Name: Canon EF-S 60mm F 2 8 Macro USM
Brand: Canon

Technical Specifications of Canon EF-S 60mm F 2 8 Macro USM

Overall score

7.1

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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-S

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

52 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

7.9

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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

60 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

60 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

24.5 °

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

24.5 °

Focus & Controls

6.4

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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

ring USM

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

4.2

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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

6.4

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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

5.8

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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-S 60mm F 2 8 Macro USM vs the average camera lens

Why is Canon EF-S 60mm F 2 8 Macro USM better than the average camera lens?

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Has focus distance scale
Canon EF-S 60mm F 2 8 Macro USM has a focus distance scale, the average camera lens does not. 48.6% of camera lenses include a focus distance scale.
What it is: A marked scale that shows the approximate focus distance set on the lens.
When it matters: When you pre-focus manually for street, zone focusing, or repeatable tripod setups.
Importance: MEDIUM
Canon EF-S 60mm F 2 8 Macro USM has a focus distance scale, the average camera lens does not. 48.6% of camera lenses include a focus distance scale.
165.4 g lighter
Canon EF-S 60mm F 2 8 Macro USM is lighter than the average camera lens (360 g vs 525.4 g). The average lens weighs 525.4 g.
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
Canon EF-S 60mm F 2 8 Macro USM is lighter than the average camera lens (360 g vs 525.4 g). The average lens weighs 525.4 g.360 g vs 525.4 g
0.2 % lower optical distortion
Canon EF-S 60mm F 2 8 Macro USM has a lower optical distortion than the average camera lens (0.1% vs 0.3%). The average lens has optical distortion of 0.3%.
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
Canon EF-S 60mm F 2 8 Macro USM has a lower optical distortion than the average camera lens (0.1% vs 0.3%). The average lens has optical distortion of 0.3%.0.1 % vs 0.3 %
22.2 mm shorter lens
Canon EF-S 60mm F 2 8 Macro USM is shorter than the average camera lens (69.8 mm vs 92 mm). The average lens has a length of 92 mm.
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-S 60mm F 2 8 Macro USM is shorter than the average camera lens (69.8 mm vs 92 mm). The average lens has a length of 92 mm.69.8 mm vs 92 mm
0.81 x higher maximum reproduction ratio
Canon EF-S 60mm F 2 8 Macro USM has a higher maximum reproduction ratio than the average camera lens (1x 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-S 60mm F 2 8 Macro USM has a higher maximum reproduction ratio than the average camera lens (1x vs 0.192x). The average lens has a maximum reproduction ratio of 0.192x.1 x vs 0.192 x
0.1 m shorter minimum focus distance
Canon EF-S 60mm F 2 8 Macro USM has a lower minimum focus distance than the average camera lens (0.2 m vs 0.3 m). The average lens has a minimum focus distance of 0.3 m.
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-S 60mm F 2 8 Macro USM has a lower minimum focus distance than the average camera lens (0.2 m vs 0.3 m). The average lens has a minimum focus distance of 0.3 m.0.2 m vs 0.3 m
4 mm narrower lens barrel
Canon EF-S 60mm F 2 8 Macro USM is slimmer than the average camera lens (73 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-S 60mm F 2 8 Macro USM is slimmer than the average camera lens (73 mm vs 77 mm). The average lens has a diameter of 77 mm.73 mm vs 77 mm
Has focus distance scale
Canon EF-S 60mm F 2 8 Macro USM has a focus distance scale, the average camera lens does not. 48.6% of camera lenses include a focus distance scale.
0.81 x higher maximum reproduction ratio
Canon EF-S 60mm F 2 8 Macro USM has a higher maximum reproduction ratio than the average camera lens (1x vs 0.192x). The average lens has a maximum reproduction ratio of 0.192x.
0.1 m shorter minimum focus distance
Canon EF-S 60mm F 2 8 Macro USM has a lower minimum focus distance than the average camera lens (0.2 m vs 0.3 m). The average lens has a minimum focus distance of 0.3 m.
165.4 g lighter
Canon EF-S 60mm F 2 8 Macro USM is lighter than the average camera lens (360 g vs 525.4 g). The average lens weighs 525.4 g.
22.2 mm shorter lens
Canon EF-S 60mm F 2 8 Macro USM is shorter than the average camera lens (69.8 mm vs 92 mm). The average lens has a length of 92 mm.
4 mm narrower lens barrel
Canon EF-S 60mm F 2 8 Macro USM is slimmer than the average camera lens (73 mm vs 77 mm). The average lens has a diameter of 77 mm.
0.2 % lower optical distortion
Canon EF-S 60mm F 2 8 Macro USM has a lower optical distortion than the average camera lens (0.1% vs 0.3%). The average lens has optical distortion of 0.3%.

