Canon compatible prime with autofocus?

[Chris7]

Looking for an autofocus full sensor sized prime that looks good at f/2.0 (or faster), for under $500. I would prefer 35mm or 50mm. Is this available through other manufactures?

From the reviews, it's looking like the Canon EF 50mm f/1.4 USM is unreliable (the autofocus stops working and needs frequent repairs), and the EF 28mm f/1.8 USM is soft at f/1.8, and shows slight vignetting on a full sensor camera at f/1.8 (should I ever buy full size sensor DSLR).

(Thanks to the people who helped me find a decent point and shoot. For now, I've decided to get a point and shoot and borrow an a friend's Rebel XS when he doesn't need it...)

 

[robbieduncan]

My EF 50mm f/1.4 seem perfectly reliable and well made? Anyway you could just get the f/1.8 version and not care if/when it breaks as it's < $100. Or you could buy a Sigma 50mm f/1.4 EX DG HSM which comes in EF mount for about $500.

 

[miles01110]

The 50mm/f1.8 is an OK lens, but frankly I think it's a bit overrated. Trying to use autofocus on that sucker in anything less than broad daylight is like trying to make a cat jump in a bath.

 

[Grimace]

I'm not sure where you read that the 50mm f/1.4 was a sub-par lens. It is a fantastic one, and well used and reviewed by many. Take another look around -- it is a great deal for ~ $350.

 

[auero]

Sigma 30mm 1.4 If you can find a good copy. AMAZING lens. If you order it at B&H you can always return it for a full refund.

 

[al256]

I'm not sure where you read that the 50mm f/1.4 was a sub-par lens. It is a fantastic one, and well used and reviewed by many. Take another look around -- it is a great deal for ~ $350.

Amen. I never regretted finding mine on Craigslist.

 

[Chris7]

Bought the Sigma

Or you could buy a Sigma 50mm f/1.4 EX DG HSM which comes in EF mount for about $500.

Thanks for the rec. I just ordered the Sigma 50mm f/1.4 for $500 from B&H. After reading some of the reviews, it seemed like the best sub $500 full sensor prime for Canon.

Sigma 30mm 1.4 If you can find a good copy. AMAZING lens.

I was deliberating between the 30mm and 50mm, but decided I wanted full frame (just in case) and the greater focal length. Thanks, though. I may end up with one of these in the future

...My EF 50mm f/1.4 seem perfectly reliable and well made?

The 50mm/f1.8 is an OK lens, but frankly I think it's a bit overrated...

I'm not sure where you read that the 50mm f/1.4 was a sub-par lens...

I donno. The user reviews right on the Canon site show a lot of complaints regarding reliability with this lens in particular. I know people who have bad experiences are more likely to post a consumer “review,” but the user reviews of the other lenses on the Canon site did not generally talk of reliability problems. Plus the Canon is said to be a little softer at f/1.4 than the Sigma.

Thanks for everyone's help. We’ll see how it turns out...

 

[miles01110]

I donno. The user reviews right on the Canon site show a lot of complaints regarding reliability with this lens in particular. I know people who have bad experiences are more likely to post a consumer “review,” but the user reviews of the other lenses on the Canon site did not generally talk of reliability problems. Plus the Canon is said to be a little softer at f/1.4 than the Sigma.

Just so you know, I was talking about the Canon 50mm/f1.8- the cheap version. I haven't used the f1.4 .

 

[compuwar]

Thanks for the rec. I just ordered the Sigma 50mm f/1.4 for $500 from B&H. After reading some of the reviews, it seemed like the best sub $500 full sensor prime for Canon.

The single sample I've seen was of a very good build-quality and the owner had upgraded from the Canon version (over time, not directly,) and was significantly happier with the Sigma. I think you'll be pleased.

Paul