Canon’s $3,200 Zoom Lens: Is It Actually Worth It?

Canon’s RF 24-105mm f/2.8 L IS USM Z lens has stirred plenty of interest with its big aperture, power zoom, and substantial price tag. But does it justify the investment?

Coming to you from Tony Mellinger, this straightforward video takes an honest look at the Canon RF 24-105mm f/2.8 L IS USM Z lens. Mellinger rented the lens specifically for some demanding shoots to see if its unique power zoom feature delivered in practical scenarios. One of his first tests involved photographing vehicles at an off-road shop, where the lens’ f/2.8 aperture allowed him to produce impressive images, but the weight and size became immediately noticeable, especially compared to the smaller f/4 version. Although the images benefited from that extra stop of light, carrying it comfortably was a different story altogether. As Mellinger points out, photographers who travel light or prefer compact setups will find this lens challenging.

During a museum shoot and a professional corporate event streamed over Zoom, Mellinger specifically tested the power zoom function. While he found it handy for adding subtle motion to talking-head shots or smoothly zooming into a speaker, he notes one significant drawback: the zoom action itself isn’t very smooth when starting or stopping. Instead, it jumps slightly each time it's activated, requiring careful control to minimize distracting camera movements. Additionally, although you can control the zoom speed, the inability to smoothly ramp in or out significantly reduces the lens’ usability for single-camera setups, especially when you're broadcasting live or recording continuously without the ability to edit out these small hiccups.

Key Specs

• Focal Length: 24 to 105mm

• Aperture: f/2.8 (maximum), f/22 (minimum)

• Lens Format Coverage: Full frame

• Minimum Focus Distance: 17.7" / 45 cm

• Magnification: 1:3.5 macro ratio, 0.08 to 0.29x

• Optical Design: 23 elements in 18 groups

• Aperture Blades: 11

• Autofocus: Yes

• Image Stabilization: Yes

• Tripod Mounting: Removable collar with 1/4"-20 & 3/8"-16 threads

• Filter Size: 82 mm (front)

• Dimensions: 3.5 x 7.8" (ø 88.5 x 199 mm)

• Weight: 2.9 lb (1.3 kg)

Mellinger emphasizes the practical difficulties of integrating this lens into existing setups, especially due to its size and unusual filter diameter of 82mm, unlike the common 77mm used by most Canon RF lenses. This means photographers with a collection of lenses might face compatibility issues or the hassle of switching filters frequently. Additionally, this lens consumes significant space in camera bags or backpacks, limiting what else you can carry. For many photographers who prefer simplicity, the convenience of the smaller f/4 variant might outweigh the benefit of an extra stop of light.

Still, Mellinger acknowledges that certain professional scenarios could significantly benefit from this lens' unique combination of range, aperture, and the optional power zoom module. It fills a niche where versatility in focal length and image quality is non-negotiable. Check out the video above for the full rundown from Mellinger.