The Battle of the Beasts: Canon EOS R & RF 35mm F 1.8 IS STM Macro vs. Canon EOS R & RF 70-200mm F 4 L IS USM

Choosing the right lens for your Canon EOS R camera can be a daunting task, especially when faced with a plethora of options. Two popular contenders often find themselves in the spotlight: the Canon RF 35mm f/1.8 IS STM Macro and the Canon RF 70-200mm f/4 L IS USM. Both lenses offer excellent image quality and versatility, but their strengths lie in different areas, making them suitable for distinct photographic styles.
This blog post will delve into the key features, pros, and cons of each lens, providing a comprehensive comparison to help you determine which one aligns best with your photographic needs and aspirations.

Canon RF 35mm f/1.8 IS STM Macro: The Versatile All-Rounder

The Canon RF 35mm f/1.8 IS STM Macro is a compact and lightweight lens that excels in a wide range of photographic scenarios. Its versatile 35mm focal length makes it ideal for capturing everyday moments, street photography, portraits, and even close-up macro shots.

Key Features:

• 35mm focal length: This classic focal length offers a natural perspective that closely resembles human vision, making it suitable for various subjects.
• f/1.8 aperture: The wide maximum aperture allows for shallow depth of field, enabling beautiful bokeh and isolating subjects from the background.
• Image stabilization: The built-in optical image stabilization helps to reduce camera shake, ensuring sharp images even in low light.
• Macro capabilities: The lens boasts a minimum focusing distance of 0.17 meters (6.7 inches), allowing for close-up shots with a maximum magnification of 0.5x.
• STM autofocus: The stepping motor autofocus provides smooth and silent operation, making it ideal for video recording.

Pros:

• Compact and lightweight: The lens is remarkably small and lightweight, making it easy to carry and use for extended periods.
• Affordable price: Compared to other RF lenses, the 35mm f/1.8 IS STM Macro is relatively inexpensive, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious photographers.
• Excellent image quality: The lens delivers sharp images with good contrast and minimal distortion.
• Versatile focal length: The 35mm focal length is suitable for a wide variety of photographic genres.
• Macro capabilities: The lens’s macro capabilities add an extra dimension to its versatility, allowing for close-up shots of insects, flowers, and other small subjects.

Cons:

• Limited reach: The 35mm focal length may not be suitable for subjects at a distance.
• No weather sealing: The lens lacks weather sealing, making it susceptible to dust and moisture.

Canon RF 70-200mm f/4 L IS USM: The Telephoto Specialist

The Canon RF 70-200mm f/4 L IS USM is a professional-grade telephoto zoom lens designed for photographers who need to capture distant subjects. Its versatile zoom range and excellent image quality make it a popular choice for wildlife photography, sports photography, and event photography.

Key Features:

• 70-200mm focal length: The zoom range allows for flexible framing, bringing distant subjects closer without the need for a ladder or other equipment.
• f/4 aperture: The constant aperture provides consistent exposure across the entire zoom range, making it ideal for shooting in changing light conditions.
• Image stabilization: The lens features a powerful optical image stabilization system that effectively reduces camera shake, allowing for sharper images at slower shutter speeds.
• USM autofocus: The ultrasonic motor autofocus provides fast and accurate focusing, ensuring you never miss a crucial moment.
• L-series construction: The lens is built with high-quality materials and features weather sealing, making it durable and reliable in challenging environments.

Pros:

• Excellent image quality: The lens delivers exceptional sharpness and detail, even at the telephoto end of the zoom range.
• Versatile zoom range: The 70-200mm zoom range covers a wide variety of subjects, from portraits to wildlife.
• Fast and accurate autofocus: The USM autofocus system is quick and precise, ensuring sharp focus even in low light.
• Durable construction: The lens is built to withstand the rigors of professional use, with weather sealing and robust construction.
• Image stabilization: The powerful image stabilization system makes it easier to capture sharp images at slower shutter speeds, especially when shooting handheld.

