Canon RF50mm F1.8 STM Lens, Fixed Focal Length Prime Lens vs TTArtisan Auto Focus

Overview of the Canon RF50mm F1.8 STM Lens

The Canon RF50mm F1.8 STM Lens is an excellent choice for photographers using EOS R series cameras, offering versatility and high-quality optics. Priced at $219.00, this lens combines a compact design with a large aperture of F1.8, making it ideal for low-light photography and creative background blur. Its features include a stepping motor for smooth autofocus during both video and photo capture, a control ring for quick adjustments, and optimized lens coatings to minimize ghosting and flare. This lens is designed to deliver outstanding image quality across various shooting scenarios, from portraits to landscapes.

Overview of the TTArtisan Auto Focus 35mm F1.8 Mark II Lens

The TTArtisan Auto Focus 35mm F1.8 Mark II Lens is designed for Fuji X-mount cameras and is priced at $125.00, making it about 43% cheaper than the Canon RF50mm F1.8. This lens is compact and lightweight, weighing only 176 grams, which enhances its portability for on-the-go shooting. With a maximum aperture of F1.8, it excels in low-light conditions and produces beautiful bokeh, making it particularly suitable for portrait photography. Enhanced features include an improved minimum focusing distance of 0.4 meters, allowing for detailed close-up shots, and advanced autofocus capabilities for precise and quick focusing.

Design and Build Quality

The Canon RF50mm F1.8 STM Lens boasts a compact and lightweight design that aligns well with the EOS R series, emphasizing portability without sacrificing performance. Its construction is optimized for durability and ease of use, featuring a control ring for instant adjustments. Conversely, the TTArtisan Auto Focus 35mm F1.8 Mark II Lens has been upgraded to reduce its weight further, making it even more portable. Despite its reduced weight, it maintains a robust build quality suitable for various shooting conditions. Both lenses reflect thoughtful design aimed at enhancing the photographic experience, though the Canon lens may feel more integrated with its camera system.

Optical Performance

In terms of optical performance, the Canon RF50mm F1.8 STM Lens is equipped with advanced coatings and a PMo aspherical lens to suppress aberrations, ensuring sharp and clear images. The large aperture of F1.8 contributes to impressive low-light capabilities and excellent background blur. On the other hand, the TTArtisan Auto Focus 35mm F1.8 Mark II Lens also features a maximum aperture of F1.8, allowing it to perform well in low-light conditions. It enhances close-up photography with a minimum focusing distance of 0.4 meters, which is particularly beneficial for capturing intricate details. While both lenses excel in different areas, the Canon lens offers slightly superior optical engineering.

Autofocus Capability

Autofocus performance is crucial for modern photography, and both lenses present competitive features. The Canon RF50mm F1.8 utilizes a gear-type STM motor that provides smooth and silent autofocus, ideal for both stills and video. The TTArtisan Auto Focus 35mm F1.8 Mark II enhances this experience with an upgraded STM and lead screw-type stepping motor, delivering precise and fast focusing. Both lenses are designed to meet the demands of everyday shooting, but the TTArtisan's advancements may appeal to those who prioritize quick autofocus in dynamic settings.

Versatility and Use Cases

The Canon RF50mm F1.8 STM Lens is highly versatile, making it suitable for a wide range of photography styles, from portraits to landscapes. Its fixed focal length encourages creativity in composition, allowing photographers to experiment with framing and perspective. Similarly, the TTArtisan Auto Focus 35mm F1.8 Mark II Lens, with its equivalent full-frame focal length of 53mm, excels in various scenarios, including portrait and landscape photography. Both lenses serve different user preferences, but the Canon lens's compatibility with the EOS R series enhances its versatility within that system.

Price and Value Proposition

When considering price, the Canon RF50mm F1.8 STM Lens is available for $219.00, which positions it as a premium option for those seeking high performance. In contrast, the TTArtisan Auto Focus 35mm F1.8 Mark II is priced at $125.00, making it a more budget-friendly choice. This price gap of about $94 illustrates the significant cost difference, which may influence a buyer’s decision based on budget constraints. While the Canon lens may offer superior optical quality and performance, the TTArtisan lens provides excellent value for those who prioritize affordability without sacrificing essential features.

Which should you buy?

The decision between the Canon RF50mm F1.8 STM Lens and the TTArtisan Auto Focus 35mm F1.8 Mark II Lens largely depends on your camera system and photography needs. If you're using an EOS R series camera and seek a lens that offers high optical performance along with advanced features, the Canon lens is a strong choice despite its higher price of $219.00. However, if you're looking for a more affordable option for your Fuji X-mount camera that still delivers solid performance, the TTArtisan lens at $125.00 provides excellent value. Ultimately, both lenses have unique strengths that cater to different types of photographers.