lightdow EF vs TTArtisan

Overview of the EF 85mm f1.8 Portrait Lens

The EF 85mm f1.8 Portrait Lens is priced at $77.59, making it a solid option for Canon DSLR users looking for a manual focus lens. This lens is designed for a wide range of Canon EOS models, from the Rebel series to the 5D Mark IV. It emphasizes a fully manual focus experience, which can greatly enhance a photographer's skills but may not be for everyone. The lens is known for its superb image quality, charming bokeh, and durability, making it an attractive choice for portrait photography.

Overview of the TTArtisan 35mm F1.4 APS-C Manual Focus Lens

The TTArtisan 35mm F1.4 lens retails for $80.00, slightly higher than the EF 85mm lens. Designed for Fuji X mount cameras, this lens is perfect for APS-C mirrorless systems, offering a natural field of view ideal for various types of photography, including portraits and street photography. With a large aperture of f1.4, it provides excellent low-light performance and stunning bokeh effects. Its lightweight construction makes it convenient to carry, appealing to photographers on the go.

Build Quality and Design

The build quality of both lenses reflects their intended usage. The EF 85mm f1.8 Portrait Lens features a robust design suitable for various Canon DSLRs and is tailored for manual focus. It incorporates 6 rounded aperture blades and an internal focus mechanism, contributing to its durability and reliability. In contrast, the TTArtisan 35mm F1.4 lens is crafted from aviation-grade aluminum alloy, which offers a sturdy yet lightweight design. Weighing only 0.4 lbs, it's easy to transport, making it suitable for casual and travel photographers.

Image Quality and Performance

When it comes to image quality, the EF 85mm f1.8 excels with its hybrid aspherical lens and ultra multi-coating technology, which help reduce aberrations and glare. This results in clear image quality with dreamy background blur effects, making it well-suited for portrait photography. On the other hand, the TTArtisan 35mm F1.4 lens also promises excellent image quality, benefiting from its large f1.4 aperture that allows more light and reduces noise, especially in low-light conditions. Both lenses offer substantial artistic capabilities, but their performance can vary based on the type of photography.

Focus and Usability

The EF 85mm f1.8 lens requires users to switch their cameras to manual mode to function correctly, which may pose a challenge for those not familiar with manual focus techniques. This lens is designed for photographers looking to refine their skills in manual adjustments. Conversely, the TTArtisan 35mm F1.4 lens features a manual focus design that allows photographers to work with subjects as close as 11 inches, enhancing creative possibilities. Its click-stop aperture ring and smooth turning rings also provide excellent handling, making it more user-friendly for those who enjoy manual focusing.

Compatibility

Compatibility is a critical factor when choosing a lens. The EF 85mm f1.8 Portrait Lens is compatible with a wide range of Canon DSLR models, from entry-level to professional, making it a versatile choice for Canon users. In contrast, the TTArtisan 35mm F1.4 lens is designed specifically for Fuji X mount cameras, including popular models like the X-T3 and X-T4. This narrow compatibility may limit its appeal to photographers who own different camera brands or models outside the Fuji ecosystem.

Price Comparison

In terms of pricing, the EF 85mm f1.8 Portrait Lens is available at $77.59, making it about 2% cheaper than the TTArtisan 35mm F1.4 lens, which is priced at $80.00. The price difference may not seem significant, but for budget-conscious photographers, every dollar counts. Additionally, the price average over the last 90 days for the EF 85mm lens is $93.70, suggesting it has been a more affordable option recently compared to the TTArtisan lens, which averages around $78.86 in the same timeframe.

Which should you buy?

Choosing between the EF 85mm f1.8 Portrait Lens and the TTArtisan 35mm F1.4 lens depends largely on your camera system and personal shooting style. If you are a Canon user looking for a high-quality manual focus lens with excellent image quality for portraits, the EF 85mm f1.8 is the better choice. However, if you own a Fuji camera and prefer a lightweight lens that excels in low-light conditions, the TTArtisan 35mm F1.4 would serve you well. Ultimately, both lenses offer unique advantages catering to different preferences, making your specific photography needs the deciding factor.