f/2.8 or f/1.8 Mirrorless Lens? Compared by Specs
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Choosing between an f/2.8 and an f/1.8 mirrorless lens depends on your specific needs. This comparison examines the Sony FE 90mm F2.8 Macro G OSS and the Canon RF 35mm F1.8 Macro STM. Both are macro lenses designed for sharp detail capture. The main difference lies in their focal length and maximum aperture. One offers reach and stabilization, while the other provides a wider view and brighter light gathering. Understanding these f28 vs f18 mirrorless lens specs helps you decide which tool fits your workflow.
Key differences
| Aspect | Sony FE 90mm F2.8 Macro G OSS | Canon RF 35mm F1.8 Macro STM Lens |
|---|---|---|
| Maximum Aperture | f/2.8 | f/1.8 |
| Focal Length | 90mm | 35mm |
| Lens Mount | Sony E-mount | Canon RF |
| Sensor Format | 35mm full-frame | not listed |
| Image Stabilization | Optical Steady Shot | Optical Image Stabilization (up to 5 stops) |
| Maximum Magnification | 1.0x | 0.5x |
Which one should you choose?
Choose Sony FE 90mm F2.8 Macro G OSS if
- You need 1:1 macro magnification for life-size reproduction.
- You shoot with Sony E-mount cameras and want built-in stabilization.
- You prefer a telephoto macro perspective for compressed backgrounds.
Choose Canon RF 35mm F1.8 Macro STM Lens if
- You require a wider field of view for environmental portraits.
- You want a brighter aperture for low-light macro work.
- You use Canon RF-mount cameras and value a compact, lightweight design.
Verdict: The Sony FE 90mm F2.8 is the better choice if you need true 1:1 macro magnification and use Sony cameras. The Canon RF 35mm F1.8 suits you better if you prioritize a wider angle, lighter weight, and a faster aperture. Your mount system and desired framing will dictate the final decision.
f/2.8 vs f/1.8 Macro Lens Specs
Sensor Format
The Sony FE 90mm F2.8 Macro G OSS is designed for 35mm full-frame sensors, as listed in its key specifications. This allows it to cover the entire image circle of full-frame cameras like the Sony α7 series. In contrast, the Canon RF 35mm F1.8 Macro STM is built for the Canon RF mount system, which primarily serves the EOS R series of mirrorless cameras. While both are modern macro lenses, they target different camera ecosystems. The Sony lens explicitly states its full-frame compatibility, ensuring you get the intended image coverage on compatible bodies. The Canon lens is optimized for its specific mount and camera line, making format compatibility a key decision factor based on your existing gear.
Maximum Aperture
The Canon RF 35mm F1.8 Macro STM offers a wider maximum aperture of f/1.8. This allows more light to reach the sensor, which can help in lower light situations and provides a shallower depth of field for creative background blur. The Sony FE 90mm F2.8 Macro G OSS has a maximum aperture of f/2.8. While slightly less bright, this aperture is common for high-quality macro lenses to maintain sharpness across the frame. The difference in aperture affects your ability to isolate subjects and shoot in dim environments. You must decide if the extra light gathering capability of the f/1.8 lens outweighs the potential optical benefits of the f/2.8 design for your specific shooting conditions.
Magnification Ratio
True macro photography often requires a 1:1 magnification ratio, meaning the subject is projected onto the sensor at its actual size. The Sony FE 90mm F2.8 Macro G OSS achieves a maximum magnification ratio of 1.0x, allowing you to capture extreme close-up details with life-size reproduction. The Canon RF 35mm F1.8 Macro STM offers a maximum magnification ratio of 0.5x. This is half the life-size reproduction, meaning it is technically a close-up lens rather than a true macro lens in the strictest sense. If you need to photograph small insects or intricate textures at life-size, the Sony lens provides the necessary magnification power that the Canon lens cannot match.
Minimum Focusing Distance
The distance you can get to your subject is crucial for macro work. The Sony FE 90mm F2.8 Macro G OSS has a minimum focusing distance of 0.92 ft (0.28 m). The Canon RF 35mm F1.8 Macro STM has a shorter minimum focusing distance of 0.56 ft (0.17 m). This means the Canon lens allows you to get physically closer to small subjects. However, the Sony lens achieves its 1.0x magnification at a slightly longer distance, which can be beneficial for avoiding shadows from your body or lens. The shorter distance of the Canon lens offers flexibility for tight spaces, while the Sony distance is optimized for its higher magnification capability.
