Canon RF vs EF | 85mm f/1.2 'L' Lens Challenge!

Let's see how Canon's primary portrait 'L' lens has evolved over the years from its EF original, to its monstrously awesome current RF version.

Links to full reviews:

Buy them here (Amazon affiliate links - thank you for your support!):
Canon EF 85mm f/1.2 'L' USM:

Canon RF 85mm f/1.2 'L' USM:

All pictures taken by me on Canon EOS R5 and 6D cameras.

Equipment I use to make my videos (Amazon affiliate links):

Music:
Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0

[stevemaschke]

"As fuzzy as Emperor Caligula's grip on reality". I'm adding this one to my repertoire.

[StigsPersianCousin]

Another great video Chris. Quick note though, Digital Camera World did a sharpness test using spatial frequency response in a controlled environment with the regular RF 85 and the DS version, both lenses were very close in terms of center resolution, at f/1.2, the DS still scored higher with a 2600 score vs 2200 for the non DS. However, corner sharpness was where the DS version absolutely destroyed the non DS version! At f/1.2, the DS version scored a whopping 2200 on the chart vs 750 for the non DS version, that is almost 3x the corner sharpness performance for the DS version! Just a note worth sharing. Appreciate all your videos sir.

[JagaimoNeko]

I am still using my first-gen 85 mm f/1.2 and I’m very happy about it :)

[Ashcents]

I never commented under your videos, but I have watched dozens and dozens of them so far, and I've always appreciated your honest and thorough analysis of each lens - and your lovely accent. So here's a thank you for your work that has helped me make choices over the years !

[jamesquinn]

Holy smokes! That RF lens is insane! If I was a pro photographer with a hefty budget I would definitely add that to my arsenal

[emmanuelprs]

The 85 RF is a jewel but super heavy!

Waiting anxiously for the 100mm RF macro!

[gunterdressler]

Excellent review! I like the EF version because of it’s character, even if the RF version is technically better. Sometime the resolution can be a problem with old lenses. Another point for the EF version is the possibility to adapt the lens on Sony and Nikon cameras.

[MrCochise]

The EF 85 1.2 is one of my favorites. It's a legend! They are flying off the shelf since they discontinued it .

[GnartotheBone]

Was waiting for this one! Love my 85 1.2L II (except for the CA and purple)

[binaryblog]

"My mother would kill me" I would be more worried about your wife/girlfriend :) Btw this RF lens is just amazing.

[itzamna]

Another great video, I'll be waiting for the review on that 85mm f/2, go on and throw the f/1.2 as well for comparison, please.

[sgtLPH]

I love my EF 85mm f1.4 L. It's the best choice for me :)

[RotBaron]

I got the EF II version used and in pristine condition for 600€ and I love it sooo much!

[bnguyen]

I'm hoping to pickup the new RF version for the R5 but am also patiently waiting for the RF 200mm. Great review/comparison.

[analogdesigner-Jay]

As an owner of the EF 85mm f/1.2 this is an excellent comparison! Thanks as always for a continously well done job!

[kyrkish]

I bought my ef 85mm three years ago for 800 bucks used and they're amazing!

[anaxios]

A better comparison might have been between the RF and the EF 1.4 L. The sharpest EF lens I have ever used and much faster AF than the old 1.2 L. Also, you can buy it refurbished from Canon for less than $1, 500. Great video as always. Keep up the good work.

[kmontes]

Here for the comparison, I already BIT the RF bullet on this one, but miss the Old version sometimes. The Caligula Bashing made me Laugh/Scream. LOVE YOUR WORK.

[thedondeluxe]

The old one is still amazing for portraits, though! And for concerts and such in low light conditions. Digital corrections can remove most of those aberrations if you're bothered by that. Good deal on the used market these days.

[SovietLensReviews]

Would love to see a video showcasing the sharpest vintage lenses you can get your hands on!