Canon RF 50mm f/1.8 STMvs FE 85mm f/1.8

GearFrame · Updated March 2026

Canon Canon RF 50mm f/1.8 STM Canon Canon RF 50mm f/1.8 STM (2020) From £219 Best for Portraits, street & everyday View Canon RF 50mm f/1.8 STM
VS
Sony FE 85mm f/1.8 Sony FE 85mm f/1.8 From £549 Best for Portraits & headshots View FE 85mm f/1.8

Which should you buy?

Portraits, Street & Everyday — Canon RF 50mm f/1.8 STM (2020): The essential first prime for Canon RF shooters — f/1.8 background separation at an accessible price with near-silent STM autofocus.

Portraits & Headshots — FE 85mm f/1.8: The best-value portrait prime in the Sony E-mount ecosystem. The 85mm f/1.8 produces images that are often indistinguishable from the much more expensive GM version. An essential lens for anyone who shoots portraits seriously on Sony.

↓ Full specifications below

FE 85mm f/1.8

  • Portrait photographers who want premium bokeh without the G Master premium
  • Wedding and event photographers shooting on Sony E-mount
  • Anyone using an APS-C Sony camera wanting a 127.5mm equivalent lens
  • Video creators who shoot close-up talking-head content

Quick take: The canon rf 50mm f/1.8 stm is the most affordable. Scroll down for the full spec breakdown.

Full specifications

Specification Canon RF 50mm f/1.8 STM (2020)FE 85mm f/1.8
Price £219 £549
Sensor f/1.8 (max aperture)
Video 30cm minimum focus distance Compatible with all Sony E-mount cameras
Autofocus STM (Stepping Motor) — near-silent, smooth for video Linear AF motor — fast and near-silent for stills and video
Stabilisation None (relies on in-body IBIS) None (relies on body IBIS)
Weight 160g 371g
Dimensions 69.2 × 40.5mm 78mm × 82mm
Weather Sealed No No
Mount Canon RF Sony E-mount (full-frame compatible)
⚡ Compare specs side by side Canon RF 50mm f/1.8 STM prices → FE 85mm f/1.8 prices →

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