Canon launches compact RF 14-35mm F4L IS USM wide zoom

Canon has launched a pro-spec optically stabilised ultra-wideangle zoom, in the shape of the RF 14-35mm F4L IS USM. Designed as a smaller, less expensive alternative to the RF 15-35mm F2.8L IS ISM, it accepts 77mm filters and will cost £1,750 when it goes on sale in late August. Together with the RF 24-105mm F4L IS USM and RF 70-200mm F4L IS USM, it provides Canon EOS R users with a trio of premium lightweight zooms covering a 14-200mm range.

Optically Canon has employed 16 elements in 12 groups, including three glass moulded aspherical elements and three constructed from UD glass to deliver maximum detail across the frame while suppressing chromatic aberration. In addition, Sub Wavelength structure Coating and Air Sphere Coating are employed to combat flare and ghosting.

The Canon RF 14-35mm F4L IS USM includes a lens control ring in front of the zoom and focus rings

With a minimum focus distance of just 20cm, the lens provides a very respectable 0.38x maximum magnification at the 35mm setting. It employs a nano-type ultrasonic motor for autofocus, and delivers 5.5 stops of optical stabilisation, increasing to 7 stops when used on the EOS R5 and R6 bodies that feature in-body stabilisation.

Physically the lens is reasonably compact, measuring 10cm in length and weighing in at 540g. It boasts dust and moisture resistant construction, with a fluorine coating on the front element to repel grease and water. Like the firm’s other RF lenses, the zoom and manual focus rings are joined by a lens control ring that can be used to change exposure settings.