Canon RF 85mm F1.2 L USM Review
Canon sells two editions of its RF 85mm F1.2 L USM lens. We reviewed the premium RF 85mm F1.2 L USM DS ($2,999) last year, and are following up with a look at the standard edition, priced at $2,699. It omits the Defocus Smoothing filter, an optical element that changes the way background blur shows in images and reduces light transmission. Photographers who work in challenging light may prefer the RF 85mm F1.2 L USM, and it's nearly as fantastic a performer as its twin. We give preference to the rendering of the DS version, our Editors' Choice winner.F1.2 Optics The RF 85mm F1.2 L USM is fairly squat, coming in at 4.6 by 4.1 inches (HD). It's hefty too, at 2.6 pounds, with a big front glass element that takes 82mm front filters. That's the cost of a lens that gathers as much light as this one does. If you want a lighter prime for portraits, the RF 85mm F2 Macro weighs just 17.6 ounces and can be had for around $600.
The low-cost 85mm F2 isn't an L series lens, though, so it's not...
The Canon RF 85mm F1.2 L USM lens snaps shots with a razor-thin depth of focus and is ideal for use in extremely dim light, but we think it's worth getting the premium DS variation instead.
Extra-bright f/1.2 optics; Excellent resolution; Dust, splash, and fluorine protection; Reliable autofocus; Customizable control ring
Background blur not as pleasing as DS edition; Hefty; Visible focus breathing