Why is Canon EF-S 60mm F 2 8 Macro USM worse than the average camera lens?

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2 fewer aperture blades
Canon EF-S 60mm F 2 8 Macro USM has fewer aperture blades than the average camera lens (7 vs 9). The average lens has 9 aperture blades.
2 fewer aspherical elements
Canon EF-S 60mm F 2 8 Macro USM has fewer aspherical elements than the average camera lens (0 vs 2). The average lens has 2 aspherical elements.
2 fewer low-dispersion elements
Canon EF-S 60mm F 2 8 Macro USM has fewer low-dispersion elements than the average camera lens (0 vs 2). The average lens has 2 low-dispersion elements.
Not weather-sealed
Canon EF-S 60mm F 2 8 Macro USM does not support weather sealing, the average camera lens does. 50.3% of camera lenses support weather sealing.
No lens hood
Canon EF-S 60mm F 2 8 Macro USM does not include a lens hood, the average camera lens does. 89.1% of camera lenses include a lens hood.
Older release date
Canon EF-S 60mm F 2 8 Macro USM was released earlier than the average camera lens.
March 2005
8 points lower DxOMark score
Canon EF-S 60mm F 2 8 Macro USM has a lower DxOMark overall score than the average camera lens (18 vs 26). The average lens has a DxOMark overall score of 26.
5 points lower DxOMark sharpness
Canon EF-S 60mm F 2 8 Macro USM has a lower DxOMark sharpness score than the average camera lens (11 vs 16). The average lens has a DxOMark sharpness score of 16.
0.4 T-stop higher transmission value
Canon EF-S 60mm F 2 8 Macro USM has a higher T-stop value than the average camera lens (3.5 T-stop vs 3.1 T-stop). The average lens has a T-stop value of 3.1 T-stop.
Not weather-sealed
Canon EF-S 60mm F 2 8 Macro USM 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-S 60mm F 2 8 Macro USM does not support weather sealing, the average camera lens does. 50.3% of camera lenses support weather sealing.
2 fewer aperture blades
Canon EF-S 60mm F 2 8 Macro USM 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-S 60mm F 2 8 Macro USM has fewer aperture blades than the average camera lens (7 vs 9). The average lens has 9 aperture blades.7 vs 9
No lens hood
Canon EF-S 60mm F 2 8 Macro USM does not include a lens hood, the average camera lens does. 89.1% of camera lenses include a lens hood.
What it is: Whether a matching lens hood is supplied in the box.
When it matters: When you want flare protection straight out of the box without buying extra accessories.
Importance: MEDIUM
Canon EF-S 60mm F 2 8 Macro USM does not include a lens hood, the average camera lens does. 89.1% of camera lenses include a lens hood.
8 points lower DxOMark score
Canon EF-S 60mm F 2 8 Macro USM has a lower DxOMark overall score than the average camera lens (18 vs 26). The average lens has a DxOMark overall score of 26.
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
Canon EF-S 60mm F 2 8 Macro USM has a lower DxOMark overall score than the average camera lens (18 vs 26). The average lens has a DxOMark overall score of 26.18 vs 26
Older release date
Canon EF-S 60mm F 2 8 Macro USM was released earlier than the average camera lens.
March 2005
What it is: The date when the lens model was first officially introduced.
When it matters: When you prefer a newer optical design with more modern autofocus, coatings, or stabilization features.
Importance: LOW
Canon EF-S 60mm F 2 8 Macro USM was released earlier than the average camera lens.2005 vs 2016
2 fewer aspherical elements
Canon EF-S 60mm F 2 8 Macro USM has fewer aspherical elements than the average camera lens (0 vs 2). The average lens has 2 aspherical elements.
What it is: Specially shaped lens elements used to reduce distortion and improve sharpness with fewer optical compromises.
When it matters: When edge sharpness and lower distortion matter in wide-angle, travel, or everyday shooting.
Importance: MEDIUM
Canon EF-S 60mm F 2 8 Macro USM has fewer aspherical elements than the average camera lens (0 vs 2). The average lens has 2 aspherical elements.0 vs 2
2 fewer low-dispersion elements
Canon EF-S 60mm F 2 8 Macro USM has fewer low-dispersion elements than the average camera lens (0 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-S 60mm F 2 8 Macro USM has fewer low-dispersion elements than the average camera lens (0 vs 2). The average lens has 2 low-dispersion elements.0 vs 2
5 points lower DxOMark sharpness
Canon EF-S 60mm F 2 8 Macro USM has a lower DxOMark sharpness score than the average camera lens (11 vs 16). The average lens has a DxOMark sharpness score of 16.
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
Canon EF-S 60mm F 2 8 Macro USM has a lower DxOMark sharpness score than the average camera lens (11 vs 16). The average lens has a DxOMark sharpness score of 16.11 vs 16

