The Canon RF 50mm f/1.2 L lens is a powerhouse, offering exceptional image quality and features at a hefty price of around $2,000. On the other hand, the RF 50mm f/1.8, affectionately known as the "nifty fifty," costs just $200. With such a huge price difference, you might wonder: how much better is the premium lens compared to the budget-friendly option?
Coming to you from Marc Newton with The School of Photography, this comprehensive video compares the Canon RF 50mm f/1.2 L and the RF 50mm f/1.8 head-to-head. The most obvious difference between these lenses is their size and build quality. The f/1.2 is significantly larger and heavier, while the f/1.8 is light and compact. The f/1.2 is also built to a higher standard, featuring a metal body, whereas the f/1.8 has a more plasticky feel. Additionally, the f/1.2 has faster and quieter autofocus, making it more suitable for professional work. Still, the f/1.8’s focus system, while a bit noisier, gets the job done for most everyday shooting.
Another major difference Newton points out is in the light-gathering ability. The f/1.2 offers just over a stop more light than the f/1.8, which can make a big difference when shooting in low-light conditions. The extra light can also give you more creative flexibility with shallow depth of field, allowing for that beautiful bokeh. Newton explains that while the f/1.2 produces smoother and creamier bokeh, the f/1.8 still holds up surprisingly well, especially considering the price.
Newton goes on to compare the two lenses in a scientific setup, shooting the same subject at identical settings to give you a clear idea of the differences in image quality. At f/11, f/5.6, and f/2.8, there’s virtually no difference in sharpness between the two. Both lenses produce sharp images, even when zooming in on the details. However, as the aperture widens, subtle differences emerge. The f/1.2 produces slightly richer colors and picks up more detail, especially in the highlights and shadows. When shooting wide open at f/1.8 and f/1.2, the more expensive lens offers smoother background blur and better color rendition, but the differences are not night and day.
Newton emphasizes that the real question comes down to what you need from a lens. If you shoot professionally and need that extra light-gathering ability, faster focus, and better build quality, the f/1.2 is the clear winner. However, if you’re on a budget or just starting out, the RF 50mm f/1.8 provides incredible value for the money. For $200, you’re getting one of the best budget lenses available, and it’s perfect for a wide variety of shooting situations. Check out the video above for the full rundown from Newton.
What do the corners look like on a less complex subject? Example, a wheat field or closeup of a rose etc.
This is some really well-trodden ground isn't it? At this point theres probably 100 versions of this same video. It's got to be some new topics out there.. right?
Ahem. The nifty 50 is something you buy because you can't afford the other one. Or the other is too big.
Or too expensive.
And its not that great. Its supremely adequate...like it has always been.
Done.
PS- Give it a few months in the same video/article topic will pop up again. And then in February. Sigh.