Canon RF35mm F1.8 is Macro STM Lens, Black vs YNLENS YONGNUO YN50mm

Price Comparison

The Canon RF35mm F1.8 is Macro STM Lens is priced at $499.00, while the YONGNUO YN50mm 50mm f/1.8 Lens is significantly more affordable at $102.00. This means the YONGNUO lens is about 80% cheaper than the Canon lens, making it a budget-friendly option for photographers who may not want to invest heavily in gear. The price difference could influence many budget-conscious buyers, especially those just starting their photography journey or looking for a solid secondary lens without breaking the bank.

Lens Type and Versatility

The Canon RF35mm F1.8 is a macro lens that offers a 0.5x magnification ratio, making it ideal for close-up photography and versatile enough for general wide-angle shots. In contrast, the YONGNUO YN50mm serves as a standard prime lens, particularly effective for portrait photography due to its 50mm focal length. While the Canon lens can capture intricate details in macro photography, the YONGNUO lens excels in delivering a classic perspective akin to that of the human eye, making it suitable for street photography and portraits.

Build Quality and Design

Canon’s RF35mm lens features a compact and lightweight design, making it easy to carry. It also has a control ring for direct setting changes and incorporates optical image stabilization to correct shake, which can be crucial in various shooting conditions. On the other hand, the YONGNUO YN50mm is noted for its compact structure and weighs only 203 grams. It features a high-precision metal bayonet and gold-plated contacts, which contribute to its durability. Although both lenses are built for portability, the added stabilization in the Canon lens may offer an edge in shaky environments.

Focusing Capabilities

The Canon RF35mm lens has a minimum focusing distance of 0.56 feet, allowing for close-up shots with excellent detail. Its macro capabilities make it particularly appealing for those who want to capture fine details in their subjects. In comparison, the YONGNUO YN50mm boasts a minimum focus distance of 0.45 meters (approximately 1.5 feet), which is ideally suited for food blogging and product detail shots. Both lenses offer unique focusing capabilities, but the Canon lens offers a slight advantage for macro photography enthusiasts.

Optical Performance

Optical quality is a significant factor when comparing lenses. The Canon RF35mm features a super spectra coating that helps control flare and ghosting, ensuring clearer images in challenging lighting conditions. The YONGNUO YN50mm lens, with its 6 elements in 5 groups, also utilizes high-definition nano-coating to minimize light loss and prevent glare. While both lenses aim for high-quality optics, the Canon lens’s macro capabilities combined with its coating technology provides a more versatile option for various photography styles.

Compatibility and Usage

The Canon RF35mm is compatible with EOS R series cameras, making it a perfect match for users with Canon’s mirrorless system. This compatibility ensures that users can take full advantage of the lens’s features, such as optical image stabilization and direct control ring adjustments. Conversely, the YONGNUO YN50mm is designed for Nikon F-mount cameras, making it suitable for a wide range of Nikon DSLR models. Both lenses cater to their specific camera systems, and the choice largely depends on the photographer's existing gear.

User Experience and Practicality

The Canon RF35mm lens offers a great user experience with its control ring for direct adjustments and advanced stabilization features. This makes it appealing for photographers who value intuitive handling and want to make quick adjustments while shooting. The YONGNUO YN50mm lens emphasizes ease of use with its automatic/manual switching feature for aperture control, which can be beneficial for beginners. Both lenses are practical in their own right, but the Canon lens may cater more to experienced users seeking advanced functionalities.

Which should you buy?

Choosing between the Canon RF35mm F1.8 and the YONGNUO YN50mm largely depends on your photography needs and budget. If you are looking for a versatile macro lens with superior optical performance and stabilization, the Canon RF35mm is worth the investment at $499.00. However, if you are on a budget and need a reliable standard prime lens for portraits and general photography, the YONGNUO YN50mm at $102.00 offers exceptional value. Ultimately, your camera system and specific photography goals will guide your decision.