Canon RF 28-70mm F2 L USM Review

A high-performance zoom lens created specifically for use with Canon’s full-frame mirrorless cameras, the Canon RF 28-70mm F2 L USM lens features a variable aperture of f/2. This lens provides remarkable creative versatility for photographers and videographers by having a focal length range that can go from 28 to 70 millimeters and a maximum aperture that can go as fast as f/2.

It can be used for a wide variety of shooting circumstances. Outstanding picture quality, excellent subject isolation, and impressive performance in low light are all characteristics of the photographs produced by the RF 28-70mm F2 L USM lens. This lens is ideal for photographing landscapes, portraits, and events. In this post, we will explore the many characteristics and attributes of this lens in greater depth in order to have a better understanding of its possibilities.

$2,789.00 $3,099.00 7 used from $2,695.00 24 new from $2,789.00
in stock
Canon RF 28-70mm f/2L USM Lens, Black - 2965C002

Key Specs

  • Focal Length & Maximum Aperture: 28-70mm f/2
  • Lens Construction: 19 elements in 13 groups
  • Diagonal Angle of View: 75°00′-34°00′
  • Focus Adjustment: AF with full-time manual
  • Closest Focusing Distance: 1.28 ft. / 0.39m
  • Filter Size: 95mm
  • Max. Diameter x Length, Weight: ?4.09 x 5.50 in., approx. 3.15 lbs. / ?103.8 x 139.8mm, approx. 1430g

Performance

The Canon RF 28-70mm F2 L USM lens is designed to provide outstanding optical performance. Its sophisticated optical design makes use of aspherical, ultra-low dispersion, and super UD elements, all of which work together to reduce the appearance of a variety of aberrations and maintain an excellent level of picture quality over the whole zoom range.

Even when shooting with the aperture wide open at f/2, the lens creates images that have high levels of sharpness, clarity, and contrast. Its outstanding performance is maintained over the whole focal length range, which enables photographers to capture amazing details and textures.

Autofocus System

As a result of the lens’s use of twin Nano USM (Ultrasonic Motor) motor technology, its autofocus mechanism is lightning-quick and very precise. This highly developed autofocus mechanism offers a focusing experience that is sleek, noiseless, and accurate, making it well-suited for both still photography and video recording.

Even in difficult lighting circumstances or when following moving subjects, the autofocus technology continues to perform quickly and precisely. Photographers are able to securely capture key moments with more precision and speed thanks to this device.

Vibration Reduction

The optical Image Stabilization (IS) technology that Canon developed has been incorporated into the Canon RF 28-70mm F2 L USM lens. This helps to improve the capabilities of handheld shooting. This method efficiently decreases the impression of camera wobble, allowing photographers to shoot at shorter shutter speeds without affecting the quality of the images they capture.

Even in low-light conditions or while utilizing longer focal lengths, the lens’s image stabilization may provide up to five stops of correction, ensuring that captured photographs are always sharp and clear.

Build Quality

The RF 28-70mm F2 L USM lens features a sturdy construction that is not only long-lasting but also resistant to the effects of the elements. It has a lens barrel made of metal and substantial sealing against dust and moisture, which enables photographers to use it with confidence in a variety of environments.

The lens has been built to resist the rigors of professional use, which ensures that it will continue to work reliably even in challenging circumstances.

Handling and Ergonomics

The Canon RF 28-70mm F2 L USM lens provides easy handling and outstanding ergonomics thanks to its careful design. It has a specialized control ring that can be modified for use in altering a variety of camera settings in addition to having a large ring for manually focusing the camera.

In addition, the lens incorporates a zoom ring that provides exactly the appropriate amount of resistance, allowing for seamless operation. The accessibility of these controls, which are conveniently located, makes it simple for photographers to make on-the-fly adjustments to their settings, which in turn improves the experience of shooting.

Image Stabilization

This lens is equipped with Canon’s optical Image Stabilization (IS) technology, which significantly lessens the appearance of shaking when the camera is in use. When photographing handheld or in low-light circumstances, this capability comes in especially handy.

