The Canon RF 70-200mm f/2.8 L IS USM Z introduces a new telephoto zoom lens crafted specifically for professional photographers and videographers. Hybrid Canon users will recognize this lens immediately, as it shares the same design as the highly regarded RF 24-105mm f/2.8 L IS USM Z lens that debuted earlier this year.
Design Features
This new model complements the existing RF 70-200mm f/2.8 L IS USM lens—an exquisitely made telephoto zoom lens mainly aimed at photographers. The new RF 70-200mm f/2.8 L IS USM Z requires just the addition of a single character, “Z,” to its name to highlight its enhanced features. Unlike the previous RF 70-200mm f/2.8 zoom, which sports a white exterior and extends in length during zooming, the RF 70-200mm f/2.8 Z boasts a sleek black design with an internal zoom mechanism. Additionally, this lens also comes in white, adding only five grams to its weight for those who prefer that classic look reminiscent of many Canon telephoto lenses.
Visually, one might struggle to differentiate between the RF 70-200mm f/2.8 Z and the RF 24-105mm f/2.8 Z lens without thorough inspection—unless one has the white variant of the 70-200mm f/2.8 Z, as the 24-105mm does not come in white. Both lenses share identical dimensions, measuring 199 millimeters (7.8 inches) in length and 88.5 millimeters (3.5 inches) in diameter. In terms of weight, the RF 24-105mm f/2.8 Z weighs 1.3 kilograms (2.9 pounds), while the RF 70-200mm f/2.8 weighs in at 1.1 kilograms (2.4 pounds). The white version weighs a bit more at 1.15 kilograms (2.5 pounds), a minor consideration for those who prefer the aesthetic of a white barrel.
Optical Design and Performance
The RF 70-200mm f/2.8 L IS USM Z measures significantly longer than its predecessor, the RF 70-200mm f/2.8 L IS USM lens. The older model, when collapsed, measures just 146 millimeters (5.75 inches) long but extends to 204 millimeters (8.03 inches) during zooming. Additionally, the RF 70-200mm f/2.8 L IS USM reaches a maximum diameter of 89.9 millimeters (3.54 inches) and weighs 1,070 grams (2.35 pounds).
If one were to examine the new RF 70-200mm f/2.8 zoom lens—certainly a breach of warranty—one would find a distinct optical configuration compared to the RF 24-105mm f/2.8 lens. While the latter boasts an impressive 23 elements across 18 groups, the new telephoto lens incorporates 18 elements arranged in 15 groups, including two Super UD elements, one UD element, and three aspherical elements. True to the L series lineage, the RF 70-200mm f/2.8 L IS USM Z features Canon’s ASC (Air Sphere Coating), SSC (Super Spectra Coating), and a fluorine coating. This lens includes an 11-bladed aperture diaphragm, adjustable through the camera or via the dedicated aperture control ring, which works for both photos and video on the R5 II and R1, and for video only on other Canon EOS R bodies.
Target Audience and Features
Beyond design distinctions, the two RF 70-200mm f/2.8 zoom lenses cater to different audiences and use cases. The RF 70-200mm f/2.8 Z supports Canon’s PZ-E2 and PZ-E2B power zoom adapters, priced at $999 and $1,299, respectively. These adapters allow users to control the zoom using a powerful DC motor. With minimized focus breathing and a design that balances easily, this lens proves exceptionally suitable for video work. Given that the RF 70-200mm f/2.8 Z shares the same size and design as the RF 24-105mm f/2.8 Z, filmmakers can easily interchange these lenses in a production workflow. This consistency in physical design represents a fresh approach for Canon’s photography lens lineup, which increasingly leans towards a hybrid focus. Nevertheless, the company often employs the same chassis for various cinema lenses.
However, Canon remains confident that its new RF 70-200mm f/2.8 L IS USM Z lens appeals to a broader range of users, not just video-centric or hybrid creators. This lens targets anyone seeking a high-quality 70-200mm f/2.8 zoom, performing exceptionally well for action shots and high-speed applications, whether for photo or video. The lens features a pair of Canon Nano USM (Ultrasonic Motors) for autofocus, mirroring the capabilities of the RF 24-105mm f/2.8 L IS USM Z lens.
The RF 70-200mm f/2.8 L IS USM Z lens comes with a lens hood, and the white variant includes a matching white hood. Additionally, the new telephoto zoom lens works with Canon’s 1.4x and 2x RF teleconverters, providing extra reach at the cost of light-gathering ability. These converters enhance the effective maximum magnification, which stands at 0.2x at 70mm and 0.3x at 200mm without any teleconverters.
The Canon RF 70-200mm f/2.8 L IS USM Z lens serves as a strong choice for hybrid creators in search of a professional telephoto zoom lens. However, the lens’s video-friendly attributes come at a substantial price.
Pricing and Availability
The Canon RF 70-200mm f/2.8 L IS USM Z lens launches in November, carrying a suggested retail price of € 3,489 in Europe and $2,999 in US, which aligns with the RF 24-105mm f/2.8 L IS USM Z lens.