Canon Zoom Wide Angle-Telephoto EF 24-70mm f/2.8L USM Autofocus Lens USA

This lens replaces the previous high quality L-series 28-70mm f/2.8 lens, with a lens of even greater caliber. The range has been extended to cover an ultra-wide angle of 24mm, which makes it ideal for digital as well as film shooters, and the optics are even better than before with two Aspherical elements and a totally new UD glass element. It's now sealed and gasketed against dust and moisture, and a new processing unit makes the AF faster than ever.

Internal Focusing
The internal focusing mechanism allows the front of the lens to remain stationary and to easily accommodate specialty filters, such as polarizing filters.
Two Aspherical Elements
A lens design incorporating elements ground so the curve of the surface does not describe an arc of a circle. Especially useful in reducing distortion in wide angle lenses.
UD Element
UD glass is one of the new technologies to open new possibilities to develop the zoom lenses with low weight and high optical performance. UD elements make it possible to correct chromatic aberrations whilst maintaining low weight.
Performance
Focal Length 24 - 70 mm
Aperture Maximum: f/2.8
Minimum: f/22
Camera Mount Type Canon EF
Format Compatibility 35mm Film / Full-Frame Digital Sensor
Canon (APS-C)
Angle of View 84° - 34°
Minimum Focus Distance 1.25' (38 cm)
Magnification 0.29x
Maximum Reproduction Ratio 1:3.44
Groups/Elements 13/16
Diaphragm Blades 8
Features
Image Stabilization No
Autofocus Yes
Tripod Collar No
Physical
Filter Thread 77 mm
Dimensions (DxL) Approx. 3.3 x 4.8" (8.38 x 12.19 cm)
Weight 2.1 lb (953 g)

REVIEW SNAPSHOT®

by PowerReviews
Canon Zoom Wide Angle-Telephoto EF 24-70mm f/2.8L USM Autofocus Lens
 
4.8

(based on 1755 reviews)

Ratings Distribution

  • 5 Stars

     

    (1481)

  • 4 Stars

     

    (226)

  • 3 Stars

     

    (25)

  • 2 Stars

     

    (13)

  • 1 Stars

     

    (10)

98%

of respondents would recommend this to a friend.

Pros

  • Fast / accurate auto-focus (1631)
  • Strong construction (1293)
  • Durable (1151)
  • Consistent output (1123)
  • Easily interchangeable (777)

Cons

  • Heavy (943)
  • Blurry focus (39)
  • Slow focus (29)
  • Poor in low light (23)
  • Heavy / bulky (11)

Best Uses

  • Weddings (884)
  • Low light (827)
  • Landscape/scenery (713)
  • Night photography (611)
  • Sports/action (478)
    • Reviewer Profile:
    • Semi-pro photographer (466), Photo enthusiast (387), Pro photographer (266), Enthusiast (173), Semi-professional (156)
    • Was this a gift?:
    • No (831), Yes (49)

Most Liked Positive Review

 

Fantastic walk around

I purchased this lens to replace a Canon 17-85mm f/4-5.6 EF-S IS USM lens that I could never be happy with, due to barrel distortion, vignetting, and other reasons.
Read complete review

I purchased this lens to replace a Canon 17-85mm f/4-5.6 EF-S IS USM lens that I could never be happy with, due to barrel distortion, vignetting, and other reasons.

On to the Canon EF 24-70mm f/2.8L USM: FANTASTIC!!! I primarily use this lens as my walk around lens and low light photography needs. 2.8 really helps with lower light/ available light photography. I detest flash with a passion so this lens fit the bill. Now I need a 50mm prime f/1.2...

The cool part of this lens is the "reverse zoom" as I call it. Many times people ask why I am zooming in on there face, when in actuality I am opening it wide. I usually shoot from 50-70 when outside, so having the lens already "zoomed in" during storage means less time from turn on to shutter release. It really came in handy when touring Yellowstone national park when fleeting animals show up for only a few seconds.

The hood for the lens is large and impressive. As others have stated, the reversing zoom adds to the effectiveness of the lens hood itself. And as usual flipping the hood for storage severely hampers the ability to control the zoom ring. As large hands will have trouble. It is doable, but not convenient.

The Lens is/states/shows quality like a L series lens should. The weather sealing worked like it should. I was climbing mountains in the Rockies. Weather was very fast at changing: from 90's to 30's in a mater of minutes, and humidity climbing and falling and even a cloud/fog rolled in. And to top that, rain, hail, and snow. NEVER DID THIS LENS FOG OVER (internally)

I agree with many who say don't put a cheap filter on after spending so much on a quality lens. The filter I went with is the "B+W 77mm UV Haze 010 F-Pro Filter" You must add a filter to seal off the lens from the elements. And yes the rear gasket will leave a smudge, easily cleaned away.

