BENOISON RF 420-800mm Manual Telephoto Lens for Canon

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81%
19%
88%
Value for Money
79%
Manual Focus Precision
84%
Image Quality at 420mm
91%
Build Quality & Durability
92%
Compatibility with Canon RF Mount
75%
Weight & Handling
90%
Zoom Range & Flexibility
66%
Aperture Limitations
68%
Ease of Use for Beginners
83%
Lens Accessories Support
70%
Low Light Performance
80%
Focus Ring Smoothness
More

Overview

The BENOISON RF 420-800mm Manual Telephoto Lens for Canon is a versatile lens designed specifically for Canon RF mount mirrorless cameras. With its 420-800mm focal length range, it provides a long zoom, making it perfect for capturing distant subjects like wildlife or celestial bodies. The lens is constructed with durable materials, ensuring it stands the test of time. However, it comes with a fixed aperture (f/8.3 at 420mm and f/16 at 800mm), which may limit exposure control in low-light conditions. Overall, this telephoto lens is a solid option for those seeking a manual focus solution.

Features & Benefits

This manual focus telephoto lens offers an impressive zoom range of 420-800mm, making it ideal for high-magnification photography. The upgraded RF mount ensures smooth compatibility with Canon mirrorless cameras, providing reliable performance. The focus ring allows for precise adjustments, giving photographers full control over focus, especially when capturing distant subjects. With its high-quality construction, the lens is built to endure challenging conditions, while the 62mm filter size adds versatility for additional lens accessories. These features make it an excellent choice for enthusiasts and professionals alike.

Best For

This 420-800mm zoom lens is best suited for photographers who specialize in wildlife, sports, or astrophotography. Its long focal length makes it ideal for capturing subjects at a distance, especially in outdoor and low-light environments. Canon RF mirrorless camera users seeking an affordable telephoto solution will find this lens to be a great addition to their gear. Additionally, hobbyists who prefer manual focus lenses will appreciate the hands-on control this lens offers, making it a suitable choice for those who enjoy a more traditional approach to photography.

User Feedback

Users generally praise the sharpness and clarity of the lens, especially at the 420mm range. However, the lack of autofocus can be a downside for those accustomed to modern autofocus systems. The manual focus is highly precise, but it does require a bit of practice, which may be a challenge for beginners. Many also mention that the lens is heavier than expected, which can affect handling, especially during extended shoots. While great for hobbyists, some professional photographers note that the fixed aperture limits its versatility in certain lighting conditions, but overall, it’s highly regarded for its price.

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Pros

  • This lens offers excellent clarity and sharpness at 420mm, ideal for capturing distant subjects.
  • The manual focus system provides precise control, making it a great option for photographers who enjoy hands-on adjustments.
  • Built with high-quality materials, it ensures long-lasting durability for frequent use.
  • Its compatibility with Canon RF mount cameras makes it a solid choice for Canon mirrorless users.
  • Perfect for wildlife and moon photography, offering a versatile zoom range of 420-800mm.
  • Affordable compared to other telephoto lenses, making it a great budget-friendly option for hobbyists.

Cons

  • The lack of autofocus can be challenging for beginners or those shooting fast-moving subjects.
  • Some users report that the lens is heavier than expected, which can impact handling during long shoots.
  • The fixed aperture range (f/8.3 to f/16) limits its performance in low-light conditions.
  • Manual focus requires a learning curve, which might frustrate new photographers.
  • While great for hobbyists, some professional photographers may find the aperture too slow for certain scenarios.
  • Not the best option for sports or action photography, where fast focus is essential.

Ratings

The ratings for the BENOISON RF 420-800mm Manual Telephoto Lens for Canon are based on an analysis of verified user feedback from multiple platforms and languages worldwide. Spam, bot-generated, duplicated, and incentivized reviews were filtered out to ensure that only authentic, high-quality feedback was used. Both positive aspects and pain points have been reflected in these scores, giving potential buyers a comprehensive view of this lens’s strengths and limitations from real users around the globe.

