50 1.4 & 24-70L @50mm f/4 on 5D test

I caught wind of a thread that asked which was sharper with the f stop at 4(or5)...the 50 1.4 or 24-70L?

So this mid morning I got out and gave them a run, really had nothing to do before the games started:p

All photos were taken using a

• tripod
  
• shutter release cable
  
• mirror lockup
  
• both lenses set at f4
  
• 50mm
  
• On a 5D
  
• ISO 100
  
• Manual
  
• Sun facing my back to reduce any flare

• 100% crops
  
• 50 1.4 on left 24-70L on right

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two more

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last one

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In some shots the focus point is different making the test imposible to determine. You never claimed to be a scientist though, and an interesting comparison for some one like me who wants a 24-70 but is unsure of it's actual ability (out of the box without a fortnight at a service centre).

In one shot the 50 seemed to focus on the bar behing the fence post....other than that they are on the exact same spot in each photo. When I took one lens off and placed the other one on...the focus point was on the same part. I may have placed the crop a lil higher on some...still I would highly recommend the 24-70L

thanx for the test which matches what i see too.

ed rader

ikolpdog wrote in post #3941850
In some shots the focus point is different making the test imposible to determine. You never claimed to be a scientist though, and an interesting comparison for some one like me who wants a 24-70 but is unsure of it's actual ability (out of the box without a fortnight at a service centre).

that's why i'd rather just hear what a person thinks rather than look at test crops and methods that will be picked part and interpreted differently.

i pretty much know whose opinions i trust and what i see with my own 24-70L and 50 1.4. so the bottom line usually works just fine for me....and all i need do is consider the source !

ed rader

ed rader wrote in post #3941929
thanx for the test which matches what i see too.

ed rader

No prob...

I think the first three look better on the L, and the last two look better with the prime.

was going to do a ruler/chart test but thought
1- I dont take photos/get photos printed of rulers or charts..I like pictures of things that matter.
2- Someone might complain of a 'back/front' focus issue:p then I might have to send in both lenses and camera to get calibrated (swimming deep in sarcasm).

Thanks for the test. That's very interesting as I am considering which lens to get next. Zoom or primes.
I love my 50 1.4 because of its f1.4 capability, haven't got to f4 very often

What would be a true shame is if people think the L is a bad lens. OR somehow think that the L isnt worth it, it would be foolish to think that. The L is a great lens. My workhorse lens...and now I have got another fantastic lens in the 1.4.