Now onto what everyone dislikes about the lens. The weight. It weighs substantially more than the 17-85. I never carry my camera with the neck strap, it is always on the shoulder, and cradle the lens with my hand as I walk. So the weight was/is never an issue with me. I find the weight also allows for steadier photographs, especially at night.

I currently shoot with a T1i, which is a light camera crop camera body. Consequently the whole camera + lens weight is not balanced. The majority of the weight, with the way I shoot, is held in my left hand. The right hand simply balances and sets and takes the photo. I do not find this a negative, rather a positive. As the weight balances with the way I position myself normally. I should say I prefer the weight imbalance. I rarely shoot tripod so cannot comment on how the weight affects tripod shooting.

Picture Quality:

Above 35mm it is simply fantastic, at 24mm with a lot of straight lines, you may, if you look hard enough and long enough discover very very slight distortion. Most photos I can not find it. Easily eliminated via post processing. If you have this lens then you know you should be shooting in RAW.

Color representation is fantastic, although editing and camera settings makes this point mute.

This was my second L series lens purchase. I own the new canon 100mm f2.8L USM IS Macro lens. As a recent L series owner, I now understand what people mean by the L desire. Once you go L you dislike anything else.

On a last and final note I wish to state I have taken over 6000 photos since purchasing the lens. I have yet to come up with any negatives with the lens. The only downside is now I want a Full Frame camera to really bring out the details this lens has the potential to provide.

VS

Most Liked Negative Review

 

24-70 or the 24-105 ??

After owning 2 soft copies of the Canon 24-70 F2.8 in the last 9 months, I without a doubt have confirmed that the 24-105 is a Better Lens!I tested the [*]...Read complete review

After owning 2 soft copies of the Canon 24-70 F2.8 in the last 9 months, I without a doubt have confirmed that the 24-105 is a Better Lens!I tested the [*]out of 2 copies of the 24-70 @ 2.8.. & the 24-105 f4IS kills it in regard to consistency, sharpness, practicality of its focal length, Image stabilization for low light shots & video & just overall usefulness. Unless you are completely stuck on having the 2.8 for low light without the use of a flash & are lucky enough to actually GET A SHARP COPY..go with the 24-105 f4IS

Reviewed by 1755 customers

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Displaying reviews 1-20

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5.0

My Favorite Walk-Around Lens

By Mike

from Iowa City, IA

About Me Photo Enthusiast

Verified Buyer

Pros

  • Consistent Output
  • Durable
  • Fast / accurate auto-focus
  • Nice Bokeh
  • Rugged
  • Strong Construction

Cons

  • Heavy

Best Uses

  • Indoors/Low Light
  • Landscape/Scenery

Comments about Canon Zoom Wide Angle-Telephoto EF 24-70mm f/2.8L USM Autofocus Lens:

I use this lens as my everyday walk-around lens on my Canon 5D Mark II. Images are always tack-sharp. Great low-light lens. No image stabilization, but it is not needed, as the lens is fast. Excellent construction, no focus problems, overall an outstanding lens. Heavy but not too heavy.

  • Was this a gift?:
  • No

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5.0

This is a Great Lens

By dawgpilot

from Jefferson, GA

About Me Semi-pro Photographer

Verified Buyer

Pros

  • Consistent Output
  • Durable
  • Fast / accurate auto-focus
  • Nice Bokeh
  • Rugged
  • Strong Construction

Cons

    Best Uses

    • Indoors/Low Light
    • Landscape/Scenery
    • Weddings/Events

    Comments about Canon Zoom Wide Angle-Telephoto EF 24-70mm f/2.8L USM Autofocus Lens:

    What more can I say...this is a great lens. It is great for indoor and outdoor shots. I use it mainly with a 5dmkii and it is the lens that I use the most often.

    • Was this a gift?:
    • No

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    5.0

    Love this lens

    By jimmv

    from Moreno Valley, CA

    About Me Photo Enthusiast

    Verified Buyer

    Pros

    • Consistent Output
    • Durable
    • Easily Interchangeable
    • Fast / accurate auto-focus
    • Rugged
    • Strong Construction

    Cons

      Best Uses

      • Indoors/Low Light
      • Landscape/Scenery
      • Night Photography
      • Sports/Action
      • Weddings/Events

      Comments about Canon Zoom Wide Angle-Telephoto EF 24-70mm f/2.8L USM Autofocus Lens:

      I am new to photography, and I am teaching my self as I go. But I can already see the difference in the clarity and colors brightness in this lens. I have only used a couple of times so far because work keeps me busy, but the results have been amazing. I was a bit nervous about spending the money, but after downloading my first days shots, I wish I had not waited so long. I am already looking to purchase my next L series lens. IF your worried about the quality for the money, go ahead and make the plunge. You wont be disapointed.

