Canon's latest set of lenses for its RF lens system is a bit of a grab-bag; the three new lenses couldn't be more different. A slim wide angle zoom, made for APS-C cameras, comes along with the first F2.8 full-frame zoom to cover the 24-105mm range, and an extra long 200-800mm telezoom. The potpourri comes toward the end of a year that's now seen about a dozen new lenses for the system.
RF-S 10-18mm Fills an APS-C Gap
The first couple years of R camera releases were all full-frame, but Canon added several APS-C sensor models over the past year and a half, including the full-featured EOS R10 and bare-bones R100. It's been slower to roll out RF-S lenses, which include optics made for the smaller sensor format. So we see the RF-S 10-18mm F4.5-6.3 IS STM as an essential lens for the system, just one that's arrived after the curtain goes up.
(Credit: Canon)The wide zoom is tiny; it's similar in size to the RF-S 18-45mm starter zoom, and weighs just 5.3 ounces. The 10-80mm APS-C angle is about the same as a 16-29mm full-frame zoom, a range that's well-suited for selfie vlogs, architectural interiors, landscapes, and cityscapes. Optical stabilization is included, a good thing since most compatible cameras omit in-body stabilization. It's good for four stops of compensation on most cameras, and six stops with the IBIS-equipped EOS R7.
Sample photo made with RF-S 10-18mm (Credit: Canon)The RF-S 10-18mm is positioned as a consumer lens. It skips the weather protection and its lens hood is a sold-separately accessory. The $329.99 asking price is lower than similar lenses for other systems, however. It goes on sale this month.
RF 24-105mm F2.8: First of Its Kind
Switching gears to full-frame, the RF 24-105mm F2.8 L IS USM Z is more exotic than essential. It gathers twice the light as most zooms with the same range—Canon has its own RF 24-105mm F4, and Sony markets an FE 24-105mm F4 for its full-frame system, for example. We consider those to be all-around lenses for photo or video work, while this one is more of a video specialist. Some of its features only work with EOS Cine cameras, and it supports power zoom via an optional accessory.
(Credit: Canon)Vloggers, event videographers, and directors of photography may have something here. The lens includes both internal zoom and focus, so it's suitable for use in rail systems and gimbals. It includes a collar and foot to keep gravity centered when using a tripod or monopod, and supports 8 stops of correction with a stabilized sensor camera for handheld use.
The lens is part of the L series, which means it comes with full weather sealing and anti-smudge fluorine on the glass. The focus system is powered by dual USM motors and gets close enough for 1:3.4 macros, so the lens should prove versatile for both action and creative imaging.
The RF 24-105mm F2.8 includes a clickless aperture ring, a first for the series. The control ring only works with a couple high-end cameras, the EOS C70 and R5 C, however, cementing the lens as a video specialist.
Power Zoom Adapter (Credit: Canon)Canon expects the 24-105mm F2.8 to ship this month for $2,999. The Power Zoom Adapter follows later in March. There are two versions of the PZA, a basic motor for $999.99, and one with a 20-pin remote control connector for $1,299.
RF 200-800mm: Extra Reach for Wildlife Photography
The RF 200-800mm F6.3-9 IS USM feels like a lens that's aimed squarely at wildlife enthusiasts and outdoor photographers. The oversized zoom reaches further than similar options for other systems, most of which stop at 600mm, so you can bring distant subjects into clearer view.
Sample photo made with RF 200-800mm (Credit: Canon)Canon tells us it's a midrange option for advanced enthusiasts, so it falls outside the L series. Even so the lens features a white finish to help it stay cooler on hot days, and the usual array of dust and splash protection. The narrow aperture range means you'll need sunlight for the best photos, so outdoor use is important. A 1:4 macro focus rating adds appeal for nature photos.
Image stabilization is included, it's a must-have for a long lens like this. The system is rated for 7.5 stops of correction at 200mm and 5.5 at 800mm, so you should be able to extend the shutter speed to make up for the dim aperture. The IS system features automatic panning detection, so you don't have to fiddle with a switch to get a shot of a bird in flight or a car rounding the corner at the racetrack.
(Credit: Canon)The lens is sizable, it measures 12.4 inches at 200mm and telescopes out as it zooms, but the 4.5-pound weight seems reasonable for the size. It works with teleconverters, though you'll want plenty of light if you opt to add one, and takes 95mm front filters. The RF 200-800mm goes on sale in December for $1,899.
