Canon RF VS Canon EF: Which is Better?

Canon offers both Electro-Focus (EF) and Re-Imagined Focus (RF) options for their cameras and lenses. Both EF and RF offer great benefits and features, but how do you pick? Is one better than the other? Let’s discuss the benefits of each as we answer the big question on the mind of anyone wanting to try Canon products; Canon RF VS Canon EF: Which is Better?

The Benefits and Features of EF

Canon Electro-Focus (EF) cameras and lenses are part of Canon's long-standing lineup designed primarily for their DSLR systems. Introduced in 1987, the EF lens mount supports both full-frame and APS-C sensor cameras. These lenses are known for their durability, optical quality, and wide variety—ranging from affordable prime lenses to high-end L-series glass with superior weather sealing and advanced optics.

Some of the most popular EF cameras are from the EOS series and EOS Rebel series by Canon. These include cameras such as the Canon EOS 5D and the Canon EOS 6D. These DSLR cameras are great for beginners, are easy to use, shoot full HD videos and photos, and have autofocus for when you aren’t able to get in there and do manual focus.

Canon’s EF lens lineup includes options for virtually every type of photography, from standard and wide-angle lenses to telephoto and macro. The Canon EF 17-40mm F/4L Lens is a good option for wider shots, and the Canon EF 70-200mm F/4L Lens is handy for telephoto opportunities. It works great for sports photography, too. For more general usage, the Canon EF 24-105mm F/4L Lens and the Canon EF 24-70mm F2.8 Lens are great options. You can get wider and closer shots all in one lens.

EF lenses can be adapted for use on RF-mount mirrorless cameras with compatible adapters, albeit with slight trade-offs in autofocus performance.

Learn About RF Lenses and Cameras

Canon Re-Imagined Focus (RF) cameras and lenses are Canon's next-generation system, built specifically for mirrorless cameras. Released in 2018 with the Canon EOS R, the RF mount features a wider diameter and shorter flange distance, allowing for improved optical designs and performance. RF lenses boast cutting-edge technologies, such as faster autofocus, quieter operation, and high image quality with innovations like Dual Nano USM motors and Blue Spectrum Refractive (BR) optics for reduced chromatic aberration.

RF cameras, like the Canon EOS R and Canon R6, emphasize high-resolution imaging and advanced video features, making them popular for both photographers and videographers. The RF lineup is rapidly growing, with options from ultra-wide-angle primes to professional telephoto lenses, offering flexibility and future-proofing for Canon mirrorless users. RF lenses offer sharper focus with improved speeds due to newer technology. The Canon RF 24–105mm F4 Lens is a versatile option for many scenarios, and the Canon RF 85/1.2 Lens is great for portraits and close-ups.

You can also use a RF to EF lens adapter, such as the Canon RF to EF adapter, to use RF lenses on EF mount cameras, although you may lose some quality and functionality by doing this. It’s best to use EF lenses with EF mount cameras, and RF lenses with RF mount cameras. Most focal lengths come as both EF and RF lenses from Canon.

So, Canon RF VS Canon EF: Which is Better?

Both EF and RF Canon products are great and have their own stand-out features. For beginners, EF cameras and lenses are easy to use, to-the-point, and not gimmicky. They are a reliable option, especially for those new to photography and videography. The RF line is a brand-spanking-new option for those who have experience with Canon products, and want to try out the future of mirrorless cameras.

Here’s a quick recap of what we discussed:

	EF	RF
Lens Mount Compatibility	Designed for DSLR cameras, compatible with both full-frame and crop-sensor Canon DSLRs.	Built for Canon’s mirrorless system, offering new optics and design improvements; compatible only with RF-mount cameras.
Image Quality & Performance	High-quality but may show slight limitations in sharpness and speed when adapted to mirrorless systems.	Often sharper with improved focus speeds due to newer technology.
Focusing Speed and Accuracy	Solid performance on DSLRs, slightly reduced with adapters on mirrorless bodies.	Faster, quieter, and more precise with mirrorless autofocus technology.
Adaptability & Future-Proofing	Possible with an adapter, but may compromise speed slightly.	Ideal for future Canon mirrorless users due to the advanced tech and native design.

Everything Film Equipment offers a wide variety of Canon products, including both EF and RF lenses. Contact us today to try some out!