Expert reviews

the-digital-picture.com

01/05/2005

Summary of the review

Canon EF-S 60mm f/2.8 Macro USMGo to product viewer dialogue for this item. Lens Review

The Canon EF-S 60mm f/2.8 Macro USM lens is a highly sharp prime lens for APS-C bodies, delivering exceptional corner-to-corner image quality even at f/2.8. It features fast ring-type USM autofocus with full-time manual focus, an internal focusing design that makes it ideal for 1:1 macro, and excellent color and contrast, making it equally capable for portraiture. Conversely, the lens experiences notable vignetting at f/2.8, requiring stopping down to f/4 for optimal performance. It also offers limited working distance for live insects and is restricted to APS-C cameras, preventing use on full-frame systems.

ephotozine.com

15/12/2005

Summary of the review

Canon EF-S 60mm f/2.8 Macro USM Interchangeable Lens Review

The ⁠ePHOTOzine review highlights the Canon EF-S 60mm f/2.8 Macro USM as a versatile, APS-C specific lens providing a 96mm equivalent focal length for macro and portrait work. Key strengths include a fast, silent ring-type USM autofocus, excellent control over chromatic aberrations and distortion, and reliable performance throughout the aperture range. Conversely, the lens is noted for producing resolution figures that are merely adequate rather than exceptional for a modern prime, and it lacks an included lens hood. Additionally, the dedicated EF-S mount restricts compatibility to crop-sensor cameras only, limiting future upgrade paths.

lenstip.com

22/06/2009

Summary of the review

Canon EF-S 60 mm f/2.8 Macro USM review - LensTip.com

The LensTip.com review introduces the Canon EF-S 60 mm f/2.8 Macro USM as a dedicated instrument designed specifically for smaller APS-C sensors LensTip.com. Functioning as the digital equivalent to the classic full-frame EF 100 mm f/2.8 Macro USM, this lens offers versatility beyond extreme close-ups, making it highly capable for portrait photography as well. The reviewer notes that while the maximum aperture of f/2.8 is standard for a macro lens, the optical performance remains impressive even when shooting wide open. The final evaluation highlights clear advantages and a notable flaw. The major pros of the lens include its compact, light, and fully closed body design, alongside outstanding image sharpness across both the center and the edges of the frame right from the maximum aperture. It also delivers exceptional optical control with minimal chromatic aberration, very low coma, and negligible astigmatism, supported by a fast, silent, and highly accurate autofocus system. Conversely, the primary con identified by the reviewer is that the lens produces excessively large vignetting.

