Best Lenses for Canon EOS R5 Mark II

The Canon EOS R5 Mark II is an eagerly anticipated update to Canon’s flagship full-frame mirrorless camera. As a high-end professional camera body, pairing it with the right lenses is crucial to maximize image quality and performance. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the best lens options across various categories to help you build the ideal kit for your Canon EOS R5 Mark II.

Best Everyday Lens – Canon RF 24-70mm f/2.8L IS USM

For an all-purpose zoom that can handle most shooting situations, the Canon RF 24-70mm f/2.8L IS USM is the standout choice. This professional-grade lens offers a versatile focal range ideal for everything from landscapes to portraits.

Key features:

• Constant f/2.8 aperture throughout the zoom range
• 5 stops of image stabilization
• Nano Ultrasonic autofocus motor
• Minimum focus distance: 0.21m (at 24mm) / 0.38m (at 70mm)
• 82mm filter thread
• Dimensions: 88.5 x 125.7mm
• Weight: 900g

The RF 24-70mm f/2.8L delivers excellent sharpness and detail across the frame. Its image stabilization system pairs with the R5 Mark II’s in-body stabilization for rock-steady shots. The lens also controls focus breathing well, making it suitable for video work.

While it’s a pricey option, the optical quality and versatility make it worthwhile for professionals and serious enthusiasts. The only notable downsides are slightly softer edge sharpness compared to some prime lenses and the relatively large size/weight.

Best Wide-Angle Zoom – Canon RF 15-35mm f/2.8L IS USM

For landscape, architecture, and environmental portrait photographers, the Canon RF 15-35mm f/2.8L IS USM is an excellent wide-angle zoom option. It provides an ultra-wide 15mm focal length while maintaining a constant f/2.8 aperture.

Key features:

• Constant f/2.8 aperture
• 5 stops of hybrid image stabilization
• Ultrasonic Motor (USM) autofocus
• 82mm filter thread
• Dimensions: 88 x 126mm
• Weight: 840g

The RF 15-35mm f/2.8L produces sharp images with minimal distortion, even at the widest angles. Its fast aperture and image stabilization make it well-suited for low-light shooting and astrophotography. The lens is relatively compact for its class, though still substantial when paired with the R5 Mark II body.

The main drawbacks are the high price tag and large 82mm filter size, which requires investing in larger, more expensive filters. However, for professionals needing a top-tier wide zoom, it’s hard to beat.

Best Ultra-Wide Angle Lens – Canon RF 10-20mm f/4L IS STM

For those needing even wider perspectives, the Canon RF 10-20mm f/4L IS STM offers an incredible 10mm focal length on the wide end. This rectilinear ultra-wide zoom is perfect for dramatic landscapes, real estate photography, and creative wide-angle shots.

Key features:

• Constant f/4 aperture
• 5-stop optical image stabilization (up to 6 stops with IBIS)
• Stepping Motor (STM) autofocus
• Rear gel filter holder (35x20mm)
• Dimensions: 83.7 x 111mm
• Weight: 570g

The RF 10-20mm f/4L produces impressively sharp images with minimal distortion for such an extreme wide-angle. It’s relatively compact and lightweight for its class. The lens also features a customizable control ring and button.

Downsides include some vignetting at 10mm when shooting RAW files and the lack of a focus distance window. The rear gel filter system can also be tricky to use compared to traditional front filters. However, for those needing the widest possible rectilinear lens for full-frame, this is currently the best option available.

Best Street Photography Lens – Canon RF 35mm f/1.8 IS Macro STM

For street photographers who prefer a compact prime lens, the Canon RF 35mm f/1.8 IS Macro STM offers an excellent balance of performance and portability. Its moderate wide-angle view is ideal for environmental shots and candids.

Key features:

• Fast f/1.8 aperture
• Image stabilization
• 0.5x macro magnification
• Stepping Motor (STM) autofocus
• 52mm filter thread
• Dimensions: 74 x 62mm
• Weight: 305g

This lens delivers sharp images with pleasing bokeh when shot wide open. Its light weight and inconspicuous size make it perfect for discreet street shooting. The close focusing ability adds versatility for detail shots.

While the STM autofocus isn’t quite as fast as Canon’s USM system, it’s still plenty quick for most situations. The biggest advantage is the excellent value this lens provides, offering great performance at a relatively affordable price point.

Best Standard Prime Lens – Canon RF 50mm f/1.2L USM

For those who prefer the classic 50mm focal length, the Canon RF 50mm f/1.2L USM is an exceptional standard prime lens. It offers incredible sharpness and low-light performance.

Key features:

• Ultra-fast f/1.2 aperture
• Ultrasonic Motor (USM) autofocus
• 10-blade aperture diaphragm
• 77mm filter thread
• Dimensions: 89.8 x 108mm
• Weight: 950g

This lens produces stunningly sharp images with beautiful bokeh. The f/1.2 aperture allows for extreme subject isolation and excellent low-light shooting capabilities. Autofocus is fast and accurate.

The main drawbacks are the high price and substantial size/weight. However, for those seeking the ultimate in image quality at the 50mm focal length, this lens delivers outstanding results.

Best Portrait Lens – Canon RF 85mm f/1.2L USM

For portrait photographers, the Canon RF 85mm f/1.2L USM is likely the best option available for any camera system. It combines a flattering focal length with an incredibly fast aperture for stunning portraits.

