Is the Canon 35L worth the $900 more than the f2? Let’s look at some photos. It’s a lame brick wall, but it serves a purpose.
All photos taken at full 21mp resolution of Canon 5D Mark II, on a tripod, settings identical, default Lightroom import settings, highest quality JPG export.
First we’ll look at the overall frame taken from each, first the 35L, then the f2. Settings on both, ISO100, 1/400s, f2.0. Immediately noticeable is that the 35L is actually a little wider and the f2 is darker, especially towards the corners. The color is also slightly different.
Now let’s look at the nitty gritty, 100% resolution crops from the center and the edge. Keep in mind these are from 21 megapixels; quite a rigorous test for any lens.
35L, center crop:
35mm f2, center crop:
35L, corner crop:
35mm f2, corner crop:
The 35L is definitely better at the center and corner, but perhaps not as much as one might have thought.
Conclusion? The 35L is a great lens, period. The 35mm f2 is a great lens, for the money. I still haven’t decided if the 35L is worth $900 more for me.