Canon EF24-70mm f/2.8L II USM

• Specifications
• Reviews
• Sample Images
• Initial launch information.

The mark 2 version of Canon's 24-70 2.8L lens completely revises the optical formula of the original version (EF24-70 2.8L) giving reduced distortion and a performance that outclasses many older prime lenses. Macro focus is down to 38cm. The lens is also noticeably more robust than its predecessor and features a zoom lock to prevent barrel movement during transport.

Available from: Amazon.com | Amazon.co.uk | B&H | Adorama

Lens specifications

OPTICAL FEATURES/SPECIFICATIONS
Angle of view (horzntl, vertl, diagnl)	74° - 29°. 53° - 19°30', 84° - 34°
Lens construction (elements/groups)	18/13
No. of diaphragm blades	9
Minimum aperture	22
Closest focussing distance (m)	0.38(Macro)
Maximum magnification (x)	0.21(at 70mm)
Distance Information	Provided
AF actuator	Ring USM¹

PHYSICAL SPECIFICATIONS
Dust/moisture resistance	Yes¹
Filter diameter (mm)	82
Max. diameter x length (mm)	88.5 x 113
Weight (g)	805

ACCESSORIES
Lens Cap	E-82 II
Lens hood	EW-88C
Lens case/pouch	LP1219
Magnification Extension Tube EF12 II	0.63-0.18
Magnification Extension Tube EF25 II	0.74-0.41 5
Extender Compatiblity	Not compatible

AF actuator	¹ Full time Manual focus
Dust/moisture resistance	¹ Lenses with dust/moisture resistance are fitted with a rubber ring on the lens mount which may cause sligth abrasion of the camera mount. This in no way effects either the lens or camera performance.

A quick guide to MTF charts (which only measure contrast and resolution. Canon's guide to their MTF charts) Black lines reflect lens performance at widest aperture. Blue lines show the performance at f/8 Thick lines indicate lens contrast Thin lines indicate lens resolution Dashed lines: Lens performance with meridional lines. Solid lines: Lens performance with sagittal lines Closer sagittal and meridional chart lines indicate more 'natural' out of focus areas. Remember that MTF charts are good for comparing similar lenses, so comparing ones from the 14mm f2.8L and 300mm 2.8L won't tell you much at all, whilst comparing the EF14 2.8L with the EF14 2.8L II will show meaningful differences. Note that other manufacturers may have different ways of displaying such information that may or may not match up with the Canon figures.

EF24-70mm f/2.8L II USM reviews and articles

• Canon UK | US Information Page
• Amazon
• Comparison with Mk1 version at Lens Rentals
• Northlight Images
• Canon CPN article
• Fred Miranda
• Lens Tip
• Digital Picture
• PhotoZone
• SLR Gear
• Lens Review
• ePhotozine

Written a review? Contact us and we'll add it to the list.

Sample images

Product launch

United Kingdom, Republic of Ireland, 7th February 2012 – Canon today adds to its world-famous EF lens series with the launch of three new lenses for photography professionals and enthusiasts. The new EF 24-70mm f/2.8L II USM professional zoom lens is an update to the popular EF 24-70mm f/2.8L USM, while the new EF 24mm f/2.8 IS USM and EF 28mm f/2.8 IS USM are the world’s first (according to Canon research as of February 2012) wide-angle prime lenses to feature optical Image Stabilizer (IS) technology. All three provide the highest levels of performance for modern digital photographers, combining premium image quality with durable, user-friendly designs.

The new EF 24-70mm f/2.8L II USM features completely redesigned optics to provide outstanding clarity, image quality and durability. A compact design makes it ideal for carrying on every shoot, and a range of optical enhancements provide improved performance – capturing greater detail across the frame while reducing distortion throughout the entire zoom range, particularly at the maximum 70mm focal length.

With a redesigned optical system that includes two Ultra-low Dispersion (UD) and one Super UD aspheric elements to minimise chromatic aberration and colour blurring, the lens delivers consistently sharp, high-contrast images. Each lens element also features Canon’s optimised Super Spectra coatings to reduce ghosting and flare and ensure excellent colour balance. Additionally, a fluorine coating minimises the amount of dust, dirt and fingerprints that adhere to the front and rear of the lens, helping to maintain superior image quality.

The EF 24-70mm f/2.8L II USM also enables photographers to capture their subjects up close, with a minimum focusing distance of 0.38m at all focal lengths throughout the zoom range. A ring-type Ultrasonic Motor (USM) works in combination with a high-performance CPU and advanced AF algorithms to ensure accurate, silent and ultra-responsive autofocus. For those who prefer to maintain full control in every shot, full-time manual focusing allows photographers to precisely tweak or alter the focus of their shot at any time, even when AF is engaged.

Distinguished L-series design

The EF 24-70mm f/2.8L II USM is the latest lens from the elite L-series to offer Canon’s high-grade and user-focused design enhancements. The mechanical structure of the lens has been improved to offer enhanced zoom durability and greater shake and shock resistance within the lens barrel. The size of the lens has also been reduced by 10mm compared to the previous model, providing enhanced portability and greater convenience in everyday use. A new Zoom Lock lever also enables photographers to lock the zoom position at the extreme wide end to prevent damage to the lens in transit, while a water and dustproof construction (Waterproof construction around the lens mount, switch panel, zoom ring, focusing ring and zoom lock. Weatherproof when used with weatherproof EOS bodies) enables users to continue shooting in harsh conditions.