Whats the difference between the 50mm f/1.4 and the f/1.8

[sigler]

I'm thinking my second lens will be a prime...probably the 50mm. I have the 28-135 and a 10d. How different is the 1.4L vs. the 1.8?

Please post samples if you have any.

Thanks,

Rob

[Belmondo]

From what I've been told, the difference is one f-stop, a noisier, slower focusing motor, and generally cheaper constructdion. Optically, however, there should be very little difference at normal shooting aperatures. I've heard the f 1.8 described as the 'thrifty fifty,' and the best deal in the Canon EF lineup. Unless you're absolutely sure you'll need the extra light-gathering capabilityof the 1.4, you're probably just as well off with the lower priced lens.

I've read similar arguments throughout this forum, although there are others who argue just as eloquently in favor of the 50mm F1.4 USM lens. I own the 1.4, and think very highly of it. I actually leave it on my 10D when the camera is not in use, thus making it a very expensive dust cap. But it's also the best lens to have in play when I must take a picture in a hurry.

Good luck.

Tom

[PPi-]

Hello Rob,

I have no first place information about this at all. My 10D is still on my wishlist and so is the optics. However I've been very qurious about these 50 mm's by Canon so I've read as much as possible reviews and opinions about them.

One nice side by side comparsion of these lenses can be found from Photo.net, http://www.photo.net/canon/ef50/ Take a look to there if that would help you any. It's just a test among others but I have no reason to doubt it.

I would probably go for 1.8 as it is being quite great deal for the low price. If the money doesn't matter, then I would go for 1.4.

[DaveG]

I would say that quality and utility are the big differences between the 50 f1.4 and 1.8. The 1.8 has a plastic lens mount (now) and is NOT USM. The 1.4 is a stop faster, has USM as well as a metal lens mount.

I thought about the 1.8 (well the older metal mount 1.8) but came to the conclusion that I needed the stop and wanted (in this focal length) all the AF speed I could get. I dismissed the plastic 1.8 out of hand since I wondered how long it would take to wear out that mount.

At some point you have to make a decision as to whether you just want to fill a gap in your lens line up or you want something that will actually do the job.