Cons:

• High price: The RF 70-200mm f/4 L IS USM is significantly more expensive than the RF 35mm f/1.8 IS STM Macro.
• Larger and heavier: The lens is larger and heavier than the 35mm f/1.8 IS STM Macro, making it less portable.
• Limited aperture: The f/4 aperture may not be wide enough for shallow depth of field effects.

Choosing the Right Lens: A Side-by-Side Comparison

When to Choose the Canon RF 35mm f/1.8 IS STM Macro:

• Street photography and everyday moments: The 35mm focal length is ideal for capturing candid street scenes and everyday life.
• Portraits and close-ups: The wide aperture and macro capabilities allow for beautiful bokeh and detailed close-up shots.
• Travel photography: The compact and lightweight design makes it easy to carry on the go.
• Budget-conscious photographers: The lens offers excellent value for money.

When to Choose the Canon RF 70-200mm f/4 L IS USM:

• Wildlife photography: The telephoto zoom range allows you to capture distant animals without disturbing them.
• Sports photography: The fast autofocus and image stabilization ensure sharp images even when shooting fast-moving subjects.
• Event photography: The lens is ideal for capturing action and detail at events, such as weddings and conferences.
• Professional photographers: The lens is built to withstand professional use and delivers exceptional image quality.

Beyond the Comparison: A Deeper Look

While the comparison table provides a clear overview of the key features and strengths of each lens, it’s important to consider your individual photographic needs and preferences.
The Canon RF 35mm f/1.8 IS STM Macro excels in versatility and affordability. It’s a great choice for photographers who are starting out or who want a single lens that can handle a wide range of subjects. The macro capabilities add an extra dimension to its versatility, allowing for the capture of detailed close-up shots.
The Canon RF 70-200mm f/4 L IS USM is a professional-grade telephoto zoom lens that delivers exceptional image quality and performance. It’s designed for photographers who need to capture distant subjects with clarity and detail. Its weather sealing and robust construction make it suitable for challenging environments, while its image stabilization ensures sharp images even at slower shutter speeds.
Ultimately, the best lens for you will depend on your specific photographic needs and budget. Consider the types of subjects you typically photograph, your shooting style, and your budget before making a decision.

Final Thoughts: Finding the Perfect Lens for Your Vision

Choosing between the Canon RF 35mm f/1.8 IS STM Macro and the Canon RF 70-200mm f/4 L IS USM is a matter of personal preference and photographic style. Both lenses offer excellent image quality and versatility, but they cater to different needs and budgets.
The 35mm f/1.8 IS STM Macro is a versatile all-rounder that’s perfect for everyday photography, portraits, and close-up shots. Its compact size and affordability make it an attractive option for photographers of all levels. The 70-200mm f/4 L IS USM is a professional-grade telephoto zoom lens that delivers exceptional image quality and performance, making it ideal for wildlife, sports, and event photography.
Whether you’re a seasoned professional or just starting out, there’s a Canon RF lens out there that’s perfect for your vision.

Questions You May Have

Q: Can I use both lenses on my Canon EOS R camera?
A: Yes, both lenses are compatible with the Canon EOS R camera and other Canon EOS R system cameras.
Q: Which lens is better for portraits?
A: Both lenses can be used for portraits, but the RF 35mm f/1.8 IS STM Macro is better for creating shallow depth of field effects due to its wider aperture.
Q: Which lens is better for wildlife photography?
A: The RF 70-200mm f/4 L IS USM is a better choice for wildlife photography due to its telephoto zoom range and image stabilization.
Q: Which lens is better for travel photography?
A: The RF 35mm f/1.8 IS STM Macro is a better choice for travel photography due to its compact size and lightweight design.
Q: Which lens is better for beginners?
A: The RF 35mm f/1.8 IS STM Macro is a great choice for beginners due to its affordability and versatility.