· slr camera lenses · 12 min read
Best Canon EF 50mm Lens: Premium Lenses for Stunning Photography
Discover our top picks for the best Canon EF 50mm lenses, offering exceptional image quality, fast apertures, and versatile focal length for a wide range of photography needs.
Canon EF 50mm lenses are renowned for their exceptional optical performance and versatility. In this article, we've meticulously analyzed and compared the top 50mm lenses from Canon, taking into account factors such as image quality, aperture range, autofocus speed, and overall value for money. Whether you're a professional photographer or an enthusiast seeking to elevate your photography, we've got you covered with our comprehensive guide to the best Canon EF 50mm lenses. Get ready to capture stunning images with these exceptional optics!
Overview

PROS
- Stunning image quality with sharp focus and vibrant colors
- Versatile focal length ideal for portraits, street photography, and more
- Fast and silent autofocus for capturing fleeting moments
- Compact and lightweight design for easy portability
- Affordable price point, making it accessible to photographers of all levels
CONS
- May not be the best choice for low-light photography
- Fixed focal length limits versatility compared to zoom lenses
The Canon EF 50mm f/1.8 STM Lens is an excellent choice for photographers seeking a versatile and affordable lens. Its wide f/1.8 aperture allows for stunning low-light performance and gorgeous background blur, ideal for portraits and isolating subjects. The STM autofocus system ensures fast and quiet operation, perfect for capturing fleeting moments without disturbing your surroundings. Furthermore, its compact and lightweight design makes it an ideal companion for travel and street photography.
While it lacks image stabilization and a variable focal length, the Canon EF 50mm f/1.8 STM Lens more than makes up for it with its exceptional image quality, affordability, and ease of use. Whether you're a seasoned professional or a photography enthusiast, this lens is an excellent investment that will enhance your photographic capabilities and help you capture stunning images.

PROS
- Exceptional f/1.4 aperture provides superb low-light performance and captivating background blur
- USM autofocus system delivers swift and accurate focusing for capturing fleeting moments
CONS
- May exhibit slight vignetting at wider apertures
- Price point may be higher than similar lenses in its category
The Canon EF 50mm f/1.4 USM lens is a must-have for photographers seeking exceptional image quality in standard and medium telephoto photography. Its remarkable f/1.4 aperture unlocks a world of creative possibilities, enabling you to achieve stunning shallow depth of field effects and isolate your subjects with breathtaking clarity. In low-light conditions, this lens truly shines, capturing sharp and well-illuminated images without the need for a flash.
The EF 50mm f/1.4 is equipped with an Ultrasonic Motor (USM) autofocus system, ensuring fast and precise focusing, even in challenging lighting situations. This makes it an ideal choice for capturing fast-moving subjects or candid shots where timing is crucial. Its sturdy construction and weather-resistant design further enhance its durability, making it a reliable companion for photographers in various environments.

PROS
- Offers exceptional image quality with its fast f/1.2 aperture for beautiful background blur.
- Delivers lifelike colors and stunning contrast, perfect for portraiture and low-light photography.
CONS
- Can be heavy and bulky compared to other lenses in its class.
- The high price point may not be accessible for all photographers.
Introducing the EF 50mm f/1.2 L USM Lens, a remarkable piece of glass designed to elevate your photography game. This exceptional lens, specifically crafted for Canon Digital SLR Cameras, offers an unparalleled combination of optical excellence and versatility.
With its fast f/1.2 aperture, the lens empowers you to effortlessly isolate subjects and create stunning background blur, resulting in captivating portraits and dreamy low-light shots. Its advanced optical design ensures exceptional image quality, delivering sharp and detailed images throughout the entire frame. The lens's ability to capture vibrant colors and produce beautiful contrast makes it an ideal choice for capturing both lifelike moments and surreal artistic creations.

