Canon EF 20mm f/2.8 USM

Canon EF

Review

The Canon EF 20mm f/2.8 USM lens is a wide-angle prime lens that caters to Canon's EF mounts, making it compatible with both full-frame and APS-C sensor cameras. This lens has been a staple for many photographers looking to capture sweeping landscapes, architecture, and environmental portraits with a unique perspective.

One of the standout features of this lens is its compact and lightweight design, which makes it an excellent choice for travel photographers or anyone looking to reduce their gear load. Weighing only around 400g (about 14 oz), it's easy to carry around, and the build quality feels solid, giving you confidence during use.

In terms of optical performance, the Canon EF 20mm f/2.8 performs admirably. The lens offers great sharpness from the center outwards, with images coming out crisp and clear at f/2.8. The color rendition is also impressive, providing vibrant tones that add to the beauty of landscapes and urban scenes. Moreover, the lens features a Super Spectra coating, effectively minimizing flare and ghosting, which is particularly beneficial in high-contrast situations.

However, like any piece of equipment, the Canon EF 20mm f/2.8 does have its shortcomings. One aspect to note is the slight distortion present at the edges, typical for wide-angle lenses. While it's manageable during post-processing, it can still be a consideration for photographers who prioritize perfect straight lines in architectural shots. Furthermore, while autofocus is generally quick and accurate thanks to the Ultrasonic Motor (USM), in low-light situations, it may struggle slightly but can usually be remedied with manual focusing.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Compact and lightweight design, perfect for travel.
• Great sharpness, especially in the center.
• Excellent color rendition with minimal flare and ghosting due to Super Spectra coatings.
• Fast and quiet autofocus with USM technology.

Cons

• Slight edge distortion, which may require post-processing correction.
• Autofocus can struggle in very low-light scenarios.

Verdict

The Canon EF 20mm f/2.8 USM lens is an excellent choice for photographers seeking a reliable wide-angle option that offers solid optical performance and a lightweight build. While it has some minor drawbacks, such as edge distortion and occasional autofocus issues in low light, its advantages far outweigh these concerns. Overall, this lens is ideal for landscape, architecture, and street photography enthusiasts who desire a versatile tool for their creative vision.