Pros & Cons
Pros
- Lightweight and compact design, making it ideal for travel.
- Fast and reliable autofocus performance, especially praised for video work.
- Excellent optical quality, with sharpness improving significantly when stopped down to f/2.8 or higher.
- Good performance in low-light situations, with an aperture of f/1.4 allowing for decent ISO settings.
- Affordable compared to other options in the same focal length range, providing great value for budget-conscious photographers.
Cons
- Some users report noticeable chromatic aberration and color fringing in certain high-contrast situations.
- Optical performance can be softer wide open at f/1.4, necessitating stopping down for better sharpness.
- AC (Autofocus) performance may be less reliable in very low light compared to more expensive lenses.
- Build quality described by some as less durable compared to higher-end L-series lenses.
Verdict
Overall, the Canon RF 50mm f/1.4L VCM is regarded positively for its lightweight design, fast autofocus, and excellent image quality, particularly for its price. However, some users express concerns about optical performance wide open and the presence of chromatic aberrations, suggesting it performs best when stopped down.
Specifications
| Focal Length | 50mm |
| Max Aperture | f/1.4 |
| Min Aperture | f/16 |
| Mount | Canon RF |
| AF Motor | Voice Coil Motor (VCM) with Nano USM |
| Filter Size | 67mm |
| Weight | 580g |
| Dimensions | 76.5 x 99.3 mm |
| Weather Sealed | Yes |
| Optical Design | 14 elements in 11 groups |
| Diaphragm Blades | 11 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Canon RF 50mm f/1.4L VCM weather-sealed?
Yes, the lens is weather-sealed, offering added protection against dust and moisture for outdoor and travel photography.
How does the RF 50mm f/1.4L VCM compare to the RF 50mm f/1.2L USM?
The f/1.4L VCM is smaller, lighter, and much more affordable, but lacks the ultra-shallow depth of field and slightly better optical performance of the f/1.2L. Both are excellent, but the f/1.2L is better suited for those needing ultimate sharpness and separation at maximum aperture.
Is there noticeable chromatic aberration or color fringing?
Some chromatic aberration and color fringing are present, especially at f/1.4 in high-contrast scenes. These diminish as you stop down and are correctable in post-processing.
Does the lens work well for video?
Yes. The Nano USM/VCM autofocus system is quiet and quick, with minimal focus breathing, making it well-suited for video recording as well as stills.
Is this lens suitable for portraits?
Absolutely-it offers smooth bokeh and strong subject separation. However, some portrait shooters may still prefer a slightly longer focal length (such as the RF 85mm f/2) for classic portrait compression.
How does the lens handle on smaller RF-mount cameras?
It balances very well, being lightweight and not unduly front-heavy, making it comfortable for extended shoots or travel, even on compact bodies like the EOS R8.
Compatible Cameras
Camera bodies that work with this lens
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