Pros & Cons
Pros
- Lightweight and compact design makes it easy to carry for everyday use.
- Good image quality and sharpness, especially for a lens in this price range.
- Versatile focal length for street photography and general use.
- Affordable price point compared to similar alternatives.
- Pretty decent bokeh quality despite being a pancake lens.
- Easy to pair with the R6 and R50 for a discreet setup.
Cons
- Maximum aperture of f/2.8 may not be sufficient for low light conditions.
- Autofocus can be relatively noisy compared to higher-end lenses, potentially affecting video use.
- Some users experience distortion at the edges, especially when shooting wide open.
- Limited creative control due to lack of faster aperture options compared to prime lenses.
Verdict
The Canon RF 28mm f/2.8 STM is well-received as a lightweight, compact pancake lens ideal for street photography. While it offers good image quality and affordability, its f/2.8 aperture limits its effectiveness in low light conditions, a concern for some users.
Specifications
| Focal Length | 28 |
| Max Aperture | 2.8 |
| Mount | RF |
| OIS | No |
| AF Motor | Stepper Motor |
| Filter Size | 55mm |
| Min Focus | 0.75m |
| Weight | 120g |
| Dimensions | 69.2 x 24.7 mm |
| Weather Sealed | No |
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the RF 28mm f/2.8 STM good for low light photography?
It's serviceable for reasonable indoor light or dusk, but with a maximum aperture of f/2.8, it isn't ideal for extreme low light or night photography compared to faster f/1.4 or f/1.8 primes. You'll often need to raise ISO or use a slower shutter speed.
How does the RF 28mm f/2.8 STM compare to the RF 35mm f/1.8 IS STM Macro?
The RF 35mm f/1.8 offers a brighter aperture, better close focusing (macro capability), and image stabilization, at the cost of significantly more size, weight, and expense. The 28mm prioritizes portability and price above all but gives up some versatility and low-light prowess.
Does this lens work on APS-C Canon RF cameras?
Yes, it mounts and autofocuses perfectly on Canon RF APS-C models like the R7, R10, or R50. The effective field of view becomes about 45mm, making it a classic normal lens equivalent.
Is the RF 28mm f/2.8 STM suitable for video?
For casual video it's fine, but autofocus noise is audible in quiet environments due to the STM motor. If silent operation or focus pulling is critical, consider a Nano USM-equipped lens or external microphone placement.
Can this lens be used for landscape or architecture?
Yes, the sharpness-especially stopped down-is sufficient for most landscape and architectural work. Some distortion and vignetting are present but correctable; those needing perfect edge-to-edge performance should consider more specialized primes or tilt-shift lenses.
Compatible Cameras
Camera bodies that work with this lens
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