Canon RF 24-105mm f/4-7.1 IS STM Review 2026: Best Value All-in-One Zoom for Canon EOS R in Australia

The Canon RF 24-105mm f/4-7.1 IS STM is the perfect everyday companion for Canon EOS R-series photographers who want versatility without the weight or cost of premium L-glass. At just 395g, this compact zoom delivers sharp images from landscapes to portraits — plus impressive 0.5x macro capability.

In this comprehensive Australian buyer’s guide, we reveal why it remains one of the smartest purchases for travel, family, and enthusiast shooters in 2026.

Key Specifications

Specification	Details
Focal Length	24-105mm
Maximum Aperture	f/4-7.1 (variable)
Lens Construction	13 elements in 11 groups
Image Stabilisation	5-stop Optical IS
Minimum Focus Distance	0.2m (24mm) / 0.5m (105mm) – 0.5x macro at 24mm
Filter Size	67mm
Weight	395g
Dimensions	76.6 x 88.8mm
Mount	Canon RF (full-frame & APS-C compatible)

In plain English: This is a true walk-around lens. The variable aperture keeps it small, light and affordable while still delivering excellent image quality in good light. The 5-stop stabilisation lets you shoot handheld at slower shutter speeds, and the close-focus macro mode is a game-changer for creative detail shots.

Key Benefits

• Versatile 24-105mm range – One lens covers wide landscapes, standard views and short telephoto portraits.
• Ultra-lightweight & compact – Only 395g, ideal for all-day travel and hiking across Australia.
• 5-stop Optical Image Stabilisation – Sharp shots in lower light and smooth video.
• Impressive 0.5x macro at 24mm – Get incredibly close for flowers, insects and product photography.
• Silent STM autofocus – Perfect for both stills and video recording.
• Outstanding value – Premium performance at a fraction of L-series pricing.

Who Should Buy This Lens

Enthusiasts moving into full-frame with EOS R, RP, R6, R8 or R50. Travellers wanting one lightweight lens. Hybrid content creators needing video + stills flexibility. Anyone seeking maximum versatility on a sensible budget. It’s not for extreme low-light pros needing constant f/4, but for 80% of real-world Australian shooting it excels.

Australian-Specific Use Cases

From Sydney Harbour sunrises to Outback adventures, this lens shines. Capture Uluru at dawn on the wide end, Melbourne laneways in the middle, and kangaroo portraits at 105mm. The stabilisation handles windy coastal shoots or handheld video along the Great Ocean Road. Macro mode is perfect for native wildflowers in the Blue Mountains or detailed product shots for small businesses.

Real-World Performance

Across Australian conditions this lens produces punchy colours, good contrast and solid sharpness, especially when stopped down to f/8–f/11. Autofocus is quick and silent. Stabilisation allows sharp handheld shots down to 1/15s at 105mm. The variable aperture is rarely limiting outdoors; pair it with modern R bodies’ excellent high-ISO performance for indoor or evening shoots.

Pros

• Exceptional size/weight-to-performance ratio
• Versatile zoom range + genuine 0.5x macro
• Effective 5-stop stabilisation and silent STM AF
• Affordable entry into the full-frame RF system
• Great colour rendition and contrast for the price

Cons

• Variable aperture limits extreme low-light work
• Not weather-sealed like L-series lenses
• Softer at 105mm f/7.1 wide open (expected at this price point)

Best Canon EOS R Bodies for this Lens

Travel / Everyday: Canon EOS RP or EOS R8 – ultra-lightweight combo.

Hybrid Video/Stills: EOS R6 Mark III – superb AF + advanced IBIS synergy with 8.5 stops of stabilisation.

Recommended Lenses to Pair With This Lens

• Canon RF 16mm f/2.8 STM – ultra-wide landscapes & architecture.
• Canon RF 35mm f/1.8 Macro IS STM – low-light street & environmental portraits.
• Canon RF 85mm f/2 Macro IS STM – beautiful portraits with creamy bokeh.
• Canon RF 100-400mm f/5.6-8 IS USM – extended wildlife reach.

Recommended Lens Filters (67mm)

Protect your investment with quality 67mm filters:

• Hoya Fusion One Next UV – premium recommendation with anti-static coating.
• Hoya UX II UV – excellent value everyday protection.
• B+W 67mm MRC Nano Master 007 Clear – pro-level protection.
• B+W 67mm MRC Nano Master 010 UV-Haze – pro-level UV filter.

Why Buy from Cameras Direct

We have been in business for 25 years. We offer Australian warranty, very competitive pricing often with spot deals, fast nationwide delivery, and expert Canon advice.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Canon RF 24-105mm f/4-7.1 IS STM worth it?

Yes — for most enthusiasts and travellers it offers unbeatable value and versatility.

How does it compare to the RF 24-105mm f/4L IS USM?

The STM is much lighter, cheaper and adds macro. The L has constant f/4, superior sharpness, weather sealing and pro build quality.

What is the filter size?

67mm.

Does it work on APS-C bodies like the R7 or R10?

Yes — it gives a 38.4-168mm equivalent range and works brilliantly as an all-in-one zoom.

Is it good for video?

Excellent. The silent STM motor and effective IS produce smooth footage, especially on the R6 III or R8.

Can it do real macro photography?

Yes — 0.5x magnification in Center Macro Focus mode at 24mm.

Is it weather sealed?

No. Use a protective filter and rain cover in heavy conditions.

What’s the best travel body pairing?

Canon EOS R8 or RP — one of the lightest full-frame kits possible.

Are there current deals available?

Yes — check our spot deals and kit bundles on Cameras Direct.

Is it compatible with teleconverters?

No official Canon extenders, but it performs beautifully at native focal lengths.

Conclusion

The Canon RF 24-105mm f/4-7.1 IS STM is a smart, high-performing and affordable zoom that punches well above its price. Whether you’re building your first full-frame kit or adding a lightweight travel option, this lens delivers outstanding versatility for Australian photographers.