Quick answer

Choose the Canon RF 85mm f/1.2L USM for unmatched portrait bokeh and low-light performance, or the Canon RF 85mm F2 Macro IS STM for a versatile lens that doubles as a close-up macro and offers image stabilization at a much lower price.

Aperture and low-light performance

The f/1.2 maximum aperture on the L-series lens gathers significantly more light than the f/2 on the Macro lens. This translates to faster shutter speeds in dim conditions and a shallower depth of field that separates your subject from the background with creamy bokeh. The f/2 lens is still capable of pleasing portraits, especially when you work with good light, but it cannot match the f/1.2's ability to blur backgrounds or shoot in near darkness.

Macro capability vs. specialized design

The RF 85mm F2 Macro IS STM offers a 0.5x magnification ratio, letting you focus as close as 1.15 feet from the sensor. This makes it a true hybrid lens for headshot portraits and detailed close-ups of flowers or products. The RF 85mm f/1.2L USM, by contrast, has a minimum focus distance of 2.8 feet and no macro feature. If you occasionally shoot small subjects, the Macro lens saves you from carrying a separate dedicated macro lens.

Image stabilization and handling

Only the RF 85mm F2 Macro IS STM includes optical image stabilization, rated for up to 5 stops of correction. This is a real advantage when shooting handheld at slower shutter speeds, especially in macro work where camera shake is magnified. The f/1.2L lens relies on the camera body's IBIS (if available) or a tripod. The f/1.2L is also heavier and larger, which can be tiring for all-day event shoots but feels reassuringly solid on a gripped body.

Trade-offs at a glance

  • Aperture advantage: f/1.2 gives you 1.3 stops more light and shallower depth of field than f/2. Choose the f/1.2 if your priority is low-light portraits and extreme background blur.
  • Macro versatility: The f/2 Macro focuses to 0.35m (1.15 ft) for 0.5x magnification. The f/1.2 focuses to 0.85m (2.8 ft) with no macro. Pick the f/2 if you need close-up detail shots without a second lens.
  • Stabilization and weight: The f/2 lens includes 5-stop IS and weighs about 500g; the f/1.2L has no IS and weighs about 1,200g. The f/2 is easier to handhold for long sessions, especially for video and macro. If you shoot handheld video or macro, the f/2's stabilization is a clear win.

Product facts

  • Canon RF 85mm f/1.2L USM Prime Lens: In stock – 1 Year Warranty FREE UK DELIVERY Brand New Stock. Catalog price USD 2,110.71 (compare at USD 3,059.00). You get a premium L-series prime with the fastest RF aperture at a discount, ideal for professional portrait work where every bit of light and bokeh matters.

    Canon RF 85mm f/1.2L USM Prime Lens

    Canon RF 85mm f/1.2L USM Prime Lens

  • Canon RF 85mm F2 Macro IS STM Lens: In stock – 1 Year Warranty FREE UK DELIVERY Brand New Stock. Catalog price USD 473.77 (compare at USD 649.00). This lens delivers both portrait and macro capability with image stabilization at a fraction of the f/1.2's cost, making it a practical all-rounder for enthusiasts and hybrid shooters.

    Canon RF 85mm F2 Macro IS STM Lens

    Canon RF 85mm F2 Macro IS STM Lens

Which lens fits you?

Best for

  • Professional portrait photographers who need maximum bokeh and low-light speed
  • Shooters who already own a macro lens and want the best RF prime for subject isolation

Not ideal for

  • Budget-conscious buyers who want one lens for both portraits and close-ups
  • Handheld shooters who rely on in-lens stabilization for video or macro work