lightdow EF vs Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR

Overview of the Products

The EF 85mm f1.8 Portrait Lens for Canon is priced at $77.59, while the Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR 35mm f/1.8G Lens comes in at $213.31. This makes the Canon lens about 64% cheaper than its Nikon counterpart. The significant price difference might attract budget-conscious photographers, but let's delve deeper into what each lens offers.

Build and Design

The EF 85mm f1.8 Portrait Lens is a fully manual lens, which means it does not feature autofocus capabilities. This design can provide photographers with greater control over their focus settings, requiring them to manually adjust shutter speed, ISO, and aperture before taking a shot. The lens is compatible with a wide range of Canon DSLR cameras, making it a versatile choice for Canon users.

On the other hand, the Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR 35mm f/1.8G Lens includes an autofocus system, which is particularly beneficial for those who prefer a quicker workflow. This lens is designed for Nikon DX-format cameras, offering a 35mm equivalent focal length of about 52.5mm, suitable for various photography styles including environmental portraits and landscapes.

Image Quality

The EF 85mm f1.8 Portrait Lens is engineered to deliver superb image quality, featuring 6 rounded aperture blades that contribute to beautiful bokeh effects. The lens includes hybrid aspherical lens technology and ultra multi-coating, which work together to minimize aberrations and glare, ensuring sharp images even in challenging lighting conditions.

Conversely, the Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR 35mm f/1.8G Lens boasts a rounded seven-blade diaphragm that also enhances the natural appearance of out-of-focus elements. Its aspherical lens element is specifically designed to minimize coma and other aberrations, which can significantly improve image integrity. Both lenses, therefore, promise high-quality images, but their effectiveness may vary depending on the user's skill level and shooting conditions.

Compatibility

The EF 85mm f1.8 Portrait Lens is compatible with a broad array of Canon DSLR cameras, including models from the EOS Rebel series and 5D Mark IV, among others. This extensive compatibility makes it a strong choice for users of Canon cameras.

On the flip side, the Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR 35mm f/1.8G Lens is tailored for Nikon DSLRs, specifically those in the DX format. It is capable of operating in DX crop mode on FX cameras, but its primary optimization is for DX-format shooters. This means that while it can be versatile, its full potential is realized when used with compatible Nikon models.

Autofocus vs. Manual Focus

A key distinction between these two lenses is the focus mechanism. The EF 85mm f1.8 Portrait Lens is entirely manual, requiring users to switch their camera to manual mode, which can provide a more hands-on experience for photographers. This manual focus design can foster creativity and skill development, appealing particularly to those wanting to refine their photographic techniques.

In contrast, the Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR 35mm f/1.8G features a Silent Wave Motor (SWM) that enables quick and quiet autofocus operation. This can be a significant advantage for photographers who frequently shoot in dynamic settings, where speed is essential. The presence of both manual and autofocus modes in the Nikon lens adds to its versatility, allowing users to switch to manual focus when desired.

Price Comparison

The price difference between the two lenses is quite striking. At $77.59, the EF 85mm f1.8 Portrait Lens is approximately 64% less expensive than the Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR 35mm f/1.8G, which is priced at $213.31. This makes the Canon lens a compelling choice for those on a tighter budget or for photographers looking to explore manual focusing techniques without a significant financial commitment.

However, the Nikon lens offers advanced features such as autofocus and a more refined optical design, which may justify its higher price for certain users. Ultimately, the choice may depend on whether a photographer values budget over advanced features or vice versa.

After-Sales Support

The EF 85mm f1.8 Portrait Lens comes with professional after-sales support, including maintenance and replacement services during the warranty period. This can provide peace of mind for users concerned about long-term durability and potential issues with their lens.

In comparison, while the Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR 35mm f/1.8G does not explicitly mention after-sales support, it includes a 5-year warranty that covers both international and USA extensions. This warranty can be reassuring for buyers, ensuring that they are protected against manufacturing defects and other issues that may arise.

Which should you buy?

Deciding between the EF 85mm f1.8 Portrait Lens and the Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR 35mm f/1.8G Lens boils down to your specific needs and preferences. The Canon lens is significantly cheaper and allows for a manual focus experience that can enhance your photographic skills. In contrast, the Nikon lens offers autofocus capabilities, a design optimized for Nikon cameras, and a more versatile shooting experience.

If budget is your primary concern and you are willing to embrace manual focus, the EF 85mm f1.8 Portrait Lens is a solid choice. However, if you prioritize ease of use and autofocus functionality, the Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR 35mm f/1.8G is worth the higher investment. Ultimately, the best choice will align with your photography style and camera system.