Can you recommend the best landscape lens for Canon R5?

Question

What lens are you guys using for landscapes on the R5 to actually take advantage of that sensor? I've been a Canon shooter since the 5D Mark II days but this move to mirrorless has me a bit stuck. My old EF 16-35mm f/2.8 III via the adapter feels a bit soft in the corners now that I've got 45 megapixels to work with. I'm planning a big trip to the Dolomites next month and want something native that's sharp edge-to-edge. Is the RF 15-35mm worth the extra weight or should I grab the 14-35mm f/4? I'm worried the f/4 has too much distortion at 14mm but I want to keep the kit light for hiking. Budget is around $2,300.

Beatrice Rose Wilson · Accepted Answer

I have been very satisfied with the Canon RF 14-35mm f/4L IS USM for my landscape work. When you are shooting on a tripod at f/8, the extra stop of light on the f/2.8 version is basically a waste of money and glass. It is a more professional approach to prioritize the focal range and the savings. Honestly, sticking with the f/4 version allows you to stay way under that $2,300 budget. I actually picked mine up via the Canon USA Refurbished site during a sale and it works perfectly... saved enough to pick up a Breakthrough Photography X4 CPL Filter 77mm and some extra batteries. Safety in the field is also a factor. The 14-35mm feels very robust and the weather sealing has held up well for me in damp conditions. Another thing to consider is that 77mm filters are the standard; if you go for the f/2.8 lens, you might have to reinvest in 82mm filters which adds even more to the total cost. For a trip to the Dolomites, having a lighter, more affordable setup that doesnt compromise on that 45MP resolution is the way to go. It is a very balanced, reliable choice that wont leave you feeling buyers remorse when the credit card bill hits.

PROFESSIONAL_CAT · Answer

Seriously, go with the Canon RF 15-35mm f/2.8L IS USM! I lugged mine through the Sierras and it didnt disappoint... edge detail is lightyears beyond my old EF glass. Best decision ever.

ChromeDinosaur · Answer

I've gone through dozens of lenses over the years and for hiking in places like the Dolomites, weight is everything. You're right to worry about distortion on the Canon RF 14-35mm f/4L IS USM at 14mm, but truth is, modern profiles in Lightroom basically erase that issue. Even though it technically doesnt cover the full sensor at 14mm without digital correction, the end result is still incredibly sharp. In my experience, here is why you should lean towards the f/4:

Weighs about 540g vs 840g for the 2.8 version.

Extra 1mm on the wide end is actually massive for mountain vistas.

Takes 77mm filters which are easier to carry. If you really want to max out that R5 sensor for big prints, the Canon RF 15-35mm f/2.8L IS USM is technically superior in the corners, but its a brick. For landscapes, you're usually stopped down anyway, so the f/2.8 speed is kinda wasted unless you're doing astro.