Name: Canon EF-M 28mm F3 5 Macro IS STM
Brand: Canon

Technical Specifications of Canon EF-M 28mm F3 5 Macro IS STM

Overall score

7.2

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Popularity

What it is: An indicator based on the number of reviews received by the camera lens.

When it matters: When you want to see which camera lenses attract the most buyer attention and review activity.

Mount & Format

1.0

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Lens type

What it is: The optical category that indicates whether the lens is a prime, zoom, macro, fisheye, or another design.

When it matters: When you are choosing between a prime, zoom, macro, or specialty lens for the kind of subjects you shoot.

Importance: LOW

macro

Lens mount

What it is: The mechanical and electronic interface that determines which cameras the lens can be attached to.

When it matters: When camera compatibility and access to the right lens ecosystem are central to your buying decision.

Importance: LOW

Canon EF-M

Sensor format coverage

What it is: The largest sensor size the lens is designed to cover without severe vignetting.

When it matters: When you need the lens to fully cover your camera sensor without heavy corner darkening.

Importance: LOW

APS-C

Filter thread size

What it is: The diameter of the front filter thread used for screw-in filters and compatible accessories.

When it matters: When you plan to use screw-in filters such as polarizers, ND filters, or protective glass.

Importance: LOW

43 mm

Teleconverter compatibility

What it is: Whether the lens can be used with compatible teleconverters to extend focal length.

When it matters: When you want to extend reach for wildlife or sports without changing to a different long lens.

Importance: HIGH

Optics & Aperture

8.0

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Minimum focal length

What it is: The shortest focal length the lens can provide, which determines its widest framing.

When it matters: When wide framing matters for landscapes, interiors, architecture, or travel shots.

Importance: LOW

28 mm

Maximum focal length

What it is: The longest focal length the lens can reach, which determines its telephoto reach.

When it matters: When you need more reach for wildlife, sports, stage events, or distant details.

Importance: LOW

28 mm

Optical zoom

What it is: The ratio between the longest and shortest focal lengths available in the lens zoom range.

When it matters: When you want one lens to cover a broader range of compositions without swapping glass.

Importance: LOW

Maximum angle of view

What it is: The widest scene the lens can capture at its shortest focal length.

When it matters: When you need to fit more of a room, skyline, or landscape into the frame.

Importance: LOW

51.9 °

Minimum angle of view

What it is: The narrowest scene the lens captures at its longest focal length.

When it matters: When you want tighter framing on faraway subjects without moving closer.

Importance: LOW

51.9 °

Focus & Controls

5.7

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Focus motor

What it is: The autofocus drive system responsible for moving lens elements into focus.

When it matters: When fast, quiet autofocus matters for video, wildlife, street shots, or moving subjects.

Importance: LOW

STM

Minimum focus distance

What it is: The shortest distance at which the lens can focus on a subject.

When it matters: When you like shooting details, food, flowers, or products from a very short distance.

Importance: MEDIUM

Maximum reproduction ratio

What it is: The highest magnification the lens can achieve when focusing at its closest distance.

When it matters: When close-up magnification matters for macro work, textures, or small product details.

Importance: MEDIUM

Full-time manual focus

What it is: The ability to adjust focus manually without leaving autofocus mode.

When it matters: When you want to fine-tune focus instantly without switching out of autofocus.

Importance: HIGH

Internal focusing

What it is: A focusing design in which internal elements move while the outer barrel length stays unchanged.

When it matters: When you use polarizers, gimbals, or close-up setups that benefit from a lens that does not extend while focusing.

Importance: HIGH

Stabilization

7.6

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Optical image stabilization

What it is: A hardware system that shifts optical elements to counteract camera shake and reduce blur.

When it matters: When you want steadier handheld shots and less blur, especially in low light or at longer focal lengths.

Importance: HIGH

Stabilization effectiveness (CIPA stops)

What it is: The rated stabilizer benefit, measured in stops, under CIPA testing standards.

When it matters: When you are comparing stabilized lenses and want to know how much handheld shutter-speed advantage they offer.

