Canon RF28mm F2.8 STM Lens, RF Mount, Wide-Angle vs YONGNUO YN35mm F2 Lens 1:2 AF/MF Wide-Angle

Introduction to the Canon RF28mm F2.8 STM Lens and YONGNUO YN35mm F2 Lens

When comparing the Canon RF28mm F2.8 STM lens and the YONGNUO YN35mm F2 lens, it's clear that both offer unique strengths tailored to different photographic needs. The Canon lens is priced at $299.00, while the YONGNUO lens is significantly cheaper at $106.00, making it approximately 64% less expensive. This price difference sets the stage for a comparison of their features, performance, and overall value.

Design and Build Quality

The Canon RF28mm F2.8 STM lens features a super-compact, pancake design that makes it ideal for travel and street photography. Its lightweight nature allows it to blend seamlessly with full-frame EOS R series cameras. In contrast, the YONGNUO YN35mm F2 lens, while also designed for ease of use, is bulkier with a maximum diameter and length of 73mm by 59mm. The construction of the YONGNUO lens includes a chrome high precision metal bayonet that enhances durability, though it does not match the compactness of the Canon lens.

Focal Length and Versatility

The Canon RF28mm F2.8 STM lens offers a focal length of 28mm, which is excellent for capturing wide-angle shots on full-frame cameras and provides an equivalent of approximately 45mm on APS-C sensors. On the other hand, the YONGNUO YN35mm F2 lens has a 35mm focal length, which is versatile for various shooting conditions, especially in moderate lighting. This difference in focal length can influence the type of photography each lens excels in, with the Canon lens being more suited for expansive landscapes and the YONGNUO lens for portraits and street photography.

Aperture and Low-Light Performance

The Canon RF28mm F2.8 STM lens boasts a maximum aperture of f/2.8, providing decent low-light performance but not as much light-gathering capability as the YONGNUO lens. In contrast, the YONGNUO YN35mm F2 lens has a maximum aperture of f/2, allowing it to perform significantly better in low-light conditions. This makes the YONGNUO lens more attractive for users who frequently shoot in dim environments, ensuring that they can still capture sharp images without excessive noise.

Focus Mechanism

Focusing capabilities differ between the two lenses, impacting their usability in various scenarios. The Canon RF28mm F2.8 STM lens features a leadscrew type STM (stepping motor) focus drive, which is particularly beneficial for smooth and quiet autofocus during video shooting. Meanwhile, the YONGNUO YN35mm F2 lens supports both auto focus (AF) and manual focus (MF) modes, catering to photographers who prefer manual control. This flexibility in the YONGNUO lens can appeal to those who enjoy a more hands-on approach to focusing.

Image Quality and Optical Performance

Canon's RF28mm F2.8 STM lens is designed with three aspheric elements and Canon's Super Spectra Coating, which significantly reduces ghosting and flare, resulting in excellent image quality. The lens is particularly effective for capturing clear, vibrant images. The YONGNUO YN35mm F2 lens, while it includes multi-coated glass lenses to improve transmittance and reduce ghosting, may not reach the same level of optical performance as the Canon lens. Therefore, for users prioritizing image quality, the Canon lens may be the better choice.

Price and Value Proposition

With a current price of $299.00, the Canon RF28mm F2.8 STM lens is a substantial investment compared to the YONGNUO YN35mm F2 lens, priced at $106.00. This makes the YONGNUO lens about 64% cheaper, which can be a significant factor for budget-conscious photographers. However, while the YONGNUO lens offers excellent value for its price, the Canon lens justifies its higher cost by delivering superior build quality and optical performance. Ultimately, the value proposition will depend on the photographer’s budget and requirements.

Which should you buy?

When deciding between the Canon RF28mm F2.8 STM lens and the YONGNUO YN35mm F2 lens, it's essential to consider your specific needs. If you prioritize compactness, superior image quality, and a lens that excels in a variety of shooting conditions, the Canon lens is the clear choice, despite its higher price. However, if you are looking for an affordable option that performs well in low-light scenarios and offers versatility with both autofocus and manual focus capabilities, the YONGNUO lens is a fantastic option. Ultimately, your choice should align with your photographic style, budget, and the types of images you wish to capture.