shutterbug.com

01/04/2006

Summary of the review

Canon’s EF-S 60mm f/2.8 Macro USM Lens

The Shutterbug review highlights the Canon EF-S 60mm f/2.8 Macro USM lens as a compact, lightweight 96mm equivalent (APS-C) optic that delivers outstanding corner-to-corner sharpness, true flat-field recording, and smooth background bokeh. The lens features a quiet, fast USM internal focusing system that keeps the front barrel stationary, making it highly suitable for close-up work. However, the 8-inch (20cm) minimum focusing distance for 1:1 magnification provides little working distance for skittish subjects, and the lens exhibits moderate corner vignetting at its maximum f/2.8 aperture. Additionally, the review notes extremely limited depth of field, even when stopped down to f/32, requiring precise focusing techniques.

photozone.de

01/01/2010

Summary of the review

Canon EF-S 60mm f/2.8 USM macro - Review / Test Report

The ⁠OpticalLimits review of the Canon EF-S 60mm f/2.8 USM macro lens highlights an excellent resolution performance, showcasing superb sharpness in the center and only slightly lower quality at the borders and extreme corners. Mechanically, the prime lens benefits from a true internal focusing design that keeps its physical length constant, alongside a fast, silent, and accurate autofocus mechanism. Optically, it excels in distortion control, yielding near-flawless results with geometric distortion restricted to less than 0.1%. Chromatic aberrations also remain remarkably low across nearly all aperture settings, avoiding problematic color shadows during harsh contrast transitions. Despite these strengths, the lens suffers from notable optical drawbacks. Its vignetting is heavily criticized, producing a mediocre edge shading of roughly 1.4EV at the maximum f/2.8 aperture, which is deemed too high for an APS-C format lens. The out-of-focus bokeh quality is merely average; while the background blur stays smooth, the foreground blur tends to be rough, and wide-open highlights suffer from a "cat's eye" effect due to the vignetting. Furthermore, longitudinal chromatic aberrations are heavily apparent, showing distinct purple and green halos (bokeh...

ephotozine.com

08/04/2010

Summary of the review

Canon EF-S 60mm f/2.8 Macro USM Interchangeable Lens Test

The Canon EF-S 60mm f/2.8 Macro USM lens is praised for its compact, lightweight design and excellent optical performance, delivering high resolution and minimal distortion on APS-C cameras. Pros include fast, near-silent autofocus, effective Super Spectra coatings, and great contrast across the frame. Cons are limited to noticeable 1.5-stop vignetting at f/2.8, the lack of a supplied lens hood, and restricted compatibility with full-frame cameras due to the EF-S mount.

focus-review.com

10/04/2011

Summary of the review

Review Canon EF-S 60 mm 2.8 Macro (C APS-C)

The Focus Review article highlights the Canon EF-S 60 mm f/2.8 Macro USM as a highly versatile lens tailored for APS-C sensor cameras. Originally released in 2005, its 1.6x crop factor gives it a 96mm focal length equivalent, allowing it to perform exceptionally well as both a dedicated macro lens and a portrait lens. Built with a compact and lightweight plastic housing attached to a sturdy metal mount, it features a smooth 180-degree manual focus ring and a very fast, quiet ultrasonic autofocus (USM) motor. Optically, the lens delivers uniform sharpness across the entire image frame from edge to center, with virtually non-existent distortion and exceptionally low chromatic aberration at all apertures. The review explicitly outlines several key advantages and drawbacks for prospective buyers: Pros: The lens offers a highly compact and lightweight design, fast and quiet autofocus, and uniform sharpness across the entire image. It is also noted for negligible distortion, exceptionally low chromatic aberration, minimal vignetting from f/4.0 onward, and excellent overall value for money. Cons: On the negative side, its absolute center resolution could be slightly higher....

