Which is Better for You? Canon EOS M50 Canon EF 50mm f 1 8 STM vs Canon EOS RP Canon RF 85mm f 1 2L USM – Expert Insights Inside!

Choosing the right camera and lens combination can be a daunting task, especially when faced with a plethora of options. Two popular pairings that often come up in discussions are the Canon EOS M50 with the Canon EF 50mm f/1.8 STM and the Canon EOS RP with the Canon RF 85mm f/1.2L USM. Both offer distinct advantages and cater to different photographic styles and needs. This blog post aims to dissect their strengths and weaknesses, helping you make an informed decision based on your specific requirements.

The Canon EOS M50 and Canon EF 50mm f/1.8 STM: A Versatile and Affordable Duo

The Canon EOS M50 is a mirrorless camera known for its affordability and user-friendly design. Its compact size and lightweight body make it an excellent choice for everyday photography and travel. The Canon EF 50mm f/1.8 STM is a classic lens often referred to as the “nifty fifty” due to its versatility and affordability. This lens is known for its sharp images, beautiful bokeh, and fast autofocus.
Here’s a breakdown of their key features:
Canon EOS M50:

• Image Sensor: 24.1MP APS-C CMOS sensor
• Autofocus: Dual Pixel CMOS AF
• Video Recording: 4K UHD at 24p, 25p, and 30p
• Connectivity: Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, NFC

Canon EF 50mm f/1.8 STM:

• Focal Length: 50mm
• Maximum Aperture: f/1.8
• Autofocus: Stepping Motor (STM)
• Image Stabilization: No

Strengths of the Canon EOS M50 and Canon EF 50mm f/1.8 STM:

• Affordability: This combo is relatively budget-friendly, making it a great entry point for aspiring photographers.
• Versatility: The 50mm focal length is ideal for a wide range of subjects, from portraits to street photography.
• Lightweight and Compact: The M50’s small size and the EF 50mm f/1.8 STM’s lightweight design make it easy to carry around.
• Good Image Quality: The M50 produces sharp and detailed images, while the EF 50mm f/1.8 STM delivers pleasing bokeh.

Weaknesses of the Canon EOS M50 and Canon EF 50mm f/1.8 STM:

• Limited Autofocus Performance: While the M50’s Dual Pixel CMOS AF is good, it can struggle in low light conditions.
• No In-Body Image Stabilization: The lack of IBIS in the M50 means you’ll need a stabilized lens for sharper images in low light or when shooting handheld.
• Limited Lens Selection: The EF lens mount has a smaller selection of mirrorless lenses compared to the RF mount.

The Canon EOS RP and Canon RF 85mm f/1.2L USM: A Powerful and Professional Combination

The Canon EOS RP is a full-frame mirrorless camera designed to offer professional-grade performance at a more accessible price point. It boasts a high-resolution sensor, advanced autofocus system, and impressive video capabilities. The Canon RF 85mm f/1.2L USM is a premium lens known for its exceptional image quality, fast aperture, and stunning bokeh.
Here’s a breakdown of their key features:
Canon EOS RP:

• Image Sensor: 26.2MP Full-Frame CMOS sensor
• Autofocus: Dual Pixel CMOS AF
• Video Recording: 4K UHD at 24p, 25p, and 30p
• Connectivity: Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, NFC

Canon RF 85mm f/1.2L USM:

• Focal Length: 85mm
• Maximum Aperture: f/1.2
• Autofocus: Ring USM
• Image Stabilization: No

Strengths of the Canon EOS RP and Canon RF 85mm f/1.2L USM:

• Exceptional Image Quality: The full-frame sensor on the RP and the high-quality optics of the RF 85mm f/1.2L USM deliver stunning images with exceptional detail and dynamic range.
• Fast Aperture: The f/1.2 aperture allows for shallow depth of field, creating beautiful bokeh and enabling low-light photography.
• Advanced Autofocus: The Dual Pixel CMOS AF system on the RP offers fast and accurate autofocus, even in challenging lighting conditions.
• Professional-Grade Features: The RP offers features like 4K video recording, in-body image stabilization, and a customizable control layout that cater to professional photographers.

