Canon's RF 45mm f/1.2 STM: The Contradictory Reviews You Need to Read
Canon's RF 45mm f/1.2 STM, launched in late 2025 for $469, is dividing reviewers. Is this compact, fast prime a bokeh marvel or a compromise?
TL;DR: Canon's RF 45mm f/1.2 STM, announced in late 2025, has ignited a fiery debate among reviewers, presenting two starkly different perspectives on its value and performance. Priced at a compelling $469, this compact lens promises exceptional bokeh and low-light capabilities, but not all critics are in agreement regarding its overall proposition for the RF system.
What's New
Towards the close of 2025, Canon unveiled a lens that seemed to challenge conventional wisdom: the RF 45mm f/1.2 STM. This isn't just another prime; it's a statement. With a focal length that sits comfortably between the classic 35mm and 50mm, it offers a fresh perspective for photographers looking for something slightly different. But the real headline-grabber is its f/1.2 aperture, traditionally reserved for Canon's premium L-series glass, now packed into a remarkably compact body measuring just 78 x 75mm and weighing a mere 346g. And then there's the price: an almost unbelievable $469. This combination of an ultra-wide aperture, a unique focal length, and an accessible price point with an STM autofocus motor is a significant departure from Canon's usual high-end RF prime strategy, signaling a potential shift towards more enthusiast-friendly, high-performance options.
This lens introduces a new tier of fast primes to the RF mount, bridging the gap between the more budget-oriented f/1.8 primes and the professional-grade f/1.2 L-series lenses. Its small footprint makes it an ideal companion for Canon's compact mirrorless bodies, promising excellent balance and portability. The STM (Stepping Motor) system, while often associated with consumer-grade lenses, is known for its quiet and smooth operation, particularly beneficial for video recording. This lens isn't just an addition; it's an expansion of the RF ecosystem, offering a new flavour of fast prime that prioritizes accessibility and a unique user experience.
Why It Matters
The Canon RF 45mm f/1.2 STM matters because it represents a fascinating strategic move by Canon, and it has, predictably, created a schism in the reviewer community. On one side, you have reviewers hailing it as a game-changer, an absolute steal at $469, delivering L-series-like bokeh and shallow depth of field in a package that's light on the wallet and the camera bag. They emphasize the stunning subject separation, the creamy out-of-focus areas, and its excellent performance in low-light conditions, making it perfect for portraits, street photography, and even astrophotography for those adventurous enough. For these enthusiasts, the lens unlocks creative possibilities previously unattainable without a significant financial outlay.
However, another contingent of reviewers expresses a more measured, if not outright critical, stance. Their concerns often revolve around the lens's optical performance wide open, pointing to potential chromatic aberrations, vignetting, or a slight softness at f/1.2 that might not meet the exacting standards of professional L-series users. Some also question the choice of an STM motor for such a fast aperture, suggesting it might not keep up with the demands of fast-moving subjects or could introduce slight focus breathing during video. This divergence isn't just about nitpicking; it's about different expectations and priorities. Is an f/1.2 lens at this price point meant to be optically perfect, or is its primary appeal the sheer depth-of-field control it offers? The debate highlights how different users value different aspects of a lens, and how Canon is attempting to cater to a broader audience than ever before with the RF mount.
What This Means For You
For you, the potential Canon RF 45mm f/1.2 STM owner, these conflicting reviews mean one thing: context is king. If your primary goal is to achieve incredible background blur and exquisite subject isolation for portraits, street photography, or artistic work, and you're operating on a budget, this lens at $469 could be an absolute revelation. Its compact size and f/1.2 aperture make it an incredibly appealing option for those who prioritize creative expression and portability without breaking the bank. You might be willing to overlook minor optical imperfections at its widest aperture for the sheer 'look' it produces.
However, if you're a professional who demands clinical sharpness from corner to corner at every aperture, or if your workflow involves consistently shooting fast-moving action where the absolute quickest and most precise autofocus is paramount, then you might find yourself aligning with the more critical reviews. In such cases, the incremental cost of a higher-tier L-series lens with Nano USM or ring-type USM and more robust optical correction might be a worthwhile investment for your specific needs. Ultimately, the RF 45mm f/1.2 STM isn't trying to be an L-series lens, but it's pushing the boundaries of what's possible at its price point. Your decision will hinge on whether its strengths – the f/1.2 aperture, compact design, and attractive price – outweigh its potential compromises for your specific photographic pursuits. Evaluate your priorities: do you chase perfection, or do you chase the magic of ultra-shallow depth of field within a budget? This lens forces that exciting question upon the RF community. It's not about which reviewer is 'right,' but which perspective aligns with your photographic vision and financial reality. It's a lens that demands personal evaluation, not just blind acceptance or rejection of reviews. Consider renting it or trying it out before committing, as its unique character will either resonate deeply with your style or reveal its limitations for your workflow.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What makes the Canon RF 45mm f/1.2 STM a unique offering within Canon's RF lens lineup?
