Canon Wide Angle EF 28mm f/1.8 USM Autofocus Lens USA
With the large maximum aperture, excellent background blur is possible with fast shutter speeds. The aspherical lens element makes the lens compact and corrects spherical aberrations. The image is sharp even at the edges.
Go To
| Performance | |
|---|---|
| Focal Length | 28 mm |
| Aperture |
Maximum: f/1.8 Minimum: f/22 |
| Camera Mount Type | Canon EF |
| Format Compatibility |
35mm Film / Full-Frame Digital Sensor Canon (APS-C) |
| Angle of View | 75° |
| Minimum Focus Distance | 9.84" (25 cm) |
| Magnification | 0.18x |
| Maximum Reproduction Ratio | 1:5.2 |
| Groups/Elements | 9/10 |
| Diaphragm Blades | 7 |
| Features | |
|---|---|
| Image Stabilization | No |
| Autofocus | Yes |
| Tripod Collar | No |
| Physical | |
|---|---|
| Filter Thread | 58 mm |
| Dimensions (DxL) | Approx. 2.9 x 2.2" (7.37 x 5.59 cm) |
| Weight | 10.93 oz (310 g) |
REVIEW SNAPSHOT®
by PowerReviews(based on 271 reviews)
Ratings Distribution
96%
of respondents would recommend this to a friend.
Pros
- Fast / accurate auto-focus (211)
- Lightweight (171)
- Consistent output (133)
- Easily interchangeable (130)
- Strong construction (128)
Cons
- Blurry focus (11)
- Slow focus (11)
- Heavy (10)
- Poor in low light (5)
- Chromatic aberration (4)
Best Uses
- Low light (175)
- Night photography (121)
- Landscape/scenery (100)
- Weddings (91)
- Video (57)
- Reviewer Profile:
- Photo enthusiast (90), Semi-pro photographer (71), Pro photographer (37), Casual photographer (28), Enthusiast (17)
- Was this a gift?:
- No (168), Yes (7)
Most Liked Positive Review
Canon EF 28mm f1.8 REVIEW
Canon's 28mm f1.8 USM is a capable lens that is often relegated to a misunderstood category among most amateur users.
Professionals who use this lens do so for a very specific purpose,...Read complete review
Canon's 28mm f1.8 USM is a capable lens that is often relegated to a misunderstood category among most amateur users.
Professionals who use this lens do so for a very specific purpose, a purpose that this lens was designed for, namely low-light, tripod-less, image stabilization free, photography. If you find yourself requiring a lens of this nature, I would recommend it without hesitating to concede that while this optical configuration is perhaps less versatile than a more flexible zoom alternative, indoor photography, especially when this lens is married to a flash pack, will not disappoint.
Outdoor photography, one of the primary reasons for why I purchased this lens, produces (at times) haphazard results, however, most often a consequence of inappropriate use or an ill-advised desire to photograph everything at wide open f-stops. Chromatic aberrations - especially in harsh lighting conditions - will, if you prefer to make use of this lens at the aforesaid apertures, prove to be exceptionally exasperating, if not (unnecessarily) stressful. The obvious response to the aforesaid then, is to stop down this lens to a more appropriate (at the very minimum) 5.6 f-stop, in addition to, when exploiting its exceptional optical quality outdoors, making use of the appropriate lens-hood for additional control.
Accept this lens' limitations and you will be rewarded; forget to observe pragmatic considerations and you will be (unjustifiably) disappointed. Additionally, given the myriad of personal motivators and requirements, the best advice to those looking to invest in any lens, not just the Canon EF 28mm f1.8 USM, is to review what was captured by others. Observing the end results of the experience(s) of third-parties, as they are found on both obvious (and less so) websites all over the internet, is perhaps the most effective method of genuinely ascertaining whether or not a particular lens "fits" your own creative demands.
VS
Most Liked Negative Review
Too soft wide open
I purchased this lens as a replacement for the wide side of the Tamron 28-75, after I sold the Tamron. Not only did I want to replicate that wide focal length, I wanted...Read complete review
I purchased this lens as a replacement for the wide side of the Tamron 28-75, after I sold the Tamron. Not only did I want to replicate that wide focal length, I wanted something faster indoors for winter shots of my kids, but I do not need L glass for snapshots around the house.
