MIRRORLESS FULL-FRAME 50MM LENS SHOOTOUT
Asian Photography|September 2023
Mirrorless cameras have become increasingly popular due to its compact size and light weight.
MIRRORLESS FULL-FRAME 50MM LENS SHOOTOUT

At its inception users had reservations owing to the limited lens portfolio that most manufacturers offered. But in the past few years all manufacturers have introduced a robust lens roadmap and line-up. Users are now switching from DSLRs to mirrorless cameras. And the one lens that all consumers prefer/like is the 50mm prime. Often referred to as the "nifty fifty". This lens has been popular with the photographers due to its affordable nature and quality. But with time the optics, build quality, results, have changed, and so has the price. This month, we take the 50mm Prime lenses for the mirrorless cameras and pit them against each other to test their performance.

Benchmarking Test:

These tests are unique because we use widely accepted industry benchmarks to evaluate how well the lenses perform, rather than just relying on our subjective opinions about how they appear or feel. We have conducted the following tests on the lens:

  • Image Quality (daylight and lowlight)
  • Bokeh performance 
  • Chromatic Aberration Distortion 
  • Lens Flaring and Ghosting
  • Value for Money

Build, Handling & Performance:

Canon RF 50mm F1.8 STM

The RF 50mm F1.8 lens is smaller and lighter than other RF lenses. It's well-built but some would say that it isn't as high-end as some other product from Canon. The build quality is also good and the lens exudes class, owing to its decorative and textured ring. It's tough and doesn't easily get marked or scratched. The new matte finish also ensures that you won't leave any fingerprints on it. This lens feels like a proper tool, not a toy. In terms of quality, it's decent - neither great nor terrible. As for performance, we tested it on a Canon R6 Mark II camera.

Nikon NIKKOR Z 50mm f/1.8 S Lens

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