Canon EF 24mm F1.4 L II USM Review

General information

This is a prime lens manufactured by Canon and the lens was released 2008.
The lens belongs to the category wide angle prime lenses, a wide angle lens where you do not have the possibility to zoom in and out.

Product description from Canon

At launch 2008 Canon wrote this regarding Canon EF 24mm F1.4 L II USM :

"The Canon EF24mm f/1.4L II USM, an interchangeable L (luxury)-series lens for Canon EOS-series SLR cameras. The large-diameter, wide-angle lens boasts an ultra-wide maximum aperture of f/1.4, the brightest* in its class. Incorporating special optic materials like glass mold aspherical lenses and UD (ultra-low dispersion) lenses, the new high-performance L-series EF24mm f/1.4L II USM realizes enhanced image quality over its predecessor, the large-diameter wide-angle EF24mm f/1.4L USM, which released to favorable reviews in December 1997. In addition to two high-precision glass mold aspherical lenses that enhance overall image quality, the EF24mm f/1.4L II USM features two UD lenses that minimize color bleeding (chromatic aberration of magnification), which tends to occur on the periphery of photos taken by wide-angle lenses. Newly developed Subwavelength Structure Coating minimizes ghosting and flare caused by light with a large angle of incidence. The new high-performance lens also incorporates a dust- and moisture-proof body that provides added protection in the harshest of environments. This and other features, including a high-speed autofocus made possible by a ring-type ultrasonic motor and high-speed CPU, ensure that the EF24mm f/1.4L II USM lives up to the high expectations of professional users.

Canonīs newest fixed length L-series lens, the EF 24mm f/1.4L II USM, incorporates the newest in Canon lens technology for spectacular sharpness and impressive performance at all settings. It features two high-precision, large-diameter aspherical lenses for sharpness across the sensor, even in peripheral areas of full-frame sensors. Lens elements have a newly-designed anti-reflective SWC (Sub Wavelength Coating) that departs from conventional coatings by using an extremely fine structure that minimizes ghosting and flaring across the lens surface, regardless of the angle with which light enters or exits. It also features two UD lens elements to minimize chromatic aberrations, incorporates rear-focusing, ultrasonic, quiet and high-speed AF with full-time manual override. A circular aperture provides beautiful out-of-focus detail and offers legendary dust- and water-resistant L-series construction using only lead-free glass."


Compatibility, autofocus and focal length

This lens is constructed to fit all models of Canon cameras, regardless of camera model or type of sensor.

The ability to use autofocus is available for all cameras.

The lens has a focal length of 24 mm. Depending on which camera the lens is used, the experienced and perceived focal length will be different. Please visit the list of compatible cameras below, it will provide the equivalent focal length you get on each camera.

Lens brightness and image stabilizer

The lens brightness and aperture value is f/1,4.

This aperture value indicates that the lens is extremely bright.  This will make it so much easier shooting in darker environments where you do not want or can use flash lighting, for example in churches or at different sports venues.

The lens lacks image stabilization, which otherwise os good for avoiding the blur that can occur when using slow shutter speeds. Since the lens is bright, with good aperture value, the lack of image stabilization might not be that big of a deal, although a image stabilizer is always an advantage to have.

Filter and Lens Hood

The lens has a traditional filter thread on the front and its measuring 77 mm which also the filter you will use must have. If you use for example an UV filter can be a cheap insurance against scratches and dust.

If you buy this lens it will come with a lens hood, whose model name is "EW-83K".

Images of Canon EF 24mm F1.4 L II USM

In order to see larger product images of the lens, click the link below.

Things to consider before buying

Below you will find some summarized points and facts that can be considered as the 'pros and cons' of this lens. These are based entirely on the facts and values that are accessible through the lens specification, so we highly recommend that you also read the reported reviews available (see tab 'Reviews'); this in order to get a more complete view of the lens and its capabilities. Reviewer opinions reflect the lens, its use and its optical performance in a more accurate way, but any way - here a few different points to consider before buying this lens.

  • The lens brightness, f/1,4
  • Works on all sensor types
  • A lens hood is included
  • The lens is sealed against dust and moisture
  • Heavy (650 gr)
  • The price (more info)

Our Review Ratings

Time to grade Canon EF 24mm F1.4 L II USM .

Build Quality     
Image Quality     
Autofocus     
Sharpness     
Versatility     
Value     
Overall rating 3 of 5

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