1 reply to this topic

[anchor93]

Compare these two L-series Canon lenses for me. It seems to me that a photographer wouldn't want both the 24-105 and the 24-70; what are the pros and cons of each?

[Photographa]

Both lenses are of excellent quality. You can trust that Canon's L-series lenses will be top-of-the-line with respect to build quality and image quality.

 

Here are each lens' unique benefits:

 

Canon EF 24-70mm f/2.8 L

• You're getting an aperture that's a full F-stop larger than the f/4 on the 24-105mm. This is a huge advantage if you want to freeze motion, especially in low-light situations when you want to avoid a higher ISO. This also means that you can achieve a more shallow depth of field and create a smoother background blur.

Canon EF 24-105mm f/4 L

• Image Stabilization is a feature of this lens, but not on the 24-70mm. This will reduce blur from camera shake, but the 24-70mm can eliminate the blur from moving subjects in your photos (IS can't help with that) and the large aperture would allow you to shoot at a faster shutter speed, hopefully eliminating blur from camera shake.
• 35mm more zoom.
• 10 oz lighter, about .5" shorter.
• Around $800 cheaper, depending on where you buy.

The choice really comes down to what you need in a lens. The 24-70mm will be superior for low-light photos and is fantastic to those who value very smooth bokeh, but the 24-105mm is a fantastic "walk-around lens." That is, it's a very versatile lens to have for many shooting situations, and it's perfect if you want a single lens on your camera that you don't switch out much. Image Stabilization is something that many photographers love because it allows them to take handheld photos at slower shutter speeds.

 

The choice would also heavily depend on your budget and the number of other lenses you have. There is an L-class 70-200mm F2.8 which would pair wonderfully with the 24-70mm f/2.8. If you carry both lenses and feel comfortable swapping them out when needed, you're all set for a very wide range of focal lengths and you have the benefit of a large aperture for fast shots. (The 70-200 also includes image stabilization.)

 

If you like the versatility of the 24-105mm f/4 L but need something for low-light situations and portraits, Canon's L-class lens lineup also includes a portrait prime lens with a large aperture for speedy shots and incredible bokeh - the Canon EF 85mm f/1.2L II.