OpticalLimits has completed their review of what appears to be the best 50mm lens that Canon has ever produced, the RF 50mm f/1.2L USM.
I've been using the RF 50mm f/1.2L USM for a couple of weeks now and I am extremely impressed by it. 50mm isn't my focal length of choice, but the RF 50mm f/1.2L USM is forcing me to get used to it because it's so good.
From OpticalLimits:
Let's start with a disclaimer: Any verdict has to be very preliminary at this stage – it's our first review using the EOS R after all. Also, keep in mind that the 30-megapixel sensor is rather average in terms of resolution today.
That all being said, it is quite obvious that the Canon RF 50mm f/1.2 USM L is an awesome lens … with a similar awe-inspiring price tag. In relation to other lenses in this class, the performance is already superb at f/1.2. Yes, the outer image region is not truly stellar but it's impressive nonetheless. The image quality is extreme at medium aperture settings – across the image frame that is. Low lateral CAs contribute to the very high image quality perception. Image distortions are generally no issue. Vignetting is though – at least in its uncorrected state. There is some heavy light-falloff at f/1.2 and f/1.6 but to be fair – that's to be expected. Most users will not (should not?) buy the lens for its sharpness but for its shallow depth-of-field capabilities. While not truly exceptional, the bokeh is very good with a smooth rendition in the focus transition zone. Out-of-focus highlights are nicely rendered in the image center, less so towards the image corners. Read the full review
Canon RF 50mm f/1.2L at our exclusive affiliate partner Adorama
I do not generally use 50mm, or I'd find a way to get this lens. I also have a 5D MK IV, so I use EF lenses because they work on both cameras.
Got to sell my wife's car, my son's downhill bikes or rob a bank. Life is getting hard for fanboys...
But it seems Canon made the right (lens) choices!
We could rob a bank together.
Canon stepped it up for reals....
If I could own only one lens forever it is no question...
50mm is my most commonly used prime focal length as a walk around and detail lens. But I can't get on board the "bokeh train" when it comes to this lens. I'm really on the fence. I see images where the background melts away and then I see images where it's a busy, distracting mess with football bokeh balls everywhere. Unfortunately, the latter seems to be happening a lot in sample images and it's honestly not something I have with my 50mm Art.
The Sigma is a great lens, but it's my only non-Canon glass I have, and that bothers me from a weather sealing and professional service standpoint. Sigma repairs are well communicated, but slow and they don't offer a loaner program at this time. I want to want this lens - if that makes sense....but I really need to rent one and decide if it will work for me and I need to experience just how bad the bokeh is. Because right now I'm not really seeing the insanely beautiful bokeh the 50mm f/1.2 was previously known for. This is almost like a Canon "Helios 44-2" 50mm f/1.2! haha
Again, just my opinion based purely from samples online. I plan to rent this lens and get a better feel for it.
I'm hoping that they will release an everyday, reasonably priced RF 50 f/1.4 IS. That would probably push me into the RF world.
Too big? Look at the 1,4 (only)Sigma.
Too heavy? Look at the 1,4/85 Sigma.
Too expensive? What about the Leica M 1,25/75mm (GAAAASP!)
There is certainly a huge market for a lighter and less expensive RF 1,4/50, but I'm convinced, the 1,2/50 is a very interesting offer, and worth its price.
I agree though. I own it because it's awesome. If they follow up with a great f/1.4 IS I'm going to for sure trade this in for that. If I was putting together a studio this would be the first lens I bought though, my god is it huge for a 50 prime though.
Very nice pict!