Canon RF 35mm f2 or 35mm f1.8

[nasmformyzombie]

As a practical matter, is there any optical difference in the Canon 35mm f2 and f1.8? Dante Stella describes the f2 as a slight rework of the f1.8. The f1.8 is cheaper, so what does the f2 have to offer over the f1.8?

 

[back alley]

i had both and saw no difference in prints.

 

[awilder]

The optical layout is similar (4/7) so I expect optical performance to be close with the f/2 version reportedly improved. Cosmetically the f/2 has a scalloped black focusing ring and chrome DOF scale. The f/1.8 has a chome DOF scale and chrome milled focusing ring with a longer focus throw for greater rf accuracy (slower focus). Both have a black aperture ring but the f/1.8 has tick marks below each f number. Condition would be more important in your decision but the f/2 would be my preference if the condition were the same and the price difference was under $75.

 

[John Shriver]

Focus throw is a significant difference, with the 35/1.8 having a conventional 180 degree throw, and the 35/2.0 having a much shorter 90 degree throw. Really a matter of taste which you will like. I prefer the consistency of all lenses from 28mm to 50mm having the same 180 degree throw.

 

[harry01562]

If it were my choice, I'd buy the first one that matched my price/condition factors... whichever one it was. After using it, I'd decide if I wanted to try the other, or just enjoy what I owned.
I lucked into a mintish late 2.0, and have been VERY happy with it. No need to look further, and that's unusual for a packrat, errr... I mean collector.

Harry

 

[los]

i have a canon 35mm f1.8 screwmount that came with my VT. the lens is optically poor at any aperture wider than f4. it's very sharp in the center and very soft everywhere else. i was coming on the forum today to see is anyone had an alternative 35mm lens recommendation. i shoot mostly ilford pan f with the vt, and it's a shame i have to use it at f4 for sharp images.

 

[raid]

Many photographers like a Sonnar design lens to get very sharp centers and softer edges. The Canon 35mm/1.8 actually is not a Sonnar, but you describe what you get with a Sonnar. I am quite happy with my Canon 35mm/1.8. It is a sharp lens overall. I will take some photo wide open with it to see whether my lens also loses sharpness in the corners.

Raid

 

[los]

just to be sure we're talking about the same lens. pictures attached. i hope there is something that can be fixed with this softness/flare.

 

[Sonnar2]

After all I don't dislike your image, los...
The 2/35mm is more contrasty in the outer field wide open, but also less pleasent.
If I had your lens I would use it wide open just for the special effect. If I want critical sharpness at bright daylight I would have a problem using f/4.
If you want to get rid of this unsharp lens I'll take it...

cheers Frank

 

[Steve Bellayr]

Frank, you have a nice site but it is in German and for us Americans English is hard enough.

 

[los]

here's the 35/f1.8 stopped down to f4 with hot sources in the frame. the flare is controlled really well. i guess the flare at f1.8 can be used for a "look". this is a low res scan off of my flatbed.

 

[ferider]

After all I don't dislike your image, los...
The 2/35mm is more contrasty in the outer field wide open, but also less pleasent.
If I had your lens I would use it wide open just for the special effect. If I want critical sharpness at bright daylight I would have a problem using f/4.
If you want to get rid of this unsharp lens I'll take it...

cheers Frank

Frank,

I never realized that Sonnar2 was you ... I blame your web-site for some
of my lens purchases in the past 🙂 Respekt !

Cheers,

Roland.