The Canon RF 28-70mm f/2.8 IS STM Lens delivers L-series optical performance in Canon's most compact and lightest f/2.8 standard zoom for RF mount cameras. This lens bridges the gap between kit zoom flexibility and professional-grade image quality, offering consistent f/2.8 speed throughout its zoom range in a package that weighs just over one pound. For photographers and content creators who need reliable performance without the bulk of traditional f/2.8 zooms, this lens provides a practical balance of capability and portability.

Canon RF 28-70mm f/2.8 IS STM Standard Zoom Lens

The Canon RF 28-70mm f/2.8 IS STM is perfect for both still and video content creators who want high quality at a mid-range price point. This lens is the smallest, lightest RF zoom lens with image quality equal to that of an L-series lens. For still photographers, this light and compact lens weighing in at just over one pound is a "take anywhere" option. Offering a fast f/2.8 aperture throughout the zoom range, photographers can work in low-light situations or take creative control with smooth bokeh and shallow depth of field not available on standard kit lenses.

Key Features of the Canon RF 28-70mm f/2.8 IS STM

This lens addresses three core needs: portability, optical quality, and versatility. At 495 grams, it weighs roughly half that of the RF 24-70mm f/2.8L IS USM while delivering comparable sharpness through advanced optical design. The retractable barrel design allows the lens to collapse from 112.4mm to 92.2mm for transport, making it easier to carry in smaller camera bags or attach to a sling strap.

• Convenient mid-range zoom with a fixed f/2.8 aperture through the entire zoom range.
• Light and compact everyday carry lens.
• Image stabilization unit allows for a lighter and smaller lens build.
• Incredible quality from edge-to-edge due to two UD elements to minimize chromatic aberration and two aspherical lenses.
• Impressive durability and weather-resistant construction equivalent to an L-series lens for use in harsh environments.
• Incredibly minimal focus breathing when recording video.
• Constant f/2.8 maximum aperture across 28-70mm range
• 15 elements in 12 groups with two UD and two aspherical elements
• 5.5-stop optical image stabilization (up to 7.5 stops with IBIS)
• Leadscrew-type STM autofocus for fast, quiet operation
• Weather-sealed construction with rubber grommet at mount
• Rounded 9-blade diaphragm for smooth bokeh
• 67mm filter thread
• Retractable barrel design reduces length by 20mm when collapsed
• Maximum magnification: 0.24x
• Minimum focus distance: 24cm at 70mm, 27cm at 28mm (AF)
• Weight: 1.1 lb / 495g

Optical Performance and Video Features

Canon's RF mount design allows shorter flange distance than DSLR systems, enabling optimized optical formulas that deliver L-series quality without L-series weight. The two Ultra-low Dispersion elements control chromatic aberration across the frame, while two glass-molded aspherical elements correct distortion and spherical aberrations. Canon's Super Spectra Coating reduces flare and ghosting when shooting in challenging lighting conditions.

For video work, the STM autofocus motor provides smooth, near-silent focusing with minimal focus breathing. The lens maintains consistent framing during rack focus transitions, making it suitable for professional video production. Coordinated control between the lens's optical stabilization and in-body image stabilization on compatible cameras delivers up to 7.5 stops of shake correction at the center of the frame.

Who Uses the Canon RF 28-70mm f/2.8 IS STM

This lens serves photographers and videographers who want professional-grade capabilities without the weight penalty of top-tier glass. It's particularly well-suited for travel photography, wedding coverage, documentary work, and general event shooting where mobility matters as much as image quality.

Content creators benefit from the lens's minimal focus breathing, quiet autofocus, and smooth bokeh for subject separation. The 28-70mm range covers most vlogging and interview scenarios while the constant f/2.8 aperture provides reliable exposure control when zooming during recording.

For enthusiast photographers upgrading from kit lenses like the RF 24-105mm f/4-7.1 IS STM, the constant f/2.8 aperture represents a significant performance increase in low-light capabilities and creative depth-of-field control. The weather sealing adds confidence for outdoor shooting in mixed conditions.

