Available to buy here:
Welcome to Reviews inside tv. Today, we’re diving into the Canon RF100mm F2.8 L Macro IS USM lens, a medium telephoto macro lens designed specifically for Canon’s EOS R series mirrorless cameras. This lens boasts the world’s first maximum magnification of 1.4x in its category, offering a bright fixed f/2.8 aperture alongside an advanced optical image stabilizer that claims up to 5 stops of shake correction.
The Canon RF100mm F2.8 L Macro is a dedicated macro lens with a medium telephoto focal length, tailored to capture detailed close-ups as well as portraits with pleasing background blur. It features a hybrid image stabilization system that compensates for both angular and shift camera shake, critical for macro photography where precision is key. An SA Control Ring provides the ability to fine-tune the character of the bokeh in your images, giving creative control over background and foreground blur effects.
In practical use, setting up the lens on the EOS R body was straightforward. The autofocus is powered by Canon’s Ultrasonic Motor (USM), delivering swift and near-silent focusing, which is crucial when shooting close-ups of insects or delicate subjects. Testing the 1.4x magnification in real-world macro scenarios showed impressive detail capture beyond the standard 1:1 macro lenses. The optical image stabilizer made handheld shooting surprisingly stable, even at the extreme close focusing distances where any slight movement can blur the shot. However, the lens’s telephoto length means it can be a bit heavier and bulkier compared to typical 100mm primes, which might affect comfort during extended handheld sessions.
If you’re pausing here, don’t forget to hit like, subscribe, and ring that bell to stay updated on all our deep-dive reviews. Now, back to the lens.
Among its strengths, the build quality stands out — Canon’s L-series reputation continues with a robust, weather-sealed construction that feels solid in hand and suited for fieldwork. The f/2.8 aperture remains bright throughout the focusing range, allowing excellent low-light performance and smooth depth of field control. The SA Control Ring is a unique feature, enabling photographers to subtly adjust spherical aberration for creative bokeh effects — a real plus for those seeking artistic macro shots. On the downside, the price is on the premium side, reflecting its L-series status, and the size and weight might be a consideration for travel photographers who prefer lighter gear. Also, the lens’s autofocus, while fast, occasionally hunts slightly in very low light or extreme macro settings.
When it comes to value, the RF100mm F2.8 L Macro lens aligns with its price point, offering features and image quality that meet professional standards. Its durability and optical performance justify the investment for serious macro and portrait photographers invested in the EOS R system. For those seeking a budget-friendly alternative, Canon’s RF 85mm f/2 Macro IS STM provides decent macro capabilities with less reach and a slower aperture but at a significantly lower cost, though it lacks the 1.4x magnification and some of the advanced stabilization features.
Compared to other macro lenses on the market, this Canon model carves out a niche with its unique 1.4x magnification and hybrid IS system, which few competitors offer. The image quality and control over bokeh are also distinguishing factors. However, compared to prime portrait lenses, it is bulkier and less versatile beyond macro work.
The lens is crafted from high-quality materials with weather sealing to protect against dust and moisture, reinforcing Canon’s professional-grade standard. While there is no long-term reliability data yet due to its recent release, Canon’s L-series lenses generally enjoy a reputation for enduring performance.
In summary, the Canon RF100mm F2.8 L Macro IS USM lens offers an impressive combination of magnification, sharpness, and stabilization for macro photographers using the EOS R system. It excels in image quality and creative control with its SA Control Ring, though it demands a premium price and some heft. If macro photography is a significant part of your work or passion, this lens fulfills its promise with strong performance and professional-grade construction.
Thanks for watching Reviews inside tv. If you want to explore the Canon RF100mm F2.8 L Macro lens further, check the link in the comments box. Feel free to share your experiences or questions about this lens below—we love hearing from you. Until next time, keep your focus sharp and your reviews sharper here on Reviews inside tv!
Available to buy here:
