The type of photography that you are planning to use is an important decision factor. Here we have evaluated the Canon 24-70mm f2.8L USM and the Canon 24-70mm f4L IS USM for their suitability to various photography scenarios:
Size and Weight Comparison
The size of a lens is a crucial factor to consider when comparing two lenses. Canon 24-70mm f2.8L USM is the longer of the two lenses at 124mm. The Canon 24-70mm f4L IS USM with a length of 93mm, is 31mm shorter. On the other hand, there is no difference between the max diameters of these lenses, both coming at 83mm.
The weight of a lens is equally significant as its external dimensions, particularly if you intend to handhold your camera and lens combination for extended periods. Canon 24-70mm f4L IS USM weighs 600g, 36% (350g) lighter than the Canon 24-70mm f2.8L USM's weight of 950g.
Below you can find the dimension and weight table of the Standard Zoom Lenses in Canon EF Mount for size comparison purposes.
Standard Lenses in Canon EF Mount for Size Comparison
Filter Threads
Both the Canon 24-70mm f2.8L USM and the Canon 24-70mm f4L IS USM have the same Filter thread size of 77mm.
Below are links to the 77mm filters that we recommend you to consider for these lenses:
Lens Mounts
Both the Canon 24-70mm f2.8L USM and the Canon 24-70mm f4L IS USM has the same Canon EF lens mount. Some of the latest released cameras that are compatible with the Canon EF lenses are Canon 1D X III, Canon 6D MII and Canon 5D MIV.
Focal Range
Both lenses have the same focal range of
24-70mm but while Canon 24-70mm f2.8L USM has the fastest aperture of
F2.8, the Canon 24-70mm f4L IS USM's widest aperture value is
F4.0.