This guide to the best Canon R5 lenses will help you make an informed decision about which lenses to invest in.
As a professional photographer, I’ve found the biggest leaps in image quality come from doing one simple thing: investing in better lenses.
EDITOR’S CHOICE
Canon RF 24-105mm f/4 L
Outstanding image stabilization, a robust build, and excellent image quality across the zoom range.
The Canon R5 is already an exceptional tool for capturing images and video in a wide range of scenarios.
However, to do it full justice, you have to attach the right lenses.
All the Canon R5 lenses below are perfect for specific situations, budgets, and types of photography.
If you can only buy one lens, go for our Editor’s Choice shown above, which is ideal for everyday use.
Let’s take a closer look at the lens recommendations for your Canon R5.
What are the Best Lenses for the Canon R5 in 2024?
Canon RF 24-105mm f/4 L (Best All-Around Zoom Lens for the Canon R5)
Pros
Exceptional versatility for various shooting conditions
Outstanding image stabilization for sharp, steady shots
Consistently high image quality across the zoom range
Robust build, suitable for travel and outdoor photography
Cons
Maximum aperture of f/4 limits low light performance
Slightly heavier, which might be a concern for all-day use
The Canon RF 24-105mm f/4 L is the Swiss Army knife of lenses for your Canon R5, making it a top pick for those who want just one lens to cover most scenarios.
Its versatile zoom range allows you to capture everything from wide landscapes to tight portraits, all while maintaining superior image quality.
This makes it a fantastic travel lens, as you can confidently explore different photography styles without switching lenses.
The built-in image stabilization is a game-changer, especially in low-light conditions or when shooting videos. You’ll get sharp, steady images even when shooting handheld.
Although the f/4 maximum aperture isn’t the widest, it’s a fair trade-off for the lens’s versatility and image quality. Plus, the robust construction means this lens can handle a bit of adventure.
For the Canon R5, it’s an all-around fantastic choice, blending flexibility, quality, and durability brilliantly.
Canon RF 50mm f/1.8 (Best Budget Prime Lens for the Canon R5)
Pros
Extremely lightweight and compact
Excellent low light performance with f/1.8 aperture
Affordable, making it accessible for beginners
Produces beautiful background blur for portraits
Cons
Plastic build may feel less durable
No image stabilization
The Canon RF 50mm f/1.8 is a gem for those starting their photography journey with the Canon R5, especially if you’re on a budget.
This prime lens lives up to the “nifty fifty” nickname, thanks to its impressive performance at an affordable price.
The wide f/1.8 aperture allows for excellent low light shooting and creates a lovely background blur (bokeh), ideal for portrait photography.
Its compact size and lightweight design make it a perfect companion for day-long shoots or travel photography. You won’t even feel like you’re carrying it!
While its plastic construction might not feel as robust as other lenses, it’s a small trade-off for such a budget-friendly and high-performing lens.
The lack of image stabilization is something to consider, but given its wide aperture, you’ll still get great results in various lighting conditions.
It’s a fantastic starting point for exploring the capabilities of your R5.
Canon RF 85mm f/2 Macro (Best Budget Portrait Lens for the Canon R5)
Pros
Great for both portraits and macro photography
Compact and lightweight design
Image stabilization enhances handheld shooting
Affordable price point for its versatility
Cons
F/2 aperture is good, but not the fastest for low light
Macro magnification of 0.5x, not true 1:1 macro
The Canon RF 85mm f/2 Macro is a standout lens for those who love portrait photography but also dabble in macro shots.
It’s an affordable lens that doesn’t skimp on performance. The focal length is perfect for flattering portraits, offering just enough distance to make your subjects feel comfortable while capturing stunning detail.
The added macro capability, with a 0.5x magnification, opens up a world of close-up photography – think detailed shots of flowers, insects, or intricate textures.
Its image stabilization is a significant plus, especially for handheld shooting, where camera shake can be an issue.
This feature, combined with its compact and lightweight design, makes it an excellent lens for on-the-go shooting.
While the f/2 aperture isn’t the widest available, it’s more than adequate for most lighting situations and provides a beautiful background blur.
This lens is a versatile, budget-friendly choice that adds a lot of value to your Canon R5 kit.
Canon RF 85mm f/1.2 L USM (Best Premium Portrait Lens for the Canon R5)
Pros
Incredibly sharp image quality, even at wide apertures
Superb low light performance with f/1.2 aperture
Beautiful, creamy bokeh ideal for portrait photography
Robust, high-quality construction
Cons
Significantly more expensive
Heavier, which might be challenging for prolonged handheld use
The Canon RF 85mm f/1.2 L USM is the crown jewel in the realm of portrait lenses for the Canon R5, especially for those seeking the pinnacle of image quality.
This lens is a masterclass in optical excellence. The f/1.2 aperture not only excels in low light conditions but also creates a depth of field so shallow that your subjects seem to leap off the image, surrounded by a creamy, dreamlike bokeh.
Its construction is top-notch, offering a reassuring robustness that matches its premium status. The sharpness is unparalleled, delivering crisp, detailed images even when shooting wide open.
Yes, it’s a significant investment, and its weight might be a factor for those used to lighter lenses. However, for professional portrait photographers or enthusiasts who demand the best from their Canon R5, this lens is an unbeatable choice.
It’s a lens that not only meets but exceeds expectations, ensuring every portrait is not just a photo but a work of art.
Canon RF 28-70mm f/2 L USM (Best Premium Zoom Lens for the Canon R5)
Pros
Unmatched versatility with a unique f/2 constant aperture
Stellar image quality throughout the zoom range
Robust build quality, ideal for professional use
Quick and accurate autofocus performance
Cons
Premium price tag
Heavier and bulkier, which might be a concern for some
The Canon RF 28-70mm f/2 L USM is a powerhouse of a zoom lens, offering an unparalleled combination of versatility and image quality for your Canon R5.