Image Stabilization
Both lenses include optical image stabilization to help reduce camera shake during handheld shooting. The Sony FE 90mm F2.8 Macro G OSS features Optical Steady Shot (OSS). The Canon RF 35mm F1.8 Macro STM provides Optical Image Stabilization rated at up to 5 stops of shake correction. The Canon specification explicitly quantifies the benefit, suggesting a potentially significant advantage for handheld use in low light or at slower shutter speeds. The Sony lens also includes stabilization, which is valuable for macro work where camera movement is amplified. You should check if your camera body has in-body stabilization, as this may complement the lens's features. The Canon lens provides a specific stop rating that highlights its stabilization performance.
Which lens fits your macro needs?
Full-frame Sony shooters wanting 1:1 macro
Choose the Sony FE 90mm F2.8 Macro G OSS if you use a 35mm full-frame E-mount camera. It offers a 1.0x magnification ratio for true life-size reproduction. The 90mm focal length provides comfortable working distance. Optical Steady Shot helps with handheld shots, and the Direct Drive SSM ensures quiet, precise focusing for video or stills.
Canon RF users wanting compact macro gear
Select the Canon RF 35mm F1.8 Macro STM for your EOS R series camera if portability matters. It weighs only 10.8 ounces and features a compact design. The f/1.8 maximum aperture gathers more light than f/2.8 options. Optical Image Stabilization corrects up to 5 stops of shake, making handheld macro work easier and sharper in lower light conditions.
Photographers prioritizing low-light performance and size
The Canon RF 35mm F1.8 Macro STM is the better choice here. Its f/1.8 aperture allows significantly more light to hit the sensor than the Sony’s f/2.8. This helps in dim environments without raising ISO too high. The smaller size and lighter weight make it easier to carry for extended periods compared to the bulkier Sony alternative.
Quick picks
| # | Product | Best for | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Sony FE 90mm F2.8 Macro G OSS | handheld macro photography requiring stabilization | Check price of Sony FE 90mm F2.8 Macro G OSS on Amazon |
| 2 | Canon RF 35mm F1.8 Macro STM Lens | Canon users needing compact macro photography | Check price of Canon RF 35mm F1.8 Macro STM Lens on Amazon |
The products compared
Sony FE 90mm F2.8 Macro G OSS
Best for: handheld macro photography requiring stabilization
- Aperture
- f/2.8 (what this guide is about)
- Lens Mount
- E-mount
- Focal Length
- 90 mm
- Maximum Aperture
- F2.8
- Sensor Format
- 35mm full-frame
- Focus Type
- Manual/auto focus, DDSSM
View on Amazon: Sony FE 90mm F2.8 Macro G OSS Affiliate link
This Sony lens is a 90mm macro optic for full-frame E-mount cameras. It features a bright f/2.8 maximum aperture and 1.0x magnification with a minimum focus distance of 0.92 feet. Optical Steady Shot helps with handheld shooting, while the Direct Drive SSM motor ensures quiet focusing. It is built for sharp corner-to-corner performance and dust and moisture resistance.
Pros
- f/2.8 maximum aperture for bright low-light macro work
- 1.0x magnification ratio for true life-size reproduction
- Optical Steady Shot image stabilization for handheld use
- Direct Drive SSM motor for quiet and precise focusing
Cons
- f/2.8 aperture is slower than f/1.8 alternatives
- Minimum focus distance of 0.92 feet limits close-up reach
- Heavier at 602 grams compared to standard primes
Good fit if
- You need 1.0x magnification for detailed product or nature shots
- You shoot handheld and rely on optical image stabilization
- You prefer quiet autofocus operation for video or discreet shooting
Skip if
- You require faster f/1.8 apertures for shallow depth of field
- You need closer minimum focusing distances than 0.92 feet
- You prioritize a lighter and more compact lens build
Verdict: Sony FE 90mm f/2.8 Macro Lens delivers specialized macro capabilities with stabilization. It fits photographers who need high magnification and quiet operation over maximum speed.
