Canon’s new RF 16-28mm f/2.8 IS STM lens for full-frame Canon EOS R-series mirrorless cameras expands the company’s compact and affordable f/2.8 zoom series.
join light weight RF 28-70mm f/2.8 IS STM Announced last September, the new Ultra-Wide RF 16-28mm f/2.8 IS STM offers photographers and hybrid creators a fast constant f/2.8 aperture and wide-angle field of view in a small and portable package.
The RF 16-28mm f/2.8 tips the scales relatively at 445 grams (15.7 oz) and is only 91 millimeters (3.6 in) long in its rear position. compare this to RF 15-35mm f/2.8 L ISWeighing in at 840 grams (1.9 pounds) and measuring 127 millimeters (five inches) long, the RF 16-28mm f/2.8 feels downright tiny.
There’s also the value factor, as the RF 16-28mm f/2.8, like its RF 28-70mm f/2.8 sibling, is a more affordable option for photographers than Canon’s superb pro-level L-series glass. Have to provide. The RF 16-28mm f/2.8 costs $1,149, which is $50 more than the RF 28-70mm f/2.8, but still $1,250 less expensive than the RF 15-35mm f/2.8.
Admittedly, users do give up a bit when choosing the cheaper RF 16-28mm f/2.8, which includes focal lengths at both the wide and long ends of the lens. Plus, L Glass is made to the highest possible standards. That said, Canon promises strong image quality from its new zoom lenses. The RF 16-28mm f/2.8 has 16 elements in 13 groups, including two aspherical lenses and four UD lenses.
Canon argues that its RF 15-35mm f/2.8 L IS USM lens is for those who demand the best performance, while the RF 16-28mm f/2.8 IS STM is for users who want rich Bokeh. , portability and want something more budget-friendly.
Canon’s RF system also features the RF 15-30mm f/4.5-6.3 IS STM and RF 16-35mm f/4 L IS USM lenses, so there’s no shortage of wide-angle zoom options for Canon EOS R users . There is something for everyone this time.
Between the RF 16-28mm f/2.8 and the RF 28-70mm f/2.8, photographers can now cover from 16mm to 70mm at f/2.8 apertures for around $2,250. Both lenses weigh 940 grams (33 oz), which is only 40 grams heavier than the Canon RF 24-70mm f/2.8 L IS USM lens. The RF 16-28mm and 28-70mm combo is also $150 cheaper than the 24-70mm f/2.8 lens.
Regarding autofocus, the lens features Canon’s stepper motor technology, which promises fairly fast and quiet focusing performance. The lens can focus as close as 0.2 meters at its 28 mm focal length, giving a maximum magnification of 0.26x.
The RF 16-28mm f/2.8 supports focus breathing correction in-camera, which it would be wise to enable based on sample footage. Speaking of optical corrections, the lens should also be used with Canon’s digital lens corrections. Without them, the lens will exhibit a severe vignette, especially at 16mm.
Optical image stabilization provides up to 5.5 stops of shake correction in the center of the frame. However, the lens also works with Compatible IBIS-equipped cameras with Coordination IS, which can improve stabilization by up to eight stops.
The zoom lens is dust and drip-resistant, although not to the same degree as the L lens. Like all Canon non-L RF lenses, the RF 16-28mm f/2.8 does not come with a lens hood. Instead, it is an optional add-on purchase.
Pricing and Availability
The Canon RF 16-28mm f/2.8 IS STM has a suggested retail price of $1,149 and will begin shipping February 11th.
Image Credit: Canon