What should be my main all-around zoom for the R5 Mark II I just picked up? I'm finally upgrading from my old 5D and I'm honestly a bit torn on the glass.
I've been looking at the 24-105mm f4 L because it seems perfect for the hiking trip I have planned for the Dolomites next month, but then I read some reviews saying it doesnt quite resolve enough detail for that 45mp sensor compared to the 24-70mm f2.8. I really want the extra reach for landscapes but I dont want to buy a high-end body just to be limited by the lens. Is the f2.8 actually that much sharper? My budget is around $2500 for this one.
I grabbed the Canon RF 24-105mm f/4L IS USM for my R5. During my last hike, the range was way more reliable for framing, and honestly, the resolution holds up fine for landscape prints.
Just saw this. To add to the point above: honestly, you shouldnt worry too much about the resolution thing. I went through the same dilemma when I got my R5 and was stressing about whether the f4 glass would do the sensor justice. I ended up picking the Canon RF 24-105mm f4L IS USM specifically because I spend a lot of time on trails and carrying a heavy f2.8 setup all day just isnt fun for my back. I have been using it for a year now and I am totally satisfied with the results. If you are shooting at f8 or f11 for landscapes anyway, the sharpness difference between that and the Canon RF 24-70mm f2.8L IS USM is basically zero in real-world shots. Plus, the extra 35mm on the long end is a total lifesaver when you cant hike any closer to a peak. A few practical things I learned during my transition:
- Weight matters a lot. The f4 version saves you about 200g, which feels like 2kg by the end of a long day in the mountains.
- Filters are usually cheaper since it uses 77mm threads instead of 82mm.
- You will have enough leftover from your 2500 budget to get something like a Peak Design Carbon Fiber Travel Tripod or a high-end circular polarizer. If you really need that low light performance for indoor events or weddings, then the f2.8 is the play. But for hiking and travel? I have had zero complaints with the f4. It works well, keeps the kit light, and leaves money in the bank for the actual trip. Enjoy the Dolomites, that place is unreal.