Professional photographers working with smaller RF bodies like the R8 or R6 Mark II appreciate the balanced handling that doesn't add excessive front weight. Studio and portrait photographers value the consistent exposure across the zoom range and the ability to shoot handheld with confidence thanks to the effective image stabilization.

For a complete lens selection across multiple photography styles, explore our full collection of Canon lenses.

Compatible Accessories and System Support

The Canon RF 28-70mm f/2.8 IS STM uses 67mm filters, a common size that balances affordability with versatility. UV filters provide front element protection while circular polarizers enhance contrast and control reflections. Variable neutral density filters extend creative control for video work by allowing wider apertures in bright conditions without overexposure.

The lens includes a customizable control ring that can be assigned to functions like exposure compensation, ISO, or aperture adjustment directly from the lens barrel. The focus mode switch toggles between autofocus, manual focus, and control mode for efficient operation without accessing camera menus.

For optimal performance, pair this lens with high-speed memory cards when shooting 4K video or burst sequences. Weather sealing protects internal elements from dust and moisture, though proper lens care extends longevity and maintains optical performance.

The retractable design requires rotating the zoom ring from the transport position to 28mm before shooting. This adds an extra step compared to non-collapsible designs but enables the compact form factor that makes the lens practical for daily carry.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Does the Canon RF 28-70mm f/2.8 IS STM Compare to the RF 24-70mm f/2.8L IS USM?

The RF 28-70mm f/2.8 IS STM weighs 495g compared to the L-series lens at 900g, making it nearly half the weight. The L-series lens offers 4mm wider coverage at the wide end (24mm vs 28mm), Nano USM autofocus instead of STM, and higher maximum magnification (0.30x vs 0.24x). However, the RF 28-70mm provides 5.5 stops of image stabilization compared to 5.0 stops on the L-series version, uses smaller 67mm filters instead of 82mm, and costs roughly half the price. Optical quality is comparable between both lenses, with the RF 28-70mm delivering sharpness that rivals prime lenses at most focal lengths.

Does the Canon RF 28-70mm f/2.8 IS STM Work on APS-C RF Mount Cameras?

Yes. This full-frame lens is compatible with APS-C RF mount cameras like the EOS R7 and R10, where it provides an effective focal length of approximately 44.8-112mm due to the crop factor. This makes it an excellent portrait and short telephoto zoom for APS-C bodies.

Is the Retractable Design Durable for Professional Use?

Canon has implemented weather sealing equivalent to L-series standards, including a rubber grommet at the mount and seals around control rings and switches. The retractable mechanism uses robust internal components and operates smoothly through thousands of cycles. While it adds a step to your shooting workflow, the trade-off in portability makes it practical for travel and location work where gear weight matters.

What is the Closest Focusing Distance?

The minimum focusing distance varies by focal length and focus mode. At 28mm, the lens focuses down to 27cm in autofocus mode or 24cm when using manual focus. At 70mm, the minimum focus distance is 24cm in both autofocus and manual focus modes. This provides a maximum magnification of 0.24x at the 70mm end.

How Does Image Stabilization Perform When Combined with In-Body Stabilization?

On cameras with IBIS (like the R6 Mark II or R5 Mark II), the lens's optical image stabilization coordinates with the camera's sensor-shift system to deliver up to 7.5 stops of shake correction at the center of the frame and 7.0 stops at the corners. On cameras without IBIS (like the R8), the lens provides 5.5 stops of stabilization on its own. Both configurations support handheld shooting at shutter speeds that would typically require tripod support.

Shop the Canon RF 28-70mm f/2.8 IS STM at Samy's Camera

The Canon RF 28-70mm f/2.8 IS STM combines L-series optical quality, practical image stabilization, and compact portability in a mid-range package that serves both photographers and videographers. Whether you're upgrading from a kit lens or looking for a lighter alternative to professional f/2.8 zooms, this lens delivers reliable performance across multiple shooting scenarios. Samy's Camera provides expert guidance, fast shipping, and complete support for your Canon camera system.