oldshutterhand.com

15/12/2014

Summary of the review

Canon 60mm Macro review - oldshutterhand.com

in english language, be very specific, mention pros and cons inside You sent: 1 tab and said: 2 paragraphs summary of this review in english language, be very specific, mention pros and cons inside Canon 60mm Macro review - oldshutterhand.com 2 paragraphs summary of this review in english language, be very specific, mention pros and cons inside

matthiashaltenhof.com

01/01/2020

Summary of the review

Canon EF-S 60mm f/2.8 Macro USM Review

The Matthias Haltenhof Photography Review gives the Canon EF-S 60mm f/2.8 Macro USM lens a clear recommendation, highlighting its high utility for users looking to re-enter macro photography. The reviewer praises its solid haptics, compact structure, and light 335-gram build, which handles well on crop-sensor camera bodies. Performance-wise, the core advantages include impressive center sharpness at f/2.8 (which extends to the edges from f/4.0 and up), fast and accurate autofocus driven by an Ultra Sonic Motor (USM), and vivid colors and strong contrast that excel in flower and butterfly photography. Additionally, its 20 cm minimum focusing distance provides a true 1:1 magnification ratio for extreme close-ups. It is also noted as an affordable alternative compared to pricier options like the Canon 100mm Macro. Despite the positive outlook, the review details a few notable constraints. A major limitation is that it is an EF-S lens, meaning it cannot be used on full-frame cameras (like the 6D or 5D Mark III) because the larger mirror could hit the extended back of the lens and cause physical damage. Regarding aesthetics, the lens delivers...

photozone.de

27/07/2026

Summary of the review

Canon EF-S 60mm f/2.8 USM macro - Review / Test Report

The Canon EF-S 60mm f/2.8 USM macro lens is a dedicated APS-C format lens featuring a "Short-back focus" design that optimizes optical performance by reducing the distance to the sensor plane. Built with a solid metal mount and high-quality plastic outer barrel, it offers a durable structure with a smooth, rubberized manual focus ring. A standout design advantage is its true internal focusing system, ensuring the lens maintains a constant physical length and a non-rotating 52mm front element during operation. Functioning as a true macro lens, it achieves a maximum magnification ratio of 1:1 at a minimum focusing distance of 0.2 meters (90mm working distance). This 1:1 capability marks a distinct advantage over older alternatives like the EF 50mm f/2.5 macro, which required an external converter to reach the same reproduction scale. In terms of performance and field usability, the lens excels with unusually fast autofocus speeds for a macro tool, driven by a ring-type USM motor that allows for full-time manual override in one-shot AF mode. However, the review highlights notable limitations in hardware compatibility and included accessories. Because...

cameralabs.com

15/05/2013

Summary of the review

Canon EF-S 60mm f2.8 USM Macro Review Would you like to find more specialized tests, such as its performance on mirrorless bodies via an adapter? Copy

The Canon EF-S 60mm f/2.8 USM Macro is a specialized close-up lens explicitly designed for Canon APS-C crop-sensor DSLR cameras, meaning it is not compatible with full-frame bodies. According to the Cameralabs Review, mounting this lens on a cropped body transforms its focal length into a 35mm equivalent of 96mm. The primary strengths (pros) highlighted in the evaluation include its highly flexible design that allows it to double-up for portrait work alongside macro photography. Additionally, it boasts a very close 20cm minimum focusing distance for genuine, serious close-up imagery, a bright f/2.8 aperture that enables beautiful blurred backgrounds, and a quick and quiet USM (Ultrasonic Motor) focusing system. The main constraint (con) emphasizes that because this is an EF-S model, it is entirely restricted to crop-sensor cameras, alienating users who plan to upgrade to a full-frame system. Reviewers looking at the broader segment also frequently note that its shorter focal length requires getting physically very close to subjects compared to longer alternatives like the Canon EF 100mm Macro. This lack of a longer working distance can make it easy to...

