Canon RF24mm F1.4 L VCM Review

The RF24mm F1.4 L VCM represents Canon’s latest innovation in wide-angle prime lenses. This lens reimagines the classic 24mm focal length with modern features designed for both photographers and filmmakers. The addition of dual-motor focus technology and video-centric features marks a significant evolution in wide-angle lens design.

Build Quality and Handling

Construction

The build quality exemplifies Canon’s L-series standards, featuring robust construction while maintaining a surprisingly light weight of 525g (1.2 lbs). The lens measures a compact 76.5mm × 99.3mm, making it notably smaller and lighter than its EF predecessor. This reduction in size doesn’t compromise build quality – the lens feels solid and well-balanced on R-series bodies.

Weather Sealing

Professional-grade weather sealing protects all moving parts and connection points. The fluorine coating on both front and rear elements effectively repels water and fingerprints, making field cleaning significantly easier. This comprehensive protection inspires confidence when shooting in challenging conditions.

Ergonomics

The lens features thoughtfully placed controls:

Smooth-operating focus ring
Dedicated iris ring for aperture control
Customizable control ring
One function button for quick access The grip and balance feel natural, with controls falling easily to hand during use.

Optical Performance

Sharpness

The lens demonstrates impressive sharpness characteristics:

At f/1.4: Strong center sharpness with good corner performance
At f/2: Noticeable improvement across the frame
At f/2.8-f/5.6: Exceptional sharpness corner to corner
At f/8-f/16: Maintains excellent sharpness before diffraction

Distortion and Vignetting

For a wide-angle f/1.4 lens, distortion is remarkably well controlled. There’s minimal barrel distortion, making it particularly suitable for architectural work. Vignetting is present at f/1.4 but cleans up progressively when stopping down.

Chromatic Aberration

Thanks to two UD elements and one aspherical element, chromatic aberration is well controlled. There’s minimal fringing even in high-contrast scenarios, particularly impressive for a fast wide-angle lens.

Autofocus System

Dual-Motor Innovation

The combination of Nano USM and Voice Coil Motor (VCM) technology delivers exceptional performance:

Near-silent operation beneficial for video
Quick acquisition for still photography
Smooth transitions for video focus pulls
Consistent performance in varying light

The VCM design does mean slight movement when powered off, but this is normal and protected by internal cushioning.

Video Performance

This lens particularly shines in video applications:

Manual iris ring provides smooth, stepless aperture control
Minimal focus breathing during focus transitions
Ultra-quiet autofocus operation
Wide angle ideal for establishing shots
Lightweight design perfect for gimbal use

Real-World Applications

Architectural Photography

The 24mm focal length combined with minimal distortion makes this lens excellent for architecture:

Straight lines remain straight
Corner-to-corner sharpness
Wide 84° field of view
Weather sealing for outdoor shoots
Front and rear filter options

Landscape Photography

Several features make this ideal for landscape work:

Excellent edge sharpness
Dual filter capability
Weather sealing
Fluorine coating for easy cleaning
Beautiful sun stars when stopped down

Documentary Work

The lens proves valuable for documentary situations:

Fast aperture for low light
Silent operation
Compact size
Quick autofocus
Wide perspective for context

Real Estate Photography

The lens excels in interior photography:

Wide angle captures entire rooms
Minimal distortion
Fast aperture for low light
Close focusing for details
Professional-looking results

Compared to Alternatives

Versus EF 24mm f/1.4L II USM

20% lighter
Better video features
More sophisticated autofocus
Better optical performance
Modern coating technology

Versus RF 24mm f/1.8 Macro IS STM

Faster maximum aperture
Better build quality
More sophisticated autofocus
Better low-light performance
No image stabilisation but better optics

Conclusion

Strengths

Excellent optical performance
Innovative dual-motor autofocus
Professional build quality
Advanced video features
Lightweight design
Dual filter capability

Limitations

Premium price point
No built-in stabilisation
VCM movement when powered off
Investment level may deter casual users

Final Verdict

The RF24mm F1.4 L VCM successfully modernises the traditional wide-angle prime lens. Its dual-motor autofocus system and video-oriented features make it particularly valuable for hybrid shooters. While the price positions it as a premium option, the performance, versatility, and build quality justify the investment for professional users.