When it comes to lenses from Canon, one is spoiled for choice. From fisheye, to primes, to super telephotos, Canon has a wide-ranging portfolio that photographers from various walks of life can enjoy. However, it now appears that Canon is discontinuing a popular, everyday lens, one that people had come to adore. Have a look.
The lens in question is the Canon EF 24-70mm f2.8L II USM, which was introduced in 2012. According to Asobinet, the lens has been declared as a ‘finished’ product on MAP Camera, which means it will no longer be in production. Furthermore, on Canon Japan’s website, you can’t purchase either. The only other f2.8 lens on the EF mount are now 16-35mm and 70-200mm.
However, on Canon USA’s website, one can find the EF 24-70mm, while the stocks last. This is not the first time that a lens has been listed as discontinued and then soon after, the product is also harder to find in the newer market. It only shows that DSLR cameras and lenses are strategically phased out to make way for mirrorless. If you look at CIPA’s recent report, you’ll notice how true that statement rings.
For the unversed, the Canon EF 24-70mm is a fantastic offering for the DSLR age. It has 9 aperture blades, 18 elements in 13 groups, a minimum focusing distance of 38cm, and weighs 805g. The second version fixed the zoom ring, had a beefy built, and was sturdy for everyday shooting.
For the price though, the lens should have image stabilization built in or perhaps even be made into an internal zooming lens. If this was done, I could easier justify the price tag. But this lens baffles me. It is the bread and butter optic of many professionals out there but Canon’s quality control of it seems to be a bit sub par. It’s a mystery that has me scratching my head.
Chris Gampat, Founder, The Phoblographer
What was impressive was its autofocus, which was blazing fast when paired with cameras like the 1D X. It had no issue focusing on people, worked well for event photography, and even in low light. The focus was also silent, which is ideal for those who want to shoot videos. As for the image quality, the lens is sharp, the color accuracy is amazing, and there is little venting at wide open apertures, which can be fixed.
The EF 24-70mm was later replaced by the RF lineup’s 24-70mm f2.8 L IS USM, which is just as extraordinary as a lens as the previous one. In fact, both easily replace the 35mm and 50mm in one go. However, as it is with the L series, the EF version still costs $2,100, which is a lot for a lens that is now over a decade old. The RF version is slightly more expensive at $2,600.
Either way, one can always look at the EF optics again on eBay, to find a nice deal. If you already have the EF 24-70mm, it is best to hold on to it and wait if the prices rise again on eBay.