DXOMark tests the Canon RF 50mm F1.2

DXO has completed their review of the Canon RF 50mm F1.2, and their results were mixed.  Yes, the Canon RF 50mm 1.2L is far better than it's EF predecessor but it doesn't take the crown as the best performing 50mm.

While they feel the Canon RF 50mm F1.2 reaches a high level of performance, they feel it simply matches and at times doesn't perform as well as the Sigma 50mm F1.4 Art for the Canon EF mount in terms of overall performance.

Of course, part of this could be the difference between an EF sensor and an RF sensor, where it could be that without Canon using BSI (back side illuminated) sensors, the overall performance of the lenses cannot reach its maximum potential.  This is less of a problem with EF based cameras because the lens is so far away from the sensor (44mm for the EF mount, and only 20mm for the RF mount).  The closer the lens is to the sensor, the more impact the sensor can have on overall performance.  Especially for comparisons such as vignetting.

In all DXO, concludes;

There isn’t a huge pool of f/1.2 50mm lens to compare the Canon RF 50mm f/1.2L USM against, and most of its competitors have a maximum aperture of f/1.4 or f/1.8. If optimum image quality is your major concern, then the Sigma 50mm F1.4 DG HSM A makes for a better choice, although it can’t be mounted directly on Canon’s mirrorless cameras. However, if you need the extra 1/3-stop of light, then the RF lens makes a good solid proposition that is a step up from the older Canon EF 50mm f/1.2L USM.

The Canon RF 50mm F1.2 at a glance;

• RF-Mount Lens/Full-Frame Format
• Aperture Range: f/1.2 to f/16
• One UD Element, One Aspherical Element
• Ring-Type Ultrasonic Motor AF System
• Customizable Control Ring
• Rounded 10-Blade Diaphragm

Buy it now