Even when utilizing longer focal lengths or slower shutter speeds, photographers who are equipped with the RF 28-70mm F2 L USM lens are able to take photos that are both clear and blur-free. The image stabilization technology enables a larger degree of shooting freedom, which in turn enables photographers to experiment with a wider variety of creative ways without sacrificing the quality of their images.

Shooting Experience

The Canon RF 28-70mm F2 L USM lens makes for a really enjoyable and fulfilling photographic experience. Its rapid and precise autofocus mechanism guarantees exact focus, enabling photographers to produce photographs that are crisp and well-focused despite the tough conditions in which they are shooting. The lens has a maximum aperture of f/2, which allows for exquisite subject isolation by blurring the backdrop and providing great performance in low-light conditions.

The lens performs exceptionally well in a variety of photographic subgenres, including as portraiture, landscape photography, and event photography. It generates remarkable image quality with great clarity, contrast, and color reproduction, and it enables versatility in framing situations with its zoom range.

Image Quality

The Canon RF 28-70mm F2 L USM lens excels in every element of image quality, making it an excellent choice for photographers. Its sophisticated optical design and high-quality lens components help to reduce a variety of aberrations, resulting in images that are exceptionally crisp and clear across the entirety of the zoom range. The lens creates photographs that have vivid colors, faithful replication of tone ranges, and striking contrast.

The lens retains an extraordinary level of sharpness and detail even when stopped down to its maximum aperture of f/2, which enables photographers to produce photos with breathtaking clarity and depth. This lens produces exceptional image quality that is up to the standards of experienced photographers, regardless of whether you shoot with the aperture wide open or stopped down.

Teleconverter Compatibility

Photographers who demand extra telephoto capabilities may take advantage of the additional focal length reach that is provided by the Canon RF 28-70mm F2 L USM lens, which is compatible with Canon’s line of teleconverters. Users have the ability to efficiently expand the focal length of the lens by connecting a teleconverter, such as the Canon RF 1.4x or RF 2x, and yet preserve good picture quality throughout the process.

This adaptability enables photographers to expand the reach of the lens and catch scenes that are further away, making it a great choice for photographers who want to photograph wildlife, sports, or any other subject that requires a longer focal length.

Comparison with Competitors

The Canon RF 28-70mm F2 L USM lens stands out in the extremely competitive market for high-end zoom lenses because to its outstanding performance and a great mix of features. The lens has a faster maximum aperture than its competitors, which enables it to perform better in low-light conditions and improve subject isolation while producing attractive background blur. The maximum aperture of the lens is f/2. Throughout the entirety of its zoom range, it maintains a level of sharpness that is exceptional and aberrations that are quite low.

The focusing speed and precision of the lens are particularly impressive, and as a result, it is ideally suited for use in both still photography and video recording. In addition, the high build quality of the lens, its ability to seal out the elements, and its ergonomic design all contribute to an exceptional shooting experience. The Canon RF 28-70mm F2 L USM lens stands out as a top performer when compared to comparable products offered by other manufacturers. This lens provides picture quality and versatility that are unparalleled in the industry.

Specifications

Focal Length & Maximum Aperture28-70mm f/2
Lens Construction19 elements in 13 groups
Diagonal Angle of View75°00′-34°00′
Focus AdjustmentAF with full-time manual
Closest Focusing Distance1.28 ft. / 0.39m
Filter Size95mm
Max. Diameter x Length, Weight?4.09 x 5.50 in., approx. 3.15 lbs. / ?103.8 x 139.8mm, approx. 1430g

Pros And Cons

Pros:

  • Outstanding optical performance, characterized by an exceptionally high level of sharpness and just a few scattered aberrations.
  • The maximum aperture is fast at f/2, providing exceptional performance in low light and excellent subject isolation.
  • Autofocus mechanism that is dependable and reliable, allowing for exact focusing.
  • Image stabilization is both effective and convenient for handheld photography in tough settings.
  • Construction quality that is both weatherproof and long-lasting, making it suitable for usage in a variety of conditions.
  • A versatile zoom range that is appropriate for a wide variety of photographic applications.
  • Support for Canon teleconverters, allowing for expanded focal length reach.

Cons:

  • Larger and heavier in comparison to typical zoom lenses, which means that photographers looking for a more compact setup may not find this lens to be appropriate.
  • Because of its higher price point in comparison to other lenses of a similar kind, it is a choice of premium quality for professional photographers.