digitalkamera.de

16/03/2005

Summary of the review

Canon EOS 350D with EF-S 60 mm f/2.8 Macro USM Lab Test (testberichte.de) | 21.03.2012 | Canon EF-S 60mm f/2.8 Macro USM Review

The digitalkamera.de laboratory test of the Canon EOS 350D with the EF-S 60 mm f/2.8 USM Macro reveals exceptional edge-to-edge sharpness and minimal distortion, marking the combination as a high-performance macro option. The DxO Analyzer results show high efficiency in image processing and low chromatic aberration, producing high-fidelity technical images. Key cons include noticeable vignetting at wide apertures, directional resolution variations, and artificial sharpening artifacts from the camera's internal processing. Additionally, the test highlights decreasing dynamic range and increasing noise at higher ISO settings, setting limits on the 350D's low-light performance.

reise-zikaden.de

27/07/2014

Summary of the review

Short Test: Canon EF-S 60mm f/2.8 Macro USM Lens (traumflieger.de) | 15.05.2005 | Canon EF-S 60mm / 2.8 Macro USM Review

This review highlights the Canon EF-S 60mm f/2.8 Macro USM as a favorite, highly versatile, and compact option that excels at revealing hidden, microscopic details invisible to the naked eye. Due to its 1.6x crop factor on APS-C sensor bodies, it provides a 35mm equivalent focal length of 96mm, transforming it into an excellent dual-purpose lens that is equally perfect for sharp portrait photography. The reviewer notes that this lens brings small subjects like hoverflies into the spotlight with incredible high-detail accuracy and swift automatic focusing. The review identifies several major pros, including its very fast and bright f/2.8 aperture, an extremely close focusing distance of just 2 centimeters, a huge reproduction scale, and a fast, quiet Ultrasonic Motor (USM). Additionally, it features excellent build quality with a metal mount rather than a plastic bayonet, all while maintaining a remarkably lightweight body at just 330 grams. On the cons side, the lens is strictly limited in compatibility because it is designed only for crop-sensor cameras (such as Canon's 2, 3, and 4-digit EOS bodies) and cannot be used on full-frame...

dxomark.fr

01/03/2005

Summary of the review

Canon EF-S 60mm f/2.8 Macro USM - DxOMark Review

The Canon EF-S 60mm f/2.8 Macro USM is a highly capable prime lens designed specifically for APS-C crop-sensor DSLRs. According to the DXOMARK lab metrics when tested on bodies like the Canon EOS 760D, the lens displays exceptional optical performance characterized by an impressive sharpness score of 11 P-Mpix. A major benefit of this lens is its near-flawless distortion control, measuring at a negligible 0.1%, which is critical for precise macro replication and flat-field photography. Additionally, its light transmission is rated at 3.5 T-stop, and it benefits from an integrated ring-type Ultrasonic Motor (USM) that enables remarkably fast, quiet, and accurate autofocus alongside full-time manual focus override. Despite its stellar central resolution and geometric accuracy, the lens exhibits a few technical drawbacks in the benchmarks. The most notable con is its vignetting profile, which drops to -1.2 EV, revealing a noticeable 1/2 EV of light falloff in the corners when shooting wide open at f/2.8. While this corner shading clears up significantly by f/4, the lens also lacks built-in image stabilization (IS), which can lead to shaky frame views during...

