The type of photography that you are planning to use is an important decision factor. Here we have evaluated the Canon RF 10-20mm F4 L IS STM and the Canon 16-35mm f2.8L II USM for their suitability to various photography scenarios:
Size and Weight Comparison
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 RF 10-20mm F4 L IS STM weighs 570g, which means it is 65g (10%) lighter than the Canon 16-35mm f2.8L II USM which has a weight of 635g.
Lens Mounts
The Canon RF 10-20mm F4 L IS STM has the Canon RF lens mount whereas the Canon 16-35mm f2.8L II USM has the Canon EF lens mount. Some of the latest released cameras that are compatible with these mounts are Canon R6 V, Canon R6 III and Canon C50 for the Canon RF Mount and Blackmagic URSA 12K LF, Z CAM E2-F6 II 6K and Z CAM E2-S6 II 6K for the Canon EF Mount.
Focal Range
Canon RF 10-20mm F4 L IS STM has a focal range of 10-20mm and
2.0X zoom ratio . When it is mounted on an APS-C sensor camera with 1.5x crop, it provides a 35mm (FF) equivalent of
15 - 30mm.
On the other hand, the Canon 16-35mm f2.8L II USM has a focal range of 16-35mm and 2.2X zoom ratio . When it is mounted on an APS-C sensor camera with 1.6x crop, it provides a 35mm (FF) equivalent of 25.6 - 56mm.