The Canon RF 70-200mm f/2.8 L IS USM Z lens promises new features and updated optics that make it a strong contender in the high-end telephoto market. Its robust build, range, and precision make it particularly suited to professionals who demand consistent, high-quality performance across various settings.
Coming to you from Christopher Frost, this in-depth video offers a close look at the Canon RF 70-200mm f/2.8 L IS USM Z. This version stands out from the prior RF 70-200mm f/2.8 lens, sporting a physically larger body and an internal zoom mechanism. The video highlights how Canon has upgraded optics and added extra features specifically for video creators, making this lens suitable for both stills and video work. For example, the lens’ three-mode stabilization system is impressive, offering 5.5 stops of stabilization alone or 7.5 stops when paired with a camera featuring in-body stabilization. This level of control significantly reduces handheld shake and captures steady video footage, a notable enhancement for those shooting in dynamic environments.
With a price tag of about $3,000, this lens is clearly aimed at professionals. The design includes Canon’s top-tier weather sealing, making it a durable choice in outdoor conditions. Frost’s initial impressions are that the lens lives up to its reputation, especially when it comes to fast and silent autofocus, which is crucial for tracking fast-moving subjects without delay.
Key Specs
- Focal Length: 70-200mm
- Maximum Aperture: f/2.8
- Minimum Aperture: f/22
- Minimum Focusing Distance: 1.61 ft at 70mm; 2.23 ft at 200mm
- Maximum Magnification: 0.2x at 70mm; 0.3x at 200mm
- Angle of View (Diagonal): Approx. 34º to 12º
- Lens Construction: 18 elements in 15 groups
- Special Elements: Two Super UD lenses, one UD lens, three aspherical lenses
- Lens Coating: Canon ASC, SSC, fluorine coating
- Filter Size: 82 mm
- Aperture Blades: 11
- Image Stabilization: Three-mode system, up to 7.5 stops with in-body stabilization
- Dual Pixel CMOS AF Coverage: Approx. 100% x 100% (on certain EOS R models)
- Control Ring and Manual Focus Ring: Both provided, with customizable settings
- Dust/Weather Resistance: Yes
- Dimensions: Approx. 3.5 in diameter x 7.8 in length
- Weight: Approx. 2.5 lb for the white model; 2.4 lb for the black model
One of the lens’ standout features is its aperture ring, which can be smoothly controlled in video mode. While this function isn’t available in stills mode on most EOS R bodies, newer models like the R5 Mark II may support it with future firmware updates. The lens also supports Canon’s 1.4x and 2x teleconverters, expanding its reach even further. Another intriguing feature is Canon’s electronic parfocal design, which automatically adjusts focus as you zoom. This system promises consistent focus, particularly useful for videographers capturing dynamic scenes without constant manual adjustments.
Canon has also optimized the lens to reduce chromatic aberrations and maintain high contrast, even in challenging lighting. In Frost’s preview, sample images came out sharp from corner to corner, and the contrast remained intact against bright light sources. Canon claims the lens performs better than its predecessor in optical quality, which should appeal to professionals looking for a dependable, all-around lens with excellent image quality. Check out the video above for the full rundown from Frost.
