Canon RF 16mm F2.8 Review
The Canon RF 16mm f/2.8 STM is a lens that embodies the spirit of portability and versatility, making it a standout option in Canon’s RF lineup for those who need a super-wide perspective without breaking their back—or their bank. The first thing you notice when handling it is just how ridiculously light it is. At a mere 165g, it feels more like a lens cap than a fully-fledged ultra-wide prime. This makes it the ultimate choice for photographers and videographers looking to keep things light, whether you’re exploring the city, hiking a trail, or simply trying to minimise gear fatigue.
Despite its featherweight design, the build quality holds up well for the price. The plastic construction doesn’t scream luxury, but it feels durable enough for everyday use. The metal mount is a nice touch that adds some robustness, and its compact size means it barely adds any bulk to your camera setup. Paired with a Canon EOS R-series body, the combination is so lightweight that you’ll forget you’re even carrying a full-frame kit.
Optically, the RF 16mm f/2.8 STM offers solid performance, though with some trade-offs. The wide f/2.8 aperture is excellent for low-light shooting, astrophotography, or creating subject separation even at such a wide focal length. The centre sharpness is impressive, especially when stopped down slightly, making it a great choice for landscapes, architecture, and environmental photography. However, at f/2.8, the corners do show some softness, and there’s noticeable distortion and vignetting. These are largely correctable in-camera or in post-processing, but they’re worth considering if you want distortion-free results straight out of the camera.
Where this lens really shines is versatility. It’s perfect for vlogging, thanks to the wide field of view and light weight, and it’s an excellent choice for those dabbling in astrophotography or travel photography without the need for bulkier ultra-wide zooms. The STM motor is quick and silent, ensuring smooth focusing for both stills and video, making it a dependable companion for hybrid shooters.
Sure, it’s not as optically perfect as Canon’s higher-end RF ultra-wides, but at this price point and with this weight, it doesn’t need to be. The RF 16mm f/2.8 STM is all about convenience and accessibility, and it nails those goals. For photographers and videographers who want to add an ultra-wide to their kit without adding much weight or cost, this lens is a no-brainer. It’s light, fun, and capable—a fantastic addition to the RF lineup.
Examples
Here are some recent photos I captured using the Canon RF 16mm f/2.8 STM lens. These shots highlight the lens’s performance across different conditions, settings, and subjects. To view the complete collection of photos taken with this lens, the link.