I was very disappointed in the performance of this lens when shooting wide open. It was better at 2.2 and 2.8, but by the time I got to a reasonable level of sharpness, it was no faster than the 28mm 2.8, which sells for less than half the price of this lens.
I ended up returning this lens and getting the Canon 35mm 2.0, and I find the quality of the 35 to be much better than the 28 1.8, and it more closely approximates my 50mm 1.4.
I would not recommend this lens.
Reviewed by 271 customers
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Displaying reviews 1-20
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Pros
- Consistent Output
- Easily Interchangeable
- Fast / accurate auto-focus
- Lightweight
- Nice Bokeh
- Strong Construction
Cons
Best Uses
- Indoors/Low Light
- Night Photography
- Weddings/Events
Comments about Canon Wide Angle EF 28mm f/1.8 USM Autofocus Lens:
This lens is a joy to use. I shoot mostly street and concert photography and have always prefferd a fixed-focal lens and this just builds upon that love. The focus is quick and sharp especially when you open it to 2.8. 1.8 can be a little soft but still excellent for low light events that don't allow a flash. The focus ring is smooth and has a good grip and the build quality of the lens feels good (even thought it's plastic). A great lens for the money. Only downside is that it COULD be faster when in low-light, but thats just getting picky.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Consistent Output
- Easily Interchangeable
- Fast / accurate auto-focus
- Great focus ring- no play
- Lightweight
- Strong Construction
Cons
- Poor at f1 point 8 and 2
Best Uses
- Indoors/Low Light
- Landscape/Scenery
Comments about Canon Wide Angle EF 28mm f/1.8 USM Autofocus Lens:
I use this lens for low-light photography, thanks to the large aperture. The focus ring is very smooth and doesn't move after you leave it. At 28mm, great for landscape photography. However, when using at 1.6x, say, with a Rebel T2i, it serves better as a portrait lens. A bit of a disappointment was that the quality of the corners improves from f/2.8 and up, making any caring photographer read this more as a 28mm f/2.8 USM. All in all, a great deal for this lens!
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Consistent Output
- Durable
- Easily Interchangeable
- Fast / accurate auto-focus
- Lightweight
- Nice Bokeh
- Rugged
- Strong Construction
Cons
Best Uses
- Indoors/Low Light
- Landscape/Scenery
- Night Photography
- Weddings/Events
- Wildlife Photos
Comments about Canon Wide Angle EF 28mm f/1.8 USM Autofocus Lens:
Great all around lens. I use it a lot. Easy to carry around. Takes GREAT pictures. Great in low light. Pictures are crisp and sharp. Detail is phenominal!!!! Well worth the money.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Consistent Output
- Fast / accurate auto-focus
- Lightweight
- Nice Bokeh
- Rugged
Cons
Best Uses
- Indoors/Low Light
- Landscape/Scenery
- Night Photography
Comments about Canon Wide Angle EF 28mm f/1.8 USM Autofocus Lens:
I found myself in need of a fast, normal focal length lens to compliment my zoom lenses. This one fit the bill. It has great image quality and focuses very quickly on my 7d. The build quality is very good and it feels right on the 7d. I compared it with the Sigma 30mm f1.4. I went with the canon and don't regret it. It is a great walk around lens especially for a guy like me that came from a prime lens, limited flash world. The zooms are nice but you trade off aperture and image quality for convenience. In many situations you can't beat a prime lens. It also give very nice back ground blur.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Consistent Output
- Fast / accurate auto-focus
- Nice Bokeh
Cons
- Heavy
Best Uses
- Indoors/Low Light
- Night Photography
- Weddings/Events
Comments about Canon Wide Angle EF 28mm f/1.8 USM Autofocus Lens:
Well built lens. Silent, fast focusing. My first nice USM lens, I was impressed by how quiet it is. Also, an often overlooked feature is nothing moves on the outside of the camera; the front doesn't extend and contract, the focus wheel doesn't spin around. A little soft wide open, but sharp as a tack once the aperture is closed even a little bit. I'm not saying anything new that other reviews haven't said. This is a great camera for indoor scenes on a crop sensor, thats why i bought it.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Consistent Output
- Durable
- Easily Interchangeable