      • Was this a gift?:
      • No

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      5.0

      Great Lens

      By Roger Y

      from Marion, IN

      About Me Photo Enthusiast

      Verified Buyer

      Pros

      • Consistent Output
      • Fast / accurate auto-focus
      • Nice Bokeh

      Cons

        Best Uses

        • Indoors/Low Light
        • Sports/Action
        • Weddings/Events

        Comments about Canon Zoom Wide Angle-Telephoto EF 24-70mm f/2.8L USM Autofocus Lens:

        I use this lens for just about anything. I use it to shoot basketball games and portraits. It is so versatile and a great lens for any photographer.

        • Was this a gift?:
        • No

        Share this review

         
        5.0

        Nice lens

        By Greg

        from Brooklyn, NY

        About Me Pro Photographer

        Verified Buyer

        Pros

        • Consistent Output
        • Strong Construction

        Cons

          Best Uses

          • Indoors/Low Light
          • Landscape/Scenery
          • Video

          Comments about Canon Zoom Wide Angle-Telephoto EF 24-70mm f/2.8L USM Autofocus Lens:

          The lens is sharp, has a decent range, and is pretty fast. I like it.

          • Was this a gift?:
          • No

          Share this review

           
          5.0

          perfect

          By mlare

          from maine

          About Me Semi-pro Photographer

          Verified Buyer

          Pros

          • Consistent Output
          • Durable
          • Easily Interchangeable
          • Fast / accurate auto-focus
          • Rugged
          • Strong Construction

          Cons

          • Heavy

          Best Uses

          • Indoors/Low Light
          • Landscape/Scenery
          • Weddings/Events
          • Wildlife Photos

          Comments about Canon Zoom Wide Angle-Telephoto EF 24-70mm f/2.8L USM Autofocus Lens:

          I am a semi-professional photographer and artist. I shoot portraits, weddings and fine art work. I am a faithful fixed focus 50mm user because of the crispness of the lens and was concerned about that being an issue with the zoom capabilities of the lens. It is certainly not an issue. The clarity is phenomenal. The lens is as wide as I could ever need for it to be without any sort of warping or fisheye look. The focus is fast, the aperture is wide, it is sturdy and has a nice solid weight to it. I love it.(it may feel pretty heavy to some people, but I like a nice solid feeling lens).

          • Was this a gift?:
          • No

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          5.0

          Tack Sharp...

          By KBP Brad

          from Toledo, OH

          About Me Pro Photographer

          Verified Buyer

          Pros

          • Consistent Output
          • Fast / accurate auto-focus
          • Nice Bokeh

          Cons

            Best Uses

            • Landscape/Scenery
            • Weddings/Events
            • Wildlife Photos

            Comments about Canon Zoom Wide Angle-Telephoto EF 24-70mm f/2.8L USM Autofocus Lens:

            I bought this lens because I needed something to replace my 18-55ef-s kit lens when I bought my 5DMKII...I don't know why I waited as long as I did to make this purchase. The images I have shot with it at my first two booking since its delivery have me kicking myself for not buying it sooner.

            • Was this a gift?:
            • No

            Share this review

             
            5.0

            I love this lens

            By August Lyon Photography

            from Silver Spring, MD

            About Me Pro Photographer

            Verified Buyer

            Pros

            • Durable
            • Fast / accurate auto-focus
            • Nice Bokeh
            • Rugged
            • Strong Construction

            Cons

            • Heavy

            Best Uses

            • Indoors/Low Light
            • Weddings/Events

            Comments about Canon Zoom Wide Angle-Telephoto EF 24-70mm f/2.8L USM Autofocus Lens:

            Sharp, fast, and quiet

            • Was this a gift?:
            • No

            Share this review

             
            5.0

            Amazing Lens

            By darlin

            from Edmonton, AB

            About Me Casual Photographer

            Verified Buyer

            Pros

            • Consistent Output
            • Easily Interchangeable
            • Nice Bokeh
            • Strong Construction

            Cons

            • Heavy

            Best Uses

            • Indoors/Low Light
            • Landscape/Scenery
            • Macro Photography
            • Weddings/Events
            • Wildlife Photos

            Comments about Canon Zoom Wide Angle-Telephoto EF 24-70mm f/2.8L USM Autofocus Lens:

            The clarity of this lens is surreal, it takes the perfect macro shot and what I am looking for is perfectly clear. The lens itself is heavy, but it's worth packing this type of weight for the quality of shots it has the capability of taking.