Importance: HIGH

Build & Handling

5.1

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Weight

What it is: The total mass of the lens, affecting portability and handling balance on the camera body.

When it matters: When you carry a lens all day for travel, hiking, or event coverage and want to keep your kit manageable.

Importance: HIGH

Lens length

What it is: The physical length of the lens body from mount to front edge.

When it matters: When bag space, balance, or front clearance matters in a compact travel or video setup.

Importance: HIGH

Lens diameter

What it is: The widest outer diameter of the lens barrel.

When it matters: When grip comfort, filter size, or fit inside a tight camera bag matters to you.

Importance: MEDIUM

Weather sealing (splashproof)

What it is: Protective sealing intended to resist splashes, dust, and light environmental exposure.

When it matters: When you often shoot outdoors in light rain, dust, or changing conditions.

Importance: HIGH

Metal mount

What it is: A lens mount made of metal rather than plastic for greater durability at the camera connection point.

When it matters: When durability matters because you change lenses often or use heavier gear for work.

Importance: HIGH

Lab Scores

9.0

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DxOMark overall score

What it is: The combined DxOMark lens rating based on lab-tested optical performance.

When it matters: When you want a quick lab-based summary of overall optical performance before comparing lenses in detail.

Importance: HIGH

DxOMark sharpness score

What it is: The DxOMark subscore that reflects how much detail the lens can resolve across the frame.

When it matters: When fine detail matters for landscapes, product work, or high-resolution cameras.

Importance: HIGH

DxOMark transmission

What it is: The measured light transmission of the lens, expressed as T-stop rather than nominal f-number.

When it matters: When real light loss matters for exposure consistency in studio, cinema, or mixed-lens shoots.

Importance: MEDIUM

DxOMark distortion

What it is: The DxOMark metric that measures how much the lens bends straight lines away from their true shape.

When it matters: When straight lines matter in architecture, interiors, copy work, or product photography.

Importance: MEDIUM

DxOMark vignetting

What it is: The DxOMark measurement of corner darkening relative to the center of the image.

When it matters: When even corner brightness matters for skies, studio backdrops, or clean product shots.

Importance: MEDIUM

Canon EF-M 28mm F3 5 Macro IS STM vs the average camera lens

Why is Canon EF-M 28mm F3 5 Macro IS STM better than the average camera lens?