digitalcamaralens.com

29/03/2026

Summary of the review

Canon EF-S 60mm f/2.8 USM Macro - Test & Review

The DigitalCamaraLens review highlights the Canon EF-S 60mm f/2.8 Macro USM as one of the first high-quality optics designed specifically for the APS-C format. It features an Internal Focus (IF) system that prevents the front element and bezel from extending or rotating during operation, and it is built with high-density plastic, resulting in a solid and robust construction. Optically, the lens uses a reduced-diameter and flat front element design to ensure a perfect focal plane curvature correction. According to the reviewer, the primary pros of this lens include its fast, reliable, and consistent autofocus driven by Canon’s ring-type USM motor, alongside overall excellent finishes and high build durability. On the other hand, the notable cons are that the focus throw (focus arc) in manual focusing mode is too narrow for the reviewer's taste, and Canon does not include the dedicated ET-67B lens hood in the box, requiring it to be purchased as an optional accessory.

photo-review.com

14/09/2013

Summary of the review

Canon EF-S 60mm f/2.8 Macro USM Lens Review

The Canon EF-S 60mm ƒ/2.8 Macro USM stands out as a unique "rara avis" in Canon's APS-C catalog, being the only prime (fixed focal length) lens specifically designed for this sensor format rather than a standard zoom lens. Offering a 96mm equivalent focal length in universal format, this compact 335-gram lens is highly praised for delivering the highest optical quality in the entire EF-S lineup +. Tested on a Canon EOS 700D, the lens proves to be an incredibly versatile tool that excels both as a 1:1 ratio macro lens with a short 20cm minimum focusing distance and as an exceptional medium teleobjective for portraiture + +. The review highlights several prominent pros, including its superb linear resolution, exceptionally high contrast that rivals premium full-frame lenses, and its fast, near-silent ultrasonic (USM) autofocus motor +. Furthermore, it boasts highly controlled chromatic aberrations, insignificant vignetting, and a smooth manual focus ring with an internal focusing design that keeps the lens length fixed +. On the downside, the lens has two notable cons: the lack of an integrated image stabilization (IS) system—which...

xatakafoto.com

18/07/2012

Summary of the review

Comparative performance analysis of optical autofocus: Canon EF-S 60mm f/2.8 Macro USM

The Xataka Foto review of the Fujifilm X-Pro1 highlights the mirrorless camera as a beautifully designed, robust tool tailored for advanced amateurs and professionals, drawing a close comparison to a lower-priced alternative for Leica systems. Its core strengths lie in its exceptional image quality and high sharpness, aided by a 16-megapixel APS-C sensor that lacks an anti-aliasing filter and controls noise remarkably well up to ISO 1600. The reviewer praised the overall ergonomic grip, intuitive menu system, and the excellent build quality of its three accompanying all-metal prime lenses, noting that the 35mm f/1.4 lens stands out as the ultimate choice for street and documentary photography. Additionally, the camera's hybrid viewfinder provides a highly reactive experience, and the battery life is dependable for extensive shooting sessions. On the downside, the camera suffered from major autofocus issues out of the box, frequently struggling to lock focus and hunting continuously in low-light environments. While the reviewer noted that downloading Firmware version 1.10 drastically resolved these issues, the autofocus speed still remained slower than contemporary advanced DSLRs. Physical design drawbacks include an overly...

tapatalk.com

14/11/2007

Summary of the review

Canon EF-S 60mm f/2.8 Macro USM Review

The review on Tapatalk highlights the Canon EF-S 60mm f/2.8 Macro USM for its exceptional sharpness, contrast, and robust build, featuring an internal focusing system and rapid, silent USM autofocus. It is praised as a versatile, high-performance optic ideal for both 1:1 macro photography and portraiture on APS-C sensors. Notable drawbacks include significant vignetting at f/2.8, autofocus hunting in low light, and a short working distance that can hinder insect photography. While the f/2.8 aperture is very sharp, the user noted a preference for an even wider aperture for enhanced bokeh in portrait work.

