topic EOS 90D - image quality on non L-series lenses in EOS DSLR & Mirrorless Cameras

EOS 90D - image quality on non L-series lenses

mediumrarebeef — Sun, 23 Mar 2025 12:40:37 GMT

Hello! Im going to be transitioning from my 7D to a new camera soon. Currently, its between the 80D and 90D. Since price is not that big of an issue, im thinking of getting the 90D. However, i've seen some people online saying that the 90D's high megapixel count is an issue on on L-series lenses. I currently have two lenses (Canon EF-S 17-55mm f/2.8 IS USM and Canon EF 70-200mm f/4L IS USM). Will my 17-55mm lens bring down the image quality of the 90D, since its not an L-series lens?

Re: Canon 90D image quality on non L-series lenses

zakslm — Sat, 22 Mar 2025 13:28:25 GMT

mediumrarebeef,

I have a 90D and it is my opinion that both of those lenses will work well with the 90D including the 17-55 f2.8. In other words you should not have any issues.

I don’t own the 17-55, but when I upgraded to the 90D, I perceive that my EF-S lenses work well and perhaps slightly “better” in terms of image quality with my 90D vs. my T7. Perhaps that is due the more advanced focusing system on the 90D vs. the T7.

Additionally, there is a Supplemental Information download for the 90D that lists Canon EF-S and EF lenses and usable AF points. The 17-55 is in group A and your 70-200 is in group B. That would indicate that both lenses will focus quickly and accurately on the 90D.

The only cautionary additional advice I would offer is that some have reported less that optimal results when using older EF zoom lenses designed for EOS film cameras on high megapixel EOS bodies like the 90D. The one time I used one of those lenses, my results were fine but l’ll probably avoid vintage EF zooms in the future.

Hope this helps!

Re: Canon 90D image quality on non L-series lenses

mediumrarebeef — Sat, 22 Mar 2025 13:50:21 GMT

Hi! Thank you so much for your help!

Re: Canon 90D image quality on non L-series lenses

ebiggs1 — Sat, 22 Mar 2025 14:25:13 GMT

Don't even consider the 80D if you can get a 90D. The 90D is Canon's best effort at a C sensor camera.