A more affordable alternative to the Canon RF 15-35mm f/2.8L IS USM could be on the way
(Image credit: Canon)
According to Canon News, reported via Canon Rumors, the world’s biggest camera manufacturer recently filed patents for two wide-angle zooms for its EOS R full-frame mirrorless system. If it comes to market, the RF 15-35mm f/4L IS USM or RF 16-35mm f/4L IS USM will be a more affordable version of the RF 15-35mm f/2.8L IS USM, which costs $2,299/$2,399.
The 15-35mm is a versatile focal range that’s popular with landscape, travel and architectural photographers, and having two versions in the RF lens line-up will appeal to enthusiasts who won’t be prepared to blow pro-grade budgets on their lenses.
Canon Rumors posted this data extracted from Canon’s RF 15-35mm f/4L IS USM patent application (Image credit: Canon Rumors)
In addition to the RF 15-35mm f/4L IS USM, Canon is said to have also filed a patent for a RF 16-35mm f/4L IS USM – patents do not always translate into new products, of course, but whether the focal range of the prospective new lens is 15-35mm or 16-35mm, the reaction from Canon Rumors users seemed overwhelmingly positive.
Data extracted from Canon’s RF 16-35mm f/4L IS USM patent application, posted by Canon Rumors (Image credit: Canon Rumors)
However, as Canon Rumors noted, “The 15-45mm lens design looks more realistic with a 19mm back focus distance than the 16-35mm F4 lens with the rather short back focus distance.”
Get the Digital Camera World Newsletter
The best camera deals, reviews, product advice, and unmissable photography news, direct to your inbox!
Whichever patent makes it to market, we’d be very happy to see an RF 15-35mm f/4L IS USM or an RF 16-35mm f/4L IS USM join the RF lens line-up.
With many new optics seemingly due to be added to the nine-strong range in the coming months, it feels like 2021 could be the year Canon’s full-frame mirrorless system comes of age.
Digital Camera World is one of the leading authorities on camera and photography news, reviews, techniques, tutorials, comparisons, deals and industry analysis. The site doesn't just specialize in cameras, but all aspects of photography, videography and imaging – including camera phones, gimbals, lenses, lighting, editing software, filters, tripods, laptops, printers, photo books, desks, binoculars and more.
Whether you're using, looking to buy or trying to get the most out of a compact camera, action camera, camera drone, cinema camera, beginner camera or professional camera, Digital Camera World has a roster of experts with combined experience of over 100 years when it comes to cameras, photography and imaging.
