Canon RF 100mm F2.8L Macro IS USM
Announced April 14, 2021
PixelMeter The PixelMeter is our 1–100 aggregate of reviewer scores from trusted publications and creators. Weighted by source tier — not a raw average, and not PetaPixel’s own review.
Reviewer Consensus
Strong
The Canon RF 100mm F2.8L Macro IS USM is a versatile, high-performing macro lens that delivers exceptional sharpness and a class-leading 1.4x magnification. While its advanced features and robust build quality make it a top choice for serious photographers, the lens comes with a premium price and noticeable focus breathing.
Weighted from 18 reviewer scores
Pros
- Extremely sharp image quality across the frame
- Fast, quiet, and reliable autofocus performance
- Superior 1.4x macro magnification
- Durable, weather-sealed construction
- Effective image stabilization
Cons
- High retail price point
- Significant focus breathing and focus shift issues
- Increased size and weight compared to predecessors
- Spherical aberration control ring is often perceived as gimmicky
- Lack of included tripod collar
- Launch price $1,399 (USD)
- Focal length & aperture 100mm f/2.8
- Mount & coverage Canon RF Full-Frame
- Stabilization Optical IS, 5 stops (CIPA)
- Close focus 26 cm (1.4x)
- Filter thread 67mm
- Autofocus motor Nano ultrasonic
- Weight & size 730g (1 lb 9.7 oz) · 81.5 x 148 mm (3.21 x 5.83 in)
What the Reviewers Say
All 18 expert reviews, weighted into the PixelMeter score.
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[T]his lens is just optically a really good performer.
- OpticalLimits 8.5/10
Images are already sharp across the frame at f/2.8.
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If you’re even contemplating spending almost £1500 on a macro lens, you’ll want to know that it’ll deliver the goods. Thankfully, the Canon RF 100mm F2.8 L Macro IS USM most certainly does.
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I consider a telephoto macro lens to be a mandatory part of my kit and always include the best available option.
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The Canon RF 100mm F2.8L Macro IS USM is a (mostly) excellent upgrade to the outstanding Canon EF 100mm F2.8L Macro IS.
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If you can put up with a focus shifting problem, which isn't terribly serious, then this lens is a dream come true.
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For any photographers who are interested in serious macro photography, the Canon RF 100mm f/2.8 L Macro IS USM is a top contender.
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It's a great macro lens, it's an expensive macro lens and it's also a macro lens with unique and potentially very useful features.
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[W]e'd definitely recommend purchasing the outstanding Canon RF 100mm F2.8L Macro IS USM if you're even remotely interested in macro photography.
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When you're a professional, you can afford it, and if it helps you get better results, then it's something that you might want to have in your arsenal.
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The Canon RF 100mm f/2.8L Macro IS USM takes everything that was great about the EF version and makes it even better.
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The Canon RF 100mm F2.8L Macro IS USM delivers the same smooth handling of other Canon RF lenses, plus extremely sharp macro images.
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Now I've had a great time with this; it's nice and sharp, images are great, it's super versatile, and it's nice and light to just carry around for a day.
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I can definitely recommend this lens to any macro photographer that uses an RF mount camera.
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This is an amazing lens, and it focuses closer (to a larger magnification) and faster than any other autofocus macro lens.
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For photographers looking to get high-quality photos of small subjects – whether that’s food items, flowers, jewelry, tiny products, or something else – this lens is a great choice.
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[...] I am really enjoying the new RF 100mm Macro lens, and I will no doubt follow up with more images as I get out with this lens more.
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I think it’s safe to say that a lot of photographers (and videographers) will be rejoicing at the release of this macro lens for the full-frame EOS R system.
