7d + Zeiss ZE/ZF 35 f2 vs Canon 35 f2

[Tans Mark]

Hello,

I have recently found this video:

My first 7d test on Vimeo

I like the sharpness and the real resolition of this video. I would like to hear some real life exprerince about if canon or zeiss 35 f2 is better (sharper).

So far I had seen that canon f2 can't match the zeiss one, but maybe you have different experince. Also I would like to read how do you like it the low light capabilities both lens. at f2, f2.8, f4.if you make video.

Any other experince (focus, dof, etc) are welcome.

Thank you!

[Bill Pryor]

I've seen the Zeiss ZE and Canon 35mm f1.4 versions and like both of them, with preference going to the Zeiss because of build quality. Don't know anything about f2 versions.

[Tans Mark]

Thank you Bill!

[Jon Fairhurst]

I used to have the EF 35/2 lens. It was nestled between my EF 28/1.8, and EF 50/1.4. Because of it's poor build quality and focus ring, I would always grab the 28 or 50 and leave the 35 in the bag. I literally only shot with it for one week, then shot a handful of tests, then sold it.

That said, the image quality from the 35/2 isn't bad, and it has a good close focus distance. I just didn't like its feel. Another negative is it's five blade bokeh. It has some falloff in the corners wide open (which won't be as bad on a crop camera - I have the 5D2.)

Canon EF 35mm f/2.0 Lens Review

I also have access to a ZE 35/2, again on the 5D2. As shown in your video link, it's sharp as can be. It has some barrel distortion, but that's typical of a wide-ish lens.The build quality and focus ring feel are excellent. Personally, I love the look of a 35mm lens on a full frame body as the normal view in 2.35:1 widescreen productions.

diglloyd: Mini review of Zeiss ZF.2/ZE35mm f/2 Distagon for Nikon/Canon/Pentax

The only criticism I have with the ZE 35/2 is with its value compared to the ZE 50/1.4. The 50 gives another stop of light and a 220 degree focus throw for $725. The 35 is only moderately fast and has a 110 degree focus ring throw for $1000.

Also, the Zeiss doesn't focus as close as the Canon. The Canon focuses down to 9.8 inches for a 0.24 magnification. The Zeiss goes down to 11.8 inches for 0.18x mag.

Of course, you could get the ZE 50/2 Makro for a bit more money. It has the same speed as the 35, less distortion, a long focus throw, and focuses down to 9.4" for 0.5x magnification.

diglloyd: Mini review of Zeiss 50mm f/2 Makro-Planar

[David W. Jones]

I have a Zeiss Contax 35mm f1.4 that is one of my favorite lenses.

[Tans Mark]

Jon, David: Thank you !