Nikon NIKKOR Z MC 105mm f/2.8 VR S 105mm
Canon EF-S 55-250mm f/4-5.6 IS STM
What Buyers Say
Nikon NIKKOR Z MC 105mm f/2.8 VR S 105mm
The NIKKOR Z MC 105mm f/2.8 VR S Macro Lens is overwhelmingly praised for its exceptional sharpness, beautiful bokeh, and versatility as both a macro and portrait lens. Users highlight its lightweight build, effective VR, and compatibility with Z-series cameras, though some note that autofocus can be slow, especially for macro work, and a few mention focus shifting issues or a plastic feel. Overall, it is considered a top-tier lens that delivers stunning image quality.
Pros
- Exceptional sharpness
- Beautiful bokeh
- Versatile macro and portrait use
- Lightweight build
- Effective vibration reduction
Cons
- Slow autofocus in macro mode
- Autofocus hunting in some conditions
- Plastic feel for some users
- Focus shifting issues reported
- Bulky with hood attached
Canon EF-S 55-250mm f/4-5.6 IS STM
The Canon EF-S 55-250mm f/4-5.6 IS STM lens is widely praised for its excellent sharpness, fast and silent autofocus, and lightweight design, making it a fantastic value for amateur photographers and wildlife enthusiasts. Many users highlight the impressive image quality at the long end and the effective image stabilization, though some note softness beyond 200mm and noticeable vignetting at full zoom. A few reviewers experienced quality control issues like blurry images or a non-functional focus ring, but the overwhelming consensus is that this lens delivers outstanding performance for its price point.
Pros
- Excellent sharpness for the price
- Fast and silent STM autofocus
- Lightweight and compact design
- Effective image stabilization
- Great value for money
Cons
- Softness beyond 200mm
- Noticeable vignetting at full zoom
- Plastic build quality
- Electronic manual focus requires camera power
- Slow maximum aperture (f/5.6 at 250mm)
Scores
Specifications
| Nikon NIKKOR Z MC 105mm f/2.8 VR S 105mm | Canon EF-S 55-250mm f/4-5.6 IS STM | |
|---|---|---|
| Optics | ||
| Type | macro | zoom |
| Focal Length Min | 105 mm | 55 mm |
| Focal Length Max | 105 mm | 250 mm |
| Elements | 16 | 15 |
| Groups | 11 | 12 |
| Aspherical Elements | 1★ | 0 |
| ED Elements | 1 | 1 |
| Coating | Nano Crystal and ARNEO Coatings | Super Spectra coating |
| Aperture | ||
| Max Aperture | f/32 | f/4 |
| Min Aperture | f/2.8 | 4-5.6 |
| Constant | ✓★ | ✗ |
| Diaphragm Blades | 9★ | 7 |
| Build | ||
| Mount | Nikon Z | Canon EF-S |
| Format | full-frame★ | APS-C |
| Weather Sealed | ✓★ | ✗ |
| Weight | 0.63 kg | 0.38 kg★ |
| Filter Thread | 62 mm | 58 mm |
| AF & Stabilization | ||
| AF Type | STM | STM |
| Stabilization | ✓ | ✓ |
| Stabilization Stops | 4.5 stops★ | 4 stops |
| Focus | ||
| Min Focus Distance | 290 mm★ | 850 mm |
| Max Magnification | 1:1★ | 0.29x |
Pros & Cons
Nikon NIKKOR Z MC 105mm f/2.8 VR S 105mm
- Strong stabilization (95th percentile)95th %ile
- Strong social proof (90th percentile)90th %ile
- Strong af (86th percentile)86th %ile
- Strong user sentiment (81st percentile)81st %ile
- Below average aperture (5th percentile)5th %ile
- Below average bokeh (8th percentile)8th %ile
- Below average versatility (34th percentile)
Canon EF-S 55-250mm f/4-5.6 IS STM
- Strong stabilization (93rd percentile)93rd %ile
- Strong versatility (92nd percentile)92nd %ile
- Strong af (86th percentile)86th %ile
- Strong social proof (81st percentile)81st %ile
- Below average macro (33rd percentile)
Pricing
Canon EF-S 55-250mm f/4-5.6 IS STM offers 3.7x better value for money
Verdict
Scores 84 overall, wins 8 of 9 usage categories and 1 of 22 specs.
