f/1.8 vs f/1.2 Mirrorless Lens in 2026: Key Differences
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You are comparing an f18 vs f12 mirrorless lens setup for different shooting needs. Both lenses offer fast maximum apertures for low-light performance and background blur. The Canon RF 35mm F1.8 Macro STM is an autofocus lens with image stabilization, designed for Canon RF cameras. The TTArtisan 50mm f/1.2 is a manual focus lens for Micro Four Thirds or APS-C sensors. You must choose based on your camera mount and whether you need autofocus or macro capabilities.
Key differences
| Aspect | Canon RF 35mm F1.8 Macro STM Lens | TTArtisan 50mm f/1.2 Manual Focus Prime Lens |
|---|---|---|
| Maximum Aperture | f/1.8 | f/1.2 |
| Focus Type | STM (Autofocus) | Manual Focus |
| Lens Mount | Canon RF | Micro Four Thirds (also available for Sony E, Fuji X, etc.) |
| Focal Length | 35mm | 50mm |
| Image Stabilization | Optical Image Stabilization (up to 5 stops) | Not listed |
| Special Features | Macro capability (0.5x magnification) | All-metal body, 10 diaphragm blades |
Which one should you choose?
Choose Canon RF 35mm F1.8 Macro STM Lens if
- You shoot with a Canon RF camera and need reliable autofocus.
- You require image stabilization for handheld low-light shots.
- You want macro photography capabilities with a wider 35mm field of view.
Choose TTArtisan 50mm f/1.2 Manual Focus Prime Lens if
- You use a Micro Four Thirds, Sony E, or other compatible mount and prefer manual control.
- You want the widest possible aperture (f/1.2) for extreme background blur.
- You are looking for a lightweight, all-metal prime lens for portraits or street photography.
Verdict: The Canon RF 35mm F1.8 is the better choice for Canon users who need autofocus, stabilization, and macro versatility. The TTArtisan 50mm f/1.2 suits photographers with compatible mounts who prioritize a larger aperture and manual shooting experience. Your decision depends entirely on your camera system and whether you value autofocus over maximum light gathering.
f/1.8 vs f/1.2 Lens Comparison
Aperture and Light
The maximum aperture defines how much light reaches the sensor. Product B, the TTArtisan 50mm f/1.2, offers a wider opening than Product A, the Canon RF 35mm F1.8 Macro STM. An f/1.2 aperture allows significantly more light than f/1.8. This difference helps in low-light environments without raising the ISO. You get brighter exposures in dim settings. The wider aperture also creates a shallower depth of field. This means you can isolate your subject from the background more effectively. The f/1.2 setting provides that classic creamy bokeh effect. The f/1.8 setting still offers background separation, but it is less pronounced. If you prioritize extreme background blur and low-light gathering, the f/1.2 lens has the advantage.
Autofocus and Control
How you focus on your subject changes your shooting experience. Product A features an STM autofocus motor. This allows for fast and silent focusing, which is useful for video and moving subjects. Product B relies on manual focus only. You must turn the focus ring to achieve sharp images. This requires more skill and practice. However, manual focus gives you total control over the focal point. Some photographers prefer this for still portraits or artistic shots. The Canon lens also includes a control ring for direct setting changes. The TTArtisan lens lacks this specific feature in its description. For ease of use and speed, the autofocus system is a clear benefit.
Image Stabilization
Camera shake can ruin sharp images, especially in low light. Product A includes Optical Image Stabilization. It corrects up to 5 stops of shake. This allows you to use slower shutter speeds handheld without blur. Product B does not list image stabilization. You must rely on your own steady hands or a higher ISO to freeze motion. If you shoot in dark environments or handheld often, stabilization is crucial. It extends the range of usable shutter speeds. The presence of IS in the Canon lens helps you get sharper photos in challenging lighting. The TTArtisan lens requires you to manage stability through technique or equipment.
Macro Capability
Close-up photography requires specific focusing capabilities. Product A is labeled as a Macro lens. It offers a 0.5x magnification ratio. You can focus as close as 0.56 feet or 0.17 meters. This allows you to capture small details with significant size on the sensor. Product B is described as a standard prime lens. It does not list macro capabilities or a high magnification ratio. Its minimum focusing distance is not explicitly stated, but it is not marketed for close-ups. If you want to photograph insects, flowers, or small objects, the Canon lens is the better choice. The f/1.2 lens is designed for distance and portrait work.