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Has optical image stabilization
Canon EF-M 28mm F3 5 Macro IS STM has optical image stabilization, the average camera lens does not. 29% of camera lenses include optical image stabilization.
What it is: A hardware system that shifts optical elements to counteract camera shake and reduce blur.
When it matters: When you want steadier handheld shots and less blur, especially in low light or at longer focal lengths.
Importance: HIGH
Canon EF-M 28mm F3 5 Macro IS STM has optical image stabilization, the average camera lens does not. 29% of camera lenses include optical image stabilization.
46.5 mm shorter lens
Canon EF-M 28mm F3 5 Macro IS STM is shorter than the average camera lens (45.5 mm vs 92 mm). The average lens has a length of 92 mm.
Retracted length.
What it is: The physical length of the lens body from mount to front edge.
When it matters: When bag space, balance, or front clearance matters in a compact travel or video setup.
Importance: HIGH
Canon EF-M 28mm F3 5 Macro IS STM is shorter than the average camera lens (45.5 mm vs 92 mm). The average lens has a length of 92 mm.45.5 mm vs 92 mm
16.1 mm narrower lens barrel
Canon EF-M 28mm F3 5 Macro IS STM is slimmer than the average camera lens (60.9 mm vs 77 mm). The average lens has a diameter of 77 mm.
What it is: The widest outer diameter of the lens barrel.
When it matters: When grip comfort, filter size, or fit inside a tight camera bag matters to you.
Importance: MEDIUM
Canon EF-M 28mm F3 5 Macro IS STM is slimmer than the average camera lens (60.9 mm vs 77 mm). The average lens has a diameter of 77 mm.60.9 mm vs 77 mm
0.21 m shorter minimum focus distance
Canon EF-M 28mm F3 5 Macro IS STM has a lower minimum focus distance than the average camera lens (0.1 m vs 0.3 m). The average lens has a minimum focus distance of 0.3 m.
0.097 m in normal mode.
What it is: The shortest distance at which the lens can focus on a subject.
When it matters: When you like shooting details, food, flowers, or products from a very short distance.
Importance: MEDIUM
Canon EF-M 28mm F3 5 Macro IS STM has a lower minimum focus distance than the average camera lens (0.1 m vs 0.3 m). The average lens has a minimum focus distance of 0.3 m.0.093 m vs 0.3 m
1.01 x higher maximum reproduction ratio
Canon EF-M 28mm F3 5 Macro IS STM has a higher maximum reproduction ratio than the average camera lens (1.2x vs 0.192x). The average lens has a maximum reproduction ratio of 0.192x.
What it is: The highest magnification the lens can achieve when focusing at its closest distance.
When it matters: When close-up magnification matters for macro work, textures, or small product details.
Importance: MEDIUM
Canon EF-M 28mm F3 5 Macro IS STM has a higher maximum reproduction ratio than the average camera lens (1.2x vs 0.192x). The average lens has a maximum reproduction ratio of 0.192x.1.2 x vs 0.192 x
15.7% higher user score
Canon EF-M 28mm F3 5 Macro IS STM has a higher user score than the average camera lens (9.36 vs 8.091).
What it is: A rating that combines user reviews and the total number of reviews received by the camera lens.
When it matters: When real-world owner satisfaction and review volume matter to your decision.
Canon EF-M 28mm F3 5 Macro IS STM has a higher user score than the average camera lens (9.36 vs 8.091).9.36 vs 8.09
0.21 m shorter minimum focus distance
Canon EF-M 28mm F3 5 Macro IS STM has a lower minimum focus distance than the average camera lens (0.1 m vs 0.3 m). The average lens has a minimum focus distance of 0.3 m.
1.01 x higher maximum reproduction ratio
Canon EF-M 28mm F3 5 Macro IS STM has a higher maximum reproduction ratio than the average camera lens (1.2x vs 0.192x). The average lens has a maximum reproduction ratio of 0.192x.
Has optical image stabilization
Canon EF-M 28mm F3 5 Macro IS STM has optical image stabilization, the average camera lens does not. 29% of camera lenses include optical image stabilization.
46.5 mm shorter lens
Canon EF-M 28mm F3 5 Macro IS STM is shorter than the average camera lens (45.5 mm vs 92 mm). The average lens has a length of 92 mm.
16.1 mm narrower lens barrel
Canon EF-M 28mm F3 5 Macro IS STM is slimmer than the average camera lens (60.9 mm vs 77 mm). The average lens has a diameter of 77 mm.

Why is Canon EF-M 28mm F3 5 Macro IS STM worse than the average camera lens?