- Fast / accurate auto-focus
- Lightweight
- Nice Bokeh
- Strong Construction
Cons
Best Uses
- Indoors/Low Light
- Landscape/Scenery
- Macro Photography
- Night Photography
- Sports/Action
- Video
- Weddings/Events
- Wildlife Photos
Comments about Canon Wide Angle EF 28mm f/1.8 USM Autofocus Lens:
I use my lens for my free lance photography. It has given me a
Greater experience with my pictures. Very clear lens and worth ever dollar spent.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Durable
- Easily Interchangeable
- Fast / accurate auto-focus
- Lightweight
- Nice Bokeh
- Strong Construction
Cons
Best Uses
- Indoors/Low Light
- Landscape/Scenery
- Night Photography
- Weddings/Events
Comments about Canon Wide Angle EF 28mm f/1.8 USM Autofocus Lens:
I love this lens! I wanted something wider than the 50mm or the 85mm 1.8 (I absolutely love) that I could still use for a great portrait lens. This one does the trick. This is now the lens that stays on my camera 90% of the time, and has great flexibility between landscapes, individuals and groups of people. Highly recommend for the price.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Fast / accurate auto-focus
Cons
Best Uses
- Indoors/Low Light
- Night Photography
- Video
Comments about Canon Wide Angle EF 28mm f/1.8 USM Autofocus Lens:
I love this lens on my 5d markII-nice price and B&H is great
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Fast / accurate auto-focus
- Strong Construction
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Canon Wide Angle EF 28mm f/1.8 USM Autofocus Lens:
I bought this on the advice of KenRockwell.com who suggests it as a reasonably priced super-sharp medium wide prime. I use that for indoor studio photography where I want sharp results, maximum detail. This lens meets the need very well.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Consistent Output
- Durable
- Easily Interchangeable
- Fast / accurate auto-focus
- Nice Bokeh
- Rugged
- Strong Construction
Cons
Best Uses
- Indoors/Low Light
- Night Photography
- Sports/Action
- Video
- Weddings/Events
Comments about Canon Wide Angle EF 28mm f/1.8 USM Autofocus Lens:
I bought this lens for my Canon T2i. As you may know, this means that this wide-angle lens suffers a 1.6x crop because of the size of my camera's sensor, making it a 44,8mm, basically, a portrait prime lens.
And being used this way, I can say it's perfect. Awesome brightness overall, very fast and silent focusing, very sharp and with a good bokeh.
Also, feels and weights like a pro lens, the focus ring is very precise and its body, robust.
Just a little bit pricey, but it's worth it.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Good price value
- Lightweight
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Canon Wide Angle EF 28mm f/1.8 USM Autofocus Lens:
I purchased this lens because of i need some lens to use quickly my Canon 60D and it really works! It´s a great option for this price. I recommend it.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Durable
- Fast / accurate auto-focus
- Rugged
- Strong Construction
Cons
Best Uses
- Indoors/Low Light
- Night Photography
Comments about Canon Wide Angle EF 28mm f/1.8 USM Autofocus Lens:
My interest for photography escalated over the past one year. I tested the Canon 60D a few times before purchasing it and I was also recommended this specific camera. I use it to click photos indoor, concentrating on minute details on features of people or objects. So far, I have only clicked pictures indoor and in dim lighting. The camera works like a charm in dim lighting. The EF 28mm f 1.8 lens is great in terms of taking wide angle photos. Sometimes I do wish this lens could have a little zoom to it too, but then again it might lose its charm. Overall, so far, I'm thrilled and satisfied with my buy. Haven't tested it enough to comment further.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
Cons
- Blurry Focus
- Not sharp at all
- Poor AF
Best Uses
Comments about Canon Wide Angle EF 28mm f/1.8 USM Autofocus Lens:
I bought this against many poor reviews because the options for a fast 'normal' lens for 1.6x cameras are few if you want AF. Manual focus is fine for video and landscape/portrait work, but I love street shooting and that requires fast AF. The only other real option is the crop-only Sigma 30/1.4, and that lens has its own issues.
I decided to test this lens in normal, everyday walkaround situations before the holidays to see how it performs on my camera in a variety of conditions.
