Canon Rf 35mm F 1 8 Is Stm Macro vs. Sony FE 24-70mm F2.8 GM: Which Lens Reigns Supreme for Macro Photography?

Choosing the right camera system can be a daunting task, especially when faced with powerful contenders like the Canon EOS R system and the Sony Alpha a9 system. Both offer exceptional image quality, advanced autofocus, and a wide range of lenses. But what truly sets them apart? Today, we’ll delve into a head-to-head comparison of the Canon EOS R paired with the versatile Canon RF 35mm f/1.8 IS STM Macro lens against the Sony Alpha a9 equipped with the renowned Sony FE 24-70mm f/2.8 GM lens.

The Canon EOS R: A Compact Powerhouse

The Canon EOS R is a full-frame mirrorless camera known for its compact size and impressive performance. It boasts a 30.3MP CMOS sensor, capable of capturing stunning detail and delivering exceptional dynamic range. The EOS R features a robust autofocus system with 5,655 selectable AF points, covering nearly the entire sensor area. This ensures accurate and fast subject tracking, making it ideal for capturing fast-paced action and unpredictable subjects.

The Canon RF 35mm f/1.8 IS STM Macro: Versatile and Affordable

The Canon RF 35mm f/1.8 IS STM Macro is a fantastic all-around lens for the EOS R system. Its wide aperture allows for shallow depth of field effects, creating beautiful bokeh and isolating subjects. The lens also features a close focusing distance of just 0.17m, enabling macro photography. Its built-in image stabilization further enhances its versatility, allowing for sharper images in low-light situations or when shooting handheld.

The Sony Alpha a9: Speed Demon with Advanced Technology

The Sony Alpha a9 is a professional-grade mirrorless camera renowned for its blistering speed and advanced technology. It features a 24.2MP stacked CMOS sensor, capable of shooting at an incredible 20fps with continuous autofocus and auto-exposure. The a9 also boasts a sophisticated autofocus system with 693 phase-detection points covering the entire sensor, ensuring precise and reliable subject tracking.

The Sony FE 24-70mm f/2.8 GM: A Workhorse Zoom Lens

The Sony FE 24-70mm f/2.8 GM is a highly regarded zoom lens known for its exceptional image quality and versatility. Its constant f/2.8 aperture provides consistent brightness throughout the zoom range, allowing for shallow depth of field effects and reliable low-light performance. The lens also features advanced optical elements, minimizing distortions and delivering sharp images across the entire frame.

Image Quality: A Close Contest

Both camera systems excel in image quality. The Canon EOS R delivers vibrant colors, excellent detail, and impressive dynamic range. The RF 35mm f/1.8 IS STM Macro lens produces sharp images with pleasing bokeh, particularly at wider apertures.
The Sony Alpha a9, with its stacked CMOS sensor, offers outstanding image quality with excellent low-light performance. The FE 24-70mm f/2.8 GM lens further enhances this, delivering exceptional sharpness and detail across the zoom range.

Autofocus: A Tight Race for the Lead

Both camera systems boast impressive autofocus performance. The Canon EOS R’s 5,655 AF points provide wide coverage and reliable tracking, making it a strong contender for capturing fast-moving subjects.
The Sony Alpha a9’s 693 phase-detection points, covering the entire sensor, provide unmatched subject tracking and accuracy. Its ability to shoot at 20fps with continuous autofocus and auto-exposure makes it ideal for capturing fast-paced action and unpredictable subjects.

Ergonomics and Handling: A Matter of Preference

The Canon EOS R offers a comfortable grip and a well-laid-out button layout. Its compact size makes it easy to carry and handle, making it a good choice for travel photography.
The Sony Alpha a9 is slightly larger and heavier, but it features a deeper grip and more customizable button layout. Its larger body may feel more comfortable for photographers with larger hands.

Video Capabilities: Both Systems Shine

Both camera systems offer impressive video capabilities. The Canon EOS R can record 4K video at up to 30fps with 10-bit internal recording, providing high-quality footage with excellent color and detail.
The Sony Alpha a9 also records 4K video at up to 30fps with 10-bit internal recording. Its advanced autofocus system ensures accurate and smooth subject tracking during video recording.

Takeaways: Choosing the Best Fit for Your Needs

Ultimately, the choice between the Canon EOS R + Canon RF 35mm f/1.8 IS STM Macro and the Sony Alpha a9 + Sony FE 24-70mm f/2.8 GM comes down to personal preference and specific shooting needs.
If you prioritize versatility, portability, and a comfortable shooting experience, the Canon EOS R and RF 35mm f/1.8 IS STM Macro combo may be the perfect choice. Its compact size and excellent image quality make it ideal for travel, street photography, and portraiture.
If you require the ultimate speed and advanced technology for capturing fast-paced action and demanding shooting scenarios, the Sony Alpha a9 and FE 24-70mm f/2.8 GM combination is a powerful force. Its unmatched autofocus performance and high-resolution sensor make it a top choice for sports, wildlife, and professional photography.

Top Questions Asked

Q: Which camera system is better for beginners?
A: Both systems are suitable for beginners, but the Canon EOS R might be slightly easier to learn due to its intuitive menu system and user-friendly interface.
Q: Which camera system has better battery life?
A: The Sony Alpha a9 has a longer battery life than the Canon EOS R.
Q: Which camera system offers a wider lens selection?
A: Sony currently offers a wider range of E-mount lenses than Canon offers RF lenses.
Q: Which camera system is more affordable?
A: The Canon EOS R system is generally more affordable than the Sony Alpha a9 system.
Q: Which camera system is better for video recording?
A: Both systems offer excellent video capabilities, but the Sony Alpha a9’s advanced autofocus system makes it a slightly better choice for video recording, especially when tracking moving subjects.