Canon EF-M 22mm f/2 STM

Canon EF-M

Review

The Canon EF-M 22mm f/2 STM is a compact prime lens designed specifically for Canon's mirrorless camera system. With its wide aperture of f/2, this lens offers excellent low-light performance and the ability to achieve a shallow depth of field, making it a versatile choice for various photography styles, such as street photography, portraits, and landscapes.

Build and Design

This lens is remarkably lightweight and compact, making it an excellent addition to any traveling photographer's kit. Weighing just 105 grams and measuring a mere 23mm in length, it can easily fit in a small camera bag or even a pocket. The all-plastic construction may give it a slightly less premium feel than some metal-bodied lenses, but it still feels robust enough for everyday use.

Optics and Performance

The optical design of the EF-M 22mm f/2 STM includes 8 elements in 7 groups, which contribute to its sharpness and overall image quality. Center sharpness is commendable even wide open at f/2, with only slight softening towards the edges. As you stop down to f/4 and beyond, image quality improves significantly, boasting sharp, detailed images across the frame. The lens also performs well in conditions with challenging lighting, producing minimal chromatic aberrations and barrel distortion.

Autofocus

The stepper motor (STM) technology employed in this lens enables smooth and almost silent autofocus operation. This is particularly beneficial for video shooters who require minimal focus noise. In photography, the focus speed is adequate, making it suitable for most situations, although it might struggle occasionally with tracking fast-moving subjects.

Versatility

With an equivalent focal length of 35mm (in full-frame terms), the EF-M 22mm f/2 is versatile enough for a range of shooting scenarios. It excels in capturing everyday moments, offering a natural perspective that mimics human vision. The lens is also ideal for those who want to explore street photography or environmental portraits due to its compactness and unobtrusive nature.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Compact and lightweight design, perfect for travel.
• Wide f/2 maximum aperture for low-light performance.
• Excellent sharpness and image quality from f/4 onwards.
• Smooth and quiet autofocus due to STM technology.
• Great build quality for the price point.

Cons

• All-plastic construction may feel less premium.
• Slight edge softness wide open, although acceptable for many uses.
• Autofocus not as fast as some higher-end models.

Verdict

Overall, the Canon EF-M 22mm f/2 STM is a fantastic lens for Canon's mirrorless system, particularly for photographers who value portability and versatility. Its sharp, bright optics and lightweight design make it an ideal choice for casual shooting as well as more serious work. While it has minor drawbacks, such as edge softness wide open and an all-plastic build, the lens's strengths far outweigh these cons. If you're looking for a reliable prime lens that can handle various shooting conditions, the EF-M 22mm f/2 STM is certainly worth considering.