The Canon RF 24-105mm f/2.8L IS USM Z Lens breaks the traditional trade-off between focal length and aperture. This is the world's first lens to combine a 24-105mm zoom range with a constant f/2.8 maximum aperture throughout. Built for photographers and filmmakers who need flexibility without compromise, it addresses a long-standing gap in professional zoom options.

Canon RF 24-105mm f/2.8L IS USM Z Standard Zoom Lens

The Canon RF 24-105mm f/2.8 L IS USM Z Lens is the world's first 24-105mm focal length lens combined with consistent f/2.8 aperture. With its constant f/2.8 max aperture, full-frame coverage, and its ability to zoom past the traditional 70mm roadblock to a true portrait-length 105mm, this lens is an incredible standard zoom solution for many different applications. An optional, dedicated Power Zoom Adapter PZ-E2 transforms the video operation possibilities with its smooth and versatile zooming. Even in low light, this lens will excel for weddings and events, photojournalism, portraiture, studio work, and video creation.

The RF 24-105mm f/2.8L IS USM Z serves photographers who previously had to choose between the reach of a 24-105mm f/4 lens or the speed of a 24-70mm f/2.8 lens. With this lens, you get both. The extended 105mm reach allows for tighter framing and flattering compression in portraits, while the f/2.8 aperture provides consistent low-light capability and shallow depth of field across the entire zoom range. For a complete look at Canon RF mount options, explore our full lineup.

Key Features of the Canon RF 24-105mm f/2.8L IS USM Z

This lens combines professional-grade optical performance with practical features designed for real-world shooting. The constant f/2.8 aperture means you can zoom freely without adjusting exposure settings, while the dual Nano USM motor system delivers fast, smooth autofocus for both stills and video work.

• World's first 24-105mm focal length with constant f/2.8 maximum aperture
• 23 elements in 18 groups including 4 UD elements, 2 GMo aspherical, and 1 replica aspherical element
• Dual Nano USM motors for fast, quiet autofocus and electronic parfocal zooming
• 11-blade aperture for smooth bokeh
• Optical Image Stabilization up to 5.5 stops (8.0 stops with Coordinated IS on IBIS-equipped cameras)
• Minimum focusing distance of 0.45m (1.5 feet) at all focal lengths
• Maximum magnification of 0.29x at 105mm
• Click-less iris ring with Auto position lock for manual aperture control during video
• Two customizable lens function buttons
• Included tripod mount with lock release button
• Dust and water-resistant construction with fluorine coating on front element
• 82mm filter thread
• Weight: 1430g (3.15 lbs)
• Dimensions: 88.5mm x 199mm (diameter x length)

Optical Design and Image Quality

Canon's RF mount design allows for optical configurations that weren't possible with DSLR lenses. The large diameter mount and short back focus enable the RF 24-105mm f/2.8L IS USM Z to maintain f/2.8 speed across its extended zoom range without excessive size or weight penalties.

The lens uses four Ultra-Low Dispersion (UD) elements to control chromatic aberration, combined with three aspherical elements (two glass-molded and one replica) to minimize spherical aberrations. Canon's Super Spectra Coating and Air Sphere Coating work together to reduce ghosting and flare, while the front element's fluorine coating repels water, oil, and fingerprints for easier maintenance in challenging conditions.

The 11-blade aperture diaphragm creates smooth bokeh across the aperture range. At f/2.8 and 105mm, the lens produces shallow depth of field that separates subjects effectively from backgrounds, making it suitable for portraiture and selective focus work. Image sharpness is strong across the frame, with particular strength in the center at f/2.8 and improved edge performance when stopped down to f/4 or f/5.6.

Autofocus and Image Stabilization

Dual Nano USM motors power both the autofocus system and the lens's floating optics, which move independently to maintain image quality across the focus and zoom ranges. This dual-motor configuration provides precise control for video work, including electronic parfocal focus that maintains focus during zooming and focus breathing suppression to minimize angle-of-view shifts during focus changes.

The built-in optical image stabilization system provides up to 5.5 stops of shake correction. When paired with Canon EOS R-series cameras equipped with In-Body Image Stabilization (IBIS), Coordinated IS delivers up to 8.0 stops of correction. This enables reliable handheld shooting at slower shutter speeds, particularly useful at the 105mm end of the zoom range where camera shake becomes more apparent.

A focus distance limiter switch offers two ranges: full range or 1.0m to infinity. The narrower range can decrease focus lock times when shooting distant subjects. The autofocus system operates quickly and quietly, with only minimal noise audible even in silent environments.

Video-Focused Features

The RF 24-105mm f/2.8L IS USM Z includes several features specifically designed for video production. The click-less iris ring allows smooth, continuous aperture adjustments during recording without introducing steps or clicks into the audio track. A lock switch holds the iris ring in the Auto position for photography, preventing unintentional aperture changes during stills work.

The lens accepts optional Power Zoom Adapters PZ-E2 that attach to the lens barrel without tools. These adapters enable smooth, electronically controlled zoom speed and direction, transforming the lens into a hybrid photo-video solution with cinema-style zoom operation. The PZ-E2B model includes a 20-pin port for compatibility with professional zoom servo grips and focus demands commonly used in broadcast and cinema production.

The fixed-length internal zoom design keeps the lens barrel stationary during zooming and focusing, maintaining the lens's center of gravity and balance when mounted on gimbals or camera rigs. The included tripod mount features a quick-release mechanism for rapid attachment and removal.

