Canon 35mm f2 vs f2.8 macro

Been thinking about getting a friend of mine a gift. He talks a lot about the 35mm f2 due to its more normal focal range on aps-c 70D. And then the macro version came out which is just a stop slower. Not sure how different the IS implementation (for really show shutter speed shots) is between the two? But looking for some input. I know you can't make up for a loss of a stop of light and the macro has a close working distance so not really sure. As far as I know he doesn't have a dedicated macro lens. He does have a Sigma 18-200 and 150-600 plus a Canon 17-55 and is going to sell his 85/1.8. I'm not sure how much of a fan he is about shallow depth of field. His current line up doesn't reflect that. Thanks!

My very personal opinion: 35/2 IS.
For macro, I like 60mm at least.

35IS on 6D. 35 macro won't work on 6D.

The 35 f/2 IS is an amazing lens, I haven't played with the 35 macro but find it hard to believe it will be comparable. If he really wants a macro lens, I'd recommend a used 100mm macro instead.

The macro is sharp, but I haven't done any work with it that I would pixel peep. I doubt there would be much either way between the two.

I think the new macro looks pretty cool. I think it's features make it a lens you could have fun with. Don't expect the light to be very strong though. From the few images I've seen it's more of a fill light. Very cool though. As mentioned earlier, the ef-s won't work on FF bodies so if your friend has plans on moving up to FF, your gift will be of no use any longer though.

However, the 35f2IS can be used on both, adds a stop of light gathering ability(a big plus for APS-C sensors), tracks very well in AI servo(I always rely on it during the processionals during weddings) AND accepts extension tubes. 12 II tube will give you .60x(more than half sized) and is fairly cheap(especially used) and extremely small. I use that combo for ring shots during weddings.

I absolutely love my 35f2IS but I know the two options both have some benefits. I really don't think either one would be a bad purchase.

These two images are what I had available. Take into consideration they're combo shots and not full rez. They're sharp! Take them more as what you can get at about half sized. For something that can fit in a shirt pocket and takes 5 sec to put on/take off it was perfect for me.

Thanks everyone for posting. It has been a hectic few days. I'm leaning toward the f2 version. His 17-55 is also at f2.8 and can be dialed into the same focal length making the only benefit the macro capability. I think the faster glass will give him something he doesn't have.

The 35F2 IS has good close focusing. It is not a macro lens, but F2 is invaluable.

artyH wrote in post #18401938
The 35F2 IS has good close focusing. It is not a macro lens, but F2 is invaluable.

add a 12 II extension tube and it turns into a half macro!

I too love my 35mm f/2 IS. I've had it for around two years now and use it on my 7D Mark II as much as all my other lenses combined. I also use it with an extension tube for occasional macro use. It's relatively small and light, sharp wide open and super sharp stopped down to f/2.8, and the IS is great for longer shutter speeds in low light. I use it mostly indoors and occasionally for street photography. I wonder how useful the light on the new f/2.8 STM lens is. Features like that look like a great idea at first blush but in practice are often less effective or less flexible than separate accessories..

Hmmm what's this extension tube talk? Looks interesting. I need to stay away from you guy$

Ascenta wrote in post #18401991
Hmmm what's this extension tube talk? Looks interesting. I need to stay away from you guy$

Here you go.

12mm version
https://www.bhphotovid​eo.com …Extension_Tube_​EF_12.html

25mm version
https://www.bhphotovid​eo.com …Extension_Tube_​EF_25.html

There are also 3rd party versions most notably by Kenko for less money, but with a lesser build. You should review the recommendations and performance of an extension tube with the lens you plan to use it with before buying so you won't be disappointed. Like ma11rats, I use the 12mm II with my 35mm f/2 IS.

Ascenta wrote in post #18401991
Hmmm what's this extension tube talk? Looks interesting. I need to stay away from you guy$

There's NO glass, only connection for AF. Do keep in mind, you will lose infinity focus. So you can't go from food on your table to someone outside. You will have to take it off. But it's a super cheap way to add macro capabilities to a lens.

You can usually find them on ebay for $40 or so. Since there's no glass(it's literally a hole) and no moving parts you don't have to worry about scratches/mold/broken internals.