Canon RF100- vs Sony FE

Price Comparison

When it comes to price, the Canon RF100-400mm F5.6-8 IS USM is more budget-friendly than the Sony FE 35mm f/1.8 Lens. The Canon lens is priced at $699.00, while the Sony lens comes in at $798.00, making the Canon about 17% cheaper. This price difference could be significant for photographers on a budget or those looking to invest in multiple lenses. While both lenses offer excellent features, the Canon lens provides a more economical option without sacrificing quality.

Lens Type and Versatility

The Canon RF100-400mm F5.6-8 IS USM is a telephoto lens, ideal for capturing distant subjects such as wildlife or sporting events. It boasts a zoom range of 100-400mm, which allows photographers to get up close to their subjects without physically moving closer. In contrast, the Sony FE 35mm f/1.8 Lens is a prime lens, providing a fixed focal length that is perfect for street photography and portraits. While the prime lens offers exceptional image quality and a wide aperture for bokeh effects, the versatility of the Canon lens makes it a more appealing choice for those who require a broader range of focal lengths.

Image Stabilization Features

Image stabilization is a crucial feature for photographers, especially in telephoto lenses. The Canon RF100-400mm includes an Optical Image Stabilizer that provides up to 5.5 stops of shake correction, which improves image clarity and reduces blur in handheld shots. When paired with EOS R series cameras featuring In-Body Image Stabilization, this can extend to 6 stops. On the other hand, the Sony FE 35mm f/1.8 Lens does not have built-in image stabilization, relying instead on the camera's stabilization system. For those who frequently shoot in challenging lighting conditions or at longer focal lengths, the Canon’s stabilization capabilities give it a notable advantage.

Autofocus Performance

Both lenses feature impressive autofocus systems, but they excel in different areas. The Canon RF100-400mm uses Canon's Nano USM technology, delivering fast, smooth, and quiet autofocus performance, which is crucial for capturing fast-moving subjects. On the contrary, the Sony FE 35mm f/1.8 Lens incorporates a linear-motor autofocus drive that is equally fast and precise, ensuring quick focus adjustments. While both lenses perform well, the choice may come down to the specific needs of the photographer; the Canon is tailored for dynamic situations, while the Sony is suited for more controlled environments, particularly in portrait photography.

Minimum Focusing Distance and Magnification

The Canon RF100-400mm has a minimum focusing distance of 2.89 feet at 200mm, offering a maximum magnification of 0.41x at 400mm. This feature is particularly useful for wildlife photographers who need to capture details from a distance. In contrast, the Sony FE 35mm f/1.8 can focus as close as 8.66 inches, achieving a maximum magnification of 0.24x. While the Sony offers closer focusing for detailed shots, the Canon excels in long-range photography, making it the preferred choice for those who prioritize versatility and distance in their work.

Build Quality and Portability

Portability is another area where both lenses shine, but they cater to different preferences. The Canon RF100-400mm is compact and lightweight for a telephoto lens, making it easier to carry on long shoots. This is particularly beneficial for travel photographers or those who need to hike to locations. The Sony FE 35mm f/1.8 is also compact and lightweight, setting a new standard for portability among prime lenses. For photographers who prioritize carrying a lightweight setup, both lenses are excellent choices, though the Canon offers more versatility in focal length without compromising on weight.

Bokeh and Aesthetic Quality

When it comes to bokeh and overall aesthetic quality, the Sony FE 35mm f/1.8 Lens stands out with its f/1.8 aperture and 9-blade circular aperture design. This allows for beautiful, creamy background blur, making it ideal for portraits and artistic photography. The Canon RF100-400mm, while producing high-quality images, is primarily focused on versatility and distance rather than bokeh. Therefore, for those who value artistic control over depth of field, the Sony lens may be the better choice, especially for portraiture and creative compositions.

Which should you buy?

Deciding between the Canon RF100-400mm F5.6-8 IS USM and the Sony FE 35mm f/1.8 Lens ultimately depends on your specific photography needs. The Canon lens is about 17% cheaper, offers greater versatility with its zoom range, and excels in stabilization and autofocus for dynamic scenes. In contrast, the Sony lens provides exceptional image quality, particularly for portraits, thanks to its wide aperture and beautiful bokeh. If you need a lens for wildlife or sports photography, the Canon is likely the better fit, while the Sony is ideal for those who focus on portraits or low-light conditions. Choose based on the type of photography you pursue and the features that matter most to you.