Canon has announced a new multi-purpose standard zoom lens for its full-frame mirrorless cameras: the RF 28-70mm F2.8 IS STM.
Weighing in at just 17.3 oz / 490 g, the 28-70mm F2.8 seems like a perfect match for Canon’s enthusiast-level cameras like the EOS R8 and EOS R6 Mark II. And with its constant f/2.8 aperture throughout the zoom range, it’s a compelling upgrade over Canon’s kit lens for such cameras, the RF 24-50mm F4.5-6.3 IS STM, with the added benefit of a slightly longer reach.
The new standard zoom costs £1,249.99 (bear with us while we get US and Australian pricing), which is almost the same as the retail price of an EOS R8. Not cheap, but also not the most expensive lens Canon offers for its mirrorless cameras.
Is this Canon’s most compelling standard zoom lens yet?
Canon already has other standard zoom lenses in its RF range, but the RF 28-70mm F2.8 seems to offer a nice balance between portability, a constant large aperture and decent value for money.
The significantly cheaper 24-105mm F4-7.1 is another kit lens from Canon. It’s even lighter and has more reach, but doesn’t offer the constant f/2.8 aperture of this new lens and is a step backwards optically.
Then there are Canon’s professional L-series lenses, which are a different story. They are all considerably larger, heavier and most are also much more expensive.
Other L-series options, identifiable by the red ring that Canon’s other standard lenses lack, include the RF 24-105mm F4L IS USM. This is arguably the best alternative to the RF 28-70mm F2.8, offering more reach but a smaller constant aperture of f/4 and is 50% heavier.
Canon’s RF 24-70mm F2.8L IS USM and the behemoth Canon RF 28-70mm F2L USM are in a very different class from the RF 28-70mm F2.8 IS SM in terms of price and features. They’re designed for professionals who want maximum performance and are willing to pay for it (and carry it around).
Still, the RF 28-70mm F2.8 features 5.5 stops of optical image stabilization, and is weather-sealed too, so it’s hardly inferior. There’s also a handy customizable focus/control ring, which changes its function depending on the focus mode you’ve selected.
Clearly positioned as a step up for enthusiasts who want an all-purpose zoom without the bulk, this new lens is a worthy addition to Canon’s full-frame lens lineup. It could be the only upgrade lens you ever need.