PROS
- Exceptional image quality with sharp and detailed images.
- Ultra-fast f/1.2 maximum aperture for excellent low-light performance.
CONS
- Relatively large and heavy.
- Expensive compared to other 50mm lenses.
The Canon EF 50mm f/1.2 L USM Lens is a high-quality prime lens designed for Canon DSLR cameras. It features an ultra-fast f/1.2 maximum aperture, which makes it ideal for low-light photography and creating beautiful bokeh effects.
The EF 50mm f/1.2 L USM delivers superb image quality. Its large maximum aperture allows for a shallow depth of field, isolating your subject from the background. The images produced are sharp, detailed, and have minimal distortion. The lens also features a fast autofocus system, which ensures quick and accurate focusing.

PROS
- Exceptional image quality: Capture sharp, detailed images even in low-light conditions with its f/1.4 aperture.
- Versatile focal length: Ideal for a wide range of photography styles, from portraits to street photography.
CONS
- May have slight vignetting at corners.
- Autofocus can be slow in certain lighting conditions.
The Canon EF 50mm f/1.4 USM Lens is a must-have for photographers seeking exceptional optical performance. Its f/1.4 aperture renders images with breathtaking clarity and shallow depth of field, perfect for isolating subjects and creating stunning portraits. The versatile focal length makes it suitable for various genres, capturing everything from intimate moments to expansive landscapes.
Equipped with an ultrasonic motor (USM), the lens boasts rapid, silent autofocus, ensuring you never miss a shot. Its durable construction guarantees longevity, making it an investment that will serve you well for years to come. The Canon EF 50mm f/1.4 USM Lens is a remarkable combination of affordability and high-end performance, a true asset to any photographer's toolkit.

PROS
- Offers an exceptional f/1.4 aperture for stunning background blur and low-light performance.
- Equipped with a high-speed USM (Ultrasonic Motor) for fast and silent autofocus.
CONS
- May exhibit slight color fringing in high-contrast scenes.
- Manual focus is not as precise as with some other lenses.
The Canon EF 50mm f/1.4 USM Lens is a legendary lens that combines exceptional optical quality with a remarkably wide aperture, making it an ideal choice for portrait, street, and low-light photography. Its bright f/1.4 aperture not only allows for beautiful background blur (bokeh) but also enables shooting in challenging lighting conditions without the need for a flash.
In terms of performance, the lens's USM motor ensures rapid and near-silent autofocus, capturing fleeting moments with precision. The optical construction, featuring 8 elements in 6 groups, delivers sharp images with minimal distortion and chromatic aberration. Additionally, the lens's rugged build and weather-resistant construction make it a durable companion for outdoor and demanding shooting conditions.

PROS
- Exceptional optical performance with sharp images and beautiful bokeh
- Compact and lightweight design for easy handling and portability
- Fast and quiet STM motor for smooth and silent autofocus
- Versatile 50mm focal length suitable for a wide range of photography styles
- Comprehensive accessory kit enhances functionality and protection
CONS
- Plastic construction may not be as durable as metal lenses
- Limited weather sealing capabilities
The Canon EF 50mm f/1.8 STM Lens is a budget-friendly option that delivers exceptional image quality and versatility. With its fast f/1.8 aperture, this lens excels in low-light conditions and produces stunning bokeh effects, making it ideal for portraiture and street photography. Its compact size and lightweight design make it easy to carry and use, even during extended shooting sessions. The STM motor ensures smooth and silent autofocus, enabling quick and precise focusing without disturbing your subjects.
This particular kit includes a range of essential accessories to enhance your photography experience. The filter kit provides protection and versatility, allowing you to experiment with different filters for creative effects. The cap keeper keeps your lens caps securely attached, preventing them from getting lost. The cleaning kit includes everything you need to maintain your lens in pristine condition. Overall, the Canon EF 50mm f/1.8 STM Lens + Essential Accessories Kit is an excellent choice for photographers seeking a versatile and affordable lens with superior image quality and a wealth of accessories for added functionality.

