When it comes to professional standard zoom lenses for Canon’s EF mount, two options consistently dominate the conversation: the EF 24-70mm f/2.8L USM and the EF 24-105mm f/4L IS. As someone who has shot extensively with both lenses across countless assignments—from weddings to corporate events—I can tell you that choosing between them isn’t just about aperture or focal length; it’s about understanding their unique characteristics and how they align with your photography style. These lenses represent different philosophies in zoom design, with the 24-70mm prioritizing light gathering and the 24-105mm emphasizing versatility and reach. In this comprehensive comparison, I’ll break down every aspect of these L-series powerhouses to help you determine which one deserves a place in your camera bag and which will better serve your specific photography needs.
Understanding Canon’s L-Series Standard Zooms
Before diving into the specifics of these two lenses, let’s talk about their place in Canon’s lens ecosystem. I’ve been shooting with Canon systems for over a decade, and I’ve seen how these L-series zooms have become workhorses for professionals and enthusiasts alike.
The Canon EF 24-70mm f/2.8L USM was introduced in 2002 as part of Canon’s flagship L-series lineup. It quickly became the go-to lens for many professional photographers, offering a constant f/2.8 aperture in a versatile focal range. When I first got my hands on this lens, I was immediately impressed by its build quality and the beautiful images it produced. It represented the perfect balance between versatility and performance.
The Canon EF 24-105mm f/4L IS arrived in 2005, expanding on the concept by adding image stabilization and extra reach at the telephoto end, albeit with a slower maximum aperture. I discovered during a travel photography assignment that this lens offered incredible versatility, allowing me to capture everything from wide landscapes to tighter portraits without changing lenses.
Both lenses have undergone updates over the years—the 24-70mm saw a Mark II version in 2012, and the 24-105mm was updated in 2016. For this comparison, I’ll be focusing on the original versions of both lenses, as they represent the most common options on the used market and offer excellent value for photographers.
Head-to-Head Comparison
Build Quality and Design
The most immediate difference between these lenses becomes apparent the moment you pick them up. The EF 24-70mm f/2.8L USM features a robust construction with a metal mount and high-quality plastics that feel substantial in the hand. I’ve used this lens in various weather conditions, and it has never let me down. The zoom and focus rings operate with smooth precision, and the overall build quality inspires confidence for professional use.
The 24-70mm measures approximately 123mm (4.8 inches) in length and weighs about 950g (2.1 lbs), making it relatively compact for a constant f/2.8 zoom. During a recent wedding shoot, I appreciated how well it balanced on my camera, even during extended shooting sessions.
The EF 24-105mm f/4L IS, on the other hand, has a slightly different design with a metal mount and a primarily plastic body. While it doesn’t feel quite as premium as the 24-70mm, it’s still well-built and features weather sealing that has served me well in various conditions.
The 24-105mm is slightly longer and lighter than the 24-70mm, measuring approximately 107mm (4.2 inches) when retracted and extending to about 140mm (5.5 inches) at full zoom. It weighs approximately 670g (1.5 lbs), making it noticeably lighter than the 24-70mm. During a travel photography trip, I found its lighter weight made it more comfortable for handheld shooting over long periods.
One notable difference is that the 24-70mm features an internal zoom design, meaning the lens doesn’t extend when zooming. The 24-105mm, however, extends significantly when zooming from 24mm to 105mm. During a dusty environment shoot, I appreciated the 24-70mm’s internal zoom design, as it didn’t suck dust into the camera body.
Optical Performance
This is where the differences between these lenses become most apparent. The EF 24-70mm f/2.8L USM delivers excellent optical quality throughout its zoom range, though there are some variations depending on the focal length. I’ve found the lens to be sharpest at around 35-50mm, with slight softness at the extremes of 24mm and 70mm when shot wide open.
During a portrait session, I was able to capture detailed images with beautiful background separation when shooting at f/2.8. At wider apertures, there’s some softness in the corners, which is typical for zoom lenses, but it improves significantly when stopped down to f/5.6 or f/8.
The EF 24-105mm f/4L IS, while not as fast as the 24-70mm, offers consistent optical performance across its zoom range. I’ve been consistently impressed with its sharpness, particularly in the 35-85mm range. During a landscape photography workshop, I was able to capture detailed images with excellent corner-to-corner sharpness when stopped down to f/8.
Chromatic aberration is well-controlled in both lenses, but the 24-70mm has a slight edge, particularly in high-contrast situations. While photographing backlit subjects, I found the 24-70mm produced minimal color fringing, while the 24-105mm showed some purple fringing that required correction in post-processing.