What sets this lens apart is its constant f/2 aperture across the entire zoom range. This feature is a rarity in zoom lenses and a massive benefit for shooting in varying light conditions without compromising on shutter speed or ISO.
Image quality is nothing short of stellar, with sharpness and clarity maintained throughout the zoom range. This makes it an excellent choice for everything from landscapes to portraits, ensuring superior image quality in all your shots.
Its robust build and quick autofocus add to its professional appeal, making it a reliable tool for any serious photographer.
While it comes with a premium price and is a bit heavier than other lenses, its performance justifies the investment, especially for those who want the best from their Canon R5.
As a secondary option, consider the Canon RF 24-70mm f/2.8 L. It’s less expensive and a bit slower but still a fantastic choice for those looking for quality and versatility.
Canon RF 15-35mm f/2.8 L IS USM (Best Wide-Angle Lens for the Canon R5)
Credit: Marc Bergreen
Pros
Outstanding image quality, perfect for landscape and architectural shots
Versatile wide zoom range suitable for various scenarios
Effective image stabilization, minimizing camera shake
Fast f/2.8 aperture, great for low light conditions
Cons
Heavier build, may be cumbersome for travel
Premium price point, but justifiable for the quality
The Canon RF 15-35mm f/2.8 L IS USM is a top-tier choice for Canon R5 users looking for the best in wide-angle performance.
With its superb image quality, you’ll capture stunningly detailed landscapes and architectural marvels.
The zoom range is flexible, making it ideal for a variety of shooting conditions. Its f/2.8 aperture ensures excellent performance in low light, giving your images a professional touch.
The added bonus of image stabilization means you can shoot handheld with less worry about camera shake.
It’s a bit on the heavier side and comes with a premium price tag, but for those serious about wide-angle photography, it’s worth every penny.
As an alternative, consider the Canon RF 14-35mm f/4 L for a slightly wider angle and more affordable price (though it will sacrifice some speed), or the Canon RF 10-20mm f/4 L IS for an even wider perspective.
Canon RF 70-200mm f/2.8 L IS USM (Best Telephoto Lens for the Canon R5)
Pros
Exceptional zoom range, ideal for capturing far-away subjects
Superior image quality, delivering crisp and clear shots
Robust image stabilization, reducing the impact of camera shake
Fast and reliable autofocus, crucial for fast-moving subjects
Cons
Hefty in size, making it less ideal for travel
High cost, reflecting its professional-grade capabilities
The Canon RF 70-200mm f/2.8 L IS USM lens is exceptional for telephoto photography, especially suited for the Canon R5.
Whether you’re capturing weddings or fast-paced sports action, this telephoto lens ensures your images are sharp and clear. The image quality is second to none, making every shot a potential masterpiece.
Its image stabilization is a game-changer, significantly reducing blur from camera shake.
Plus, the autofocus is lightning-fast and incredibly accurate, a must-have for capturing split-second moments.
While it’s a bit bulky and carries a high price tag, the performance and quality it offers are unparalleled.
For those looking for an alternative with even greater reach, the Canon RF 100-500mm f/4.5-7.1 L is a fantastic option for more extended sports or wildlife photography.
Canon RF 100mm f/2.8 L Macro IS USM (Best Macro Lens for the Canon R5)
Pros
Incredible 1.4x macro magnification, surpassing many other lenses
Excellent image quality, ideal for detailed close-up photography
Advanced image stabilization, perfect for handheld macro shots
Suitable working distance, making it easier to photograph small subjects
Cons
Slightly higher price, but offers unparalleled macro capabilities
Larger size could be a factor for some users
For those delving into the world of macro photography with the Canon R5, the Canon RF 100mm f/2.8 L Macro IS USM is an absolute must.
It boasts an impressive 1.4x magnification, allowing you to capture the minute details of your subject with extraordinary clarity.
The image quality it delivers is top-notch, ensuring your close-up shots are sharp and vibrant. And, thanks to its advanced image stabilization, you can confidently take handheld shots without worrying about blur.
The comfortable working distance it offers also makes it easier to shoot small or delicate subjects.
It is a bit larger and pricier than some macro lenses – but we’d argue that the quality and capabilities it provides make it a worthy investment.
For those seeking even more extreme close-up capability, the Venus Optics Laowa 25mm f/2.8 2.5-5X Ultra Macro for Canon RF is another excellent choice, offering higher magnification for super macro photography.
What Kind of Lens Does the Canon R5 Use?
The Canon R5 uses RF mount lenses.
This is Canon’s latest lens mount, designed specifically for their full-frame mirrorless camera system.
RF lenses are known for their superior optical quality and advanced features.
They offer improved communication between the lens and camera body, enhancing overall performance.
Additionally, the RF mount’s design allows for faster autofocus and better image stabilization.
Canon also offers adapters for using EF and EF-S lenses on the R5, providing flexibility for photographers with existing Canon lenses.
This compatibility makes the R5 a versatile choice for various photography styles and needs.
How Do You Change Lenses on the Canon R5?
Changing lenses on the Canon R5 is a straightforward process.
First, ensure your camera is turned off to protect the sensor from dust.
Hold the camera facing down to prevent dust from entering the body.
Locate the lens release button near the mount on the camera.
Press and hold the lens release button.
While holding the button, gently twist the lens counterclockwise.
Once the lens is released, carefully remove it from the camera.
Take the new RF lens you want to attach.
Align the lens’s mounting mark with the camera’s mount indicator.
Gently twist the lens clockwise until it clicks into place.
Make sure the lens is securely attached before turning the camera on.
Always handle lenses with care to avoid damage to the lens and camera.