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2 fewer aperture blades
Canon EF-M 28mm F3 5 Macro IS STM has fewer aperture blades than the average camera lens (7 vs 9). The average lens has 9 aperture blades.
0.7 higher f-number at telephoto end
Canon EF-M 28mm F3 5 Macro IS STM has a dimmer maximum telephoto aperture than the average camera lens (f/3.5 vs f/2.8). The average lens has a maximum telephoto aperture of f/2.8.
1 fewer low-dispersion elements
Canon EF-M 28mm F3 5 Macro IS STM has fewer low-dispersion elements than the average camera lens (1 vs 2). The average lens has 2 low-dispersion elements.
0.5 stops weaker stabilization
Canon EF-M 28mm F3 5 Macro IS STM has a lower stabilization effectiveness than the average camera lens (3.5 stops vs 4 stops). The average lens has stabilization effectiveness of 4 stops.
Not weather-sealed
Canon EF-M 28mm F3 5 Macro IS STM does not support weather sealing, the average camera lens does. 50.3% of camera lenses support weather sealing.
No metal mount
Canon EF-M 28mm F3 5 Macro IS STM does not use a metal lens mount, the average camera lens does. 93.1% of camera lenses use a metal lens mount.
Not weather-sealed
Canon EF-M 28mm F3 5 Macro IS STM does not support weather sealing, the average camera lens does. 50.3% of camera lenses support weather sealing.
What it is: Protective sealing intended to resist splashes, dust, and light environmental exposure.
When it matters: When you often shoot outdoors in light rain, dust, or changing conditions.
Importance: HIGH
Canon EF-M 28mm F3 5 Macro IS STM does not support weather sealing, the average camera lens does. 50.3% of camera lenses support weather sealing.
2 fewer aperture blades
Canon EF-M 28mm F3 5 Macro IS STM has fewer aperture blades than the average camera lens (7 vs 9). The average lens has 9 aperture blades.
What it is: The number of diaphragm blades that shape the aperture opening and influence blur rendering.
When it matters: When the look of out-of-focus highlights matters in portraits, close-ups, or cinematic video.
Importance: HIGH
Canon EF-M 28mm F3 5 Macro IS STM has fewer aperture blades than the average camera lens (7 vs 9). The average lens has 9 aperture blades.7 vs 9
No metal mount
Canon EF-M 28mm F3 5 Macro IS STM does not use a metal lens mount, the average camera lens does. 93.1% of camera lenses use a metal lens mount.
What it is: A lens mount made of metal rather than plastic for greater durability at the camera connection point.
When it matters: When durability matters because you change lenses often or use heavier gear for work.
Importance: HIGH
Canon EF-M 28mm F3 5 Macro IS STM does not use a metal lens mount, the average camera lens does. 93.1% of camera lenses use a metal lens mount.
0.7 higher f-number at telephoto end
Canon EF-M 28mm F3 5 Macro IS STM has a dimmer maximum telephoto aperture than the average camera lens (f/3.5 vs f/2.8). The average lens has a maximum telephoto aperture of f/2.8.
What it is: The widest aperture available at the long end of the zoom range, affecting light intake and background blur.
When it matters: When you shoot at the long end in low light or want stronger background blur for portraits and sports.
Importance: HIGH
Canon EF-M 28mm F3 5 Macro IS STM has a dimmer maximum telephoto aperture than the average camera lens (f/3.5 vs f/2.8). The average lens has a maximum telephoto aperture of f/2.8.3.5 vs 2.8
0.5 stops weaker stabilization
Canon EF-M 28mm F3 5 Macro IS STM has a lower stabilization effectiveness than the average camera lens (3.5 stops vs 4 stops). The average lens has stabilization effectiveness of 4 stops.
What it is: The rated stabilizer benefit, measured in stops, under CIPA testing standards.
When it matters: When you are comparing stabilized lenses and want to know how much handheld shutter-speed advantage they offer.
Importance: HIGH
Canon EF-M 28mm F3 5 Macro IS STM has a lower stabilization effectiveness than the average camera lens (3.5 stops vs 4 stops). The average lens has stabilization effectiveness of 4 stops.3.5 stops vs 4 stops
1 fewer low-dispersion elements
Canon EF-M 28mm F3 5 Macro IS STM has fewer low-dispersion elements than the average camera lens (1 vs 2). The average lens has 2 low-dispersion elements.
What it is: Optical elements designed to reduce color fringing by controlling how different wavelengths focus.
When it matters: When you want cleaner edges and less color fringing in high-contrast scenes.
Importance: MEDIUM
Canon EF-M 28mm F3 5 Macro IS STM has fewer low-dispersion elements than the average camera lens (1 vs 2). The average lens has 2 low-dispersion elements.1 vs 2

Expert reviews

the-digital-picture.com

27/03/2018

Summary of the review

The Digital Picture: Canon EF-M 28mm f/3.5 Macro IS STM Lens Review

The Canon EF-M 28mm f/3.5 Macro IS STM is an ultra-lightweight (130g) prime lens designed for EOS M cameras, featuring 1:1, or 1.2x Super Macro, magnification and an innovative built-in, dual-intensity LED Macro Lite for close-up lighting. Key features include effective Hybrid Image Stabilization (3.5 stops) and exceptionally sharp image quality throughout the frame. Limitations include a plastic lens mount, a slow maximum aperture of f/3.5, and a collapsible design that requires manual unlocking before shooting. Additionally, the lens exhibits heavy wide-open vignetting, requires in-camera menu navigation to control the stabilizer, and lacks weather sealing.