Sensor Format and Mount
You must match the lens to your camera system. Product A is built for the Canon RF mount. It is designed for full-frame or APS-C Canon R series cameras. Product B is designed for the Micro Four Thirds mount. It is also listed for APS-C sensor formats in its attributes. This creates a compatibility split. You cannot use the TTArtisan lens on a Canon RF camera without an adapter, and even then, the crop factor changes the field of view. The Canon lens fits Canon bodies natively. The TTArtisan lens fits Panasonic, Olympus, and other M4/3 bodies. Your camera choice dictates which lens you can use.
Which Lens Suits Your Camera System
Canon RF users needing autofocus and stabilization
The Canon RF 35mm F1.8 Macro STM is your only option if you shoot with Canon EOS R series cameras. It features STM autofocus for quick focusing and Optical Image Stabilization up to 5 stops. This combination helps you capture sharp handheld shots in low light without the blur that often affects wide-aperture lenses, making it practical for daily use.
Micro Four Thirds shooters wanting manual control
If you use Olympus or Panasonic M4/3 cameras, the TTArtisan 50mm f/1.2 Manual Focus Prime Lens fits your mount. It offers an f/1.2 maximum aperture for strong low-light performance and background blur. The manual focus type requires you to adjust focus by hand, but the all-metal body provides durability. It is a lightweight choice for portraits or street photography.
Photographers prioritizing macro capabilities and versatility
The Canon RF 35mm F1.8 Macro STM stands out with its 0.5x magnification ratio and minimum focusing distance of 0.17 meters. This allows you to get close to small subjects for detailed macro shots. The 35mm focal length is versatile for landscapes and environments. Its compact size and control ring make it easy to handle, offering more functional variety than the fixed 50mm manual lens.
Quick picks
| # | Product | Best for | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Canon RF 35mm F1.8 Macro STM Lens | Canon EOS R users needing macro versatility | Check price of Canon RF 35mm F1.8 Macro STM Lens on Amazon |
| 2 | TTArtisan 50mm f/1.2 Manual Focus Prime Lens | Low-light portraits on Micro Four Thirds | Check price of TTArtisan 50mm f/1.2 Manual Focus Prime Lens on Amazon |
The products compared
Canon RF 35mm F1.8 Macro STM Lens
Best for: Canon EOS R users needing macro versatility
- Aperture
- f/1.8 (what this guide is about)
- Lens Mount
- Canon RF
- Focal Length
- 35mm
- Maximum Aperture
- F1.8
- Focus Type
- STM
- Image Stabilization
- Optical Image Stabilization
View on Amazon: Canon RF 35mm F1.8 Macro STM Lens Affiliate link
This Canon RF35mm f/1.8 lens offers a wide-angle view with macro capabilities. It features optical image stabilization up to 5 stops and a minimum focusing distance of 0.56 ft. The 0.5x magnification ratio allows for close-up detail. It includes a control ring for direct setting changes. This lens suits Canon EOS R users who need versatility in a compact form.
Pros
- f/1.8 maximum aperture
- 0.5x macro magnification
- 5-stop optical image stabilization
- Control ring for direct adjustments
Cons
- f/1.8 aperture is narrower than f/1.2 options
- STM motor may be slower in low light
- No weather sealing mentioned in data
Good fit if
- You want macro capabilities in a wide-angle lens
- You need image stabilization for handheld shooting
- You prefer a compact and lightweight lens
Skip if
- You require f/1.2 or wider aperture
- You need weather-sealed construction
- You prefer fast autofocus in low light
Verdict: Canon RF35mm f/1.8 Macro STM is a versatile choice for Canon EOS R users who value macro features and stabilization over maximum aperture width.
TTArtisan 50mm f/1.2 Manual Focus Prime Lens
Best for: Low-light portraits on Micro Four Thirds
- Aperture
- f/1.2 (what this guide is about)
- Lens Mount
- Micro Four Thirds
- Focal Length
- 50mm
- Maximum Aperture
- f/1.2
- Sensor Format
- APS-C
- Focus Type
- Manual Focus
View on Amazon: TTArtisan 50mm f/1.2 Manual Focus Prime Lens Affiliate link
This TTArtisan lens offers a 50mm focal length with a wide f/1.2 maximum aperture for Micro Four Thirds cameras. It features an all-metal body weighing 336g and includes 10 diaphragm blades for smooth background blur. You get a manual focus design that fits a compact 2.44 by 2.36 inch form factor. It suits portrait and low-light shooting on APS-C sized sensors.
