Canon has a new ultra-wide-angle zoom lens: the RF14-35mm f/4L IS USM, designed with the full-frame mirrorless Canon EOS R5 and R6 in mind.
This new addition completes the ’trinity’ of f/4L lenses along with the RF 24-105mm f/4L IS USM standard zoom lens and RF 70-200mm f/4L IS USM telephoto zoom lens.
Based on the EF 16-35mm f/4L IS USM lens, the new RF lens is an affordable, compact and lightweight (540g) version that has some additional perks thanks to modern tech.
Firstly, the RF 14-35 is about 12 per cent shorter and is lighter than the EF 16-35, yet its focal length is 2mm wider on the ultrawide end (14mm vs 16mm). It also has a minimum focusing distance of approximately 0.2m and a maximum magnification of approximately 0.38x at 35mm.
It’s also the first RF lens to have an Optical Image Stabiliser with a CIPA standard of approximately 5.5 stops when used with the R5 and R6 bodies; 7 stops when used in combination with in-body image stabilisation. On paper, that means it’s possible to take handheld shots at up to 4 seconds shutter speed.
Other perks include a rear focusing system to reduce focus breathing while the lower weight of the focus lens group improves autofocus speed. And with the USM focus drive system, the lens is also suited for shooting videos. The body is dust and drip-resistant, while the lens features Subwavelength Structure Coating (SWC) and Air Sphere Coating (ASC) to reduce glare, and a fluorine coating repels oil and water.
Pricing for the RF14-35mm f/4L IS USM will be confirmed at a later date, but availability has been targeted for September 2021.