rcefoto.com

27/07/2026

Summary of the review

Used Canon EF-S 60mm f/2.8 Macro USM - RCE Foto

The Canon EF-S 60mm f/2.8 Macro USM is a highly regarded macro lens designed specifically for APS-C format cameras. Key strengths include its outstanding optical quality, which delivers sharp images, excellent contrast, and intricate detail retention even when shooting wide open at f/2.8. Its ring-type ultrasonic autofocus motor (ring-USM) is reliable, quiet, and responsive in low-light conditions, while additionally allowing full-time manual focus override via a physical metallic ring. Furthermore, its lightweight design (335g) and compact dimensions (73 x 70mm) make it exceptionally easy to handle. On the downside, the lens completely lacks image stabilization. While the review notes this is not a major issue for macro photography—where using a tripod or opening the aperture wide for handheld shooting suffices—it remains a missing feature compared to newer alternatives. Despite being in production since 2005, this robust lens continues to offer high-level performance and a 1.00x macro reproduction ratio, matching the image quality of much more recent models.

cameramarket.it

27/07/2026

Summary of the review

Canon EF-S 60mm f/2.8 Macro USM Lens - Product Data Sheet

This Canon EF-S 60mm f/2.8 Macro USM lens is a specialized prime lens designed specifically for Canon APS-C crop-sensor DSLR cameras, offering a 35mm equivalent focal length of 96mm. Listed as a certified pre-owned unit in "Excellent" cosmetic condition for €354.00, it has been vetted through a rigorous 28-point technical inspection by the retailer and comes with a 6-month warranty. The listing outlines that the purchase includes front and rear lens caps, a CANON carrying strap, the original box, and a printed manual, ensuring a complete and retail-ready unboxing experience. The core advantages of this lens include its true 1:1 life-size magnification ratio for extreme close-up details, a bright f/2.8 maximum aperture for smooth bokeh, and a fast Ultra Sonic Motor (USM) with an internal focusing system. This makes it highly versatile, doubling as an excellent portrait lens alongside its primary macro duties for nature and product photography. On the downside, the lens is strictly limited to EF-S mount cameras, meaning it cannot be natively mounted onto full-frame Canon DSLRs. Additionally, the listing notes that a protective neoprene sleeve is...

eoszine.nl

15/03/2019

Summary of the review

Review: EF-S 60mm f/2.8 Macro USM - EOSzine

The EOSzine review highlights the Canon EF-S 60mm f/2.8 Macro USM as a highly versatile lens for APS-C cameras, offering 1:1 magnification and exceptional sharpness at f/5.6 that rivals the Canon EF 100mm f/2.8L IS USM. The lens is described as a sharp, compact option ideal for both macro and portraiture, with a 35mm equivalent focal length of approximately 96mm. Key disadvantages noted include its incompatibility with full-frame bodies, a shorter working distance compared to 100mm macros, and the lack of built-in image stabilization. The review concludes that while it delivers professional-grade image quality, the absence of IS means it is best utilized with a tripod for serious macro work.

focus-review.com

10/04/2011

Summary of the review

Canon EF-S 60mm f/2.8 Macro USM Lens Review

The Canon EF-S 60mm f/2.8 Macro USM is a compact and lightweight lens designed exclusively for APS-C sensor cameras, giving it a 35mm focal length equivalent of 96mm due to Canon's 1.6x crop factor. This focal length makes it highly versatile, serving beautifully as both a dedicated macro lens and a portrait lens. Built with a plastic housing and a durable metal mount, the lens features a smooth 180-degree manual focus ring ideal for precise macro work, alongside a remarkably quiet and fast Ultra Sonic Motor (USM) autofocus system. Optically, it excels at providing incredibly consistent image quality from the center all the way out to the corners of the frame, alongside a smooth, calm bokeh that is vital for macro photography. Furthermore, the lens exhibits virtually zero distortion and handles chromatic aberration exceptionally well across all aperture values. Despite its high performance, the lens carries a few specific drawbacks that potential buyers should consider. Its short 60mm focal length results in a very close working distance to subjects during macro photography, making longer lenses like 100mm alternatives more practical...

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