Canon RF 35mm F1.8 Macro STM Lens
Best for: Canon users needing compact macro photography
- 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 lens offers an f/1.8 maximum aperture and macro capabilities with 0.5x magnification. It focuses as close as 0.56 feet. The design includes optical image stabilization for up to 5 stops of correction. It weighs 10.8 ounces and fits EOS R series cameras. You get a compact tool for close-up work and low light.
Pros
- f/1.8 maximum aperture for low light
- 0.5x macro magnification ratio
- Optical image stabilization up to 5 stops
- Minimum focusing distance of 0.56 feet
Cons
- No weather sealing listed in specifications
- Fixed focal length limits zoom flexibility
- Only compatible with Canon RF mount
Good fit if
- You need macro capabilities in a compact size
- You shoot in low light environments
- You use Canon EOS R series cameras
Skip if
- You require weather-sealed construction
- You need a zoom lens range
- You use Sony or Nikon camera bodies
Verdict: Canon RF35mm F1.8 Macro STM is a solid choice for Canon users who need close-up photography. It delivers sharp macro details and low-light performance in a portable package.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Sony FE 90mm F2.8 Macro G OSS | Canon RF 35mm F1.8 Macro STM Lens |
|---|---|---|
| Lens Mount | E-mount | Canon RF |
| Focal Length | 90 mm | 35mm |
| Maximum Aperture | F2.8 | F1.8 |
| Sensor Format | 35mm full-frame | not stated |
| Focus Type | Manual/auto focus, DDSSM | STM |
| Image Stabilization | Optical Steady Shot | Optical Image Stabilization |
| Minimum Focusing Distance | 0.92 ft (0.28 m) | 0.56 ft. ; 0.17M |
| Color | Black | Black |
| Aperture | f/2.8 | f/1.8 |
| Lens Type | Macro | Macro |
| Dimensions | 5.16 × 3.11 × 3.11 inches | 2.9 × 2.9 × 2.5 inches |
| Weight | 1.33 pounds | 10.8 ounces |
| Size | 4.70 | 35mm |
| Model | SEL90M28G | 2973C002 |
Frequently asked questions
Is f/2.8 or f/1.8 better for macro photography?
The choice depends on your camera system and need for stabilization. The Sony FE 90mm F2.8 Macro G OSS includes Optical SteadyShot for handheld work. The Canon RF 35mm F1.8 Macro STM offers a wider angle and faster aperture but lacks built-in stabilization. You should pick based on whether you prioritize reach or light gathering.
Which lens is lighter for travel?
The Canon RF 35mm F1.8 Macro STM is significantly lighter. It weighs 10.8 ounces and measures 2.9 inches in length. The Sony FE 90mm F2.8 Macro G OSS weighs 1.33 pounds and is 5.16 inches long. If portability is your main concern, the Canon option is the clear winner for carrying comfort.
Do I need a full-frame camera for these lenses?
The Sony FE 90mm F2.8 Macro G OSS is designed for full-frame sensors. It covers the entire image circle of 35mm cameras. The Canon RF 35mm F1.8 Macro STM is listed for the RF mount, which is standard for Canon full-frame mirrorless bodies. You need a compatible full-frame body to use these lenses without vignetting.
Can I use these lenses for portraits?
The Canon RF 35mm F1.8 Macro STM is suitable for portraits due to its wider focal length and f/1.8 aperture. It allows for more environmental context. The Sony FE 90mm F2.8 Macro G OSS is a dedicated macro lens with a 90mm focal length. It is better for close-up detail than general portraiture.
Which lens has image stabilization?
The Sony FE 90mm F2.8 Macro G OSS features Optical SteadyShot (OSS). This helps reduce camera shake when shooting handheld. The Canon RF 35mm F1.8 Macro STM does not list built-in stabilization in its specifications. You may need to rely on in-body stabilization or a faster shutter speed with the Canon lens.
What is the difference in magnification ratio?
Both lenses offer 1.0x magnification for life-size reproduction on full-frame sensors. The Sony FE 90mm F2.8 Macro G OSS delivers true macro capabilities at 90mm. The Canon RF 35mm F1.8 Macro STM provides the same magnification but at a shorter 35mm focal length. This affects your working distance and perspective when shooting close-ups.