Canon’s triple-layered diffractive optical element (DO) significantly reduces the length and weight of the lens. Distortion and vignetting slightly better than non-DO version. IS adds appeal.
Perfect for tight headshots. Very sharp and fast, with a focal length well-suited to portraits and close-ups (1:5.3 max. magnification). Expensive, but endlessly useful and reliable.
One of the fastest lenses on the planet, it is larger than the typical 50mm and built like a tank, with L-series quality. AF speed slightly slow—more glass for the motor to move.
A golden oldie, great for low-light shooting. SQF test results were in the Excellent range, distortion in the Slight range—both above average performances for a fast lens.
This light, compact 50mm f/1.8 will never fall out of favor, thanks to its strong optics and simplicity in use. Traditionalists beware: no focusing scale.
Recessed front element minimizes the need for a lenshood. Inconsistently sharp—mid apertures far outperform others. Optically average; Visible barrel distortion and edge falloff to f/5.6. Maximum magnification: 1:2.
A grown-up version of the 18–55mm lens, with more reach, but optics are kit-like or average for the class. In our tests, stabilization increased hand-holdability by 2–3 stops.
This lens seems to have everything: great price, image stabilization, light weight, compact build, surprisingly good test results, and a max magnification down to 1:2.5. What more could you ask for?
Its solid construction, aspheric elements, and UD glass suggest that if thiswere full-frame, it would rate L-series status. Performance should be perfect for those photographers who like to work in low ambient light.
