Canon
RF 24-70mm F2.8L IS USM
Canon RF Mount
The cornerstone zoom for Canon mirrorless, featuring 5 stops of optical image stabilization.
$2,399
Launch priceReleased Aug 2019
Nikon
NIKKOR Z 24-70mm f/2.8 S
Nikon Z Mount
Nikon's flagship S-Line standard zoom offering incredible resolution and custom OLED info panel.
$2,299
Launch priceReleased Feb 2019
RF 24-70mm F2.8L IS USM is 6 months newer.
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Wins
RF 24-70mm F2.8L IS USM
Wins
NIKKOR Z 24-70mm f/2.8 S
2 categories tied
TL;DR — Key differences
- ARF 24-70mm F2.8L IS USM has higher OIS effectiveness (5 stops vs 0 stops)
- ARF 24-70mm F2.8L IS USM has lower Min focus distance (21 cm vs 38 cm)
- ARF 24-70mm F2.8L IS USM has higher Max magnification (0.3 × vs 0.22 ×)
- BNIKKOR Z 24-70mm f/2.8 S has lower Weight (805 g vs 900 g)
- ARF 24-70mm F2.8L IS USM has lower Diameter (88 mm vs 89 mm)
Key specs at a glance
Use-case scoring
Which one for what?
Algorithmic scores from verified specs · 10 = best in class
The verdict
The primary trade-off between these professional zooms is a $100 price gap and the inclusion of 5-stop optical image stabilization on the Canon.
Choose the Canon RF 24-70mm F2.8L IS USM if you require handheld stability in low light or close-focusing capabilities, as it features 5-stop optical image stabilization and a 21cm minimum focus distance. This lens is the logical choice for photographers who frequently work without a tripod.
Choose the Nikon NIKKOR Z 24-70mm f/2.8 S if you prioritize a lighter kit or physical customization, as it weighs 95 grams less than the Canon and includes a dedicated custom function button. It is the better option for users who value a more compact profile and tactile control.
Why pick one over the other
Reasons to choose the RF 24-70mm F2.8L IS USM
- ✓
Special elements
Adds 3 Aspherical, 3 UD
- ✓
OIS effectiveness
5 stops vs 0 stops — higher is better
- ✓
Optical stabilization
Only RF 24-70mm F2.8L IS USM supports it
- ✓
Min focus distance
21 cm vs 38 cm — lower is better
- ✓
Max magnification
0.3 × vs 0.22 × — higher is better
- ✓
Diameter
88 mm vs 89 mm — lower is better
- ✓
Length
125 mm vs 126 mm — lower is better
Reasons to choose the NIKKOR Z 24-70mm f/2.8 S
- ✓
Special elements
Adds 2 ED, 4 Aspherical
- ✓
Custom function button
Only NIKKOR Z 24-70mm f/2.8 S supports it
- ✓
Weight
805 g vs 900 g — lower is better
Shared specifications
Max aperture (Wide)
Both f/2.8
Max aperture (Tele)
Both f/2.8
Internal focus
Both support internal focus
Weather sealing
Both support weather sealing
Control ring
Both support control ring
Pros & cons at a glance
Editorially curated highlights and trade-offs.
RF 24-70mm F2.8L IS USM
Pros
- ✓Built-in optical image stabilization (up to 5 stops)
- ✓Excellent L-series sharpness and build quality
- ✓Fast and silent Nano USM focus motor
- ✓Very low chromatic aberration
Cons
- –Heavier than competitive options (900g)
- –Pricey entry threshold
- –Minor barrel distortion at 24mm
NIKKOR Z 24-70mm f/2.8 S
Pros
- ✓Stunning resolution and contrast across zoom range
- ✓OLED information panel displays focal length, focus, or aperture
- ✓Multi-focusing stepping motor system for silent, rapid AF
- ✓Almost zero focus breathing
Cons
- –No optical stabilization (relies on Nikon body IBIS)
- –No mechanical aperture ring (uses control ring instead)
Decided which one is right for you?
Compare live prices for the RF 24-70mm F2.8L IS USM and NIKKOR Z 24-70mm f/2.8 S at major authorized retailers.
Canon RF 24-70mm F2.8L IS USM
Nikon NIKKOR Z 24-70mm f/2.8 S
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Full specifications
✓ = category winner
Specs sourced from manufacturer data. Use-case scores algorithmically derived. Last reviewed May 2026.