Nikon NIKKOR Z 50mm f/1.8 S 50mm
Canon EF-S 55-250mm f/4-5.6 IS STM
What Buyers Say
Nikon NIKKOR Z 50mm f/1.8 S 50mm
The Nikon Z 50mm f/1.8 S is widely praised for outstanding image quality, with edge-to-edge sharpness and beautiful color rendering that rivals much more expensive lenses. Its near-zero focus breathing and customizable focus ring make it a hit for videographers and photographers alike. A few users on older DSLR bodies note compatibility issues with autofocus, but most agree this lens delivers exceptional value and performance for the price.
Pros
- Exceptional sharpness
- Beautiful color rendition
- Minimal focus breathing
- Customizable focus ring
- Great low-light performance
Cons
- No optical image stabilization
- Autofocus compatibility issues with older DSLRs
- Some users find it too clinical
- Screw-drive AF loud on older D lenses
- No included hood on some versions
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 50mm f/1.8 S 50mm | Canon EF-S 55-250mm f/4-5.6 IS STM | |
|---|---|---|
| Optics | ||
| Type | prime | zoom |
| Focal Length Min | 50 mm | 55 mm |
| Focal Length Max | 50 mm | 250 mm |
| Elements | 7 | 15 |
| Groups | 6 | 12 |
| Aspherical Elements | 2★ | 0 |
| ED Elements | 2★ | 1 |
| Coating | Super Integrated Coating | Super Spectra coating |
| Aperture | ||
| Max Aperture | f/16 | f/4 |
| Min Aperture | f/1.8 | 4-5.6 |
| Constant | ✓★ | ✗ |
| Diaphragm Blades | 7 | 7 |
| Build | ||
| Mount | Nikon Z | Canon EF-S |
| Format | full-frame★ | APS-C |
| Weather Sealed | ✓★ | ✗ |
| Weight | 0.18 kg★ | 0.38 kg |
| Filter Thread | 62 mm | 58 mm |
| AF & Stabilization | ||
| AF Type | Silent Wave Motor | STM★ |
| Stabilization | ✗ | ✓★ |
| Stabilization Stops | 5 stops★ | 4 stops |
| Focus | ||
| Min Focus Distance | 450 mm★ | 850 mm |
| Max Magnification | 0.15x | 0.29x★ |
Pros & Cons
Nikon NIKKOR Z 50mm f/1.8 S 50mm
- Strong social proof (94th percentile)94th %ile
- Strong build (94th percentile)94th %ile
- Below average bokeh (30th percentile)
- Below average macro (32nd percentile)
- 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 (85th percentile)85th %ile
- Strong social proof (81st percentile)81st %ile
- Below average macro (32nd percentile)
Pricing
Verdict
Scores 84 overall, wins 9 of 9 usage categories and 3 of 22 specs.
