Canon RF28mm F2.8 STM Lens, RF Mount, Wide-Angle vs Canon RF35mm F1.8 is Macro STM Lens, Black
Updated July 2026 — Canon RF28mm F2.8 STM Lens, RF Mount, Wide-Angle wins on aperture and focus distance, Canon RF35mm F1.8 is Macro STM Lens, Black wins on magnification and weight.
The Canon RF28mm F2.8 STM Lens is a more affordable and portable option, while the RF35mm F1.8 is Macro STM Lens offers advanced features for serious photographers.
Why Canon RF28mm F2.8 STM Lens, RF Mount, Wide-Angle is better
Price
RF28mm is $200 cheaper than RF35mm
Portability
RF28mm is more compact and lightweight
General Use
RF28mm is better for general photography and video
Why Canon RF35mm F1.8 is Macro STM Lens, Black is better
Aperture
RF35mm has a larger f/1.8 aperture for low light
Macro Capability
RF35mm offers 0.5x magnification for close-ups
Image Stabilization
RF35mm includes optical image stabilization
Overall score
Specifications
| Spec | Canon RF28mm F2.8 STM Lens, RF Mount, Wide-Angle | Canon RF35mm F1.8 is Macro STM Lens, Black |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $299.00 | $499.00 |
| Max Aperture | f/2.8 | f/1.8 |
| Min Focus Dist. | 9 in. | 0.56 ft. |
| Image Stabilization | No | Yes |
| Macro Capability | No | Yes |
Dimension comparison
Overview of the Canon RF28mm F2.8 STM Lens
The Canon RF28mm F2.8 STM Lens is priced at $299.00, making it a budget-friendly option for photographers seeking a wide-angle lens for full-frame cameras. This lens is designed to deliver excellent image quality, featuring three aspheric elements and Canon's Super Spectra Coating, which helps to minimize ghosting and flare. Its compact and lightweight design makes it ideal for travel and everyday use, providing a versatile 28mm coverage that translates to approximately 45mm on APS-C sensors.
Overview of the Canon RF35mm F1.8 is Macro STM Lens
The Canon RF35mm F1.8 is Macro STM Lens is available for $499.00, offering a unique blend of macro capabilities and wide-angle versatility. With a minimum focusing distance of 0.56 feet, this lens allows for 0.5x magnification, making it suitable for capturing fine details. Its f/1.8 maximum aperture provides excellent low-light performance and depth of field control. The lens also features optical image stabilization, ensuring sharp images even in challenging shooting conditions.
Image Quality Comparison
Both lenses are engineered to deliver outstanding image quality, but they cater to slightly different photography needs. The RF28mm F2.8 STM Lens excels in providing sharpness and clarity across the frame, thanks to its three aspheric elements and specialized coating. This makes it a solid choice for landscape and street photography. In contrast, the RF35mm F1.8 is Macro lens, with its wider aperture, allows for better performance in low-light environments and the ability to create beautiful bokeh effects, which is essential for portrait and macro photography.
Versatility in Usage
The RF28mm F2.8 STM Lens is particularly versatile for general photography, making it an excellent option for videographers and travel photographers. Its 28mm focal length offers a wide-angle view without being overly distorting. On the other hand, the RF35mm F1.8 is Macro lens combines the utility of a standard wide-angle lens with macro capabilities. This makes it suitable for both everyday photography and detailed close-ups, providing users with more creative options for different shooting scenarios.
Size and Portability
When it comes to portability, the RF28mm F2.8 STM Lens takes the lead with its super-compact design, making it an ideal travel companion. Weighing less than many other lenses in its category, it easily fits in camera bags without adding significant weight. The RF35mm F1.8 is Macro lens, while still relatively compact, is slightly larger and heavier due to its additional features and capabilities. This difference may be crucial for photographers who prioritize weight and size, especially when on the move.
Price Consideration
The RF28mm F2.8 STM Lens is priced at $299.00, which is about 40% cheaper than the RF35mm F1.8 is Macro lens at $499.00. This price difference makes the RF28mm a more accessible option for those on a budget or for beginners looking to expand their lens collection. However, the added features of the RF35mm lens, such as its macro capabilities and larger aperture, may justify the higher cost for serious photographers who require these functionalities.
Compatibility and Mounting
Both lenses are compatible with Canon's RF mount, designed specifically for the EOS R series cameras. This ensures seamless integration and optimal performance for users of the Canon ecosystem. The RF28mm F2.8 STM lens shines with its lightweight and compact design, making it an excellent match for the EOS R-series cameras. Meanwhile, the RF35mm F1.8 is Macro lens, with its additional features and control ring for direct setting changes, offers more advanced functionality for users looking to fine-tune their shooting experience.
Which should you buy?
Choosing between the Canon RF28mm F2.8 STM Lens and the RF35mm F1.8 is Macro STM Lens ultimately depends on your specific photography needs and budget. If you are looking for an affordable, lightweight option for general photography and video, the RF28mm is a fantastic choice. However, if you require advanced macro capabilities and superior low-light performance, the RF35mm lens, despite its higher price, may be worth the investment for more serious photographic endeavors. Each lens has its strengths, catering to different styles and requirements within the photography community.

