The Battle of the Lenses: Canon EOS R and RF 35mm F 1.8 IS STM Macro vs Fujifilm GFX100 – Which One Wins?

Choosing the right 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 EOS R paired with the Canon RF 35mm f/1.8 IS STM Macro lens and the Fujifilm GFX 100. Both boast impressive features and cater to different photographic needs. This in-depth comparison delves into the strengths and weaknesses of each system, helping you make an informed decision.

Sensor Size: A Tale of Two Worlds

The fundamental difference lies in the sensor size. The Canon EOS R utilizes a full-frame sensor, while the Fujifilm GFX 100 boasts a significantly larger medium format sensor. This difference translates into distinct advantages and disadvantages:
Canon EOS R:

• Pros: Full-frame sensors offer excellent image quality, low noise performance, and impressive dynamic range. They are also more widely available and generally more affordable.
• Cons: While full-frame cameras offer excellent image quality, they are often larger and heavier than APS-C or Micro Four Thirds cameras.

Fujifilm GFX 100:

• Pros: The larger medium format sensor delivers exceptional image detail, shallower depth of field, and superior dynamic range. This results in incredibly sharp images with a cinematic look.
• Cons: Medium format cameras are significantly more expensive than full-frame cameras and tend to be bulkier. They also have a limited lens selection compared to full-frame systems.

Image Quality: A Battle of Resolution and Detail

Both cameras deliver exceptional image quality, but their strengths differ. The Canon EOS R, equipped with a 30.3MP full-frame sensor, captures images with excellent detail and dynamic range. The RF 35mm f/1.8 IS STM Macro lens further enhances image sharpness and provides a beautiful bokeh effect.
The Fujifilm GFX 100, with its 102MP medium format sensor, takes image quality to a whole new level. The sheer resolution allows for incredible detail and clarity, even when cropping images extensively. The larger sensor also enables a shallower depth of field, resulting in a more cinematic look with a beautiful blur in the background.
Canon EOS R:

• Pros: Excellent image quality for everyday photography, good dynamic range.
• Cons: While good, the image quality doesn’t reach the level of detail and sharpness offered by the GFX 100.

Fujifilm GFX 100:

• Pros: Unparalleled image detail and sharpness, exceptional dynamic range, shallower depth of field.
• Cons: The high resolution can be overwhelming for some photographers and can lead to larger file sizes.

Autofocus: Speed and Accuracy

Autofocus performance is crucial for capturing sharp, in-focus images, especially in fast-paced situations. The Canon EOS R offers a reliable and fast autofocus system, thanks to its Dual Pixel CMOS AF technology. The RF 35mm f/1.8 IS STM Macro lens further complements the autofocus performance, ensuring accurate and fast focusing.
The Fujifilm GFX 100 excels in autofocus accuracy, especially in low-light conditions. Its phase-detection autofocus system is highly responsive and reliable, even when shooting moving subjects.
Canon EOS R:

• Pros: Fast and accurate autofocus for everyday photography, good low-light performance.
• Cons: Autofocus performance can be inconsistent in challenging lighting conditions.

Fujifilm GFX 100:

• Pros: Highly accurate and reliable autofocus, excellent low-light performance.
• Cons: Autofocus performance can be slightly slower than the Canon EOS R in some situations.

Lens Selection: A Wide Spectrum vs a Focused Niche

Lens selection plays a crucial role in expanding the creative possibilities of your camera system. The Canon EOS R benefits from the extensive Canon RF lens lineup, offering a wide range of focal lengths and specialized lenses for various photographic genres. The RF 35mm f/1.8 IS STM Macro lens is a versatile choice, excelling in everyday photography, portraits, and macro shots.
The Fujifilm GFX 100, while boasting impressive image quality, has a limited lens selection compared to full-frame systems. However, the available lenses are of exceptional quality and cater to specific photographic needs.
Canon EOS R:

• Pros: Extensive lens selection with options for various photographic genres, affordable lenses.
• Cons: Some lenses can be expensive, especially the higher-end models.

Fujifilm GFX 100:

• Pros: High-quality lenses with excellent performance, specialized lenses for specific genres.
• Cons: Limited lens selection compared to full-frame systems, lenses are expensive.

Ergonomics and Handling: Comfort and Control

Ergonomics and handling are crucial for a pleasant shooting experience. The Canon EOS R offers a comfortable grip and intuitive button layout, making it easy to navigate and control. The lightweight design makes it comfortable to hold for extended periods.
The Fujifilm GFX 100, with its medium format sensor, is significantly larger and heavier than the Canon EOS R. While the design is well-crafted and comfortable, the size and weight may be a challenge for some photographers.
Canon EOS R:

• Pros: Comfortable grip and intuitive button layout, lightweight design.
• Cons: Smaller viewfinder compared to the GFX 100.

Fujifilm GFX 100:

• Pros: Well-crafted design, comfortable grip, large viewfinder.
• Cons: Larger and heavier than the Canon EOS R, may be challenging for some to handle.

Price and Value: A Balancing Act

Price is a significant factor for many photographers. The Canon EOS R, paired with the Canon RF 35mm f/1.8 IS STM Macro lens, offers an excellent value proposition. The system is affordable and provides high-quality images for various photographic needs.
The Fujifilm GFX 100, with its medium format sensor and exceptional image quality, is significantly more expensive. While the price tag may seem daunting, the system offers unparalleled image detail and a unique photographic experience.
Canon EOS R:

• Pros: Affordable system, good value for money.
• Cons: Not as high-end as the GFX 100.

Fujifilm GFX 100:

• Pros: Unparalleled image quality, unique photographic experience.
• Cons: Expensive system, may not be suitable for everyone.

The Verdict: Choosing the Right Tool for the Job

The choice between the Canon EOS R with the Canon RF 35mm f/1.8 IS STM Macro lens and the Fujifilm GFX 100 ultimately depends on your individual needs and priorities. If you seek a versatile and affordable system that delivers excellent image quality for everyday photography, the Canon EOS R is an excellent option. However, if you prioritize exceptional image detail, shallower depth of field, and a unique photographic experience, the Fujifilm GFX 100 is the superior choice.

The Final Word: Beyond the Specs, It’s About Your Vision

Choosing a camera is not just about comparing specs; it’s about finding the tool that best aligns with your creative vision. Both the Canon EOS R and the Fujifilm GFX 100 are capable cameras, each with its own strengths and weaknesses. Consider your photographic needs, budget, and creative goals to make an informed decision.

Top Questions Asked

Q1: Which camera is better for beginners?
A1: The Canon EOS R is a more beginner-friendly option due to its affordability and ease of use. The Fujifilm GFX 100, with its complex features and high price tag, may be overwhelming for beginners.
Q2: Which camera is better for professional photographers?
A2: Both cameras can be used by professionals, but the Fujifilm GFX 100 offers higher image quality and a unique photographic experience that may be preferred by some professionals.
Q3: Which camera is better for landscapes?
A3: Both cameras excel in landscape photography, but the Fujifilm GFX 100 offers superior image detail and sharpness, making it a better choice for capturing intricate details in nature.
Q4: Which camera is better for portraits?
A4: Both cameras are capable of producing stunning portraits, but the Fujifilm GFX 100 offers a shallower depth of field, leading to a more cinematic look with beautiful background blur.
Q5: Which camera is better for wildlife photography?
A5: The Canon EOS R is a better choice for wildlife photography due to its faster autofocus system and lighter weight, making it easier to track and capture moving subjects.