Canon lenses have been popular amongst photographers for a very long time. They are known to offer nice colors, a good design, and a sturdy built. While the RF series lenses are getting better with each iteration, they are still far behind the EF range. It appears that the company is ready to mark a shift from the usual focal range, particularly the 24-70mm. Here’s a look at what to expect.
According to Canon Rumors, the article points out that the company will introduce a successor to the RF 24-70mm f2.8L IS USM, and it is reportedly going ot be wider than the standard zoom lens. For now, the report suggests that it will likely be a 20-70mm f2.8L. The lens will arrive in 2026, based on multiple reports, and will use Canon’s Voice Coil Motor (VCM) autofocus technology. If proven true, the latter will make it the first VCM zoom.
The latter move is significant, especially since there is a change in focal range. VCM is already found in lenses such as 20mm f1.4L VCM and 24mm f1.4L primes, and they already are pretty great for hybrid use. In fact, the report notes that VCM will now roll out for Canon’s entire L-series zoom portfolio going forward. While the 24-70mm offered excellent image quality, we felt it still needed to grow. As we said in our review:
The Canon RF 24-70mm f2.8 L IS USM is more of a lens that helps it catch up to the rest while also providing image stabilization.
There are no real specification reveals, but the news has seen met with enthusiasm online. One of the reasons being that Sony is the only company to introduce a 20-70mm so far, but only in f4 range. Nikon and Canon are yet to catch up. One of the reasons is also how versatile a 20-70mm is, allowing one to shoot from streets, architecture, documentary works to portraits, and in some cases, birds.
However, an f2.8 will also mean it will be a first lense of it’s kind, and is likely to be larger and heavier than the standard 24-70mm. There is also another question: what happens to the 15-35mm f2.8 L then. However, some photographers want a far longer lens, with a focal range hitting either 75mm or 80mm to cover the portrait territory.
Then there are some who prefer a 50-150mm f2 like Sony’s. This range will help cover events, concerts, sports, weddings, and portraits all in one. But, if one does want that kind of versatility, they may have to wait longer. Canon is trying to offer what it can given the current demand-supply. However, it may take some time before one sees effective results. While full frame photographers have limited options, APS-C users can rely on Tamron’s 18-300mm f3.5-6.3 Di III-A VC VXD, which covers a broad range at a decent price.
For now, all eyes are on the the R7 Mark II launch window. If the 20-70mm is launched around that period, there will be some who will switch soon.