With the new RF 16-28mm F2.8 IS STM, Canon introduces a compact and bright ultra-wide-angle zoom lens. It works on full-frame mirrorless cameras with RF bayonet. The zoom offers a focal length range of 16 to 28 millimeters with a consistent aperture of f/2.8. An optical image stabilizer is integrated, which compensates for camera shake up to 5.5 exposure levels. According to Canon, in combination with the in-camera image stabilization of some EOS-R models, up to eight exposure levels are possible.
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The RF 16-28mm F2.8 IS STM features a robust weather-sealed construction that seals the zoom against dust and water splashes. The purpose of the 9-bladed iris diaphragm is to ensure an almost circular aperture and thus an attractive blur. The optical structure consists of 16 lenses in 13 groups, including six special lenses intended to counteract image errors.
With a weight of only 445 grams and a length of 91 millimeters when retracted, the lens is particularly compact and ideal as a travel companion. Because of its focal length and light intensity, it is particularly useful for landscape photography, architectural photography, and indoors. When the aperture is open, the optics allow you to crop images and play creatively with blur.
The focus ring can be assigned various functions through the camera.
(Image: Canon)
The purpose of the autofocus stepper motor is to ensure smooth transitions when focus shifts in video. The focus ring can be configured via the camera and assigned functions such as aperture or exposure compensation.
Inexpensive alternative to Trinity lenses
According to Canon, the RF 16-28mm F2.8 IS STM closes the gap in the wide-angle range of the RF lens range with strong performance in a compact and lightweight design. The manufacturer describes it as an ideal complement to the RF 28-70mm F2.8 IS STM, which Canon introduced in September last year. Like the new wide-angle zoom, the standard zoom scores in terms of size and weight and is comparatively cheap at 1,170 euros. For comparison: the RF 24-70mm 2.8L IS USM, one of the so-called Trinity zoom lenses with high continuous light intensity, costs 2,750 euros.
The RF 16-28mm F2.8 IS STM should be available in stores from mid-February 2025 for 1,300 euros.
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