Canon’s new RF 45mm F1.2 STM is shockingly affordable (Check Price) and nicely compact for what it is. Since it’s the only 45mm in the RF lineup, the most natural rivals are the full-frame 50mm options. I put together a real-world, true-to-scale size comparison of four lenses (RF 50mm F1.4 L VCM, RF 50mm F1.8 STM, and RF 50mm F1.2L USM are the other three) in two views: first mounted on the new R6 Mark III, then as standalone lenses. Below the visuals, you’ll find a specs and features table for a deeper side-by-side.
(click on the image for a larger version)
Canon RF 50mm F1.2L USM vs Canon RF 50mm F1.4 L VCM vs Canon RF 45mm F1.2 vs Canon RF 50mm F1.8 STM when attached to the new EOS R6 Mark III
TIP: Find the interactive version of this comparison on our Size Comparison Tool
Now here is the version without the R6 III:
(click on the image for a larger version)
Canon RF 50mm F1.2L USM vs Canon RF 50mm F1.4 L VCM vs Canon RF 45mm F1.2 vs Canon RF 50mm F1.8 STM
Here are some highlights from the comparison:
- The RF 50mm F1.8 STM is the tiny one. It looks almost pancake next to the others and feels featherlight on the R6 III. If you want the most compact walk-around kit, this is it.
- The RF 45mm F1.2 sits right in the sweet spot. It is clearly taller and thicker than the 50/1.8, but much shorter and slimmer than both L-series 50s. On the R6 III it balances well without that front-heavy pull. You get the bright f/1.2 look with a body that still packs nicely.
- The RF 50mm F1.4 L VCM moves you into 'proper L prime' territory. Noticeably longer and heavier than the 45/1.2, though still more manageable than the big 50/1.2L. Good compromise if you want L build and AF performance and can live with extra bulk.
- The RF 50mm F1.2 L USM is the size and weight champ. Tallest barrel, largest glass, and the one most likely to dominate your bag and shift the balance forward on the camera.
Canon RF 45mm F1.2 vs Canon RF 50mm F1.2L USM vs Canon RF 50mm F1.4 L VCM vs Canon RF 50mm F1.8 STM Specs and Feature Comparison
