RF 28-70mm F2.8 IS STM: a bright, versatile and stabilized zoom arrives at Canon
Transstandard zooms, whose focal range generally extends from 24 to 105 mm, are generally appreciated by amateur and professional photographers for their versatility. They allow both street and landscape photography, but can also venture into the field of portraiture. In this range of zooms, Canon has many models of the very bright, but very expensive RF 28-70mm f/2L USM which is still currently trading at more than €3,300 at the RF 24-105 mm f/4-7.1 IS STM which can easily be found for less than €500, including the interesting RF 24-105 mm f/4 IS USM positioned around €1,500. In this already busy market, the Japanese brand is offering a new model, the RF 28-70 mm F/2.8 IS STM which is now available at a price of €1,299.99.
Bright and stabilized optics
This new zoom presents itself as a good compromise between a relatively versatile focal range, a generous aperture at f/2.8 and welcome optical stabilization. This optical stabilization allows Canon's zoom to stand out from the competition (Sigma, Tamron, etc.) which will sooner or later invest in the RF mount in 24×36 format. For the moment, neither the 28-75mm F/2.8 Di III VXD G2 from Tamron nor the 24-70mm F2.8 DG DN II | A from Sigma integrate stabilization.
The new optical stabilization block integrated into the lens is announced to compensate up to 5.5 IL. This should delight owners of Canon hybrid bodies without stabilization like theEOS R8, R10 Or RP. Paired with a body with mechanical stabilization, Canon promises sharp images up to 7.5 IL in the center and 7 IL on the periphery. Enough to be comfortable photographing static subjects in low light, especially with a generous aperture at f/2.8. Paired with a 9-blade diaphragm, this lens should allow subjects to be well separated from the background with a very present rear blur.
On the positive side, we will also point out a weatherproof construction with the presence of seals, particularly at the bayonet. A point rare enough to be highlighted. Be careful, however, the switches on the lens barrel are not waterproof.
Compactness and lightness
Canon rolls out an optical formula with 15 lenses divided into 12 groups including 2 UD (Ultra low Dispersion) elements and two aspherical elements. For the surface treatment, it will be necessary to “make do” with the Super Spectra coating to limit flare and ghost images, the technology Air Sphere Coating (ASC) is still reserved for high-end optics. Weighing less than 500 g on the scale, the RF 28-70mm F2.8 IS STM zoom is in the lightweight category, which is rather pleasant. In the closed position, the lens does not exceed 10 cm (76.5 x 92.2 mm). You have correctly noted “closed position which implies that the lens will have to be unlocked before being able to trigger. Finally, with a minimum focusing distance of 27 cm (wide-angle) and 35 cm (telephoto), the zoom offers a reproduction ratio of 0.24x.
Video optimization
For focusing and as its name indicates, the lens integrates an STM stepper motor which allows for both flexible and fast focusing in both photo and video. No Nano USM motor, but on this range of products, this is hardly surprising. Also for video, know that the focus breathing is digitally corrected on the brand's latest bodies. A control ring – not notched – is also present on the lens and a switch allows you to easily switch from manual focus to different settings (aperture, speed, etc.) again in both photo and video.
Price and availability
The Canon RF 28-70mm F2.8 IS STM zoom will be available in October 2024 at a recommended price of €1,299. Note that at this price, Canon does not offer a lens hood or a case…
First opinion
Canon offers an optic that seems really interesting on paper with good brightness and welcome optical stabilization. It remains to be seen the optical quality, especially compared to the RF 24-105mm F/4L IS USM which is less fast, but which is evolving in the L range at a price that is ultimately quite similar.