Vignetting is more pronounced in both lenses when shot wide open, which is typical for zoom lenses. The 24-70mm shows more vignetting at 24mm and 70mm than at mid-range focal lengths, while the 24-105mm exhibits consistent vignetting across the frame. Both lenses benefit from stopping down to reduce vignetting, and in-camera corrections can help mitigate this issue when using compatible camera bodies.
Aperture and Low-Light Performance
The EF 24-70mm f/2.8L USM features a constant f/2.8 aperture throughout its zoom range, which is one of its main selling points. This allows for consistent exposure when zooming and provides excellent low-light performance. During an indoor event with dim lighting, I was able to capture clean images at f/2.8 without needing to push the ISO too high.
The wider aperture also provides more background separation, which is particularly useful for portrait photography. During a corporate headshot session, I found the f/2.8 aperture allowed me to create beautiful background blur that made my subjects stand out.
The EF 24-105mm f/4L IS, with its constant f/4 aperture, is one stop slower than the 24-70mm. This difference becomes most apparent in low-light situations. During a wedding reception in a dimly lit venue, I found myself needing to increase the ISO by about a stop compared to what I would have used with the 24-70mm.
However, the 24-105mm compensates for its slower aperture with image stabilization, which can make a significant difference in handheld shooting. During a museum photography session where tripods weren’t allowed, I was able to capture sharp images at slower shutter speeds thanks to the IS system, something that would have been much more challenging with the 24-70mm.
Image Stabilization
This is one of the most significant differences between these two lenses. The EF 24-70mm f/2.8L USM (original version) does not have image stabilization, which can be a limitation in certain shooting situations. During a landscape photography trip at dawn, I found myself needing to use a tripod more often with the 24-70mm to ensure sharp images at slower shutter speeds.
The EF 24-105mm f/4L IS, on the other hand, features Canon’s Image Stabilization system, providing up to 3 stops of stabilization according to CIPA standards. In practice, I’ve found this to be conservative—I’ve consistently been able to get sharp handheld shots at shutter speeds much slower than the reciprocal of the focal length.
During a travel photography session in a dimly lit cathedral, I was able to capture sharp images at 105mm with shutter speeds as slow as 1/30s, which is remarkable. This level of stabilization opens up possibilities for shooting in lower light without needing a tripod or higher ISO settings.
Autofocus Performance
Both lenses feature Canon’s USM (Ultrasonic Motor) autofocus system, which provides fast, quiet, and accurate focusing. In real-world use, I’ve found both lenses to have excellent autofocus performance, with quick acquisition and reliable tracking.
During a sports photography event, I found both lenses capable of tracking moving subjects effectively. The 24-70mm’s autofocus seemed slightly faster and more decisive, particularly in low-light conditions, but the difference was minimal in most situations.
Both lenses feature full-time manual focus override, allowing you to adjust focus manually without switching out of autofocus mode. I’ve found this feature invaluable for fine-tuning focus in portrait and macro photography, where precise focus is critical.
Focal Range and Versatility
This is where the EF 24-105mm f/4L IS truly shines. Its extended focal range provides significant versatility, allowing you to capture everything from wide landscapes to tighter portraits without changing lenses. During a recent travel photography trip, I found the ability to zoom from 24mm to 105mm incredibly useful, allowing me to capture both expansive scenes and more intimate details without changing lenses.
The 24mm setting provides a wide field of view, perfect for landscapes and environmental portraits. The 105mm setting offers a short telephoto perspective that’s ideal for portraits and details. I’ve found this flexibility invaluable when working in crowded locations or when changing lenses isn’t practical.
The EF 24-70mm f/2.8L USM, while more limited in focal range, offers the advantage of a wider aperture throughout its range. During a portrait session, I found the 70mm focal length to be perfect for headshots and environmental portraits, while the wider apertures provided beautiful background separation.
Price and Value
The EF 24-70mm f/2.8L USM is priced at approximately $1,200-1,400 on the used market, making it a premium option for professionals and serious enthusiasts. For the price, it offers excellent build quality, a constant f/2.8 aperture, and professional-grade optical performance. I’ve recommended this lens to numerous portrait and event photographers who need low-light performance and beautiful background separation.
The EF 24-105mm f/4L IS is priced at approximately $600-800 on the used market, representing excellent value for money. It delivers impressive optical quality, image stabilization, and a versatile focal range at a more accessible price point. For those on a tighter budget or who prioritize versatility over maximum aperture, it’s an excellent choice.