Key features:

• Ultra-fast f/1.2 aperture
• Ultrasonic Motor (USM) autofocus
• 82mm filter thread
• Dimensions: 103 x 117mm
• Weight: 1195g

This lens produces incredibly sharp images with beautiful, creamy bokeh. The f/1.2 aperture allows for extreme subject isolation and excellent low-light performance. Autofocus is quick and accurate.

The main downsides are the high price tag and substantial size/weight. However, for professional portrait photographers seeking the absolute best image quality, this lens is hard to beat.

Best Telephoto Zoom – Canon RF 70-200mm f/2.8L IS USM

For sports, wildlife, and event photography, the Canon RF 70-200mm f/2.8L IS USM is an excellent telephoto zoom option. It offers a versatile zoom range with a constant f/2.8 aperture.

Key features:

• Constant f/2.8 aperture
• 5 stops of image stabilization
• Ultrasonic Motor (USM) autofocus
• 77mm filter thread
• Dimensions: 89 x 146mm
• Weight: 1070g

This lens produces sharp images throughout its zoom range. The fast aperture and effective image stabilization make it well-suited for low-light situations. It’s also considerably more compact than previous EF mount versions of this lens.

The main drawback is the high price, though it’s in line with other professional-grade 70-200mm f/2.8 lenses. For many photographers, this versatile telephoto zoom is an essential part of their kit.

Best Super-Telephoto Lens – Canon RF 100-400mm f/5.6-8 IS USM

For those needing even more reach without breaking the bank, the Canon RF 100-400mm f/5.6-8 IS USM offers an affordable super-telephoto option. It’s ideal for wildlife and sports photography on a budget.

Key features:

• Variable f/5.6-8 aperture
• 5.5 stops of image stabilization
• Ultrasonic Motor (USM) autofocus
• 67mm filter thread
• Dimensions: 79.5 x 164.7mm (247mm extended)
• Weight: 635g

This lens offers impressive reach in a relatively compact and lightweight package. The image stabilization system is highly effective, helping to offset the slower variable aperture. Image quality is good, especially considering the price point.

The main drawbacks are the slow maximum aperture, which limits low-light performance, and the lack of weather sealing. However, for photographers needing an affordable telephoto option, this lens offers excellent value.

Best Superzoom Lens – Canon RF 200-800mm f/6.3-9 IS USM

For the ultimate in zoom range, the Canon RF 200-800mm f/6.3-9 IS USM offers an incredible 800mm reach. This superzoom is perfect for wildlife photographers who need maximum flexibility.

Key features:

• Variable f/6.3-9 aperture
• Image stabilization
• Ultrasonic Motor (USM) autofocus
• 95mm filter thread
• Dimensions: 102.3 x 314.1mm
• Weight: 2050g

This lens offers unmatched zoom range in a relatively compact package for its class. Autofocus is fast and accurate, and the lens is compatible with 1.4x and 2x teleconverters for even more reach.

The main drawbacks are the narrow maximum aperture, which limits low-light performance, and slightly softer image quality at the 800mm end. However, for photographers needing maximum zoom range in a single lens, this is currently the best option available.

Best Macro Lens – Canon RF 100mm f/2.8L Macro IS USM

For close-up and macro photography, the Canon RF 100mm f/2.8L Macro IS USM is an exceptional choice. It offers true 1:1 magnification with outstanding image quality.

Key features:

• 1.4:1 maximum magnification
• f/2.8 aperture
• 5 stops of hybrid image stabilization
• Spherical aberration control ring
• 67mm filter thread
• Dimensions: 81 x 148mm
• Weight: 730g

This lens produces incredibly sharp macro images with beautiful bokeh. The 1.4:1 magnification ratio allows for larger-than-life reproductions. The spherical aberration control ring offers creative control over bokeh effects.

The main drawbacks are the high price and relatively large size for a 100mm macro. However, for serious macro photographers, the optical quality and features make it well worth the investment.

Best Videography Lens – Canon RF 24-105mm f/2.8L IS USM Z

For hybrid shooters who need a versatile lens for both stills and video, the Canon RF 24-105mm f/2.8L IS USM Z offers an excellent all-in-one solution. Its parfocal design and power zoom functionality make it ideal for video work.

Key features:

• Constant f/2.8 aperture
• Power zoom functionality
• Up to 8 stops of image stabilization (with R5 Mark II)
• 82mm filter thread
• Dimensions: 88.5 x 199mm
• Weight: 500g

This lens offers excellent image quality for both stills and video. The constant f/2.8 aperture and power zoom make it well-suited for professional video production. The extended zoom range compared to typical 24-70mm lenses adds versatility.

The main drawbacks are the high price and large size for a standard zoom. However, for hybrid shooters who need a single lens to handle both high-quality stills and video, this lens is hard to beat.

Conclusion

The Canon EOS R5 Mark II is a versatile, high-performance camera body that deserves equally capable lenses. While the specific lenses you choose will depend on your shooting style and budget, the options listed here represent some of the best available for the RF mount system.

For most photographers, a kit built around the RF 24-70mm f/2.8L IS USM, RF 15-35mm f/2.8L IS USM, and RF 70-200mm f/2.8L IS USM will cover a wide range of shooting scenarios with excellent image quality. Supplementing these with specialized primes like the RF 50mm f/1.2L USM or RF 85mm f/1.2L USM can further elevate your results in specific situations.

Ultimately, the best lenses for your Canon EOS R5 Mark II will be those that match your specific photographic needs and budget. By carefully considering your requirements and the strengths of each lens, you can build a kit that allows you to fully leverage the capabilities of this advanced camera system.