            • Was this a gift?:
            • No

            Share this review

             
            5.0

            Quality!

            By apine

            from Chicago, IL

            About Me Semi-pro Photographer

            Verified Buyer

            Pros

            • Consistent Output
            • Durable
            • Easily Interchangeable
            • Fast / accurate auto-focus
            • Rugged
            • Strong Construction

            Cons

            • Heavy

            Best Uses

            • All purpose photography

            Comments about Canon Zoom Wide Angle-Telephoto EF 24-70mm f/2.8L USM Autofocus Lens:

            This is the top of the line standard zoom lens. Canon's supreme quality and craftsmanship makes this lens a must have for every serious photographer.

            • Was this a gift?:
            • No

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            5.0

            Awsome lens!

            By Btedesign

            from Lakeland, fl

            About Me Pro Photographer

            Verified Buyer

            Pros

            • Consistent Output
            • Durable
            • Fast / accurate auto-focus
            • Rugged
            • Strong Construction

            Cons

            • Heavy

            Best Uses

            • Indoors/Low Light
            • Night Photography
            • Weddings/Events

            Comments about Canon Zoom Wide Angle-Telephoto EF 24-70mm f/2.8L USM Autofocus Lens:

            This lens is incredible. After much debate and comparing it to the 24-110mm I decided to go with this and I'm happy I did. It's fast focusing and it's not bothered by dim lighting. The focal range is perfect if you accustomed to shooting around 50mm anyways, it limits your options and forces you to move to get a better shot. I live it!

            • Was this a gift?:
            • No

            Share this review

             
            5.0

            Great Lens

            By Luke

            from New York, NY

            About Me Semi-pro Photographer

            Verified Buyer

            Pros

            • Fast / accurate auto-focus
            • Strong Construction

            Cons

              Best Uses

              • Indoors/Low Light
              • Video

              Comments about Canon Zoom Wide Angle-Telephoto EF 24-70mm f/2.8L USM Autofocus Lens:

              Great Lens, No Cons

              • Was this a gift?:
              • No

              Share this review

               
              5.0

              WOW!!!

              By Mark

              from Ellicott City, MD

              About Me Photo Enthusiast

              Verified Buyer

              Pros

              • Consistent Output
              • Durable
              • Easily Interchangeable
              • Fast / accurate auto-focus
              • Rugged
              • Strong Construction

              Cons

              • Heavy

              Best Uses

              • Indoors/Low Light
              • Landscape/Scenery
              • Sports/Action
              • Weddings/Events

              Comments about Canon Zoom Wide Angle-Telephoto EF 24-70mm f/2.8L USM Autofocus Lens:

              Well worth the money!!!

              • Was this a gift?:
              • No

              Share this review

               
              5.0

              Best lens yet!

              By Nailsnglue

              from Australia

              About Me Photo Enthusiast

              Verified Buyer

              Pros

              • Durable
              • Easily Interchangeable
              • Fast / accurate auto-focus

              Cons

              • Heavy

              Best Uses

              • Indoors/Low Light
              • Landscape/Scenery
              • Sports/Action
              • Weddings/Events

              Comments about Canon Zoom Wide Angle-Telephoto EF 24-70mm f/2.8L USM Autofocus Lens:

              I bought this lens after having a lot of fun (and good shots) with my 50mm 2.4 macro lens. Having telephoto is just such a bonus. All shots are so crisp and clear. Worth every cent! A little on the heavy side but feels good on the end of the camera.

              • Was this a gift?:
              • No

              Share this review

               
              5.0

              Love it

              By Osiris

              from Trinidad

              About Me Pro Photographer

              Verified Buyer

              Pros

              • Durable
              • Easily Interchangeable
              • Fast / accurate auto-focus
              • Rugged

              Cons

                Best Uses

                • Landscape/Scenery
                • Weddings/Events

                Comments about Canon Zoom Wide Angle-Telephoto EF 24-70mm f/2.8L USM Autofocus Lens:

                i always use to hear about this lens and how sharp and clean the image is look and how easy it is to focus and everything that was said about this lens is for real.

