Canon RF75- vs YONGNUO

Overview of the Canon RF75-300mm and YONGNUO 35mm

The Canon RF75-300mm is a versatile zoom lens, while the YONGNUO 35mm is a standard prime lens. Both lenses cater to different photography needs, making them suitable for varying styles and preferences. The Canon lens is priced at $239.00, whereas the YONGNUO lens is available for $128.00, making it about 47% cheaper than the Canon option.

Design and Build Quality

The Canon RF75-300mm is designed to be compact, lightweight, and portable, akin to the weight of a 500ml water bottle. This design allows photographers to easily carry it on long shoots without feeling burdened. In contrast, the YONGNUO 35mm boasts a metal bayonet and outer shell, along with gold-plated contacts that enhance durability. Both lenses feature a thoughtful design, but the Canon lens excels in portability, while YONGNUO emphasizes sturdiness.

Focal Length and Versatility

The Canon RF75-300mm offers an extensive focal length range from 75mm to 300mm, ideal for a variety of photography genres, including wildlife and sports photography. This flexibility allows for dramatic changes in the feel of images. The YONGNUO 35mm, on the other hand, provides a standard focal length that is great for portrait and street photography. While the Canon lens allows for more versatility in framing subjects, the YONGNUO is more limited but excels in low-light conditions due to its larger aperture.

Aperture and Image Quality

The YONGNUO 35mm features a maximum aperture of F1.8, which is advantageous for achieving a beautiful background bokeh and excellent performance in low-light situations. This large aperture allows for creative control over depth of field. The Canon RF75-300mm, while versatile, has a narrower maximum aperture of F4-5.6, meaning it may not perform as well in dim lighting. The YONGNUO's wider aperture gives it a distinct edge in capturing high-quality images with pleasing backgrounds.

Autofocus Performance

Autofocus capabilities differ significantly between these two lenses. The Canon RF75-300mm includes eye detection features during still image shooting and video recording, ensuring sharp focus on moving subjects, which is essential for dynamic photography. The YONGNUO 35mm is equipped with a quiet autofocus system, making it suitable for both photography and video recording. While the Canon lens may be better for action shots, the YONGNUO provides silent operation, which is invaluable for capturing candid moments.

Compatibility and Mounting

The Canon RF75-300mm is specifically designed for Canon EOS R series cameras, meaning it won’t work with Canon DSLR models or other brands. Conversely, the YONGNUO 35mm is compatible with a wide range of Sony E-mount mirrorless cameras, including popular models like the A7III and A6400. This broader compatibility makes the YONGNUO a more versatile choice for photographers who own different Sony models, while the Canon lens remains limited to a specific camera series.

Included Accessories

The Canon RF75-300mm comes with a UV filter, lens cap keeper, and a cleaning kit that includes a blower, lens pen, brush, and case. These accessories enhance the lens's usability and maintenance. In contrast, the YONGNUO 35mm does not list any included accessories, which may be a consideration for buyers who value bundled products. The additional accessories from Canon add value to the purchase, making it a more comprehensive package right out of the box.

Which should you buy?

Choosing between the Canon RF75-300mm and the YONGNUO 35mm largely depends on your specific photography needs. If you require versatility and the ability to shoot at varying distances, the Canon lens is the better option, albeit at a higher price of $239.00. On the other hand, if you are looking for a more affordable lens that excels in low-light conditions and offers great image quality, the YONGNUO 35mm at $128.00 is an excellent choice. Ultimately, consider your camera system and the type of photography you intend to pursue before making a decision.