Price and Availability

The Canon RF 28-70mm F2 L USM lens comes with a premium price tag, which is indicative of the lens’ high-performance characteristics as well as its build quality that is on par with that of professional equipment. At the time this article was written, the lens was available for purchase from a variety of authorized Canon shops, including those found online.

There is a possibility that the price will change based on the location as well as any active specials or discounts. The most up-to-date information on pricing and availability may be found on the official Canon website or by contacting local merchants. Prospective purchasers are urged to make such inquiries.

$2,789.00 $3,099.00 7 used from $2,695.00 24 new from $2,789.00
in stock
Canon RF 28-70mm f/2L USM Lens, Black - 2965C002

Conclusion

The Canon RF 28-70mm F2 L USM lens is a wonderful zoom lens that delivers great performance, build quality and image quality. Additionally, this lens has a very fast aperture of f/2. It gives photographers and videographers the tools they need to take spectacular photos in a variety of shooting circumstances thanks to its broad focal length range, quick maximum aperture, and superior optics. The autofocus mechanism of the lens offers accurate and speedy focusing, and the image stabilization technology enables handheld photography with increased creative freedom.

Because of the lens’s sturdy design and its ability to resist the elements, it is an excellent option for professionals who are employed in challenging settings. Although it comes with a higher price tag and a bigger physical factor, the lens is an excellent option for photographers that place a high priority on image quality and creative flexibility due to its great performance and features. In general, the Canon RF 28-70mm F2 L USM lens is a wonderful addition to Canon’s RF lens family. If you are looking for a high-performance zoom lens for your full-frame mirrorless camera, it is strongly recommended that you give this lens some serious consideration.

Canon RF 28-70mm F2 L USM FAQs

Q. What makes the Canon RF 28-70mm F2 L USM lens stand out?
A. The Canon RF 28-70mm F2 L USM lens stands out for its impressive maximum aperture of f/2 throughout the zoom range. This wide aperture allows for excellent low-light performance and the ability to create a shallow depth of field with a beautiful background blur. It also offers exceptional image quality and a versatile focal length range, making it suitable for various photography genres.
Q. Is the Canon RF 28-70mm F2 L USM lens compatible with teleconverters?
A. Yes, the Canon RF 28-70mm F2 L USM lens is compatible with Canon’s range of teleconverters. By attaching a teleconverter, photographers can extend the focal length of the lens while maintaining excellent image quality. This is particularly useful for capturing subjects that are further away, making it an ideal option for wildlife and sports photography.
Q. Does the Canon RF 28-70mm F2 L USM lens have image stabilization?
A. Yes, the Canon RF 28-70mm F2 L USM lens features Canon’s optical Image Stabilization (IS) technology. This stabilization system effectively reduces camera shake, allowing photographers to shoot at slower shutter speeds without compromising image sharpness. It provides up to five stops of stabilization, enabling handheld shooting in challenging lighting conditions or when using longer focal lengths.
Q. Can the Canon RF 28-70mm F2 L USM lens be used in different weather conditions?
A. Yes, the Canon RF 28-70mm F2 L USM lens has a robust build quality with weather sealing. This makes it resistant to dust and moisture, allowing photographers to use the lens in various environmental conditions confidently. It is designed to withstand the demands of professional use, ensuring reliable performance even in challenging weather conditions.
Q. Is the Canon RF 28-70mm F2 L USM lens suitable for video recording?
A. Yes, the Canon RF 28-70mm F2 L USM lens is well-suited for video recording. It features a fast and accurate autofocus system, which allows for smooth and precise focus transitions while recording. The lens’s wide maximum aperture of f/2 also enables shooting in low-light situations and provides a cinematic depth-of-field effect. Additionally, the lens’s silent focusing operation ensures that autofocus noise is minimized, allowing for high-quality audio recording.

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Peter
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Peter is an accomplished and passionate photographer whose captivating images have garnered global recognition. With a remarkable ability to capture fleeting moments and convey profound emotions, his work transcends boundaries and tells compelling visual stories. From stunning landscapes to intimate portraits, Peter's expertise in various genres of photography showcases his artistic vision and technical mastery.

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