Canon USA has posted up a video giving an overview of the RF16-28mm F2.8 IS STM and RF28-70mm F2.8 IS STM lenses. Both lenses were designed to be lightweight, fast, and affordable.
Canon RF16-28mm F2.8 IS STM
The 16-28mm f/2.8 IS STM covers full-frame sensors, and it is claimed to deliver L-series image and build quality while remaining accessible to shooters of all levels.

The RF 16-28mm f/2.8 IS STM, a wide-angle zoom with a f/2.8 aperture throughout the entire zoom range.
Key features
- Full-Frame | f/2.8 to f/22
- Compact & Fast Wide-Angle Zoom
- Leadscrew-Type STM Autofocus Motor
- Optical Image Stabilizer
- Customizable Control Ring
- Four UD & Two Aspherical Elements
- Rounded 9-Blade Diaphragm
- Minimum Focusing Distance: 7.9 to 9.8″
- Super Spectra Coating (SSC)
- Weather-Resistant Construction
The RF 16-28mm f/2.8 is driven by a leadscrew-type STM motor to deliver fast and quiet autofocusing performance with accurate subject tracking. Built-in image stabilization helps create sharper handheld images.
Optical Construction

Ensuring excellent image quality from edge-to-edge and enhanced contrast, four Ultra-low Dispersion (UD) elements and two aspherical elements are utilized for the lens’s complex optical design, which is comprised of 16 elements in 13 groups
To effectively reduce ghosting, prevent lens flare, and produce accurate color reproduction, Canon utilizes its Super Spectra Coating (SSC) on the lens glass
A rounded nine-blade diaphragm contributes to pleasing bokeh.
Optimized Image Stabilization

Providing 5.5 stops of correction automatically for cameras without IBIS and up to 8 stops when used in coordination with a compatible camera’s built-in stabilization system, the RF 16-28mm f/2.8 helps create sharper imagery while used handheld. Also, while recording video, users will experience minimal focusing breathing due to the lens’s leadscrew-type STM motor.
L-Series Equivalent Quality

The RF 16-28mm f/2.8 matches the build quality of Canon’s premium L-series lenses. Along with the high-end optical design, the lens also features a durable weather-resistant exterior.
Additional Lens Benefits
- Minimum focusing distance of 7.9″ at 28mm and 9.8″ at 16mm
- 67mm filter thread for wide compatibility with accessories
- Weighs approximately 1 lb for enhanced maneuverability and traveling convenience
Price & Availability
The Canon RF 16-28mm f/2.8 IS STM is available for $1,049 USD.
Canon RF28-70mm F2.8 IS STM
The Canon RF 28-70mm f/2.8 IS STM was the 50th lens in the RF range. This constant aperture zoom lens was designed to be a good choice for those looking to capture higher-quality images without compromising on portability.
Key features
- Full-Frame | f/2.8 to f/22
- Compact & Fast Standard Zoom
- Stepper Motor (STM) Autofocus
- Optical Image Stabilizer
- Collapsible Design
- Customizable Control Ring
- Two UD and Two Aspherical Elements
- Super Spectra Coating (SSC)
- Rounded 9-Blade Diaphragm
It is 92.2mm in length when retracted and weighs 490g, making it one of the lightest lenses on the market with this focal range and sensor coverage. The RF 28-70mm f/2.8 IS STM allows for adjustments to shutter speed, aperture, or ISO by using the Control/Focus ring.
Canon has placed the optical performance of the RF 28-70mm at the same level as their famed L-series lenses. The advanced optical design of the lens is claimed to ensure detailed imagery is captured throughout the zoom range and even when shooting wide open.
- Two Ultra-low Dispersion (UD) elements are located at the front of the lens design, a configuration previously found only on L-series lenses, which correct chromatic aberration and reduce the weight of the front lens group.
- Two glass-molded aspherical elements suppress aberrations and help maintain a compact overall lens size.
- Super Spectra Coating (SSC) reduces backlit flaring and ghosting for maintained light transmission and high contrast in strong lighting condition.
The RF 28-70mm’s utilizes a fast stepper (STM) autofocus system and Optical Image Stabilizer.
- Stepper (STM) autofocus motor is fast and silent for optimal operation during both still and video capture.
- Focus breathing is well controlled, resulting in smooth rack focuses during video recording.
- Optical Image Stabilizer is rated for up to 5.5 stops on its own or up to 7.5 stops when used in coordination with a compatible camera’s built-in stabilization system. This system will help reduce blur from camera shake when shooting handheld, even in dark shooting situations and with longer shutter speeds.
Pricing & Availability

The RF 28-70mm f/2.8 IS STM is priced at $1,049 USD.















