The Best Lenses for the Canon EOS R

The Best Lenses for the Canon EOS R - FilterGrade

The Canon EOS R added a mirrorless camera to Canon’s already impressive lineup, and in doing so opened up a whole new world of shooting possibilities for photographers and videographers. With outstanding optical quality and an astonishingly quick focus rate, this camera is anything but average.

However, we all know that the lenses that are affixed to the camera are just as important as the camera itself. So, in conjunction with the release of its new camera, Canon also released several new lenses tailored to it for ultimate performance. But, are those lenses the best for the Canon EOS R, or should you turn elsewhere?

We’ve broken down the best lenses for Canon EOS R, so you don’t have to.

Canon RF 24-105mm f/4 L IS USM Lens

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If you’re looking to purchase a general, do-it-all lens, then look no further. Perfect for daily use in a variety of different shooting situations, the Canon RF 24-105mm f/4 is shorter and lighter than other comparable EF models and has low-light capabilities. It’s even weather-sealed for worry-free outdoor sessions.

With a significant increase in speed of focus, precision, and an impressively silent operation this is the perfect starter lens (or additional option) for your kit. This lens does extend backward while focusing, so if that’s a concern for you, look to some of our other favorite lenses for this camera. However, if that doesn’t bother, this is the perfect lens.

Canon RF 70-200mm f/2.8 L IS USM

This lens isn’t for daily shooting or general use, but its highly specialized telephoto lens is best in show for the Canon EOS R. It boosts a shockingly fast auto-focus and a triple mode 5-stop stabilizer, making it perfect for sports or wildlife photography.

And, in a world where Canon is often chastised for extremely heavy and bulky mirrorless lenses, this particular piece is top of its class. It’s relatively lightweight and sleek. Its only downside is the hefty price tag that accompanies it. But, you get what you pay for, and you’re certainly getting a lot with this lens.

Canon RF 28-70mm f/2 L USM 

At its time of release, this lens possessed the widest aperture for a standard range zoom. An impressive attribute, no doubt, but that’s not the only special thing this particular lens offers. Ideal for portraiture and landscape photography, it’s weather sealed and incredibly fast and sharp with wide-angle capabilities. It creates a unique bokeh effect that contrasts beautifully with a detailed subject for an almost ethereal looking background.

However, perfection is just out of reach for this impressive piece. It doesn’t have any stabilization, and since the Canon EOS R body doesn’t either, it can be a little tricky to shoot hand-held. This is easily solved with a tripod or similar, but we’d be remiss if we didn’t mention it. And, while this is not the cheapest lens on this list, it is one of the most impressive.

Canon RF 35mm f/1.8 Macro IS STM

2 The BEST Lenses for Canon Cameras 2020 - FilterGrade

In the world of macro lenses, the Canon EOS R and RF 35mm f/1.8 are a match made in heaven. Although this camera is a relatively new release, and macro lenses tend to be somewhat of an afterthought, Canon stayed on top of their game with this timely addition to its lens lineup.

With a maximum shooting magnification of 0.5x, it’s sure to become a staple in the kit of all macro photography lovers. And, even though it lacks the pro-level designation, its optics are spectacular and have impressive low light capabilities. Pair that with its hybrid IS system and ultra-quiet motor, and you have a macro photographer’s dream.

The only to worry about with these lens is its lack of weather-proofing. This is especially important when you’re working outdoors, but with such a reasonable price tag it’s still more than worth the money.

Canon EF 50mm f/1.2L USM Lens

1 The BEST Lenses for Canon Cameras 2020 - FilterGrade

Last, but least, a prime lens. Although you lose the capability to zoom in and out as you please, the benefits that this lens offers make up for its lack of zoom. With a large maximum aperture that allows for increased light gathering and a beautiful bokeh, this lens takes stunning photos in the most straightforward manner.

It features a control ring at the front of the camera that allows you to adjust the settings, like f stop or exposure, without taking your eyes off the digital viewfinder. This lens provides impressive clarity from the center to the corners, making it a standout piece despite the loss of traditional zoom abilities.

The Best of the Best

All in all, the best lens for the Canon EOS R depends on what you’re looking for out of your camera and what you’ll be shooting. But thanks to Canon’s impressive array of lenses, there are plenty of options to choose from. And whether you’re looking for a lens with macro capabilities or one for everyday shooting, we think you’ll find something to appreciate amongst this selection.

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