Canon RF 28-70mm f/2 L USM
Announced September 5, 2018
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 L USM is a unique, high-performance zoom that provides prime-level image quality and a constant f/2 aperture; however, its massive size, significant weight, and lack of image stabilization make it a challenging tool for some photographers.
Weighted from 24 reviewer scores
Pros
- Exceptional image quality and sharpness across the zoom range
- Fast, constant f/2 aperture for superior low-light performance and shallow depth of field
- Durable, weather-sealed build quality
- Quick and accurate autofocus performance
- Versatile focal range that replaces multiple prime lenses
Cons
- Extremely heavy and large physical construction
- Absence of optical image stabilization
- Expensive and large 95mm filter requirements
- Lack of 24mm wide-angle coverage
- Noticeable focus breathing during video use
- Launch price $2,999 (USD)
- Focal length & aperture 28-70mm f/2
- Mount & coverage Canon RF Full-Frame
- Stabilization None
- Close focus 39 cm (0.18x)
- Filter thread 95mm
- Autofocus motor Ring-type ultrasonic
- Weight & size 1430g (3 lb 2.4 oz) · 103.8 x 139.8 mm (4.09 x 5.50 in)
What the Reviewers Say
All 24 expert reviews, weighted into the PixelMeter score.
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I was actually very impressed by it and very surprised by how versatile it actually was.
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If you want the very best and fastest standard zoom lens, there is, the RF 28-70mm f/2 USM L is the one to go for - at least for photographic purposes. However, you should ask yourself whether you are ready for it. This just isn't your average fast standard zoom lens.
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The Canon RF 28-70mm F2 L USM Lens is a large, heavy, and expensive lens that is awesome.
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Whatever, considering it's the best performing standard zoom lens I've ever tested, it simply has to come highly recommended.
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If you own an EOS R and absolutely don’t want to use an adapter, or if you really love using zoom lenses and want the extra stop of light, extra bokeh and you have $3000 in the budget, then I’d recommend this lens to you.
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Pro photographers looking for the ultimate in speed and image quality need look no further.
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If you're okay with a massive, large, fast, expensive lens, then pick up the 28-70 F2 because it's going to be a great lens today and well into the future.
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Apart from lackluster corner-sharpness at 28mm, image quality is spectacular in all respects.
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The Canon RF 28-70mm F2 L USM is a one-of-a-kind zoom lens, combining an aperture typically reserved for primes and a 2.5x zoom range, without sacrificing image quality.
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Don't get the 28-70mm f/2 L USM for the sharpness, get it for the extra speed.
- Photo Review 8.9/10
Although it encompasses a zoom range suited to general purpose photography, the RF 28-70mm f/2L USM lens is most suitable for wedding and event photographers where its fast maximum aperture makes it more versatile than smaller, slower lenses.
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I was pleasantly surprised by the image quality and it pairs up really nicely with the EOS R. I found it to be pretty fun regardless of its massive size.
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Is it the best IQ of any Canon lens as my title suggests? Maybe, but I have not used every Canon lens so I can not say with 100% certainty.
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You're gonna be noticing that throughout most this shoot; I'll be shooting wide open because that's really to me why you would buy a lens like this, to have the ability to have a zoomable prime lens.
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After five years and thousands of studio sessions, the Canon RF 28-70mm f/2L USM remains my most-used lens.
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I am properly impressed by this lens. It is not perfect, though, as it exhibits some optical flaws, but all of them are surprisingly under control.
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I've been in Montana for the last, well, pretty much all of this month, and I've been shooting with it a lot, and even though this is a tank of a camera setup, I just absolutely love shooting with it because it's very versatile.
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There is no other similar lens. This is a huge, ultrafast lens that is a halo product for Canon and most useful for people who demand the fastest possible general-purpose zoom available or use in low light with sports, action or astronomy.
- Sam Hurd Photography 7.1/10
As mirrorless lenses are proving to be consistently more expensive than their DSLR counterparts I really can’t recommend this lens if your primary work is weddings.
- Photo Feaver 36/50
If you're after the best of the best when it comes to image quality, you can't look any other than this lens here.
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After trying this lens out for a few photo shoots and a wedding, I came away from the shoots inspired, excited, and surprised by the next level that this lens has brought my images to.
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The RF 28-70mm f/2 L USM lens is an incredible—but bulky—all-rounder. I could definitely see it replacing three of the lenses in my kit bag.
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In any case, an eye catcher, no matter what your photography or filming, you cover almost all important focal lengths except for a wide-angle.
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[I]f you can afford it and if you think it can provide good value for your business, it is a fantastic lens and there's nothing else like it on the market. For that reason, I highly recommend this lens.
