Canon RF100- vs Canon RF16mm F2.8 STM Lens

Price Comparison

When comparing the prices of the Canon RF100-400mm F5.6-8 IS USM and the Canon RF16mm F2.8 STM Lens, the RF16mm is significantly more affordable. Priced at $259.00, it is about 63% cheaper than the RF100-400mm, which retails for $699.00. This substantial difference makes the RF16mm a more accessible option for photographers on a budget or those just starting in photography. The price gap also reflects the different functionalities and use cases of each lens, with the RF100-400mm designed for more specialized telephoto applications.

Lens Type and Purpose

The Canon RF100-400mm F5.6-8 IS USM is a telephoto lens ideal for wildlife, sports, and travel photography, allowing photographers to capture subjects from a distance. Its extensive zoom range of 100-400mm enables users to get up close without physically moving closer. In contrast, the Canon RF16mm F2.8 STM Lens is an ultra-wide-angle prime lens, perfect for landscape, architecture, and interior photography. Its fixed focal length of 16mm offers a wide perspective, making it suitable for capturing expansive scenes. Both lenses serve distinct purposes, catering to different photography styles.

Image Stabilization and Autofocus

The Canon RF100-400mm features Optical Image Stabilizer technology, providing up to 5.5 stops of shake correction, which increases to 6 stops when paired with compatible EOS R series cameras that have In-Body Image Stabilization. This feature is particularly advantageous for handheld shooting in low-light conditions or while capturing fast-moving subjects. Meanwhile, the RF16mm is equipped with a stepping motor (STM) that delivers smooth and quiet autofocus, making it an excellent choice for video recording. While both lenses boast impressive autofocus capabilities, the RF100-400mm provides an extra layer of stability for dynamic shooting scenarios.

Size and Weight

The compact and lightweight design of the Canon RF16mm F2.8 STM Lens makes it a highly portable choice, weighing in at a fraction of what the RF100-400mm weighs. This ultra-wide-angle lens is designed to be easily carried, making it ideal for travel and everyday use. The RF100-400mm, while still relatively compact for a telephoto lens, is larger and heavier, reflecting its more complex optical design and longer focal length. Photographers who prioritize portability may gravitate towards the RF16mm, while those needing extensive reach may opt for the RF100-400mm despite the extra weight.

Focusing Distance and Magnification

The minimum focusing distance of the Canon RF100-400mm is 2.89 feet at 200mm, allowing for close-ups with a maximum magnification of 0.41x at 400mm. This capability is advantageous for capturing details in wildlife and sports photography. The RF16mm, with a minimum focusing distance of 5.11 inches, offers a maximum magnification of 0.26x, which is useful for getting close to subjects while maintaining an expansive background view. While both lenses excel in different aspects of focusing, the RF100-400mm is better suited for detailed subject capture at a distance.

Aperture and Light Gathering

The Canon RF100-400mm has a variable aperture of F5.6-8, which may limit its performance in low-light situations compared to the RF16mm's fixed f/2.8 maximum aperture. The RF16mm's wider aperture allows for better light gathering, making it particularly effective for indoor photography, landscapes at dawn or dusk, and even astrophotography. This significant difference in aperture size means that the RF16mm can achieve a shallower depth of field, providing more creative control over the focus and blur in an image, which is a crucial consideration for many photographers.

Compatibility and Extras

Both lenses are compatible with Canon’s EOS R series mirrorless cameras, making them versatile choices for users of these systems. The RF100-400mm can accept both RF1.4x and RF2x tele extenders, allowing for even greater focal lengths of up to 800mm, which is beneficial for specialized photography needs. On the other hand, the RF16mm is designed as a lightweight and compact option, perfect for those who need a quick, versatile lens for a variety of scenarios. The ability to use extenders with the RF100-400mm adds significant functionality, appealing to photographers who require flexibility in their focal lengths.

Which should you buy?

Choosing between the Canon RF100-400mm F5.6-8 IS USM and the Canon RF16mm F2.8 STM Lens ultimately depends on your photography needs. If you’re looking for a telephoto lens that offers versatility and reach, especially for wildlife or sports, the RF100-400mm is a robust choice, albeit at a higher price of $699.00. However, if you need a lightweight, ultra-wide-angle lens for landscapes, interiors, or vlogging, the RF16mm at $259.00 provides excellent value and performance. Weigh your specific requirements against the price differences to make the best decision for your photography journey.