Canon EF 16-35mm f/2.8L II USM

Canon EF 16-35mm f/2.8L II USM: Verdict

If this lens were to be judged on the performance in the centre of the frame alone I would have no hesitation in recommending this optic. It's not that the quality towards the edges is poor, especially not when the lens is stopped down, but that for me it is below my expectations for a lens at this level, and price point. With care and understand of its limitations, and for applications where absolute edge to edge sharpness isn't critical, this lens is certainly capable of yielding higher than satisfactory results.

The build quality and design is excellent, as I would expect from a Canon L series optic. The £1000 plus price tag is to be expected for an f/2.8 L series ultra-wide and it will be interesting to see how this fairs in terms of value when compared to the cheaper Tokina optic mentioned earlier.

Canon EF 16-35mm f/2.8L II USM: Pros

Excellent weather sealed build
Outstanding resolution in the centre
Fast silent focusing
Focuses close
Takes screw-in filters