It’s worth considering the total cost of ownership as well. The 24-70mm’s more robust construction suggests it might hold up better to heavy use over time. However, the 24-105mm’s image stabilization can potentially save shots that would be lost with the 24-70mm, adding value in terms of captured images.
Real-World Performance
Portrait Photography
For portrait photography, the EF 24-70mm f/2.8L USM has a clear advantage due to its wider aperture. During a recent portrait session with a professional model, I was able to capture stunning images with beautiful background separation at f/2.8. The 70mm focal length proved perfect for headshots and medium portraits, while the wider apertures created a beautiful, creamy bokeh that made my subjects stand out.
The lens’s ability to capture fine details and skin tones is remarkable. I’ve found that skin looks natural and three-dimensional with the 24-70mm, with a quality that’s hard to replicate with slower lenses. During a beauty portrait session, the model was amazed at how the lens captured the subtle textures and colors of her skin and makeup.
The EF 24-105mm f/4L IS, while less ideal for portraits due to its slower aperture, can still produce excellent results, particularly when shot at the longer end of its range. During a family portrait session, I found the 105mm focal length allowed me to capture flattering portraits without being too close to my subjects, while the f/4 aperture still provided some background separation.
Wedding Photography
For wedding photography, both lenses have their strengths, but the EF 24-105mm f/4L IS might be the more versatile choice for most wedding photographers. During a recent wedding I shot, I found the 24-105mm’s combination of focal range and image stabilization made it an ideal all-around lens for the event.
I was able to capture everything from wide shots of the ceremony to intimate close-ups of details like rings and flowers without changing lenses. The image stabilization was particularly valuable during the reception, where lighting was dim and I needed to shoot handheld.
The EF 24-70mm f/2.8L USM, while exceptional for portraits and low-light situations, is less versatile for the varied situations encountered during a wedding day. Its lack of image stabilization means you need to be more careful about camera shake in low light, and its more limited focal range might require more lens changes during a busy event.
That said, for formal portraits during a wedding, the 24-70mm is unmatched. During the portrait session of a recent wedding, I was able to capture stunning images of the couple with beautiful background separation and incredible detail, even in the challenging lighting of a dimly lit church.
Landscape Photography
For landscape photography, both lenses perform well, but the EF 24-105mm f/4L IS has some advantages. During a landscape photography trip, I found the 24-105mm’s image stabilization incredibly useful for handheld shooting in dawn and dusk conditions. The ability to capture sharp images without a tripod allowed me to work more quickly and in locations where tripod use wasn’t practical.
The 24-105mm’s wider focal range also proved valuable for landscape photography, allowing me to capture both wide vistas and more compressed perspectives without changing lenses. During a sunrise shoot, I was able to capture everything from expansive wide shots to tighter details of the landscape as the light changed.
The EF 24-70mm f/2.8L USM, while capable for landscape photography, is less versatile due to its more limited focal range and lack of image stabilization. However, I’ve found it to be slightly sharper at equivalent apertures, which can be beneficial for landscape photography where maximum detail is desired.
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Travel Photography
For travel photography, the EF 24-105mm f/4L IS is clearly the superior choice. During a three-week trip through Europe, I relied primarily on the 24-105mm and was consistently impressed with its versatility. It covered everything from street scenes to architectural details to portraits, all without adding excessive bulk to my camera bag.
The image stabilization was particularly valuable for travel photography, allowing me to capture sharp images in museums and other locations where tripods weren’t allowed or practical. The lighter weight also made it more comfortable to carry for extended periods of sightseeing.
The EF 24-70mm f/2.8L USM, while capable for travel photography, is less ideal due to its heavier weight and more limited focal range. During a city break, I found the 24-70mm’s weight became noticeable after a full day of shooting, and I sometimes wished for the extra reach of the 24-105mm.
Who Should Choose Which Lens?
Choose the EF 24-70mm f/2.8L USM if:
- You primarily shoot portraits and events in low-light conditions
- You need maximum background separation for subject isolation
- You value the slightly superior optical quality at equivalent apertures
- You don’t need image stabilization for your typical shooting scenarios
- You typically shoot in controlled environments where changing lenses is practical
- You’re willing to pay more for the f/2.8 aperture and build quality
Choose the EF 24-105mm f/4L IS if:
- You need a versatile all-around lens for various photography genres
- You value image stabilization for handheld shooting
- You shoot travel, landscape, or documentary photography
- You want the convenience of a wider focal range
- You’re on a tighter budget but still want L-series quality
- You prioritize versatility over maximum aperture
Pro Tips for Standard Zoom Photography
After years of shooting with both lenses, I’ve learned a few techniques that can help you get the most out of either of these lenses:
- Use the sweet spot: Both lenses have focal lengths and apertures where they perform best. I’ve found the 24-70mm to be sharpest at around 35-50mm and f/5.6-8, while the 24-105mm performs best at 35-85mm and f/5.6-8. For critical work, I try to use these sweet spots whenever possible.
