RF 16-28mm F2.8 vs RF 14-35mm F4 lenses

[MrWalleye73]

Good morning all!

I’m going to move some older inventory and invest in the future. Looking at two different RF lenses. The 16-28 F/2.8 or the 14-35 F/4 L. I’m not so much concerned about the 28 and 35 end as much as the wide end. I know the differences between 14 and 16. Anyone used either? I know gaining a stop has its advantages but with these newer full frame sensors would that be a deal breaker for some indoor work too? Mostly plan to use it outdoors. I know the F4 is an L lens but reviews of the 2.8 is getting some very good reviews, and is a $200-300 less. And the 28-70 2.8 IS STM is a nice lens, I like the one I got a lot. I’m not a pixel peeper (at least yet 😆) I like the RF system the more I use it. 

any real world knowledge would be appreciated. Thanks all!!

Chris 

[shadowsports]

Hi Chris,

Good morning, I don't own any of these lenses so I will have to defer to others.  Many of Canon's non-L offerings have received extremely good reviews and feedback. They are strong performers.  

For low light, your R6 Mark II is hard to beat.  I personally own the RF Trinity f2.8 ranging from 15 to 200mm.  For me having the extra stop (option) and L glass means I pretty much have every shooting situation covered.  Durability and  quality is there.  I am also a proponent of RF glass.  

I have owned plenty of Canon's Non-L series glass and have never been disappointed.  These lenses have performed extremely well.  At a certain point I decided owning some of Canon's best was worth the investment.  

For indoor shoots, if you're not going to use a flash I would recommend f2.8 or faster aperture.  My preference are zooms but depending on the type of photography, a prime like the RF24 or 35 will allow the R6 mkII's sensor to perform at it's full potential.  📸

Do you need L series glass, only you can answer that.  I will say that the user galleries are full of images captured with Canon's standard series lenses and in many cases, you can't see the difference, unless as you said you are peeping.  

If budget is a concern, consider Canon refurbished.  This is a great way to stretch your dollar 💵 .  I've purchased many lenses refurbished.  All have exceeded expectations.

Sometimes renting a lens can be a great way to determine if it will meet your needs.  This cost is low in comparison to the overall investment.  Lets see what others think.

[MrWalleye73]

Hi Rick,

Thanks as always for the reply. Yes as I migrate to RF lenses this is the debate. The newer, non L glass is pretty impressive thus far. I think I’ll go a zoom route due to trying to pack lighter and keeping it simple. So a faster lens will probably be in the offering. The days of carrying a lot of lenses is coming to an end for me. 😆. Good info as always and I’ll report back what I do when I do. That an a newer super tele and I can stay to around 4-5 lenses to be satisfied. Why it took me so long to go digital and mirrorless and all, who knows. But it’s all fantastic and it reinvigorates the passion to go out and take more pictures. 

Chris 

[MrWalleye73]

I decided to stay EF and use the 16-35 F/4 L (adapted).  Found one for a good deal and it’s a great lens. And I always liked the look of those series of lenses. Not that it matter about the looks. 😆. Works for me. Enjoy your day everyone!

Chris