Canon EF 50mm f/1.8 STM Lens
The Canon 50mm f/1.8 STM is a 50mm f/1.8 lens designed for Canon EF mount cameras. Used copies start from $96.6 on GearFocus, with buyer protection on every purchase.
Canon EF 50mm f/1.8 STM Lens
Used Canon 50mm f/1.8 STM Listings on GearFocus
Lens Overview — Canon 50mm f/1.8 STM
Key Features — Canon 50mm f/1.8 STM
50mm f/1.8 Prime: Fixed 50mm focal length with a wide f/1.8 maximum aperture for control over depth of field and performance in lower light.
Canon EF Mount: Fits the full Canon EF DSLR lineup, with full-frame coverage on bodies like the 5D and 6D series.
STM Autofocus Motor: Stepping motor autofocus delivers smooth, quiet focusing well-suited to both stills and video shooting.
Full-Frame Coverage: Designed to cover Canon's full-frame sensors, and also usable on APS-C bodies where it gives an 80mm equivalent field of view.
160g Compact Build: At just 160 grams, it is one of the lightest f/1.8 primes available, adding minimal weight to any kit.
Auto and Manual Focus: Supports both autofocus and manual focus, giving shooters flexibility across different shooting scenarios.
Lens Specifications — Canon 50mm f/1.8 STM
| Spec | Detail |
|---|---|
| Use Cases | Portrait, Street, Travel, Beginner-Friendly |
| Lens Type | Prime |
| Format | Full Frame |
| Zoom/Prime | Prime |
| Focal Length | 50mm |
| Maximum Aperture | f/1.8 |
| Camera System | DSLR |
| Lens Mount | Canon EF |
| Autofocus | Yes |
| Focus Type | Auto, Manual |
| Image Stabilization | None |
| Filter Thread | 49mm |
Description — Canon 50mm f/1.8 STM
The Canon EF 50mm f/1.8 is a prime lens built around the Canon EF mount, covering full-frame sensors on Canon DSLR cameras. Its f/1.8 maximum aperture is the standout specification here, offering a wide opening for creative depth-of-field work and shooting in reduced light. Focal length is fixed at 50mm, placing it firmly in the standard range.
The lens supports both autofocus and manual focus, giving users the flexibility to switch between modes as their shooting style demands. Weighing just 160 grams, it adds minimal bulk to any DSLR body, making it a practical choice for photographers who value a lightweight kit. The 49mm filter thread provides compatibility with a wide selection of filters at an accessible price point.
It is worth noting that this lens includes no image stabilization, so stable shooting technique or adequate shutter speeds are important considerations in lower light conditions.
Pros — Canon 50mm f/1.8 STM
- ✓Fast f/1.8 maximum aperture provides strong control over depth of field
- ✓Extremely lightweight at just 160g, easy to carry all day
- ✓Supports both autofocus and manual focus operation
Cons — Canon 50mm f/1.8 STM
- ✗No image stabilization included
- ✗Fixed 50mm focal length offers no zoom flexibility
- ✗Canon EF mount only — not compatible with mirrorless bodies without an adapter
Reviews — Canon 50mm f/1.8 STM
Videos — Canon 50mm f/1.8 STM
Canon 50mm f/1.8 STM lens review with samples (Full-frame and APS-C) — Christopher Frost









