Canon lenses have always been pretty exceptional in many ways. The L series range, for instance, has proved the innovations the company is capable of. So far, the company has nearly 50 lenses in its mirrorless range, and it appears that we can expect more additions soon. Per a new report, the company is eyeing the launch of a new 70-200mm lens for RF users. But how will this one be different? Here is a quick look.
According to Asobinet, Canon has filed a new patent, P2025185507, which depicts a new 70-200mm lens. The designs feature variable and fixed apertures that surpass the traditional f2.8 and f4 benchmarks. Some of the things the new patent addresses include the following:
- Maintaining high optical performance from infinity to close focus
- Keeping aberration changes minimal while zooming
- Achieving fast, responsive autofocus
- Making the lens smaller and lighter, especially the focus group
Example 1
- Focal length: 72–195mm
- Maximum aperture: f/2.9–4.1
- Half angle of view: 16.72°–6.33°
- Image height: 21.64mm
- Total length: 167.01–216.35mm
- Back focus: 14.32–51.21mm
Example 2
- Focal length: 72–195mm
- Maximum aperture: f/3.6 (constant)
- Half angle of view: 16.72°–6.33°
- Image height: 21.64mm
- Total length: 171.36–216.16mm
- Back focus: 14.35–28.39mm
The patent highlights limitations in existing floating-focus designs, as some lenses increase in diameter or weight, or require slower apertures. Canon proposes that it aims to balance it all, which will help photographers capture the best of indoor sports, portraits, and event photography. As a result, we see two design options, which are realistic options for the future.
However, we must remember that Canon did create three options in this range, all for the L-series:
While they are good lenses, they are quite expensive. As a result, photographers seeking a more affordable option, priced below $1500, must turn to third-party lenses, such as the Sigma 70-200mm f2.8 DG DN Sports or the Tamron 70-180mm f2.8. In that regard, if the company manages to launch a f4.5 STM-like lens, then photographers get a chance to work with more options from the company itself. However, if the Sigma already has a f2.8 price at $1400, Canon will have to undercut it by a few hundred dollars. One of the reasons is that anyone would opt for a $1400 STM lens at f3.5 or f4, when Sigma is giving you f2.8. Sigma variant is pretty good. “You’re not going to take a bad photo with it,” we said in our tests. “Will it lose focus at times? Yes. It also doesn’t focus as close as I’d like, but it’s a wonderful lens. The photographers who will reach for it are bound to love it.”
Keeping this in mind, the Canon version around $1000 would be ideal. However, it remains to be seen whether the company will launch anything soon. If they do so and decide to act on this patent, then it can be a very important lens for Canon shooters.