PROS
- Delivers beautiful bokeh and sharp images with its wide f/1.8 aperture
- Compact and lightweight, perfect for street photography, portraits, and travel
CONS
- Lacks image stabilization, may not be ideal for low-light conditions
- Plastic mount may not be as durable as metal construction
Canon's EF 50mm f/1.8 STM Lens is a versatile prime lens that offers exceptional image quality at an affordable price. With its wide f/1.8 aperture, it excels in low-light conditions and creates stunning bokeh, making it ideal for portraits, street photography, and travel. The STM autofocus motor provides smooth and silent operation, enhancing the overall user experience. While it lacks image stabilization, it remains a compact and lightweight option, making it a great companion for any photographer looking to enhance their DSLR photography. Overall, the Canon EF 50mm f/1.8 STM Lens is a highly recommended prime lens that delivers exceptional value for its price.

PROS
- Exceptional image sharpness with a wide f/1.8 aperture
- Compatible with a wide range of Canon EOS cameras
- Autofocus capabilities for effortless and precise focusing
- Compact and lightweight design for easy portability
CONS
- May not be suitable for professional-level photography
- Build quality may not meet the standards of some users
Experience the brilliance of photography with the YN50mm F1.8 Lens, crafted specifically for Canon EF mount EOS cameras. Its large f/1.8 aperture empowers you to capture stunning images with remarkable sharpness and depth of field control. Whether you're capturing portraits with beautifully blurred backgrounds or low-light scenes with exceptional clarity, this lens delivers consistently impressive results.
Convenience meets precision with the lens's autofocus capabilities. Effortlessly lock onto your subjects and achieve sharp focus every time. Its compact and lightweight design ensures comfortable handling, making it an ideal companion for travel and daily use. While this lens may not be the ultimate choice for professional photographers, it offers an excellent balance of features and affordability for enthusiasts and hobbyists seeking to elevate their photography.

PROS
- Large F1.8 aperture for impressive background blur
- High-quality optics for sharp and detailed images
CONS
- Limited weather sealing
- No image stabilization
The YN50mm F1.8 Standard Prime Lens is a versatile and affordable lens for Canon EF-mount DSLR cameras. It boasts a large F1.8 aperture, which allows for excellent low-light performance and beautiful background blur. The lens is constructed with high-quality optics, ensuring sharp and detailed images throughout the frame.
The YN50mm F1.8 is perfect for a wide range of photography genres, including portraiture, street photography, and travel. Its compact size and lightweight design make it easy to carry around, making it an excellent choice for photographers on the go. Overall, the YN50mm F1.8 is a fantastic value for the price, offering excellent image quality and affordability.
Our top pick for the best Canon EF 50mm lens is the EF 50mm f/1.2 L USM Lens, renowned for its exceptional sharpness, wide aperture, and robust construction. For a budget-friendly option, the EF 50mm f/1.8 STM Lens offers impressive image quality and a compact design. If you're looking for a versatile lens with a fast aperture, the EF 50mm f/1.4 USM Lens is an excellent choice, while the EF 50mm f/1.8 STM Lens is a more affordable alternative. For those seeking a unique and artistic look, the EF 50mm f/1.2 L USM Lens is highly recommended. No matter your photography style or budget, Canon EF 50mm lenses provide exceptional performance and versatility for capturing stunning images.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best Canon EF 50mm lens for professional photography?
For professional photographers, the EF 50mm f/1.2 L USM Lens is the top choice due to its exceptional sharpness, wide aperture, and robust construction.
What is a budget-friendly Canon EF 50mm lens?
The EF 50mm f/1.8 STM Lens is an excellent budget-friendly option, offering impressive image quality and a compact design.
Which Canon EF 50mm lens offers a fast aperture?
The EF 50mm f/1.4 USM Lens and the EF 50mm f/1.2 L USM Lens both feature fast apertures, making them ideal for low-light photography and achieving shallow depth of field.
What is the difference between the EF 50mm f/1.8 STM Lens and the EF 50mm f/1.4 USM Lens?
The EF 50mm f/1.4 USM Lens has a wider aperture (f/1.4) compared to the EF 50mm f/1.8 STM Lens (f/1.8), allowing for better low-light performance and shallower depth of field.
Which Canon EF 50mm lens is best for artistic photography?
The EF 50mm f/1.2 L USM Lens stands out for artistic photography due to its exceptional sharpness, wide aperture, and unique ability to produce stunning bokeh effects.