A: The Canon RF 45mm f/1.2 STM stands out due to its unprecedented combination of an ultra-wide f/1.2 aperture, a somewhat unconventional 45mm focal length, and an incredibly accessible price point of $469. Previously, f/1.2 primes in the RF system were exclusively part of the premium L-series, costing significantly more. Its compact size (78 x 75mm, 346g) also makes it exceptionally portable for an f/1.2 lens, offering a 'nifty fifty' alternative with a shallower depth of field and a distinct creative perspective for enthusiasts.
Q: What are the primary reasons for the divided opinions among reviewers regarding this lens?
A: The divided opinions largely stem from differing expectations and priorities. Reviewers praising the lens often focus on its exceptional value, the stunning f/1.2 bokeh, and its compact form factor, highlighting its creative potential at an affordable price. Critical reviewers, conversely, tend to compare it against higher-end L-series lenses, pointing out potential optical imperfections at f/1.2 (like chromatic aberration or corner softness) or the limitations of the STM autofocus motor for professional-grade speed and precision. The debate reflects whether an f/1.2 lens at this price should prioritize optical perfection or creative accessibility.
Q: How does the STM autofocus motor affect the lens's performance compared to USM or Nano USM lenses?
A: The STM (Stepping Motor) autofocus system in the RF 45mm f/1.2 is generally known for its quiet and smooth operation, making it excellent for video recording where silent focusing is crucial. For still photography, it typically provides good accuracy and decent speed, especially for stationary or moderately moving subjects. However, compared to Canon's more advanced USM (Ultrasonic Motor) or Nano USM systems found in L-series lenses, STM can sometimes be slower for tracking very fast-moving subjects and may exhibit more focus breathing, which could be a minor concern for professional videographers or sports photographers.
Q: Who is the ideal user for the Canon RF 45mm f/1.2 STM, given its price and features?
A: The ideal user for the Canon RF 45mm f/1.2 STM is likely an enthusiast photographer or a budget-conscious professional who prioritizes creative expression through shallow depth of field and excellent low-light performance. It's perfect for portrait photographers, street photographers, and even those interested in artistic or documentary work where the 'look' of f/1.2 is paramount. Users who value a compact, lightweight setup and are willing to accept minor trade-offs in absolute optical perfection or extreme autofocus speed for the sake of its unique character and price point will find this lens highly appealing.
Q: What are the common optical characteristics mentioned in reviews, both positive and negative?
A: Positively, reviews consistently highlight the lens's beautiful, creamy bokeh and impressive subject separation at f/1.2, which is its standout feature. Many also praise its sharpness in the center when stopped down slightly. On the negative side, some reviewers note varying degrees of chromatic aberration (especially longitudinal CA) when shooting wide open, as well as noticeable vignetting, particularly on full-frame bodies. A slight drop in corner sharpness at f/1.2 is also occasionally mentioned, though this is somewhat expected for such a fast, compact, and affordable prime lens.
Q: How does its price point of $469 position it against other f/1.2 or fast prime lenses in the market?
A: At $469, the Canon RF 45mm f/1.2 STM is positioned as an incredibly disruptive force. Traditional f/1.2 lenses from major manufacturers, including Canon's own L-series, typically cost well over $2000. This lens effectively creates a new category: an affordable, ultra-fast prime that makes the coveted f/1.2 aperture accessible to a much broader audience. It competes more on price with f/1.8 or f/1.4 lenses from other brands, while offering the unique f/1.2 advantage, making it an exceptional value proposition for those seeking extreme shallow depth of field without a significant financial investment.
Q: Is the 45mm focal length a versatile choice for everyday shooting, and how does it compare to 35mm or 50mm?
A: The 45mm focal length is surprisingly versatile for everyday shooting, offering a perspective that sits comfortably between the classic 35mm and 50mm. It's slightly wider than a traditional 'nifty fifty,' making it better suited for environmental portraits and street photography where you want to include a bit more context without the wider distortion of a 35mm. It's also tighter than a 35mm, providing more subject isolation. This 'in-between' nature can be a strength, offering a fresh, natural field of view that many photographers find intuitive for a wide range of subjects, from street scenes to casual portraits.