Pros & Cons
Pros
- Incredibly sharp images even when wide open at f/1.4
- Lightweight design makes it ideal for hiking and travel
- Great for astrophotography with minimal distortion and coma
- Fast autofocus performance, particularly useful for video
- Versatile focal length for both landscapes and street photography
- Good bokeh quality even when close to subjects
- Excellent low-light performance with the f/1.4 aperture
Cons
- Slightly costly compared to similar lenses, which may deter some buyers
- Some users report issues with image correction reliance
- Limited availability can make sourcing difficult
- Initial samples showed minor glow at the center when pushing black levels
- Lack of image stabilization in the lens, relying on in-body stabilization
Verdict
The Canon RF 20mm f/1.4L VCM lens receives strong community praise for its sharpness and lightweight design, making it ideal for various photography styles, particularly astrophotography. However, some users express concerns about its price, reliance on image correction, and availability, suggesting it may not be the most accessible option for everyone.
Specifications
| Focal Length | 20mm |
| Max Aperture | f/1.4 |
| Mount | RF |
| Filter Size | 67mm |
| Min Focus | 0.2m |
| Weight | 519g |
| Dimensions | 76.5 x 99.3 mm |
| Weather Sealed | Yes |
| Optical Design | 15 elements in 11 groups |
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Canon RF 20mm f/1.4L VCM good for astrophotography?
Yes, the lens is widely praised for astrophotography thanks to its exceptional corner-to-corner sharpness, minimal distortion, and extremely well-controlled coma and sagittal astigmatism. The bright f/1.4 aperture gathers plenty of light, enabling clean, star-filled images with little aberration even wide open.
Does the lens have image stabilization?
No, the RF 20mm f/1.4L VCM does not have built-in optical image stabilization. However, when used on Canon EOS R cameras featuring in-body IS, you can take advantage of stabilization for both stills and video.
How does the RF 20mm f/1.4L VCM compare to the Sigma 20mm f/1.4 Art?
The Canon is sharper in the corners wide open, more compact and lighter, and has better weather sealing. The Sigma may be more affordable, especially on other mounts, but is bulkier and lacks some of Canon's native autofocus and lens correction advantages for RF bodies.
What filters are compatible with the RF 20mm f/1.4L VCM?
The lens accepts standard 67mm screw-on filters, allowing for the use of circular polarizers, ND filters, and clear protection-much more convenient than the bulbous front elements (with no filter threads) found on some competing ultra-wides.
How well is the lens protected against the elements?
Like all L-series RF lenses, the 20mm f/1.4L VCM is thoroughly weather-sealed against dust and moisture. With gaskets at key points and a durable construction, it's suitable for confident field use in harsh environments.
Compatible Cameras
Camera bodies that work with this lens
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