Canon RF 28-70mm f/2.8 IS STM Lens Announced

Lens News

by Jose PradaSeptember 12^th, 2024

Canon has introduced a new zoom lens, the Canon RF 28-70mm f/2.8 IS STM, for full-frame and APS-C EOS R-series mirrorless cameras. The lens features a lightweight and compact form with a collapsible design. Its constant aperture of f/2.8 makes it a versatile option for everyday shooters who need to cover a variety of focal lengths without adding too much footprint to their kit. Let’s take a look at it!

After the release of the RF35mm f/1.4 L, the Canon RF 28-70mm f/2.8 IS STM is the latest lens release from the Japanese company in 2024. The lens, the smallest and lightest zoom of the RF lineup, is suited for photographers and videographers looking for a versatile zoom lens with a fast aperture that ensures creative possibilities throughout the focal range. Portrait and low-light shooters will benefit from this aperture. Also, if you are familiar with Canon’s nomenclature, you may have already guessed the lens has image stabilization (IS) and stepper motor autofocus (STM).

Canon RF 28-70mm f/2.8 IS STM first look

With a weight of only 495g/1.1 lb, the new zoom lens blends portability and image quality. It has two ultra-low dispersion elements, one at the front of the lens, to correct chromatic aberrations and balance the lens’ center of gravity, along with two aspherical lenses for increased sharpness and fewer image aberrations. Adding to these elements, the Super Spectra Coating (SSC) controls backlit flaring and ghosting for sustained light transmission and high-contrast images in harsh light environments.

According to Canon, the STM focusing system is quiet and provides speed and accuracy when focusing with Dual Pixel CMOS AF on compatible EOS R-series cameras. The company also claims the lens has minimal focus breathing when navigating through the different focal lengths. The Canon RF 28-70mm f/2.8 IS STM features a minimum focusing distance of 238.7mm/9.4 in, with manual focus at the wide end. 

Interestingly, Canon has redesigned the optical stabilization for this lens, making it smaller and more suited to its reduced weight while still offering 5.5 stops of stabilization that increase to 7.5 stops in the center and 7 stops in the corners when used with compatible EOS R-series cameras.

Finally, the lens is dust—and weather-sealed and designed for increased durability. 

Key Features

• Full-Frame | f/2.8 to f/22
• Compact & Fast Standard Zoom
• Stepper Motor (STM) Autofocus
• Optical Image Stabilizer
• Collapsible Design
• Customizable Control Ring
• Two UD and Two Aspherical Elements
• Super Spectra Coating (SSC)
• Rounded 9-Blade Diaphragm

Price and availability

The new Canon RF 28-70mm f/2.8 IS STM is available for preorder for $1,099/€1,232. The estimated shipping date is September 26, 2024. For more information, please visit Canon’s product website here. 

What do you think about the new RF 28-70mm f/2.8 IS STM? Would it have a place among your Canon equipment? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below!