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
Sony
FE 24-70mm F2.8 GM II
Sony E Mount
The ultimate standard zoom — incredibly sharp, exceptionally compact, and built for professionals.
$2,299
Launch priceReleased Apr 2022
FE 24-70mm F2.8 GM II is 2.7 years newer.
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Wins
RF 24-70mm F2.8L IS USM
Wins
FE 24-70mm F2.8 GM II
4 categories tied
TL;DR — Key differences
- ARF 24-70mm F2.8L IS USM has higher OIS effectiveness (5 stops vs 0 stops)
- BFE 24-70mm F2.8 GM II has lower Weight (695 g vs 900 g)
- BFE 24-70mm F2.8 GM II has higher Max magnification (0.32 × vs 0.3 ×)
- BFE 24-70mm F2.8 GM II has lower Length (120 mm vs 125 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 core trade-off centers on a $100 price difference and the inclusion of 5-stop optical image stabilization in the Canon.
Choose the Canon RF 24-70mm F2.8L IS USM if you require hardware-based shake reduction, as its 5-stop OIS provides essential stability for handheld shooting in low light. This lens is the primary choice for Canon RF shooters who prioritize internal stabilization.
Choose the Sony FE 24-70mm F2.8 GM II if portability is your primary concern, as it weighs only 695g. This lighter build ensures a more agile handling experience for Sony E-mount users who want to minimize gear weight.
Why pick one over the other
Reasons to choose the RF 24-70mm F2.8L IS USM
- ✓
OIS effectiveness
5 stops vs 0 stops — higher is better
- ✓
Special elements
Adds 3 UD
- ✓
Optical stabilization
Only RF 24-70mm F2.8L IS USM supports it
Reasons to choose the FE 24-70mm F2.8 GM II
- ✓
Special elements
Adds 2 XA (extreme aspherical), 2 ED, 2 Super ED
- ✓
Custom function button
Only FE 24-70mm F2.8 GM II supports it
- ✓
Weight
695 g vs 900 g — lower is better
- ✓
Length
120 mm vs 125 mm — lower is better
- ✓
Max magnification
0.32 × vs 0.3 × — higher is better
Shared specifications
Max aperture (Wide)
Both f/2.8
Max aperture (Tele)
Both f/2.8
Min focus distance
Both 21 cm
Internal focus
Both support internal focus
Diameter
Both 88 mm
Weather sealing
Both support weather sealing
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
FE 24-70mm F2.8 GM II
Pros
- ✓Outstanding sharpness across the entire zoom range
- ✓Remarkably small and lightweight for an f/2.8 zoom
- ✓Four XD Linear focus motors provide blazing-fast AF tracking
- ✓Excellent close-up magnification
- ✓De-clickable aperture ring and customized function buttons
Cons
- –No built-in optical image stabilization (relies on body IBIS)
- –High launch price
- –Aperture ring can be easily bumped if not locked
Decided which one is right for you?
Compare live prices for the RF 24-70mm F2.8L IS USM and FE 24-70mm F2.8 GM II at major authorized retailers.
Canon RF 24-70mm F2.8L IS USM
Sony FE 24-70mm F2.8 GM II
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Full specifications
✓ = category winner
Specs sourced from manufacturer data. Use-case scores algorithmically derived. Last reviewed May 2026.