f/1.8 vs f/4.0 Mirrorless Cameras: Which Should You Buy?

Key differences

Which one should you choose?

f/1.8 vs f/4.0 Lens Comparison

Included lens aperture

Edge: Canon EOS R50 V with RF 50mm f/1.8 Lens

The Canon EOS R50 V bundle includes the RF 50mm f/1.8 STM lens. This prime lens offers a wide f/1.8 maximum aperture. That opening lets in more light and creates a shallow depth of field for blurred backgrounds. The OM System PEN comes with the M.Zuiko 40-150mm F4.0-5.6 R lens. Its maximum aperture is f/4.0 at the wide end. This is two stops darker than the Canon kit. You get less natural light gathering capability from this specific lens. The Canon choice is better for low-light situations and portrait isolation.

Sensor format

Edge: Canon EOS R50 V with RF 50mm f/1.8 Lens

The Canon EOS R50 V uses a 24.2MP APS-C sensor. APS-C sensors are generally larger than Micro Four Thirds sensors. A larger sensor can capture more light and produce cleaner images in difficult lighting. The OM System PEN utilizes a Micro Four Thirds sensor. This format is smaller than APS-C. It offers a different field of view multiplier with lenses. The Canon sensor provides a larger physical area for light capture. This often translates to better high-ISO performance. The OM System relies on other strengths for image quality.

Video capabilities

Edge: Canon EOS R50 V with RF 50mm f/1.8 Lens

Both cameras support 4K video recording. The Canon EOS R50 V shoots oversampled 6K video in 4K UHD at up to 30p. It also records Full HD 120p for slow motion. This gives you more creative options for motion blur and speed ramping. The OM System PEN also supports 4K video. It uses a fast 121-point all-cross phase-detection autofocus system for video. However, the data does not list slow motion capabilities for the OM System. The Canon offers more varied frame rate options for video creators.

Image stabilization

Edge: OM System PEN Dual-Lens Mirrorless Camera

The OM System PEN features built-in image stabilization. This helps keep handheld shots steady without relying on lens stabilization. It allows for sharper images at slower shutter speeds. The Canon EOS R50 V data does not mention built-in body stabilization. It likely relies on the lens or electronic stabilization for video. If you shoot handheld without a tripod, the OM System has a clear advantage here. The built-in mechanism works with any compatible lens you attach later.

Autofocus technology

Edge: Tie

The Canon EOS R50 V uses Dual Pixel CMOS AF II. It features intelligent subject detection for people, animals, and objects. This system adapts quickly for both stills and video. The OM System PEN uses a 121-point all-cross phase-detection system. It also includes AI Human and Pet Detection autofocus. Both systems offer advanced tracking for moving subjects. The Canon system is noted for fast adaptation in varying conditions. The OM System provides comprehensive cross-type detection across the frame. Both are strong choices for tracking action.

Choose Your Mirrorless Camera

Low-light and portrait shooters

Our pick: Canon EOS R50 V with RF 50mm f/1.8 Lens

The Canon EOS R50 V includes an RF 50mm f/1.8 lens. This wide aperture gathers more light for better low-light performance. It also creates a shallow depth of field, blurring backgrounds to isolate subjects. You get a dedicated prime lens that simplifies your setup while delivering professional-looking portraits and creative effects without needing complex gear.

Travel and everyday photographers

Our pick: OM System PEN Dual-Lens Mirrorless Camera

The OM System PEN features a compact 393g body. It includes two lenses: a 14-42mm zoom and a 40-150mm telephoto. This dual-lens kit covers wide scenes and distant subjects. Built-in image stabilization helps with handheld shooting. You get versatile focal lengths in a lightweight package that fits easily into a bag for daily use or travel.

Video creators and vloggers

Our pick: Canon EOS R50 V with RF 50mm f/1.8 Lens

The Canon R50 V records oversampled 6K video in 4K UHD at 30p. It also supports Full HD 120p slow motion for cinematic storytelling. Dual Pixel CMOS AF II provides intelligent subject tracking for people and animals. This combination of high-resolution video and reliable autofocus ensures sharp, clear content for vlogs and social media projects.

