Canon RF 50mm F1.4 L VCM vs Canon RF 50mm F1.8 STM
Side-by-side comparison from our catalogue data. Better values are highlighted only where a clear difference exists.
Verdict at a glance
- Canon RF 50mm F1.4 L VCM is faster by 0.7 stops (f/1.4 vs f/1.8), letting in more light.
- Canon RF 50mm F1.8 STM is lighter by 420g.
- Canon RF 50mm F1.4 L VCM is the newer design (2024 vs 2020).
| Spec | RF 50mm F1.4 L VCM | RF 50mm F1.8 STM |
|---|---|---|
| Brand | Canon | Canon |
| Mount | Canon RF | Canon RF |
| Type | Prime | Prime |
| Focal length | 50mm | 50mm |
| Max aperture | f/1.4 (faster) | f/1.8 |
| Released | 2024 | 2020 |
| Blades | 11 | 7 |
| Format | full-frame | full-frame |
| Groups | 11 | 5 |
| Af motor | VCM | STM |
| Elements | 14 | 6 |
| Weight g | 580.0 | 160.0 (lighter) |
| Filter mm | 67 | 43 |
| Length mm | 99.3 | 40.5 |
| Diameter mm | 76.5 | 69.2 |
| Min focus m | 0.4 | 0.3 (closer focusing) |
| Max magnification | 0.15 | 0.25 |
Canon RF 50mm F1.4 L VCM
The RF 50mm F1.4 L VCM is a fast standard prime for Canon RF full-frame cameras with a voice coil motor and L-series build. Smaller than the RF 50mm F1.2.
Pros
- f/1.4 aperture
- VCM focusing
- L-series build
- Lighter than the F1.2 (580 g)
Cons
- No lens-based stabilization
- Less bright than f/1.2
Canon RF 50mm F1.8 STM
A light normal prime for Canon RF full-frame cameras with a stepping motor, often seen as the RF 'nifty fifty'.
Pros
- Light and compact (160 g)
- f/1.8 aperture
- Quiet STM focus
- Close focus 0.3 m
Cons
- No image stabilization
- Softer wide open