                • Was this a gift?:
                • No

                Share this review

                 
                5.0

                Great Zoom Lens

                By Jack the Wedding Photographer

                from Dallas, TX

                About Me Pro Photographer

                Verified Buyer

                Pros

                • Consistent Output
                • Easily Interchangeable
                • Fast / accurate auto-focus
                • Strong Construction

                Cons

                  Best Uses

                  • Indoors/Low Light
                  • Night Photography
                  • Sports/Action
                  • Weddings/Events

                  Comments about Canon Zoom Wide Angle-Telephoto EF 24-70mm f/2.8L USM Autofocus Lens:

                  I've been renting this lens for a year and was finally able to purchase one through B&H. I am a wedding photographer and this is my #1 lens. The zoom is great and 2.8 aperture makes all the difference! Would recommend to anybody wanting to get into the business.

                  • Was this a gift?:
                  • No

                  Share this review

                   
                  5.0

                  A must for any wedding photographer.

                  By kajlepere

                  from Columbia, MD

                  About Me Semi-pro Photographer

                  Verified Buyer

                  Pros

                  • Consistent Output
                  • Fast / accurate auto-focus
                  • Nice Bokeh
                  • Rugged
                  • Strong Construction

                  Cons

                    Best Uses

                    • Indoors/Low Light
                    • Night Photography
                    • Weddings/Events

                    Comments about Canon Zoom Wide Angle-Telephoto EF 24-70mm f/2.8L USM Autofocus Lens:

                    I've read so many reviews and looked at so many videos about this lens. Finally I was able to get one and I am so happy. I am a wedding photographer and I only wish that I could have gotten this way before. I've used some good lens and even have the 70-200 2.8 IS II, but this lens has thus far proven to be the lens that I will be using more often than ever.
                    Get it if you can afford it, you will not be sorry.

                    • Was this a gift?:
                    • No

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                    4.0

                    Great lens

                    By BenRoberts

                    from Boone, NC

                    About Me Photography Student

                    Verified Buyer

                    Pros

                    • Amazing color rendition
                    • Durable
                    • Fast / accurate auto-focus
                    • Image quality
                    • Rugged
                    • Strong Construction

                    Cons

                    • Blurry Focus
                    • Heavy

                    Best Uses

                    • Landscape/Scenery
                    • Macro Photography
                    • Video
                    • Weddings/Events

                    Comments about Canon Zoom Wide Angle-Telephoto EF 24-70mm f/2.8L USM Autofocus Lens:

                    I just got my 24-70 and so far its great. The auto-focus is super fast and the overall build is great. It is very heavy as I'm sure you've heard. I didn't think this would be a problem for me, but its hard to get super sharp images in low light because my wrists can't help but shake with the weight. The image quality is slightly lower than the canon 50mm 1.4., but the color rendition is much better. If you are a fan of prime lenses I suggest this one, because it has comparable image quality yet is able to zoom.

                    • Was this a gift?:
                    • No

                    Share this review

                     
                    5.0

                    Great universal lens

                    By monikae

                    from San Francisco, CA

                    About Me Photo Enthusiast

                    Verified Buyer

                    Pros

                    • Consistent Output
                    • Durable
                    • Fast / accurate auto-focus
                    • Strong Construction

                    Cons

                    • Heavy

                    Best Uses

                    • Landscape/Scenery
                    • Night Photography
                    • Video
                    • Weddings/Events

                    Comments about Canon Zoom Wide Angle-Telephoto EF 24-70mm f/2.8L USM Autofocus Lens:

                    I use it in many situations and I really like it. Although, it seems to be heavy it sits nice in my heand. I bought the lens because I wanted to have one universal L lens that I can use for landscape and portraits. I'm very happy with this lens.

                    • Was this a gift?:
                    • No

                    Share this review

                    (0 of 1 customers found this review helpful)

                     
                    5.0

                    Amazing Lens....

                    By bigdog

                    from Minneapolis, MN

                    About Me Photo Enthusiast

                    Verified Buyer

                    Pros

                    • Consistent Output
                    • Fast / accurate auto-focus
                    • Nice Bokeh
                    • Strong Construction

                    Cons

                    • Heavy

                    Best Uses

                      Comments about Canon Zoom Wide Angle-Telephoto EF 24-70mm f/2.8L USM Autofocus Lens:

                      I've had other lens like the 50 1.2, 50 1.8 and 50 1.4 and I would say this is my favorite most used lens on my 7d. My copy of the 50 1.2 must have been bad as it wasn't as sharp as the 50 1.8 or 1.4 or this lens. I can see why this is the top rated lens on B&H. Also note that B&H is the BEST place to buy things from. Super customer service and great prices!!!

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                      • No

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                      Canon Zoom Wide Angle-Telephoto EF 24-70mm f/2.8L USM Autofocus Lens
                       
                       
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