Canon RF 16-28mm f/2.8 Lens Announced – Compact and Affordable

Lens News

by Dave KratzToday

Canon’s latest full-frame RF lens, the 16-28mm f/2.8 IS STM, is the smallest and lightest addition to their mirrorless lenses lineup. Designed for photographers and videographers who want a versatile wide-angle zoom without carrying extra weight, this lens offers plenty of practical features. With a constant f/2.8 aperture, built-in stabilization, and a lightweight build, it’s aimed at creators looking for flexibility and portability.

For more insight into Canon’s growing RF lineup, including their recent announcement of four new lenses, check out this article on their year-end releases here.

Compact design and usability

Weighing just 454g/1lb, the RF 16-28mm f/2.8 IS STM is Canon’s smallest and lightest RF zoom lens so far. Its slim design makes it an easy companion for travel, handheld shooting, or all-day use. The lens balances well on smaller RF cameras like the EOS R8 or RP, making it a good choice for those who prefer a lighter kit.

The 16-28mm range is well-suited for wide-angle shooting, whether you’re capturing landscapes, architectural details, or working in tight spaces. The constant f/2.8 aperture makes it easier to work in low light and gives you some creative options with shallow depth of field. This range is particularly helpful for anyone shooting handheld, especially in video work where you might want smooth, steady shots without adding extra stabilization gear.

Canon RF 16-28mm f/2.8 – key features

• Full-Frame | f/2.8 to f/22
• Compact & Fast Wide-Angle Zoom
• Leadscrew-Type STM Autofocus Motor
• Optical Image Stabilizer
• Customizable Control Ring
• Four UD & Two Aspherical Elements
• Rounded 9-Blade Diaphragm
• Minimum Focusing Distance: 7.9 to 9.8″
• Super Spectra Coating (SSC)
• Weather-Resistant Construction

Image stabilization for smoother shooting

One of the standout features of the RF 16-28mm is its image stabilization. It provides up to 5.5 stops of correction on its own, which means you can shoot handheld in dimmer conditions without too much trouble. When paired with a camera that has in-body stabilization, like the EOS R6 Mark II, the system works together to give up to 8 stops of stabilization. This can make a real difference for handheld video work or long-exposure shots without a tripod.

Designed for everyday use

The RF 16-28mm features an optical system with 16 elements arranged in 13 groups. This includes four ultra-low dispersion (UD) elements and two aspherical elements. These elements reduce chromatic aberration and distortion and according to the company, as a result, your shots appear sharp and clean across the entire frame. Canon also included their Super Spectra Coating to minimize flaring and ghosting. This is especially useful when shooting in bright or backlit conditions.

The autofocus system is powered by an STM (Stepping Motor), which is known for being quiet and smooth. This makes the lens particularly useful for video, as the focusing transitions are silent and steady. While the STM motor isn’t as fast as the Nano USM motors found in higher-end lenses, it still gets the job done for both video and stills.

L-Series performance without the price?

Canon has marketed the RF 16-28mm as a way to get near-L-series performance at a more accessible price point, and it’s hard not to draw comparisons to the RF 15-35mm f/2.8L IS USM. At $1,149.00, the RF 16-28mm is significantly more affordable than the RF 15-35mm, which comes in at $2,199.00. But what are you giving up for the lower price?

The RF 15-35mm, as part of Canon’s L-series, offers a few extras that professionals might miss on the RF 16-28mm. For one, it has a wider focal range, extending to 35mm, which can make it a more versatile option for general-purpose use. It’s also built to handle harsher conditions, with full weather sealing and Canon’s Nano USM autofocus motor, faster and quieter than the STM system.

However, the RF 16-28mm is smaller, lighter, and easier to carry around. It’s a lens that feels designed for creators who want something portable and straightforward but don’t need the extra range or durability of the 15-35mm. Canon’s claim of offering near-L-series performance at a lower price holds up in some ways—it’s sharp, handles well, and delivers solid results—but it’s clear that the RF 16-28mm is aimed more at enthusiasts and everyday creators than at professionals working in tough environments.

The bottom line

The Canon RF 16-28mm f/2.8 IS STM is a solid option for anyone who needs a lightweight, wide-angle zoom lens. It’s easy to carry, delivers sharp results, and works well for both stills and video. While it doesn’t have that “red ring of distinction” or all the extras of an L-series lens, it offers a lot for its size and price. Whether you’re traveling, vlogging, or just looking for a flexible wide-angle option, this lens is worth a closer look.

Price and availability

The Canon RF 16-28mm f/2.8 IS STM is available now for $1149/€1235.38. For more information, please see their website.

What do you think of the RF 16-28mm f/2.8 IS STM? Does it meet your needs as a compact, wide-angle zoom, or would you consider an alternative? Let us know in the comments below!