p.1 #1 · Is Canon's RF 100mm better than the EF 100mm?
I’ve been using Canon’s EF 100mm f/2.8 L IS USM Macro lens since its release nearly 16 years ago - and since 2020 I’ve paired it with an R5. However, the old EF 100mm macro lens is now the only non-RF lens in my kit, and hauling around the adapter is beginning to feel a bit antiquated.
For those who’ve shot with both the EF and RF 100mm macro lenses, is the RF actually a better lens in terms of optics?
I primarily shoot subjects large enough to not warrant 1:1 magnification, but the extra magnification offered by the RF version is appealing.
p.1 #2 · Is Canon's RF 100mm better than the EF 100mm?
Aside from my current lenses, the Canon EF 100L was my all time favorite lens. Sold my Canon kit before the RF version came out, but it'd be hard for me to like it more than the EF.
Couple of nice clean shots. Well exposed, great light in the eyes, and the color is spot on.
p.1 #3 · Is Canon's RF 100mm better than the EF 100mm?
I bought a used Canon ef100mm f2.8 macro lens, the one introduced in 1990, from a friend somewhere in the mid to late 1990's. No L, no IS, no USM. Just a macro lens. I really didn't start using it until 2021, after I had retired from OTR trucking and had aspirations of reviving my photography career. Unfortunately, that has yet to materialize.....but I digress.....
Here is a photo using the ancient lens on a Canon 5D MklV.
Here is a photo using the ancient lens on a Canon R5.
Here is a photo using the Canon RF 100mm f2.8 L Macro IS USM lens on a Canon R5
Both lenses are very capable and served me well. While I feel like I had good luck with the older EF version and it produced pretty nice results, I would not entertain the idea of going from the RF version back to the older EF version. It is my understanding, however, that the current EF version is nearly identical to the RF version in terms of performance and results.
I should mention that I have never used autofocus on either of these macro lenses. Just a personal preference.
p.1 #4 · Is Canon's RF 100mm better than the EF 100mm?
LarryBeemer wrote:
Both lenses are very capable and served me well. While I feel like I had good luck with the older EF version and it produced pretty nice results, I would not entertain the idea of going from the RF version back to the older EF version. It is my understanding, however, that the current EF version is nearly identical to the RF version in terms of performance and results.
I should mention that I have never used autofocus on either of these macro lenses. Just a personal preference.
Thanks Larry, this is similar to what I've heard from others who've made the jump from EF to RF and further reinforces my desire to make the move as well.