Pros
- f/1.2 maximum aperture for strong low-light performance
- 50mm focal length matches human-eye perspective
- All-metal construction weighs only 336g
- 10 diaphragm blades for smooth bokeh
Cons
- Manual focus only with no autofocus motor
- Designed for APS-C sensors on M4/3 mount
- Fixed focal length limits zoom flexibility
Good fit if
- You shoot portraits in low light
- You prefer manual focus control
- You use Micro Four Thirds cameras
Skip if
- You need autofocus speed
- You shoot with full-frame sensors
- You require zoom versatility
Verdict: TTArtisan 50mm f/1.2 M4/3 Manual Lens is ideal for M4/3 users who want a lightweight, fast prime for portraits. It delivers strong blur and low-light capability without the bulk of larger glass.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Canon RF 35mm F1.8 Macro STM Lens | TTArtisan 50mm f/1.2 Manual Focus Prime Lens |
|---|---|---|
| Lens Mount | Canon RF | Micro Four Thirds |
| Focal Length | 35mm | 50mm |
| Maximum Aperture | F1.8 | f/1.2 |
| Sensor Format | not stated | APS-C |
| Focus Type | STM | Manual Focus |
| Image Stabilization | Optical Image Stabilization | not stated |
| Minimum Focusing Distance | 0.56 ft. ; 0.17M | not stated |
| Color | Black | Black |
| Aperture | f/1.8 | f/1.2 |
| Lens Type | Macro | not stated |
| Dimensions | 2.9 × 2.9 × 2.5 inches | 2.36 × 2.44 × 2.44 inches |
| Weight | 10.8 ounces | not stated |
| Size | 35mm | M4/3 |
| Model | 2973C002 | TTArtisan 50-f/1.2 M4/3B |
Frequently asked questions
Does an f/1.2 lens always provide better background blur than f/1.8?
Yes, a wider aperture like f/1.2 creates a shallower depth of field, resulting in more pronounced background separation. The TTArtisan 50mm f/1.2 delivers strong blur for portraits, while the Canon RF 35mm f/1.8 offers less isolation. The difference is noticeable when shooting subjects against busy backgrounds.
Can I use manual focus lenses with modern mirrorless cameras?
Absolutely. The TTArtisan 50mm f/1.2 is a manual focus prime lens designed for Micro Four Thirds and APS-C sensors. Mirrorless cameras often provide focus peaking and magnification aids to help you achieve sharp results. This makes manual focusing practical and precise even in low light.
Is image stabilization necessary for an f/1.8 lens?
It depends on your shooting style. The Canon RF 35mm f/1.8 Macro STM includes Optical Image Stabilization, which helps reduce camera shake. This is useful for handheld shooting in dim conditions or when using slower shutter speeds. An f/1.2 lens may not always include this feature.
Which lens is better for macro photography?
The Canon RF 35mm f/1.8 Macro STM is specifically designed for macro versatility. It allows you to get close to small subjects for detailed shots. The TTArtisan 50mm f/1.2 is a standard prime lens focused on portraits and low-light performance, not close-up macro work.
How does sensor format affect the choice between these lenses?
Sensor format determines compatibility and field of view. The TTArtisan 50mm f/1.2 is listed for APS-C and M4/3 sensors, affecting its effective focal length. The Canon RF 35mm is built for the full-frame Canon EOS R system. You must choose a lens that matches your camera mount and sensor size.
Are f/1.2 lenses heavier than f/1.8 lenses?
Not necessarily. The TTArtisan 50mm f/1.2 is lightweight and compact for its aperture speed. The Canon RF 35mm f/1.8 weighs 10.8 ounces and measures 2.9 inches in length. Size and weight vary by design, so check the specific dimensions rather than assuming larger apertures mean bulkier glass.
Which lens offers faster autofocus performance?
The Canon RF 35mm f/1.8 Macro STM features STM autofocus for quick focusing. The TTArtisan 50mm f/1.2 is a manual focus lens, requiring you to adjust focus by hand. If you need automatic tracking for moving subjects, the Canon option is the clear choice for speed and convenience.