Interesting question! For Canon EOS R it also depends on what you want to shoot. What's your main photography style?

My clear recommendation for Canon EOS R: Canon RF 50mm f/1.2L USM. The bokeh is beautiful The build quality feels premium and should last for years.

Technical highlights: The latest generation offers significantly better image quality. Very good compatibility with Canon EOS R features. Can be used without problems for various photography styles. Even after hours of shooting, no performance losses. Very good build quality, even at high usage.

I would take Sigma 85mm f/1.4 DG DN Art for Canon EOS R, because The color rendition is impressive The fast autofocus makes everything feel responsive and accurate.

Can only recommend Canon RF 85mm f/2 Macro IS STM for Canon EOS R. The color rendition is impressive The ergonomic design allows for comfortable handling.

Have you thought about the brand? For Canon EOS R different brands have advantages.

Honestly, if youre looking for the industry standard for the EOS R system, you really need to look at the high-end L-series glass with built-in stabilization. Tbh, while third party stuff is okay for hobbies, native glass offers much more reliable dual-pixel autofocus and better weather sealing, which is basically essential if youre doing pro stuff. The Canon RF 85mm f/1.2L USM is the ultimate beast. Its pricey, but the way it handles chromatic aberration is unreal. Its SO sharp wide open. However, since the original EOS R doesnt have IBIS, it can be a bit of a challenge to handle that weight without some shake. Thats why I would definately suggest looking at the Canon RF 135mm f/1.8L IS USM or even the Canon RF 70-200mm f/2.8L IS USM. Both have built-in Image Stabilization (IS) which is a lifesaver on the R body. The 135mm gives you that crazy compression and bokeh, while the 70-200mm is just super reliable for different distances. Personally, I always stick to the IS-equipped glass for the R just to be safe. haha

Honestly, after shooting with the R system since launch, I've had some disappointing runs with gear reliability. I really wanted to love the cheaper stuff, but unfortunately, the AF consistency on the non-L primes just wasnt as good as expected when things got hectic. If you want something that actually holds up under pressure:

• Canon RF 70-200mm f/4L IS USM is fantastic if you want pro build quality without the weight of the f2.8 version.
• Canon EF 85mm f/1.4L IS USM with an adapter is probably the sturdiest 85mm I have ever owned and the weather sealing is legit. That 85mm actually survived a nasty fall when I was shooting a wedding in this ancient, drafty cathedral in upstate New York. The floor was slick marble and I just slipped right during the processional. Total nightmare. I ended up with a massive bruise on my hip and a cracked lens hood, but the glass was totally fine. Spent the rest of the night limping around eating cold catering rolls in the hallway while the DJ played generic pop hits. Church architecture is beautiful but man, those floors are a death trap. Anyway, but yeah, stick to the L series if you want stuff to last.

I have been shooting long enough to remember when autofocus was a luxury, so I might be biased, but I think people overlook the fun of manual glass on these new mirrorless bodies. When I moved to the EOS R, I actually went backwards and started adapting old manual lenses because the focus peaking makes it so easy. You might want to consider the Samyang AF 85mm f/1.4 RF if you can find one used, but be careful with the firmware updates since they can be a bit of a headache to DIY at home without the specific dock. Quick tip for ya: if you want that creamy look without spending L-series money, look into the Mitakon Speedmaster 85mm f/1.2. It is totally manual and heavy as a brick, but the images have a soul that modern lenses sometimes lack. Just make sure to practice your timing because moving subjects will definitely test your patience! It is a great way to learn the limits of your sensor too.

Exactly what I was thinking

Following

Regarding what #12 said about "Jumping in here because I am literally facing this exact same dilemma"

• I totally get that frustration! It is honestly so tough choosing between price and performance when you are just starting out. I have spent a lot of time testing budget-friendly gear for the EOS R and think there are some fantastic ways to save money while still getting professional-looking shots! Here is my methodical breakdown for a cost-conscious setup:
• Canon RF 50mm f/1.8 STM: I love this little lens! It is incredibly lightweight and basically the best value on the market right now. Pros: Extremely affordable and sharp enough for most pro-level work. Cons: No internal stabilization and the motor is a bit loud tho.
• Canon RF 35mm f/1.8 Macro IS STM: This is my favorite for lifestyle and environmental portraits! Pros: The 5-stop image stabilization is amazing and the close-focusing macro is a cool bonus for detail shots. Cons: A bit wider than a traditional portrait lens, so you gotta watch the angles.
• Canon EF 85mm f/1.8 USM: Using this with the Canon Mount Adapter EF-EOS R is a total pro move on a budget! Pros: Beautiful background blur and very fast autofocus for an older lens. Cons: Older optical design means you might see some purple fringing in bright light. Ngl, starting with these native or adapted primes is a much smarter way to build a kit while saving up for the big L glass later... it really takes the pressure off!

Man I wish I found this thread sooner. Would have saved me so much hassle.

Do you already have a preference? That could influence the lens choice.

Jumping in here because I am literally facing this exact same dilemma right now and it is so incredibly frustrating! After four months of weighing the technical specs for my EOS R, a final decision still havent been made. Like someone mentioned, the trade-offs between autofocus speed and price points are just brutal to analyze. Looking at the technical breakdown so far:

• Premium native RF glass ensures perfect dual-pixel AF compatibility.
• Adapted third-party primes like the Sigma Art series provide amazing sharpness for lower costs.
• Budget-friendly native options often compromise on aperture but add stabilization. The detail in this thread is fantastic! Even with all this great info tho, I am still totally stuck and cant find the perfect answer for my kit.