The type of photography that you are planning to use is an important decision factor. Here we have evaluated the Canon 35mm f2.0 and the Canon 35mm f2 IS USM for their suitability to various photography scenarios:
Size and Weight Comparison
The size of a lens is an important deciding factor when comparing two lenses. Canon 35mm f2 IS USM is the longer of the two lenses at 63mm. The Canon 35mm f2.0 with a length of 43mm, is 20mm shorter. Besides being longer, the Canon 35mm f2 IS USM also has a larger diameter of 78mm compared to the Canon 35mm f2.0's 67mm diameter.
The weight of a lens is as important as its external dimensions, especially if you are planning to hand hold your camera and lens combination for longer periods. Canon 35mm f2.0 weighs 210g, which means it is 125g (37%) lighter than the Canon 35mm f2 IS USM which has a weight of 335g.
Below you can find the dimension and weight table of the Wideangle Prime Lenses in Canon EF Mount for size comparison purposes.
Wideangle Prime Lenses in Canon EF Mount for Size Comparison
Lens Mounts
Both the Canon 35mm f2.0 and the Canon 35mm f2 IS USM has the same Canon EF lens mount. Some of the latest released cameras that are compatible with the Canon EF lenses are Canon 1D X III, Canon 6D MII and Canon 5D MIV.
Focal Range
Both lenses have the same focal range of 35mm and the fastest aperture of F2.0.