Canon RF 28-70mm f/2.8 IS STM
Announced September 3, 2024
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 28-70mm f/2.8 IS STM provides a compact, lightweight alternative to standard trinity zooms by offering a constant f/2.8 aperture in a more affordable, portable package. While the lens requires a retractable design to function and lacks a bundled hood, it delivers sharp image quality and reliable autofocus performance for everyday photography.
Weighted from 16 reviewer scores
Pros
- Excellent image sharpness and optical quality
- High-speed and quiet autofocus performance
- Compact and lightweight design
- Fast constant f/2.8 aperture
- Effective optical image stabilization
Cons
- High price point relative to build quality
- Exclusion of a lens hood
- Heavy reliance on digital distortion and aberration correction
- Retractable design requiring manual extension
- Limited zoom range compared to traditional 24-70mm optics
- Launch price $1,099 (USD)
- Focal length & aperture 28-70mm f/2.8
- Mount & coverage Canon RF Full-Frame
- Stabilization Optical IS, 5.5 stops (CIPA)
- Close focus 24 cm (0.24x)
- Filter thread 67mm
- Autofocus motor Leadscrew Type STM
- Weight & size 495g (1 lb 1.5 oz) · 76.5 x 92.2 mm (3.01 x 3.63 in)
What the Reviewers Say
All 16 expert reviews, weighted into the PixelMeter score.
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Ultimately I like the concept of a 28-70mm f/2.8, sacrificing some of the wide-end to come in cheaper than a 24-70mm f/2.8.
- OpticalLimits 6/10
The Canon RF 28-70mm f/2.8 STM IS is a somewhat strange combination of qualities that you can find in professional and budget lenses. This doesn't mean that this concept doesn't work.
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[T]he Canon RF 28-70mm F2.8 IS STM lens provides a wide f/2.8 aperture, excellent AF performance, and step-above image quality throughout a solid general purpose focal length range.
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I'm glad I held back from judging it at the time, because now that I've handled it a bit more, I can see how fun it is to use with its small size, lightweight, and bright aperture.
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There is much to like about this new, compact and relatively reasonably priced standard zoom.
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This is a very good option for a $1,000.
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I feel that the Canon RF 28-70mm f/2.8 IS STM is an ideal ‘everyday lens’, being much more compact and lightweight than typical ‘trinity’ standard zooms.
- Photo Review 8.8/10
With its fast – and constant – f/2.8 maximum aperture, compact size and relatively light weight, coupled with weather-resistant sealing, the RF 28-70mm f/2.8 IS STM lens slot nicely between Canon’s entry-level and high-end offerings [...]
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If you want a compact zoom that is RF glass and is full frame, this is currently your only option. And it is a nice one at that.
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This inexpensive, ultralight lens astonishes me with how sharp and handy it is. It's ultrasharp even wide open, corner to corner, and handles very well. It has Optical Image Stabilization and collapses for carrying.
- Canon Rumors 6/10
The Canon RF 28-70mm f/2.8 STM IS is a somewhat strange combination of qualities that you can find in professional and budget lenses. This doesn't mean that this concept doesn't work. If you can live with a few compromises, the lens can deliver great results.
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The Canon RF 28-70mm lens is a worthy addition to the RF lineup. It offers a unique focal range, which is more cost-effective than a traditional 24-70mm f/2.8, but offer a significant step up in quality from everyday kit zoom lenses.
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The Canon RF 28-70mm F2.8 IS STM is a versatile, weather-sealed lens that offers enthusiast photographers a significant upgrade from kit lenses such as the RF 24-50mm F4.5-6.3 IS STM and RF 24-105mm F4-7.1 IS STM.
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[O]verall, this lens is solidly built, it feels durable, and it delivers great performance in a compact package; it's just perfect for adventures.
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A strange lens in some ways, but overall a really solid one.
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I think that this 28-70mm f/2.8 is a tremendous bargain and one that I can highly recommend for people starting on the RF mount.