pcmag.com

30/05/2017

Summary of the review

PCMag: Canon EF-M 28mm f/3.5 Macro IS STM Review

The Canon EF-M 28mm f/3.5 Macro IS STM is an Editors' Choice, budget-friendly, ultra-compact lens for Canon mirrorless cameras, offering outstanding edge-to-edge sharpness, 1.2x magnification, an integrated LED ring light, and effective hybrid image stabilization. It is highly portable at 4.6 ounces, featuring a silent STM motor suitable for video, though it is limited by a narrow f/3.5 aperture and heavy vignetting when shooting raw. The lens construction includes a plastic mount and requires stopping down to f/5.6 to clear corner dimness.

dustinabbott.net

09/08/2016

Summary of the review

Canon EF-M 28mm f/3.5 Macro IS STM Review - Dustin Abbott

Dustin Abbott’s review highlights the Canon EF-M 28mm f/3.5 Macro IS STM as an innovative, lightweight optic offering wonderful image quality, low distortion, and effective Hybrid IS. Key features include an integrated Macro Lite LED and a Super Macro mode capable of 1.2x magnification for extreme detail. However, the lens is limited by a mostly plastic build, a frustrating locking mechanism that causes accidental entry into Super Macro mode, and a very short working distance. While quiet, the STM focusing also presents slight lag, and the 28mm focal length produces limited background blur.

dpreview.com

21/07/2016

Summary of the review

DPReview: Getting up close: Canon EF-M 28mm macro hands-on review

The Canon EF-M 28mm F3.5 Macro IS STM is an ultra-compact, 130-gram lens designed exclusively for the EOS M system, featuring a built-in LED Macro Lite and a 1.2x Super Macro mode. Key advantages include its lightweight build, effective image stabilization, and quiet autofocus for close-up work. However, the 45mm equivalent focal length requires extremely close working distances for 1:1 magnification, which is challenging for skittish subjects, and the retractable design requires manual extension before shooting. Furthermore, the lens lacks infinity focus when used in Super Macro mode.

focus-review.com

02/11/2018

Summary of the review

Focus Review: Canon EF-M 28mm f/3.5 Macro IS STM - Focus Review

The Canon EF-M 28mm f/3.5 Macro IS STM is a highly unique, compact, and lightweight lens designed specifically for the APS-C EOS-M mirrorless system. Optically, the review highlights its excellent image quality, exceptionally low distortion (0.11% in JPEG), and uniform sharpness across the entire field of view, especially when stepped down to its optimal aperture of f/8. The lens features a 1:1 reproduction ratio in normal mode and a "Super Macro Mode" that provides 1.2x magnification by dropping the ability to focus to infinity. Key practical highlights include an effective Hybrid Image Stabilization system and a dual-strip, dimmable built-in Macro-Lite LED system to clear up shadows caused by the lens being extremely close to the subject. However, the review points out several distinct drawbacks, particularly its short focal length (45mm equivalent), which forces users to position the front element just 13mm away from the subject—making lighting difficult and threatening to scare off live subjects. The mechanical retractable design requires users to manually extend the lens before shooting, introducing an easy risk of accidentally slipping into Super Macro mode where infinity...

smartphotography.in

14/07/2017

Summary of the review

Canon EF-M 28mm f/3.5 Macro IS STM

The Canon EF-M 28mm f/3.5 Macro IS STM is a highly innovative, ultra-lightweight macro lens engineered specifically for Canon's compact mirrorless EOS M cameras. It stands out in the photography market as the world's first lens to feature a built-in Macro Lite ring flash designed to eliminate sub-optimal lighting and lens shadows when shooting very close up. Weighing a mere 130g with highly compact dimensions, this engineering plastic lens features a uniquely narrow, protruding central barrel that naturally reduces cast shadows, alongside dedicated barrel markings for Lock, Normal, and a powerful 1.2x Super Macro magnification mode. Pros & Cons Summary: Pros: The lens features a highly innovative built-in LED ring light to easily illuminate macro subjects. It holds the title of the world's lightest macro lens, making it extremely portable. Additionally, it includes a unique Super Macro mode that boosts magnification past life-size to 1.2x, while the physical tapering of the central barrel structurally minimizes ambient shadows. Cons: The lens is built with a plastic mounting mechanism, raising long-term wear and tear concerns for heavy users. It also features a...