Value for Money
88%
Many buyers are impressed with the lens's performance, considering its affordable price point for a telephoto zoom lens. The 420-800mm focal length range provides excellent versatility for wildlife and sports photography without breaking the bank. This makes it an attractive option for hobbyists and photographers on a budget who want powerful zoom capabilities.
However, some users feel that the fixed aperture limits creative control in certain lighting conditions. Additionally, while the lens offers a lot of value for the price, the lack of autofocus and manual focus requirements may not be ideal for all users, especially those looking for a more straightforward shooting experience.
Manual Focus Precision
79%
21%
Users appreciate the precision of the manual focus ring, which allows for accurate adjustments when capturing distant subjects. The lens's focus mechanism feels smooth and responsive, offering control that is particularly useful for wildlife and astrophotography, where exact focus is essential for sharp, detailed shots.
On the downside, the manual focus may be a challenge for beginners, especially when trying to capture moving subjects. It requires patience and practice, making it less appealing for photographers who prefer quick and easy autofocus. Some also mention that the focus ring can feel stiff at times, requiring more effort to adjust.
Image Quality at 420mm
84%
At 420mm, the lens delivers impressive sharpness and clarity, even in low light conditions. Many users find the results satisfying for wildlife photography, capturing crisp details from a distance. The image quality is notably sharp across the zoom range, making it ideal for capturing distant landscapes or subjects like birds.
However, a few users have pointed out that image quality starts to degrade at the 800mm end of the zoom range, especially when shooting in dimmer lighting. Some feel that the lens's performance could benefit from a faster aperture to improve low-light performance and reduce potential blurriness in certain situations.
Build Quality & Durability
91%
The lens is built with high-quality materials that offer durability and reliability for long-term use. Its solid construction ensures it can withstand regular handling, making it a great choice for outdoor photographers who need equipment that can handle challenging environments like rain or dust.
Despite its sturdy build, the lens is somewhat heavy, which can make it uncomfortable to use for extended periods, especially for photographers who prefer lightweight gear. This added weight could also be a challenge for users who frequently shoot handheld or need a more portable option for travel.
Compatibility with Canon RF Mount
92%
The lens is fully compatible with Canon RF mount mirrorless cameras, which makes it a seamless addition to the Canon EOS R series. Users appreciate the ease of setup and the reliable connection between the lens and their camera, resulting in smooth operation and consistent performance.
A small number of users have reported minor issues with autofocus performance, as this lens is manual focus only. While the lens offers great value, those who are accustomed to Canon's autofocus system might find the lack of autofocus to be a significant trade-off.
Weight & Handling
75%
25%
While the lens is heavier than some users expected, the added weight contributes to a stable feel when mounted on a tripod. Many buyers find this weight gives the lens a more premium feel, and it is appreciated for steady shots, especially when used for stationary subjects like wildlife or landscapes.
However, the lens's weight can be a drawback for those who prefer a lighter, more portable setup. Photographers often note that the weight makes it difficult to use for handheld shots, particularly for longer shooting sessions or travel. This can also affect comfort during extended outdoor shoots.
Zoom Range & Flexibility
90%
The 420-800mm zoom range offers exceptional flexibility for capturing distant subjects. Users can easily adjust the zoom to get the perfect composition, whether they're photographing wildlife, sporting events, or the moon. This versatility makes it a great all-in-one lens for outdoor photographers looking to cover a wide variety of subjects.
A few users note that the lens's zoom range can be a bit challenging to handle due to the lack of autofocus. Zooming in and out with precision, especially for fast-moving subjects, requires careful manual adjustment, which might not be ideal for photographers who need quicker results or ease of use.
Aperture Limitations
66%
34%
While the aperture is fixed at f/8.3 at 420mm and f/16 at 800mm, some users appreciate the lens's simplicity, as it doesn't require constant adjustment. This also keeps the lens design straightforward and reliable, with fewer potential points of failure compared to more complex designs.
On the flip side, the fixed aperture can limit shooting flexibility, especially in low-light conditions. Users who need faster shutter speeds or want to control depth of field may find the aperture's limitations frustrating, especially for more creative shots that require more light or a wider aperture.
Ease of Use for Beginners
68%
32%
The manual focus feature gives photographers complete control over their shots, which can be ideal for those who enjoy a hands-on approach to their craft. Beginners who want to learn more about manual focus can use this lens as a great way to practice and improve their skills over time.
However, beginners may struggle with the learning curve required to use manual focus effectively. Some buyers report difficulty in achieving sharp focus, especially with moving subjects or in low-light settings. This could make the lens a less attractive option for users seeking a more user-friendly experience.
Lens Accessories Support
83%
The lens features a 62mm filter size, which is compatible with a wide variety of lens accessories, including filters and lens hoods. This compatibility allows users to customize their shooting setup and protect the lens, adding extra value to their purchase.
That said, some users have pointed out that while the filter size is standard, the lack of built-in stabilization makes it difficult to shoot with longer exposures. They suggest that additional accessories like tripod heads may be necessary for steady shots, especially in more challenging conditions.
Low Light Performance
70%
30%
At its shorter focal length (420mm), the lens performs adequately in lower light conditions, producing reasonably sharp images. Photographers looking to shoot in daylight or during dusk will find the lens usable in most natural lighting scenarios.
However, the lens struggles in darker environments, particularly at 800mm, due to its narrow aperture. Users needing better low-light performance may find the lens disappointing for evening or indoor shoots, and might need to boost ISO or use longer exposure times for acceptable results.
Focus Ring Smoothness
80%
20%
The focus ring is generally well-received for its smooth operation, allowing users to make fine adjustments for precise focus. Many buyers appreciate the tactile feel, which gives a satisfying sense of control, especially when working with distant or detailed subjects.
Nevertheless, some users have found that the focus ring can be a bit stiff, making it difficult to adjust quickly. In fast-paced situations or when capturing action shots, this can be a significant drawback, as it requires extra effort to adjust the focus with speed.

