Canon RF 100mm 2.8 L Macro IS USM

For many years, the EF 100mm f2.8L Macro was the close-up lens Canon owners aspired to, delivering excellent results both near and far. It’s a tough act to follow, but the RF 100mm f2.8L Macro out-performs it in a number of key respects. Most obviously it’ll deliver greater reproduction without the use of accessories: 1.4x versus 1x on the older EF model. The RF was also crisper than my EF sample wide-open at f2.8, proved more reliable with eye-detection AF, and a little faster, quieter and more confident overall, although be aware of potential focus shift as the aperture is adjusted when shooting at very close range. Meanwhile, the spherical aberration adjustment may be gimmicky, but can still be fun for generating soft-focus results. In my own tests the stabilisation didn’t meet Canon’s claims, and while the EF version is compatible with tele-converters, the RF is not. Plus while both lenses can work with extension tubes for greater magnification, Canon doesn’t yet make any in the RF fit - although to be fair, third party RF tubes are available. Ultimately the pros outweigh any cons for me personally, making the RF 100mm f2.8L the best overall Macro lens I’ve tested for any Canon camera and recommended if you can afford it. If your budget is tighter, consider Canon’s RF 35mm f1.8 Macro.