Bottom line: it is simply never sharp. Not even in the middle of the frame. Pop it on my 5D and results are even worse. Neither camera produced as much as one tack-sharp image with this lens. I own a lot of lenses, and I can accept a lens that isn't ultra sharp, but this thing simply cannot produce an acceptably sharp image.
It's a shame, because I'd far prefer Canon USM over any other option (other than Canon L, of course). Being that the lens is in the same "family" as the very-sharp 85/1.8, this lens is a real letdown. I know the vagaries of designing a fast 28 aren't the same as an 85, but the difference is staggering.
Maybe I got a bad copy? Many other negative reviews tell me "probably not". This is a real letdown from Canon. They need to recognize the amount of crop cameras they are selling (especially for video) and release a fast 'normal' prime for their cameras.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Canon Wide Angle EF 28mm f/1.8 USM Autofocus Lens:
this lens is good len for learner, since it is used on Canon 7D, so it equal to about 50mm
Pros
- Consistent Output
- Easily Interchangeable
Cons
Best Uses
- Indoors/Low Light
- Landscape/Scenery
- Night Photography
Comments about Canon Wide Angle EF 28mm f/1.8 USM Autofocus Lens:
I got this lens together with the 50mm f1.4 and 85mm f1.8. I understand that wideangle lenses are hard to manufacture so I will say that for the price it is good. Sharpness wide open is indeed its worst weakness. Depending on your budget I would also contemplate other options.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easily Interchangeable
- Lightweight
- Nice Bokeh
Cons
- Blurry Focus
Best Uses
- Indoors/Low Light
- Landscape/Scenery
Comments about Canon Wide Angle EF 28mm f/1.8 USM Autofocus Lens:
I use this lens when I have indoor photo shoots where my 85mm just won't fit everything. I can get nice and close to my subject(s) and still capture the whole scene. Great for photographing larger groups of people as well. Very good in a lower light setting. Sometimes I do notice that even when I think I am focused and it looks good on the camera screen that once I enlarge on my computer people's eyes and face look SLIGHTLY blurry on some of the shots ( no one else notices when I bring this to their attention though-only me)
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Consistent Output
- Fast / accurate auto-focus
- Nice Bokeh
Cons
- Heavy
Best Uses
- Indoors/Low Light
- Landscape/Scenery
- Night Photography
- Sports/Action
- Video
Comments about Canon Wide Angle EF 28mm f/1.8 USM Autofocus Lens:
After using a EF 50mm f1.8 as if it was a 80mm on my Rebel Xsi, I wanted to have some good quality, fast lens on the "normal to wide" range. If your situation is similar to mine, than wait no more. I read all the reviews of the lens from Canon (the 24mm and the 35mm) and the one from Sigma. Sigma`s back-focus problems scared me away from buying it, and the speed of the 28mm took me away from the 24mm 2.8. It`s not about sharpness wide open. Wide open IT IS a bit soft, however, it improves dramatically over f2.2 and forward. Its a GREAT lens and its totally worth it!
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Consistent Output
- Easily Interchangeable
- Fast / accurate auto-focus
- Nice Bokeh
Cons
Best Uses
- Indoors/Low Light
- Macro Photography
- Night Photography
- Video
Comments about Canon Wide Angle EF 28mm f/1.8 USM Autofocus Lens:
Amazing in low light. Still wide with a good focal depth. Hard to use when tryin to follow people in video.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Fast / accurate auto-focus
- Great value
- Strong Construction
Cons
Best Uses
- Indoors/Low Light
- Interior Architecture
Comments about Canon Wide Angle EF 28mm f/1.8 USM Autofocus Lens:
Just a beautiful lens. The 1.8 aperature is great for light control and priced right. Any lower seems to have a big price jump so I tried this one and am very happy. Great for interior use on architectural shots. It really minimizes my need for supplimental lighting.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Consistent Output
- Durable
- Fast / accurate auto-focus
Cons
Best Uses
- Indoors/Low Light
Comments about Canon Wide Angle EF 28mm f/1.8 USM Autofocus Lens:
I hate using flash, and I could't take sharp photos of my 1.5 year old running around the house without using this lens.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Displaying reviews 1-20
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What's in the Box
- 58mm Snap-On Lens Cap
- Lens Dust Cap E (Rear)
- 1-Year Warranty
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