Epic Showdown: Canon EF 24-105mm f/4L IS USM vs. Canon RF 85mm f/1.2L USM – Which Lens Takes the Crown?

Choosing the right camera and lens combination can be a daunting task, especially with the plethora of options available. Today, we’ll be diving into a head-to-head comparison between two popular setups: the Canon EOS 5D Mark IV paired with the Canon EF 24-105mm f/4L IS USM and the Canon EOS RP paired with the Canon RF 85mm f/1.2L USM. Both setups offer distinct advantages and cater to different photographic needs. Let’s explore the key differences and help you determine which combo best suits your style and budget.

The Canon EOS 5D Mark IV and Canon EF 24-105mm f/4L IS USM: A Classic Workhorse

The Canon EOS 5D Mark IV is a full-frame DSLR renowned for its exceptional image quality, robust build, and versatile performance. It boasts a 30.4MP sensor, a powerful DIGIC 6+ image processor, and a wide ISO range (100-102400). The 5D Mark IV’s autofocus system, with 61 cross-type points, delivers fast and accurate focusing, making it suitable for various shooting scenarios.
The Canon EF 24-105mm f/4L IS USM is a versatile standard zoom lens that complements the 5D Mark IV perfectly. It offers a useful focal range, covering wide-angle to portrait shots. The lens features a constant f/4 aperture, providing consistent exposure across the zoom range. Its image stabilization system ensures sharp images, even in low-light conditions.
Pros of the 5D Mark IV and EF 24-105mm f/4L IS USM combo:

• Exceptional Image Quality: The 5D Mark IV’s full-frame sensor delivers stunning detail and dynamic range.
• Versatility: The 24-105mm lens provides a wide focal range, making it suitable for various subjects.
• Reliable Autofocus: The 5D Mark IV’s AF system is fast and accurate, ensuring sharp images.
• Robust Build: Both the camera and lens are built to withstand the rigors of professional use.

Cons of the 5D Mark IV and EF 24-105mm f/4L IS USM combo:

• Bulkier and Heavier: The DSLR body and the EF lens contribute to a larger and heavier setup.
• Limited Video Capabilities: While capable of 4K video recording, the 5D Mark IV’s video features are not as advanced as some mirrorless cameras.

The Canon EOS RP and Canon RF 85mm f/1.2L USM: A Compact and Powerful Duo

The Canon EOS RP is a full-frame mirrorless camera designed for photographers and videographers seeking a compact and lightweight option. It features a 26.2MP sensor, a DIGIC 8 image processor, and a wide ISO range (100-40000). The RP’s autofocus system, utilizing Dual Pixel CMOS AF, is fast and responsive, particularly for tracking moving subjects.
The Canon RF 85mm f/1.2L USM is a prime lens designed for portrait photography. Its large aperture allows for shallow depth of field, creating beautiful bokeh and isolating the subject. The lens features fast and silent autofocus, making it ideal for capturing fleeting moments.
Pros of the EOS RP and RF 85mm f/1.2L USM combo:

• Compact and Lightweight: The mirrorless body and RF lens make for a more portable setup.
• Excellent Video Capabilities: The EOS RP offers advanced video features, including 4K recording at 30fps and internal 10-bit 4:2:2 recording.
• Superb Image Quality: The RF 85mm f/1.2L USM delivers exceptional sharpness and detail, especially when shooting wide open.
• Fast and Silent Autofocus: The Dual Pixel CMOS AF and the lens’s autofocus system ensure accurate and quiet focusing.

Cons of the EOS RP and RF 85mm f/1.2L USM combo:

• Limited Zoom Range: The RF 85mm f/1.2L USM is a prime lens, offering only a fixed focal length.
• Higher Price Point: The combination of the EOS RP and the RF 85mm f/1.2L USM is generally more expensive than the 5D Mark IV and EF 24-105mm f/4L IS USM setup.

