Canon RF45mm F1.2 STM vs YONGNUO YN35mm F2 Lens 1:2 AF/MF Wide-Angle

Overview

The Canon RF45mm F1.2 STM and YONGNUO YN35mm F2 are two prime lenses tailored for Canon cameras, each offering distinct advantages to photographers. The Canon lens, priced at $469.00, boasts a wide f/1.2 aperture, ideal for low-light conditions and creating beautiful bokeh. In contrast, the YONGNUO lens comes at a significantly lower price of $106.00, featuring a f/2 aperture that still delivers good performance but lacks the same degree of low-light capability as its competitor.

Price Comparison

The Canon RF45mm F1.2 STM is priced at $469.00, making it more than four times the cost of the YONGNUO YN35mm F2, which retails for $106.00. This means that the Canon lens is about 340% more expensive than the YONGNUO lens. While the Canon lens offers premium features such as a larger aperture for better low-light performance, the YONGNUO lens provides excellent value for those on a budget, especially for casual photography.

Aperture and Low-Light Performance

When it comes to aperture size, the Canon RF45mm F1.2 STM is a clear winner with its f/1.2 aperture, allowing for faster shutter speeds in darker environments. This feature is particularly valuable for portrait and lifestyle photographers who frequently shoot in low-light conditions. The YONGNUO YN35mm F2, while still decent with its f/2 aperture, cannot match the Canon's light-gathering capabilities. As such, photographers seeking to work in dimly lit environments may find the Canon lens to be a more reliable choice.

Optical Quality

The Canon RF45mm F1.2 STM lens is designed to deliver exceptional optical performance, which is enhanced by its use of a PMo aspheric lens that reduces aberrations. This lens excels at creating images with a three-dimensional look, isolating subjects from the background effectively. The YONGNUO YN35mm F2 lens, while also capable of decent optical performance, lacks the advanced features found in the Canon lens. Thus, if optical quality is a priority, the Canon lens stands out as the superior option.

Build and Design

In terms of build quality, the Canon RF45mm F1.2 STM is engineered for durability and performance, featuring a large-diameter mount that contributes to its compact design. The YONGNUO YN35mm F2, while constructed with a metal bayonet for improved fit and strength, does not offer the same level of robustness or compactness as the Canon lens. Photographers who prioritize a lightweight and durable lens may lean towards the Canon option, while those seeking a more economical choice might find the YONGNUO lens adequate for their needs.

Focal Length and Versatility

The Canon RF45mm F1.2 STM has a focal length of 45mm, which is versatile for a variety of photography styles, including portraits and street photography. Conversely, the YONGNUO YN35mm F2 offers a 35mm focal length, providing a wider perspective that can be beneficial for landscape and group shots. This difference in focal length may influence a photographer's choice depending on their specific shooting requirements.

Autofocus and Manual Focus Options

Both lenses support autofocus (AF) and manual focus (MF) modes, offering flexibility to photographers based on their preferences or shooting conditions. The YONGNUO YN35mm F2 is particularly user-friendly, allowing for easy switching between AF and MF modes, which can be advantageous in dynamic shooting scenarios. The Canon RF45mm F1.2 STM lens, while also equipped with these features, is designed with advanced autofocus capabilities that enhance its performance in various environments.

Conclusion

In summary, both the Canon RF45mm F1.2 STM and YONGNUO YN35mm F2 lenses cater to different segments of photographers. The Canon lens, with its superior aperture size, optical quality, and build, is suited for professionals or enthusiasts who demand high performance and are willing to invest more, priced at $469.00. On the other hand, the YONGNUO lens, priced at $106.00, offers great value, especially for beginners or casual users who want a reliable lens without breaking the bank.

Which should you buy?

Ultimately, the choice between the Canon RF45mm F1.2 STM and YONGNUO YN35mm F2 depends on your photography needs and budget. If you require exceptional low-light performance and optical quality, the Canon lens is the clear choice. However, if you're looking for a budget-friendly lens that still offers good performance for everyday use, the YONGNUO lens is a solid option.