Are the new Canon RF lenses too expensive?
The introduction of the Canon RF series and its lenses ushered in a new era in photography. Despite their innovative technologies and outstanding image quality, the prices of RF lenses are often perceived as high. The widespread perception that the new Canon RF lenses are "too expensive" is often due to the fact that Canon first launched its premium lenses – the RF-L series. These lenses are specifically designed for professionals and ambitious photographers and set new standards in image quality, autofocus speed, and technical innovation. However, many photographers are unaware that Canon has also developed a variety of affordable RF lenses that offer excellent alternatives for amateur photographers and beginners. There are cost-effective options in almost all focal length ranges, such as the RF 50mm f/1.8 STM, the RF 15-30mm f/4.5-6.3 IS STM or the RF 24-50mm f/4.5-6.3 IS STM – all at prices that are significantly lower than those of the premium models.
Canon RF: Top class with technological highlights
Canon RF lenses represent first-class imaging performance, cutting-edge technologies, and precision. They offer several notable advantages:
- Higher image quality: Thanks to the short flange focal distance and high-quality lens elements (e.g. UD and aspherical glass elements), RF lenses achieve excellent sharpness right up to the edges.
- Outstanding autofocus performance: The Nano USM motor in many RF lenses is fast, quiet, and extremely precise—ideal for photography and video.
- Integrated image stabilization: Many RF lenses offer IS technology, which, when combined with IBIS (In-Body Image Stabilization) in Canon cameras, delivers outstanding results in low light.
- Future-proof technology: Canon continuously invests in RF lenses, making the system future-proof.
The price question: Canon RF lenses vs. alternatives
Canon offers a high-quality premium lens for almost every focal length, often at prices over €2,000. For many photographers, this is a high barrier to entry. However, Canon has also developed budget-friendly alternatives that are available in almost all focal length ranges – without compromising on basic quality:
| Focal length | Premium RF lens | Price Premium | Affordable RF alternative | Price Affordable |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ultra wide angle | RF 14-35mm f/4L IS USM | 1,369.99 € | RF 15-30mm f/4.5-6.3 IS STM | 497.99 € |
| Standard zoom | RF 24-70mm f/2.8L IS USM | 2,399.99 € | RF-S 24-50mm f/4.5-6.3 IS STM | 169.00 € |
| Telephoto zoom | RF 70-200mm f/2.8L IS USM | 2,649.99 € | RF 100-400mm f/5.6-8 IS USM | 601.44 € |
| Fixed focal length (standard) | RF 50mm f/1.2L USM | 2,482.34 € | RF 50mm f/1.8 STM | 160.00 € |
| macro | RF 100mm f/2.8L Macro IS USM | 1,144.00 € | RF 85mm f/2 Macro IS STM | 589.00 € |
| Supertele | RF 100-500mm f/4.5-7.1L IS USM | 2,670.00 € | RF 600mm f/11 IS STM | 594.99 € |
Third-party manufacturers: Another option, but with compromises
For photographers seeking even more affordable alternatives, third-party manufacturers like Sigma and Tamron offer options that seem attractive at first glance. Many photographers wish there were more third-party lenses for the Canon RF system, as they are generally perceived as more cost-effective. However, this is often a misconception: The prices of high-quality third-party lenses are often similar to those of Canon. A Sigma ART lens or a Tamron G2, for example, can be priced close to Canon RF alternatives without offering their full performance.
In addition, there are clear disadvantages to using third-party lenses:
-
Autofocus speed: Third-party lenses often use their own AF motors, which are typically slower, less precise, and sometimes noisier than Canon's Nano USM motors. This affects performance, especially during high-speed continuous shooting and video recording, where fast, silent autofocus is critical.
-
Image quality: While some third-party lenses deliver good results, they are generally not as precise as RF lenses. Edge blur, chromatic aberrations, or poor contrast are more common.
-
Compatibility: Canon develops its RF lenses specifically for the EOS R series, allowing them to take full advantage of the cameras' capabilities. Third-party lenses, however, may suffer from firmware incompatibilities, which can lead to functional issues, such as unreliable autofocus.
Many photographers make the mistake of purchasing a high-quality, expensive camera and then using a cheap, off-brand lens. This not only significantly compromises image quality but also reduces the benefits offered by an advanced camera system like the Canon RF. There's little point in owning a camera with cutting-edge technology if the optical elements—the lens—limit its performance.
Choosing a third-party lens may make sense in certain situations, such as for beginners on a limited budget. However, for photographers who want to maximize their camera's performance, a genuine Canon RF lens is often a better choice—and a long-term investment in the quality of their photography.
Why Canon can be the better choice despite the cost
Canon not only offers premium lenses for professionals, but also affordable RF alternatives suitable for beginners and amateur photographers. While the more affordable RF options don't always offer the same speed or premium build quality as the L-series, they are optically powerful and perfectly matched to Canon cameras. They offer photographers a cost-effective entry-level option without compromising full system performance.
Conclusion: An option for every budget
While Canon's premium RF lenses are certainly expensive, the system offers a well-thought-out price-performance ratio. With affordable RF alternatives, Canon covers almost every focal length range without sacrificing quality. Photographers who want to unlock the full potential of their camera will benefit from the superior technology and system integration of Canon RF lenses—an investment that pays off in the real world.
Overview of all common RF lenses on the market:
| lens | Cheapest new price |
|---|---|
| Canon RF 24-50mm f/4.5-6.3 IS STM | 169.00 € |
| Canon RF 50mm f/1.8 STM | 160.00 € |
| Canon RF 28mm f/2.8 STM | 259,00 € |
| Canon RF 16mm f/2.8 STM | 249,00 € |
| Canon RF 15-30mm f/4.5-6.3 IS STM | 497.99 € |
| Canon RF 35mm f/1.8 IS Macro STM | 479.99 € |
| Canon RF 600mm f/11 IS STM | 594.99 € |
| Canon RF 24mm f/1.8 Macro IS STM | 585.00 € |
| Canon RF 85mm f/2 Macro IS STM | 589.00 € |
| Canon RF 100-400mm f/5.6-8 IS USM | 601.44 € |
| Canon RF 800mm f/11 IS STM | 849.99 € |
| Canon RF 24-240mm f/4-6.3 IS USM | 899.00 € |
| Canon RF 24-105mm f/4-7.1 IS STM | 329.99 € |
| Canon RF 24-105mm f/4L IS USM | 1,221.23 € |
| Canon RF 100mm f/2.8L Macro IS USM | 1,144.00 € |
| Canon RF 70-200mm f/4L IS USM | 1,499.99 € |
| Canon RF 14-35mm f/4L IS USM | 1,369.99 € |
| Canon RF 24-70mm f/2.8L IS USM | 2,399.99 € |
| Canon RF 135mm f/1.8L IS USM | 2,288.00 € |
| Canon RF 70-200mm f/2.8L IS USM | 2,649.99 € |
| Canon RF 100-500mm f/4.5-7.1L IS USM | 2,670.00 € |
| Canon RF 85mm f/1.2L USM | 2,599.00 € |
| Canon RF 50mm f/1.2L USM | 2,482.34 € |
| Canon RF 28-70mm f/2L USM | 3,249.00 € |
| Canon RF 400mm f/2.8L IS USM | 14,999.00 € |
| Canon RF 600mm f/4L IS USM | 14,799.00 € |