Suitable for:

The BENOISON RF 420-800mm Manual Telephoto Lens for Canon is particularly well-suited for wildlife photographers, astronomy enthusiasts, and hobbyists looking for a budget-friendly telephoto lens. Its wide 420-800mm focal length allows users to capture distant subjects, from birds in flight to the moon's surface, with excellent detail. Canon EOS R series camera owners will benefit from the easy compatibility with their mirrorless setups, and the manual focus gives precise control, especially useful for astrophotography or static subjects. If you're a beginner photographer willing to invest some time into learning manual focus, this lens offers a reliable, cost-effective solution for capturing long-range subjects with a steady hand and solid build quality.

Not suitable for:

However, this lens may not be the best option for photographers who require quick, automated focusing or prefer a lighter setup. Its manual focus system presents a steep learning curve for beginners, making it less ideal for fast-moving subjects like wildlife in motion or sports photography. Additionally, its heavy weight and fixed aperture limit flexibility in low-light conditions, which could frustrate those looking for a more portable, versatile option for handheld shooting or those accustomed to more dynamic aperture settings. Professional photographers who need faster apertures or autofocus might find this lens lacking in those areas, especially when compared to higher-end telephoto options.

Specifications

  • Focal Length: The lens features a focal length range of 420-800mm, providing a powerful zoom for distant subjects.
  • Mount Type: This lens is designed for Canon RF mount mirrorless cameras, ensuring compatibility with the Canon EOS R series.
  • Aperture: The lens has a fixed aperture of f/8.3 at 420mm and f/16 at 800mm, limiting control over exposure at different zoom levels.
  • Focus Type: The lens uses manual focus, allowing precise control but requiring a learning curve, especially for fast-moving subjects.
  • Filter Size: It supports a 62mm filter size, providing options for various lens accessories like UV, ND, or polarizer filters.
  • Weight: The lens weighs approximately 1.8 pounds (820 grams), making it sturdy but potentially heavy for handheld use.
  • Dimensions: The lens measures 9.45 x 2.64 x 2.64 inches, offering a compact form considering its long focal length.
  • Construction Material: Built with high-quality materials, the lens is designed to be durable for long-term use in various conditions.
  • Compatibility: The lens is fully compatible with Canon RF mount mirrorless cameras, ensuring smooth integration with Canon EOS R series.
  • Zoom Type: This is a telephoto zoom lens, providing flexibility to zoom from 420mm to 800mm for different photography needs.
  • Use Case: Ideal for wildlife photography, sports, and astrophotography, particularly for capturing distant subjects like animals, the moon, and stars.
  • Focus Ring: The lens includes a focus ring that allows for precise manual focus adjustments, offering control over image sharpness.
  • Aperture Control: The aperture is fixed and non-adjustable, meaning users cannot change the f-stop to control light more effectively at varying zoom levels.
  • Tripod Use: Given its length and weight, this lens is well-suited for tripod use, offering stability for long-duration shots.
  • Price Range: This lens is considered budget-friendly for a super-telephoto option, offering good value for those seeking a long-range lens on a budget.

FAQ

The lens offers a focal length range of 420-800mm, which is ideal for capturing distant subjects such as wildlife, the moon, or sporting events.

Yes, this lens is specifically designed for Canon RF mount cameras, ensuring seamless compatibility with Canon EOS R series mirrorless cameras.

No, this lens uses manual focus only, which allows for precise control but may require a learning curve, especially for beginners or fast-moving subjects.

The lens has a fixed aperture of f/8.3 at 420mm and f/16 at 800mm. The non-adjustable aperture can limit its performance in low light situations.

The lens weighs approximately 1.8 pounds (820 grams), which may feel heavy for extended hand-held shooting but adds durability and stability.

Yes, this lens supports a 62mm filter size, allowing you to add filters such as UV, polarizers, or ND filters to modify light and enhance your shots.

Yes, this lens is ideal for wildlife photography due to its long focal length and high magnification. It provides excellent detail at long distances, though manual focus may require practice.

The manual focus system on this lens is controlled by a focus ring, which allows precise adjustments. However, it may be challenging for beginners and slower for tracking moving subjects.

Some users find the lens heavier than expected, and the fixed aperture limits its low-light performance. Additionally, the manual focus system might not be suitable for fast-action photography.

Yes, the long focal length range and sharpness at 420mm make this lens a great option for astrophotography, particularly for capturing the moon and distant stars.