So I picked up an EOS R50 a couple weeks ago for my upcoming trip to Japan in November and Im losing my mind trying to figure out glass. The kit lens is fine I guess but Ive been reading forums and watching endless youtube reviews trying to upgrade. Half the people say get the RF 50mm f1.8 cause its cheap and sharp, while others swear I need a zoom like the 18-150mm for travel convenience. But then someone else says neither of those are good for low light or street stuff. My budget is around 400 bucks max since I just dropped cash on the body and tickets. I honestly am so overwhelmed with all the crop sensor vs full frame lens talk that my head hurts. Seriously which lens should I actually buy for this thing before I leave...
Ignore the full frame noise for now since you are on an APS-C body. For a Japan trip under 400 dollars, grab the Canon RF-S 18-150mm f/3.5-6.3 IS STM for versatility or the Canon RF 50mm f/1.8 STM if you need low light performance. My testing shows the zoom handles daylight travel brilliantly while the prime excels at night. No complaints with either choice for your budget.
Late to the party, but grab the Canon RF-S 18-150mm f/3.5-6.3 IS STM for daytime exploring and maybe a cheap manual prime for nights. Japan walking kills lens swapping!
Like someone mentioned, ignore all that confusing full frame noise right now. Over the years of traveling with crop bodies, Ive learned that flexibility beats theoretical sharpness every single time, especially in a place like Japan where youre constantly going from narrow alleyways to massive temples. I was in Tokyo last fall and used an Canon RF-S 18-150mm f/3.5-6.3 IS STM for like eighty percent of my shots. Not gonna lie, having that reach saved me so many times when I needed to quickly frame a distant detail without pushing through crowds. It fits your budget too if you look for a refurbished or used copy, which usually runs right around 350 bucks. That said, if you really want something tiny for evening walks, grab a cheap manual adapter and an old vintage 50mm, or just stick to the kit lens for daylight and add the Canon RF 50mm f/1.8 STM later if you find yourself struggling indoors. Honestly though, dont overthink the gear too much. Japan is insanely photogenic and youll have a blast no matter what youre shooting on.