Canon has introduced the RF 16-28mm F2.8 IS STM, a new ultra-wide-angle zoom lens designed for full-frame mirrorless cameras. This lens offers a bright F2.8 aperture throughout its focal range, making it an excellent choice for enthusiasts. Priced at $1,149, it is more compact and affordable compared to Canon’s professional RF 15-35mm F2.8L IS USM lens. The design closely resembles the RF 28-70mm F2.8 IS STM, sharing similar controls and dimensions. When paired with in-body image stabilization, this lens can provide up to eight stops of stabilization, enhancing its appeal for both photography and videography.

Design and Compatibility: A Perfect Match for Enthusiasts

The RF 16-28mm F2.8 IS STM is crafted to be user-friendly and robust, featuring a solid build quality with a secure metal mount. It includes customizable controls such as a control ring, autofocus/manual focus switch, and an optical stabilizer switch. Despite being lighter and more affordable than its L-series counterpart, the lens maintains a premium feel. It pairs exceptionally well with Canon’s smaller mirrorless bodies like the EOS R8 and EOS R6 Mark II, providing a balanced setup that enhances shooting experiences.

The lens weighs just 15.7 ounces (445g), making it significantly lighter than the RF 28-70mm F2.8 IS STM, which is about 10% heavier. Its compact size and manageable weight make it ideal for travel and everyday use. When used with an EOS R6 Mark II, the combination delivers up to eight stops of stabilization, while the EOS R8 provides 5.5 stops. This level of stabilization ensures stable shots even in low-light conditions or handheld shooting scenarios. Additionally, the consistent F2.8 aperture across the entire zoom range allows for better control over depth of field and improved performance in dim environments.

Optical Performance: Balancing Quality and Practicality

Initial impressions suggest that the RF 16-28mm F2.8 IS STM performs admirably in terms of image quality. At its widest angle of 16mm, some curvilinear distortion and vignetting are noticeable when shooting in raw format. However, these issues are effectively corrected in JPEG outputs, ensuring sharp and clean images from edge to edge. The lens excels in maintaining detail and minimizing light fall-off, delivering consistent performance across various focal lengths.

For photographers and filmmakers, the extreme wide-angle capabilities at 16mm are particularly beneficial for video work, offering a broader perspective that enhances vlogging and landscape photography. The versatility of the 16-28mm range makes it suitable for a variety of shooting styles, including urban landscapes and architecture. While the zoom range may not be extensive, the lens compensates with its sharpness and fast aperture. Although priced higher than prime lenses like the RF 16mm F2.8 STM and RF 28mm F2.8 STM, the RF 16-28mm F2.8 IS STM offers the convenience of a zoom lens with consistent aperture, providing a compelling option for those seeking a balance between performance and portability.