6-8 IS USM is compact and lightweight, making it easy to carry, especially for outdoor photography. Its design is similar in size to the EF 70-300mm F4.5-5.6 IS II USM lens, yet it provides a longer reach up to 400mm. The inclusion of a control ring allows users to make quick adjustments to settings like shutter speed and aperture on the fly.

On the other hand, the Nikon NIKKOR Z DX 12-28mm PZ VR is also designed with portability in mind, making it gimbal-friendly for video use. Its compact size ensures that it can be easily transported, making it an excellent companion for travel and vlogging. Both lenses prioritize user convenience, but the specific design features cater to different types of photography.

Stabilization Features

The stabilization capabilities of both lenses are noteworthy but serve different purposes. The Canon RF100-400mm F5.6-8 IS USM offers up to 5.5 stops of shake correction, which can increase to 6 stops when used with an EOS R series camera equipped with In-Body Image Stabilization (IBIS). This feature is particularly advantageous for wildlife and sports photographers who need to capture images at longer focal lengths.

In comparison, the Nikon NIKKOR Z DX 12-28mm PZ VR provides 4.5 stops of VR, which is effective for minimizing shake during handheld shooting. This stabilization is crucial for content creators and vloggers who often shoot in dynamic environments. While neither lens is superior in stabilization, their features align with the intended use cases of each lens.

Focusing Capabilities

Focusing capabilities differ significantly between the two lenses. The Canon RF100-400mm F5.6-8 IS USM utilizes Canon’s Nano USM for high-speed, smooth, and quiet autofocus, which is essential for capturing fast action in wildlife and sports photography. Its minimum focusing distance of 2.89 feet at 200mm and maximum magnification of 0.41x at 400mm further enhance its usability for close-up shots.

Conversely, the Nikon NIKKOR Z DX 12-28mm PZ VR is built for creative flexibility, offering close focus abilities that allow users to get as close as 11 inches to their subjects. This feature is particularly advantageous for macro shots and detailed subjects. However, while the Nikon lens excels in close focusing, it does not reach the same magnification capabilities as the Canon lens.

Price Comparison

The Canon RF100-400mm F5.6-8 IS USM is priced at $699.00, while the Nikon NIKKOR Z DX 12-28mm PZ VR is significantly cheaper at $366.95, making it about 47% less expensive than the Canon lens. This considerable price difference could be a deciding factor for many photographers and videographers, particularly those on a budget. While the Canon lens offers superior zoom capabilities, the Nikon lens provides an excellent value for those who primarily need a wide-angle option without breaking the bank.

Which should you buy?

Choosing between the Canon RF100-400mm F5.6-8 IS USM and the Nikon NIKKOR Z DX 12-28mm PZ VR ultimately depends on your specific photography needs. If you require a powerful telephoto lens that excels in wildlife and sports photography, the Canon lens is a worthy investment, despite its higher price. However, if you are a content creator or vlogger seeking a versatile and budget-friendly wide-angle option for your Z series camera, the Nikon lens offers exceptional value and performance. Consider your primary usage and budget before making a decision.