What is the best all-around lens for Canon EOS R5?

Question

Honestly I am so fed up with carrying around a bag full of primes every time I go out to shoot with my R5. I thought the whole point of moving to this system was to make my life easier but I find myself constantly swapping lenses and missing shots because I'm fumbling in my bag. I'm currently using a 35mm and an 85mm setup but it's just not working for me anymore especially when I'm out hiking or just walking around the city for hours. My neck is killing me and I'm just over it.

I need one lens that can actually stay on the camera like 90% of the time without making me feel like I'm compromising too much on that R5 sensor quality. I have a trip to Kyoto coming up in three weeks and I really don't want to be that person holding up the group because I'm changing glass every five minutes. It's becoming more of a chore than a hobby at this point.

Here is what I am looking for:

budget is around 2500 max because I already spent way too much on the body

needs to be sharp enough for the 45mp sensor or else why bother

versatile enough for street photography and some landscape stuff

not a total brick that weighs five pounds

I keep looking at the 24-70mm f2.8 but then I see the 24-105mm f4 and people say it's just kit lens quality but then others swear by it for travel. Then there is that crazy 28-70mm f2 but I feel like that would just break my back even faster and it costs a fortune. I'm just spinning my wheels looking at reviews and every single person says something different and it's driving me crazy. Is there actually a best all-around lens for this specific camera or am I just chasing something that doesnt exist? I just want to enjoy my photography again without the gear headache...

chesterbet · Accepted Answer

I've been through this exact dilemma with the R5 and honestly, it's frustrating how many 'pro' zooms just don't cut it once you start pixel peeping those 45MP files. You're looking for that prime-like crispness in a single package, but unfortunately, most options either fail the resolution test or they're heavy enough to make you regret the hike.The Canon RF 24-70mm f/2.8L IS USM is really the only logical choice for your budget, but buying it new right now is a bit of a waste of money. I actually had issues with my first copy having decentered elements, which is unacceptable at that price. I'd strongly suggest looking for a refurbished unit directly from Canon or checking the used market. You can often find them for around $1,900 to $2,100, which saves you a ton of cash for your actual travel expenses in Kyoto.I found the Canon RF 24-105mm f/4L IS USM quite disappointing for high-res work. People call it a great travel lens, but the vignetting and corner softness at the wide end are pretty glaring on the R5 sensor. It's just not as good as expected for an L-series lens when you're used to your 35mm prime.Avoid the Canon RF 28-70mm f/2L USM at all costs for travel. It's basically a boat anchor. Its not just about the weight on your neck, but the size makes it impossible to be discreet for street photography. Save your money, get a used 24-70mm, and just accept that nothing is going to be quite as sharp as your 85mm prime, though it comes close enough for most shots... just dont expect miracles at the edges.

Rrenantepal · Answer

> Honestly I am so fed up with carrying around a bag full of primes every time I go out to shoot with my R5. I totally get that prime fatigue. When you're rocking a 45MP sensor, you really notice when the glass isn't keeping up with the resolution. Based on the MTF data and my own time with the system, the Canon RF 24-70mm f/2.8L IS USM is the best bet for what you need. It resolves enough detail to actually make use of that sensor, whereas some other zooms really fall apart in the corners when you zoom in. The Canon RF 28-70mm f/2L USM is technically superior in terms of glass, but its a total brick at over 1400g. Your neck would kill you by day two in Kyoto. The 24-70mm sits at about 900g and falls right under your 2500 budget. Technical stuff to consider:

Constant f/2.8 is vital for shrines and indoor low light shots.

Up to 8 stops of Coordinated IS with the R5 body helps with handheld landscapes.

Nano USM motors are basically silent for street work. I really think the 24-70 is the only lens that wont make you feel like you're losing quality. The contrast is much better than the Canon RF 24-105mm f/4L IS USM. If you're worried about weight, maybe look at a better strap too. Ask away if you need more spec comparisons or weight data... have an awesome time in Japan!

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What is the best all-around lens for Canon EOS R5?