Canon EF 24-70mm F/2.8L II USM
Canon EF 40mm f/2.8 STM
When comparing Canon EF 40mm f/2.8 STM and Canon EF 24-70mm F/2.8L II USM, which one is better?
These two lenses use the same lens mount, the Canon EF. This means that both lenses are compatible with cameras that use this mount.
Winner: Tied
Regarding lens mount: Popular lens mounts are Canon RF and EF, Micro Four Thirds and Nikon Z. Different lens mounts lets you connect different lenses to camera bodies, but some might not be compatible. This can be helped by using an adapter, like a Canon EF to RF adapter.
Both lenses share the same aperture of 2.8 — this means that you may buy both Canon EF 24-70mm F/2.8L II USM and Canon EF 40mm f/2.8 STM in this regard; they''re the same.
Winner: Tied
Regarding largest aperture: A lower aperture number means that the widest aperture on the lens is larger. This means that more light will hit the sensor and also that the depth of field will be shallower, better separating your subject from the background.
The Canon EF 24-70mm F/2.8L II USM is a Zoom lens while the Canon EF 40mm f/2.8 STM is a Prime lens. Whether or not a zoom lens or a prime lens is what you need, is up to you to decide; they both have their respective strengths and weaknesses.
Winner: Tied — It depends on your gear
Regarding type: There are two types of lenses; zoom lenses and prime lenses. Prime lenses have a fixed focal length and cannot be zoomed, while zoom lenses have a focal length range and can be zoomed in to get closer to the subject. Prime lenses are usually lighter, cheaper and let in more light. Zoom lenses are more versatile but are more expensive since they require a more advanced lens design.
Full specifications table of Canon EF 24-70mm F/2.8L II USM and Canon EF 40mm f/2.8 STM:
Canon EF 24-70mm F/2.8L II USM | Canon EF 40mm f/2.8 STM | |
Brand | Canon | Canon |
Lens Mount | Canon EF | Canon EF |
Focal Length | 24 - 70 mm | 40 mm |
Largest Aperture | 2.8 | 2.8 |
Anamorphic | Missing | No |
Type | Zoom | Prime |