- Leverage image stabilization: If you’re using the 24-105mm, make the most of its IS system. I’ve found that it allows me to shoot at shutter speeds 2-3 stops slower than usual while still getting sharp images. This is particularly useful in low light or when shooting handheld.
- Control distortion: Both lenses exhibit some distortion, particularly at the wide end. I’ve found that using lens profiles in post-processing software like Lightroom can significantly improve the look of images, particularly for architectural photography.
- Master your aperture selection: With the 24-70mm, you have the flexibility to shoot at f/2.8 when you need the light or background separation, but I’ve found that stopping down to f/4 or f/5.6 often yields sharper results. With the 24-105mm, I typically shoot at f/4-8 for optimal sharpness.
- Use a lens hood: Both lenses benefit from using their included lens hoods. I’ve found that the hoods not only protect the front elements but also reduce flare and improve contrast in backlit situations.
- Clean your lenses regularly: Both lenses are susceptible to dust and smudges, which can affect image quality. I make it a habit to clean my lenses before important shoots, using a soft brush and microfiber cloth to remove dust and fingerprints.
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FAQ
Is the EF 24-70mm f/2.8L USM worth the extra cost over the 24-105mm f/4L IS?
For photographers who need low-light performance and maximum background separation, the 24-70mm is absolutely worth the additional cost. However, if you prioritize versatility and image stabilization, the 24-105mm offers better value for money.
Can I use these lenses on Canon mirrorless cameras?
Yes, both lenses can be used on Canon’s RF mount mirrorless cameras with the official EF-EOS R adapter. I’ve used both lenses on the R5 and R6 with excellent results, though native RF lenses may offer some advantages in terms of autofocus performance.
Which lens is better for video?
The 24-105mm f/4L IS is generally better for video due to its image stabilization and smoother zoom mechanism. The IS system helps reduce camera shake when shooting handheld, and the slower aperture makes exposure more consistent when zooming.
How do these lenses compare to their Mark II versions?
The Mark II versions of both lenses offer improvements in optical quality, autofocus performance, and (for the 24-70mm II) the addition of image stabilization. However, the original versions still offer excellent performance and represent better value on the used market.
Do I need image stabilization on a standard zoom?
While not strictly necessary, image stabilization can be incredibly useful, particularly for handheld shooting in low light or at longer focal lengths. I’ve found that the IS on the 24-105mm has saved many shots that would have been blurry with the 24-70mm.
Which lens is better for beginners?
The 24-105mm f/4L IS is generally more beginner-friendly due to its versatility, image stabilization, and lower price point. The wider focal range means beginners can experiment with different types of photography without investing in multiple lenses.
How do these lenses handle flare?
Both lenses can produce flare when shooting directly into bright light sources, but the 24-70mm generally handles flare slightly better due to its more advanced optical design. Using the included lens hoods can significantly reduce flare for both lenses.
Are these lenses weather-sealed?
Both lenses feature weather sealing, but not to the extent of Canon’s top-tier L-series lenses. I’ve used both in light rain without issues, but for severe weather conditions, additional protection or more specialized lenses would be advisable.
Conclusion
After extensive shooting with both the EF 24-70mm f/2.8L USM and the EF 24-105mm f/4L IS, I can tell you that both are excellent lenses that serve different needs and budgets. The 24-70mm offers unparalleled low-light performance and beautiful background separation, making it the perfect choice for portrait and event photographers who work in challenging lighting conditions. The 24-105mm, while slower, delivers remarkable versatility with its image stabilization and extended focal range, making it ideal for travel, landscape, and documentary photography.
For my personal work, I find myself reaching for the 24-70mm when I’m shooting portraits or events where low-light performance is paramount. The 24-105mm becomes my choice when I’m traveling, shooting landscapes, or when I need the flexibility of a wider focal range without changing lenses.
Ultimately, the decision comes down to your specific needs, shooting style, and budget. Whichever lens you choose, you’ll be getting a quality L-series optic that will serve you well for years to come.
If you found this comparison helpful, be sure to bookmark this page for future reference. I’ll be updating it as I continue to test these lenses with new camera bodies and in different shooting scenarios. And don’t forget to check out my other articles on Canon lenses and photography techniques!
Which of these lenses would you choose for your photography? I’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments below!