Quick picks

The products compared

1

Canon EOS R50 V with RF 50mm f/1.8 Lens

Best for: Low-light portraits and reliable subject tracking

Aperture

f/1.8 (what this guide is about)

Sensor Format

APS-C

Sensor Resolution

24.2MP

Autofocus System

Dual Pixel CMOS AF II

Video Resolution

4K UHD at up to 30p, Full HD 120p

Configuration

Bundle

View on Amazon: Canon EOS R50 V with RF 50mm f/1.8 Lens Affiliate link

This mirrorless kit pairs a 24.2MP APS-C sensor with a bright f/1.8 prime lens. You get 4K UHD video at 30p and Dual Pixel CMOS AF II for reliable subject tracking. The bundle includes a 64GB SD card and a bag. It suits creators who want shallow depth of field and clear low-light performance in a compact body.

Pros

• RF 50mm f/1.8 lens provides a bright aperture for low light and background blur.
• 24.2MP APS-C sensor captures detailed images with wide dynamic range.
• Dual Pixel CMOS AF II offers intelligent subject detection and tracking for photos and video.
• Supports 4K UHD oversampled video at 30p and Full HD 120p slow motion.

Cons

• Video recording is limited to 30p in 4K, which is lower than many competitors.
• The bundle includes a fixed 50mm focal length, limiting wide-angle shooting options.
• The camera body is listed at 2 pounds, which is heavier than typical APS-C models.

Good fit if

• You need a fast f/1.8 aperture for portraits or low-light scenes.
• You want reliable autofocus for tracking people or animals in stills and video.
• You prefer a bundled kit with a memory card and case ready to use.

Skip if

• You require 4K video at higher frame rates like 60p or 120p.
• You need a versatile zoom lens for varied focal lengths.
• You prioritize a lightweight body under 1.5 pounds for travel.

Verdict: Canon EOS R50 V w/ RF 50mm f/1.8 is a solid choice for creators who value the creative control of a fast prime lens and dependable autofocus. It fits those who shoot portraits or low-light subjects more than those needing high-frame-rate video.

2

OM System PEN Dual-Lens Mirrorless Camera

Best for: Travelers seeking a lightweight dual-lens setup

Aperture

f/4.0 (what this guide is about)

Autofocus System

121-point all-cross phase-detection

Image Stabilization

Built-In Image Stabilization

Video Resolution

4K

Included Lens

14-42mm Lens

Color

Black

View on Amazon: OM System PEN Dual-Lens Mirrorless Camera Affiliate link

This OM System Pen Black mirrorless camera pairs a compact 393g body with a dual-lens kit featuring an f/4.0 zoom. It uses a 121-point all-cross phase-detection autofocus system for sharp tracking of people and pets. The camera supports 4K video and includes built-in image stabilization. Its dial-based controls and viewfinder offer a dedicated shooting experience for travelers and everyday photographers who value portability.

Pros

• Compact 393g body for easy carrying
• Dual lens kit includes 14-42mm and 40-150mm F4.0-5.6 R lenses
• 121-point all-cross phase-detection autofocus
• Built-in image stabilization for steadier handheld shots
• 4K video recording with vertical video support

Cons

• Kit lenses have variable maximum apertures up to f/5.6
• No mention of Bluetooth or Wi-Fi connectivity
• Fixed lens configuration limits single-lens versatility

Good fit if

• You want a lightweight camera for travel
• You need versatile focal lengths in one kit
• You prefer dial-based camera controls

Skip if

• You require constant wide apertures for low light
• You need a single prime lens setup
• You prefer a larger, heavier body

Verdict: OM System Pen Black f/4.0 Kit is a practical choice for travelers who value portability and versatility over low-light performance. It suits those who want a complete kit with two lenses without carrying extra gear.

Specifications side by side

Frequently asked questions

See also

• f18 vs f14 mirrorless camera
• f4 vs f18 mirrorless camera
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