Weaknesses of the Canon EOS RP and Canon RF 85mm f/1.2L USM:

• Price: This combo is significantly more expensive than the M50 and EF 50mm f/1.8 STM.
• Larger and Heavier: The RP and RF 85mm f/1.2L USM are larger and heavier than the M50 and EF 50mm f/1.8 STM, making them less portable.
• Limited Lens Selection: While the RF mount is growing, it still has a smaller selection of lenses compared to the EF mount.

Choosing the Right Camera and Lens for You

The choice between the Canon EOS M50 Canon EF 50mm f/1.8 STM and the Canon EOS RP Canon RF 85mm f/1.2L USM ultimately depends on your individual needs and preferences.
Consider the following factors:

• Budget: The M50 and EF 50mm f/1.8 STM are significantly more affordable than the RP and RF 85mm f/1.2L USM.
• Image Quality: The RP and RF 85mm f/1.2L USM offer superior image quality due to the full-frame sensor and premium lens.
• Focal Length: The 50mm focal length is versatile for various subjects, while the 85mm is ideal for portraits and close-up photography.
• Portability: The M50 and EF 50mm f/1.8 STM are more compact and lightweight, making them easier to carry around.
• Autofocus Performance: The RP’s autofocus system is more advanced and reliable, especially in low light conditions.
• Professional Features: The RP offers professional-grade features like 4K video recording, in-body image stabilization, and a customizable control layout.

The Canon EOS M50 Canon EF 50mm f/1.8 STM: Perfect for Beginners and Enthusiasts

If you’re a beginner or enthusiast photographer looking for a versatile and affordable camera and lens combination, the Canon EOS M50 Canon EF 50mm f/1.8 STM is an excellent choice. Its compact size, user-friendly design, and good image quality make it ideal for everyday photography, travel, and experimenting with different genres.

The Canon EOS RP Canon RF 85mm f/1.2L USM: For Professionals and Serious Hobbyists

The Canon EOS RP Canon RF 85mm f/1.2L USM is a powerful and professional combination that delivers exceptional image quality and performance. If you’re a serious photographer looking for the best possible image quality, fast aperture, and advanced features, this combo is worth considering.

The Verdict: No Clear Winner, Just the Right Choice for You

Ultimately, there is no single “best” camera and lens combination. Both the Canon EOS M50 Canon EF 50mm f/1.8 STM and the Canon EOS RP Canon RF 85mm f/1.2L USM have their strengths and weaknesses. The key is to choose the combination that best meets your individual needs and budget.

Beyond the Camera and Lens: Exploring the Wider Picture

While the camera and lens are crucial components of your photography setup, it’s essential to remember that they are just part of the bigger picture. Your skills, creativity, and understanding of photography principles also play a significant role in achieving stunning results. Experiment, explore different techniques, and most importantly, have fun with the process!

Frequently Discussed Topics

Q: Is the Canon EOS M50 still a good camera in 2023?
A: The Canon EOS M50 is still a solid choice for beginners and enthusiasts in 2023. Its affordable price, compact size, and good image quality make it a great option for everyday photography and travel. However, newer models like the M50 Mark II offer improved autofocus and video capabilities.
Q: Is the Canon RF 85mm f/1.2L USM worth the price?
A: The Canon RF 85mm f/1.2L USM is a premium lens that delivers exceptional image quality and performance. It’s worth the price if you’re a professional photographer or serious hobbyist who demands the best possible results. However, if you’re on a budget, there are more affordable 85mm lenses available.
Q: What are the alternatives to the Canon EOS M50 and Canon EOS RP?
A: There are several excellent alternatives to the M50 and RP depending on your budget and needs. For a more affordable option, consider the Canon EOS M200 or the Sony a6000. If you’re looking for a more advanced full-frame camera, the Canon EOS R6 or the Sony a7 III are excellent choices.
Q: What are the advantages of using a mirrorless camera over a DSLR?
A: Mirrorless cameras offer several advantages over DSLRs, including smaller size and weight, live view functionality, silent shooting, and advanced autofocus systems. However, DSLRs still offer a wider selection of lenses and may be more durable in certain situations.