Build Quality and Handling

The RF 24-105mm f/2.8L IS USM Z features Canon's L-series construction standards with weather-resistant sealing at operation rings, switches, and lens mount areas. While primarily constructed from high-quality plastics to manage weight, the lens feels solid and well-balanced, particularly when used with full-frame EOS R bodies.

At 1430g (3.15 lbs) and 199mm in length, this lens is substantially larger and heavier than a typical 24-70mm f/2.8 lens, though it remains manageable for handheld work during extended shooting sessions. The included tripod mount is recommended when using the lens on a tripod to reduce strain on the camera mount and prevent lens sag.

The control ring at the front of the lens barrel can be customized for quick access to camera settings including shutter speed, aperture (for photography), ISO, and exposure compensation. Two lens function buttons can be programmed from the camera menu for features such as focus hold, AF stop, or other assignable functions.

Compatible Accessories and System Support

The RF 24-105mm f/2.8L IS USM Z is compatible with all Canon EOS R-series cameras, including both full-frame models (EOS R, R5, R6, R3, and subsequent releases) and APS-C models, though it's designed primarily for full-frame use. The iris ring functionality for still photography requires camera models introduced in 2024 or later, though video iris control works with earlier models including the EOS C70 and R5 C cinema cameras.

The 82mm filter thread accepts standard circular polarizers, ND filters, and protective filters. This is the same filter size as the RF 24-70mm f/2.8L IS USM, allowing filter sharing between these lenses. The lens includes Canon's E-82 II lens cap and EW-88E petal lens hood.

For professional support and rigging, Canon offers the optional LH-E1 lens holder (sold separately) that provides stable mounting when integrating the lens with cinema rigs and follow-focus systems. The lens is not compatible with RF teleconverters. Browse our complete selection of Canon Cameras to find the right body for your shooting needs.

Who Uses the RF 24-105mm f/2.8L IS USM Z?

This lens serves professionals working across photo and video disciplines. Wedding photographers benefit from the ability to cover ceremonies and receptions with a single lens, maintaining consistent aperture and exposure as they zoom. Event photographers appreciate the reach to 105mm for candid moments without disrupting the scene. Portrait photographers use the f/2.8 aperture and 105mm focal length for flattering compression and background separation.

Filmmakers and videographers working in hybrid production environments find the lens's video-specific features particularly valuable. The iris ring, power zoom compatibility, focus breathing suppression, and internal zoom design support professional video workflows. Documentary and travel photographers value the flexibility to shoot wide environmental shots at 24mm and tighter detail shots at 105mm without changing lenses.

Studio photographers working in controlled lighting conditions benefit from the f/2.8 aperture for consistent depth of field control, while the image stabilization system provides insurance against camera shake during handheld work or when shooting at lower shutter speeds. For additional lens options across different focal lengths, explore our complete Lenses & Accessories collection.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the Canon RF 24-105mm f/2.8L IS USM Z work with all EOS R cameras?

Yes, the lens is compatible with all Canon EOS R-series cameras, both full-frame and APS-C models. However, the iris ring for still photography only functions on camera bodies introduced in 2024 or later. Video iris ring operation works with earlier models including the EOS C70, R5 C, and R5 when updated with compatible firmware.

What is the advantage of f/2.8 over f/4 in a 24-105mm zoom?

The f/2.8 aperture provides one full stop more light-gathering capability than f/4, which translates to lower ISO requirements in low light, faster shutter speeds to freeze motion, or shallower depth of field for subject isolation. At 105mm, the difference in background blur between f/2.8 and f/4 becomes particularly noticeable for portrait and selective focus work.

Can I use the Power Zoom Adapter with this lens?

Yes, the RF 24-105mm f/2.8L IS USM Z is designed to work with Canon's optional Power Zoom Adapters PZ-E2 These adapters attach to the lens barrel without tools and enable electronically controlled zoom operation for video work. The PZ-E2B model includes a 20-pin port for professional cinema and broadcast accessories.

How does image stabilization perform with this lens?

The built-in optical image stabilization provides up to 5.5 stops of shake correction on its own. When paired with Canon EOS R cameras equipped with In-Body Image Stabilization (IBIS), Coordinated IS increases this to 8.0 stops of correction. This enables reliable handheld shooting at significantly slower shutter speeds than would otherwise be practical.

Is this lens suitable for professional video production?

Yes, the RF 24-105mm f/2.8L IS USM Z includes multiple features designed specifically for professional video work: click-less iris ring for smooth aperture changes, power zoom adapter compatibility, focus breathing suppression, electronic parfocal focus during zooming, internal zoom design for consistent balance, and dual Nano USM motors for quiet operation. The lens is approved for use on Netflix productions and works with Canon's EOS C70 and R5 C cinema cameras.

What is the minimum focusing distance?

The lens focuses as close as 0.45m (1.5 feet) at all focal lengths, providing a maximum magnification of 0.29x at 105mm and 0.08x at 24mm. While not a macro lens, this close focusing capability adds versatility for detail shots and closer subject framing without requiring a dedicated close-up lens.

Shop the Canon RF 24-105mm f/2.8L IS USM Z at Samy's Camera

The Canon RF 24-105mm f/2.8L IS USM Z combines focal length versatility with consistent f/2.8 speed in a lens built for demanding photo and video work. Whether you're covering events, shooting portraits, documenting travel, or producing professional video content, this lens eliminates the traditional compromise between zoom range and maximum aperture. Samy's Camera provides expert support, fast shipping, and a complete selection of camera accessories to complete your shooting system.