Last Updated on 10/30/2024 by Nilofer Khan
The day is finally here. Canon has announced the three lenses for its users in the RF L hybrid series lineup: the RF 70-200 f2.8 L IS USM Z, the RF 24mm f1.4 L VCM, and the RF 50mm f1.4 L VCM. As usual, the company is focusing on both stills and video. In the past, Canon did reveal that video is a growing segment, and with more lens additions, they seem to be hoping to compel more content creators. Here’s a look at what the new lenses offer.
The 24mm and 50mm are designed for both photo and video needs. Although their specifications are not entirely revealed, we know they come with autofocus capabilities and are designed to fit easily on a gimbal. They are also lightweight, with the 24mm weighing 18.1 ounces and the 50mm slightly higher at 20.4 ounces.
According to Canon, the RF 70-200 f2.8 L IS USM Z features the same exterior and internal mechanics as the RF 24-105mm F2.8 L IS USM Z. The lens features 18 elements in 15 groups, with two Super UD Lenses, one UD Lens, and three Aspherical lens elements. The glass is also coated with Canon ASC (Air Sphere Coating), SSC (Super Spectra Coating), and fluorine coating. It features 11 aperture blades and an 82mm filter and is compatible with RF Extender 1.4x and 2x (teleconvertors).
For quick focusing, it features two nano USM (Ultrasonic Motor) motors and has an internal focus and zoom mechanism. Since it is a hybrid lens, it also includes an iris ring, which can help videographers. The power zoom adapters, too, are added for better video needs. Some of the other features include a maximum magnification of 0.3x, 5.5 stops IS (can go up to 7.5 stops with Canon cameras with IBIS), and drip and dust resistance. The lens also weighs 1,100 grams and measures 88.5mm x 199mm.
On the other hand, the RF 70-200 f2.8 L IS USM Z is also dubbed the first such version of the company’s famed 70-200mm focal length. Canon already has three 70-200mm lenses: the RF 70-200mm f2.8L IS USM and RF 70-200mm f4L IS USM mirrorless lenses, and the older EF 70-200mm f2.8L III IS USM for its DSLRs. As a result, having a black color option is quite interesting; perhaps it’s for those who wish to blend in. The white lens, per Canon, was designed to resist the absorbance of heat.
The new RF 70-200mm is quite a big deal for many, as the 2019 version saw the company ditching the internal zoom. An odd decision, which led to controversy and backlash, especially when it was incompatible with RF teleconverters. It now appears those changes, which weren’t exactly helpful, finally led the company to modify what they thought was innovative. However, despite the issues with the 2019 version, we found the lens to be an excellent workhouse in various situations.
The Canon RF 70-200 f2.8 L IS USM Z will be available in November for $2,999.00. However, we will need to see how well it performs in our tests.
RF 70-200 f2.8 L IS USM Z Specs:
| Focal Length | : 70-200mm |
| Maximum and Minimum Aperture | : f2.8 – f22 |
| Compatible Cameras | : Canon EOS R-series, APS-C and full-frame |
| Minimum Focusing Distance | : 0.49 m (at 70mm), 0.68 m (at 200mm) |
| Maximum Magnification | : 0.2x (at 70 mm), 0.3x (at 200mm) |
| Lens Construction | : 18 elements in 15 groups, Two Super UD Lenses, One UD Lens, and Three Aspherical Lenses |
| Lens Coating | : Canon ASC (Air Sphere Coating), SSC (Super Spectra Coating), Fluorine Coating |
| Filter Size Diameter | : 82 mm |
| Aperture Blades | : 11 |
| Focusing Drive System | : Canon Nano USM (Ultrasonic Motor) motors x2 |
| Full-time Manual Focusing | : Yes (Supports both ONE SHOT AF and SERVO AF with compatible EOS R-series cameras) |
| Lens Function Button | : 2 |
| Maximum Outer Diameter x Length | : Approx. ø3.5 in. x 7.8 in. (ø88.5mm x 199mm) |
| Weight | : Approx. 2.5 lb. / 1115g (White model) / Approx. 2.4 lb. / 1110g (Black model) |
Accessories | : Lens hood, lens cap, dust cap, lens case |