Performance Comparison: Image Quality and Autofocus

Both setups deliver excellent image quality, but the 5D Mark IV’s larger sensor provides a slight edge in detail and dynamic range. However, the EOS RP’s DIGIC 8 image processor excels in low-light performance, producing cleaner images at higher ISOs.
In terms of autofocus, the 5D Mark IV‘s traditional phase-detection system is still very capable, but the EOS RP‘s Dual Pixel CMOS AF offers faster and more accurate focusing, especially for tracking moving subjects.

Versatility: Zoom vs. Prime

The EF 24-105mm f/4L IS USM provides versatility with its zoom range, allowing you to capture a variety of subjects, from landscapes to portraits. However, the RF 85mm f/1.2L USM excels in portraiture, delivering exceptional bokeh and sharpness. If you primarily shoot portraits or prefer a fixed focal length, the RF 85mm f/1.2L USM is the superior choice.

Ergonomics and Handling: DSLR vs. Mirrorless

The 5D Mark IV offers a traditional DSLR experience with a large viewfinder and dedicated buttons and dials. The EOS RP, being a mirrorless camera, has a smaller body and relies heavily on the touchscreen for navigation and settings adjustments. Both cameras offer comfortable handling, but the 5D Mark IV might feel more familiar to those used to DSLRs.

Video Capabilities: A Mirrorless Advantage

The EOS RP offers more advanced video features than the 5D Mark IV. It supports 4K video recording at 30fps with internal 10-bit 4:2:2 recording, providing greater flexibility for post-production. The 5D Mark IV, while capable of 4K video, lacks some of the advanced features found in the EOS RP.

Price and Value: Finding the Right Balance

The 5D Mark IV and EF 24-105mm f/4L IS USM combo is generally more affordable than the EOS RP and RF 85mm f/1.2L USM setup. However, the RF 85mm f/1.2L USM is a premium lens, and its price reflects the exceptional image quality and performance it delivers.

Choosing the Right Combo for You

Ultimately, the best camera and lens combo depends on your individual needs and preferences. Here’s a quick breakdown to help you decide:
Choose the Canon EOS 5D Mark IV and Canon EF 24-105mm f/4L IS USM if:

• You need a versatile zoom lens for various subjects.
• You prioritize image quality and a robust build.
• You prefer a traditional DSLR experience.
• You are on a tighter budget.

Choose the Canon EOS RP and Canon RF 85mm f/1.2L USM if:

• You primarily shoot portraits and value shallow depth of field.
• You need a compact and lightweight setup.
• You prioritize advanced video capabilities.
• You are willing to invest in a premium lens.

A Final Thought: Embrace the Future of Photography

The Canon EOS RP and Canon RF 85mm f/1.2L USM represent the future of photography, offering a blend of compact design, advanced technology, and exceptional image quality. While the 5D Mark IV remains a capable DSLR, the mirrorless system‘s advantages in video, autofocus, and portability are undeniable.

What You Need to Learn

1. Can I use EF lenses on the EOS RP?
Yes, you can use EF lenses on the EOS RP using an EF-EOS R adapter. However, you will lose some of the benefits of the RF system, such as the fast and silent autofocus.
2. Is the RF 85mm f/1.2L USM suitable for other types of photography besides portraits?
While the RF 85mm f/1.2L USM excels in portraiture, it can also be used for other subjects, such as street photography, product photography, and even wildlife.
3. Which camera has better low-light performance?
The EOS RP‘s DIGIC 8 image processor offers better low-light performance than the 5D Mark IV’s DIGIC 6+ processor.
4. Which camera is better for video?
The EOS RP offers more advanced video features than the 5D Mark IV, including 4K recording at 30fps with internal 10-bit 4:2:2 recording.
5. What are the main differences between DSLR and mirrorless cameras?
DSLRs use a mirror to reflect light to the viewfinder, while mirrorless cameras use an electronic viewfinder. Mirrorless cameras tend to be smaller, lighter, and offer more advanced video features.