The Canon RF 50mm f/1.2L USM lens was one of the first in the company's full frame mirrorless line, and it turned a lot of heads by establishing a new standard of quality that has been continued by many subsequent RF lenses. Just how much better is it than the original EF 50mm f/1.2L, and is it worth upgrading? This excellent video review takes a look at both lenses and what you can expect.
Coming to you from Katelyn James, this great video review compares the RF 50mm f/1.2L USM lens to the previous EF 50mm f/1.2L. The EF version was a popular though imperfect lens. In particular, its autofocus was not especially reliable and wide-open sharpness was generally lacking, though its dreamy rendering overcame these deficiencies for most photographers. On the other hand, the RF version seems to have corrected these issues and then some, offering highly impressive image quality, even when shot wide open, coupled with great autofocus performance. Altogether, the RF 50mm f/1.2L looks like an impressive and versatile option for a lot of applications ranging from portraiture to events. Check out the video above for James' full thoughts on the lenses.
I'll tell you without watching the video. Purchase the RF, it's insane. I've tested group shots at 1.2 and everyone's in focus. You could shoot an entire wedding with one lens. I shot with the EF 50mm for 8 years and loved it, but Canon has evolved. The only lens I recommend from the EF lineup is the 135mm 2.0 L. It's crispy. That lens only needed IBIS to make it perfect.
AF with the EF is definitely better on the R system than a DSLR. AF is still a bit slow, but focus is good on 90% of shots with eye AF if subject isn't moving a lot. Yes it has CA, easily correctable in ACR/LR. Is the RF better? of course (sharper for sure) but the EF is still a good lens, especially on a mirrorless body
......and, only 360 grams heavier?