Is the RF 100mm f/2.8L macro really worth the extra cash over the older EF version or even the Sigma 105mm? Im honestly getting so frustrated trying to decide because every single review online just says different stuff.
So here is the deal, I have an R5 and I do a lot of product photography for my side business selling handmade ceramics, but lately I have been wanting to get into some actual bug and flower photography in my backyard. I have a wedding coming up in three months and I really need to have this figured out by then so I can practice. My budget is around 1200 bucks, but I really dont want to spend that much if the EF glass performs just as well with the adapter.
- The Canon RF 100mm f/2.8L is obviously the newest and built for the mount, but that price tag is just painful.
- The Sigma 105mm f/2.8 DG DN Art seems like a total bargain, but I keep reading about issues with autofocus hunt on the mirrorless bodies which is giving me anxiety.
- Used EF 100mm L lenses are everywhere for like half the price, but I worry about the adapter being clunky or if it actually makes the image quality suffer at all.
Im just tired of looking at sample images that all look the same to my eyes. Does the RF version actually have a noticeable sharpness advantage that justifies the jump in price? Or am I just paying for the fancy focus breathing control and build? I live in a tiny apartment in Chicago so storage space is a nightmare, which makes me think the adapter might just be one more thing to clutter my bag... anyway, if anyone has actually used these back to back on an R5 please tell me if I should just bite the bullet or save my money.
TL;DR: The RF 100mm is cool but honestly, the EF version is a total steal. Before you drop big cash, are you planning on shooting handheld or using a tripod for those flowers? I own the Canon RF 100mm f/2.8L Macro IS USM and while the spherical aberration control is insane for creative shots, it is major overkill for product work. If you use the Canon EF-EOS R Mount Adapter, you lose zero quality. None. The EF 100mm L is legendary for a reason! It is sharper than you will ever need for ceramics, and the AF is rock solid. Since you are in a tiny Chicago spot, save the money for a better bag instead. The RF lens is bulky and that price hurts way more than an adapter ever will!
Regarding what #1 said, I totally agree. I used the Canon EF 100mm f/2.8L IS USM Macro for years before switching to the RF mount and honestly, it is still a beast.
- The adapter adds zero bulk in practice
- Focus is snappy enough for weddings
- Save the extra cash for a good tripod I wouldnt stress the RF version unless you really need that 1.4x magnification. The EF version is basically bulletproof for product work.
Honestly, grab a used Canon EF 100mm f/2.8L IS USM Macro. The adapter is tiny and works flawlessly on my R5, saving you cash for other gear.