digitalkamera.de

22/03/2017

Summary of the review

Review: Canon EF-M 28mm f/3.5 Macro IS STM

The digitalkamera.de review highlights the Canon EF-M 28 mm f/3.5 Macro IS STM as an innovative, compact lens featuring a built-in LED ring and 1.2x Super Macro mode. Pros include excellent center sharpness, effective Hybrid Image Stabilization, and a lightweight design. Conversely, the lens has a plastic construction and extremely short working distances in super macro mode. Further limitations include a slow f/3.5 aperture and a mechanical design prone to accidental mode switching.

heise.de

18/08/2016

Summary of the review

Review: Canon EF-M 28mm f/3.5 Macro IS STM

The Canon EF-M 28mm f/3.5 Macro IS STM is a lightweight (130g) prime lens for APS-C mirrorless cameras featuring an integrated "Macro Lite" LED ring and a 1.2x Super Macro mode. It offers excellent edge-to-edge sharpness, minimal distortion, and Hybrid IS for steady, close-up shooting. YouTube · However, the lens is limited by a slow f/3.5 aperture and a very short working distance, requiring subjects to be extremely close. Additionally, it features a plastic mount and requires a specific accessory to use filters, which inhibits the built-in light.

d-pixx.de

06/08/2016

Summary of the review

Canon EF-M 3,5/28 mm Macro IS STM im Test

The Canon EF-M 3.5/28 mm Macro IS STM functions as a highly versatile "extended standard lens" for APS-C mirrorless cameras, offering a 51° 55' angle of view that is equivalent to a 45mm focal length in full-frame format. In standard mode, the lens delivers a 1:1 macro magnification ratio allowing for formats down to 14.9 x 22.3 mm, while switching to "Super Macro" mode increases magnification from 1:1.4 up to a 1.2:1 ratio. A standout innovation is the built-in dual-LED macro light surrounding the front lens element, which can be operated at full or reduced power, or split into left-and-right individual channels to sculpt lighting and shadows directly onto close-up subjects. Optically, the lens achieved an overall rating of "HERVORRAGEND" (Excellent), showcasing stellar image resolution from the center out to the edges starting at its wide-open f/3.5 aperture up to f/11, along with highly effective image stabilization (IS) and a quiet, direct stepping-motor (STM) autofocus system. Despite its high performance, the review highlights several specific practical drawbacks. The primary concern is the extremely short working distance; at a 1:2:1 magnification,...

photoetmac.com

14/04/2018

Summary of the review

Field test of the Canon EOS M50 (including the 28mm f/3.5 Macro)

The review provides an enthusiastic assessment of the Canon EOS M50, highlighting it as an excellent and highly competitive entry-level APS-C mirrorless option for 2018. A major point of praise is the inclusion of the DIGIC 8 processor and Dual Pixel Autofocus system, which ensures fast, accurate focus and highly tracking-responsive burst modes. Furthermore, it features the C-RAW format, which successfully reduces file sizes up to 40-50% while maintaining exceptional image color and quality. Its high portability, intuitive touchscreen ergonomics, and affordable kit options like the EF-M 15-45mm lens make it a top pick for beginners or travel-focused photographers over bulkier DSLRs. Conversely, the review highlights notable shortcomings, emphasizing that the camera requires substantial compromises regarding power consumption and high-end video. The LP-E12 battery life is criticized as severely limited, yielding only about 235 shots per charge, which makes buying extra batteries a necessity. Additionally, its advertised 4K video functionality is deemed virtually unusable because it lacks Dual Pixel AF and incurs a severe sensor crop. The reviewer also notes that the native EF-M lens lineup remains limited, the camera...

