Canon RF 135mm f/1.8 L IS USM
Announced November 2, 2022
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
Exceptional
The Canon RF 135mm f/1.8 L IS USM is a high-performing prime lens that delivers exceptional sharpness and smooth bokeh, making it an outstanding tool for portraiture and low-light photography. Although its size and premium price point may be significant considerations, the inclusion of effective optical image stabilization and fast autofocus makes it a top-tier choice for demanding photographers.
Weighted from 13 reviewer scores
Pros
- Exceptional sharpness and image quality
- Fast, quiet, and reliable autofocus performance
- Effective optical image stabilization
- Creamy bokeh with nine-blade aperture
- Customizable function buttons and control ring
Cons
- High premium price point
- Heavy and bulky physical design
- Cumbersome lens hood
- Focus breathing during close-up shooting
- Lack of manual aperture ring
- Launch price $2,099 (USD)
- Focal length & aperture 135mm f/1.8
- Mount & coverage Canon RF Full-Frame
- Stabilization Optical IS, 5.5 stops (CIPA)
- Close focus 70 cm (0.26x)
- Filter thread 82mm
- Autofocus motor Nano USM
- Weight & size 935g · 89.2 x 130.3 mm (3.51 x 5.13 in)
What the Reviewers Say
All 13 expert reviews, weighted into the PixelMeter score.
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- PetaPixel 10/10
The Canon RF 135mm f/1.8 L USM lens is among the fastest prime lenses ever produced, and the outstanding image quality makes a strong argument for putting it into legendary status.
- OpticalLimits 9/10
[...] Canon delivered an impressive piece of engineering here.
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The Canon RF 135mm F1.8 L IS USM Lens is one of the sharpest, highest-performing lenses ever produced. You will love the ultra-wide f/1.8 sharpness and background blur this lens produces, and it is especially adept at creating standout portraits, including in low-light scenarios.
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[T]he Canon RF 135mm f/1.8 L IS USM is simply a stellar optic in just about every way; it's that simple.
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The Canon RF 135mm f/1.8L IS USM is the best 135mm lens I've ever used, which isn't something I say lightly.
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This is a far less convenient process than for Sony system lenses, which typically let you swap the click behavior via a simple toggle switch. Still, it's better than no option at all.
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The Canon RF 135mm f/1.8L IS USM is an amazing lens, with image quality that is nearly perfect. The lens has image stabilization, which was missing on the old model, and if you like function buttons on the lens, they’re there.
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[T]his is just an absolutely outstanding lens.
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This is probably one of Canon's best prime lenses to date, and that is a big feat because the 50mm f/1.2 is phenomenal, the 85mm f/1.2 is butter, it is gorgeous, it just blows out the background but still maintains sharpness with your subject.
- KelbyOne Insider 98%
I found the lens to be razor sharp and I love the beautiful bokeh that the nine-blade design gives you. The autofocus is super-fast and quiet, which is what you’d expect from an L-series lens.
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I think this lens does an incredible job.
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Let's summarize here very quick: it is an awesome lens for portraits, nice bokeh, filming, wedding, nature details.
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We're at a point in lens technology where all lenses make good images and focus well; this Canon RF 135mm f/1.8 L IS USM makes fantastic images and focuses even better.