rcefoto.com

27/07/2026

Summary of the review

Used Canon EF-M 28mm f/3.5 Macro IS STM Review

The Canon EF-M 28mm f/3.5 Macro IS STM is a budget-friendly, mid-to-low range macro lens designed specifically for APS-C format mirrorless cameras. A major highlight of this lens is its exceptionally close minimum focusing distance of just 9 centimeters, allowing for excellent close-up photography alongside a 1.20x macro magnification ratio. It features built-in image stabilization (IS) and a quiet Stepper Motor (STM) autofocus system that provides precise performance. Additionally, its lightweight design (130g) and compact dimensions (61 x 46mm) make it highly portable and comfortable for long shooting sessions. Beyond macro photography, the lens proves to be quite versatile, performing well for landscape and portrait photography without compromising image quality. The review identifies several notable advantages and minor drawbacks for users to consider. Among the pros, the lens delivers sharp, crisp images with virtually no noticeable distortion or chromatic aberration. It also features a unique, built-in front LED illumination system that provides a distinct advantage for brightening close-up subjects to achieve maximum clarity. It comes packaged with an included lens hood and offers great value due to its affordable price...

focus-review.com

19/09/2018

Summary of the review

Canon EF-M 28mm f/3.5 Macro IS STM Review (EOS-M series)

📸 This review showcases the Canon EF-M 28mm f/3.5 Macro IS STM, a highly portable 130g prime lens designed for EOS-M series cameras. Its standout feature is an integrated, dimmable Macro-Lite LED ring at the front to illuminate subjects just millimeters away. It features a versatile Super Macro Mode pushing magnification to 1.2x. Optically, it delivers exceptionally high, uniform sharpness across the frame with minimal distortion. It also includes a Hybrid Image Stabilization system that effectively counters camera shake during handheld macro shooting. ⚠️ Despite its strong performance, the lens has notable limitations. The f/3.5 maximum aperture is relatively slow, offering limited bokeh for portraiture due to a deep depth of field at normal distances. Its 28mm focal length (45mm equivalent) is quite short for macro work. This forces photographers to shoot within 1.3 cm of the lens, potentially blocking natural light. Additionally, the retractable design requires an extra step to extend before shooting. Pushing it too quickly into Super Macro Mode can accidentally lock out infinity focus.

natuurfotografie.nl

10/12/2016

Summary of the review

Review of the Canon EOS M3 with the Canon EF-M 28mm f/3.5 Macro IS STM

Ergonomics and Usability The reviewer, initially skeptical about mirrorless "compact systems," found that the Canon EOS M3 provides a surprisingly comfortable and stable grip reminiscent of a DSLR. Key pros include its intuitive physical controls, featuring a dedicated PSAM mode dial, an exposure compensation dial, and customizable dual control wheels that allow for rapid adjustments. However, noticeable cons regarding the body setup involve the less convenient power button design and a limited battery life that yields only about 250 shots per charge, making extra batteries a necessity. Performance and Optical Quality The kit delivers excellent sharpness and rich, full colors due to sharing the same sensor as the Canon 750D/760D. A major pro for macro photographers is the lens's built-in "Macro Lite" LED ring light, which eliminates harsh shadows when working extremely close to subjects and features adjustable left/right directional control to add depth. Furthermore, its Super Macro mode reaches a remarkable 2:1 magnification. On the downside, image quality drops visibly once you exceed ISO 1600. Additionally, the autofocus system is a notable con, as it struggles with fast-moving insects,...

Canon EF-M 28mm F3 5 Macro IS STM Review | 54 Data compared

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Technical Specifications of Canon EF-M 28mm F3 5 Macro IS STM

Canon EF-M 28mm F3 5 Macro IS STM vs the average camera lens

Why is Canon EF-M 28mm F3 5 Macro IS STM better than the average camera lens?

Why is Canon EF-M 28mm F3 5 Macro IS STM worse than the average camera lens?

Graphic comparison of Canon EF-M 28mm F3 5 Macro IS STM and

Third-party reviews

What customers like about Canon EF-M 28mm F3 5 Macro IS STM?

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Expert reviews

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