Whether you’re looking to buy a new Canon lens or are just curious about the compatibility of Canon lenses, one thing is for sure: in the world of photography, there is no one lens that can do everything or be appropriate in every situation.
Each lens has a unique set of characteristics, functions, focal lengths, and uses. Knowing when to use the correct lens opens up new possibilities in photographic expression.
With that in mind, when it comes to compatibility of Canon lenses with Canon cameras, you must consider two key factors. Firstly, whether you have an interchangeable DSLR or a mirrorless Canon camera and secondly, the type of lens you intend to use. In this post, we’ll have a look at these and more factors to consider when it comes to Canon lens and Canon camera compatibility.
1. Canon DSLR Cameras
Canon DSLR cameras come in 2 mounts: EF and EF-S interchangeable lenses. EF lenses are designed for cameras with a full-frame sensor. In comparison to EF-S lenses, these are significantly larger and more expensive. EF-S lenses, due to their small image circle, are only compatible with the EF-S lens mounts used on Canon APS-C format DSLRs.
How to know which Canon lenses are compatible with your DSLR camera
To determine which Canon lens is compatible with your Canon camera, first remove the current lens from the camera. To remove the lens, press the lens release button and twist the lens in an anticlockwise direction.
If the lens mount index on your DSLR camera has only a red circle, your camera is compatible with EF lenses. Examples include any EOS 6D, 5D, or 1D models. On the other hand, if you spot a red circle and a white square, your camera is an APS-C DSLR. These types of cameras are compatible with both EF and EF-S lenses.
Other compatible lenses that work with DSLRs include the MP-E and TS-E lenses. Such cameras include EOD 7D, 7D MkII, any Rebel model, EOS models between 20D and 4000D, and any EOS Kiss.
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2. Mirrorless Cameras
It’s undeniable that many professional photographers are switching toward mirrorless technology in full swing – and Canon has not disappointed. They have released a new EOS mirrorless series, and with it comes an array of interchangeable lenses. These include the RF, RF-S, and EF-M.
Canon created RF and RF-S lenses for the R System cameras. They boast a sleek style and excellent optical technology that produces high-quality results. EF-M lenses, on the other hand, were created specifically for the EOS M series cameras.
How to know which Canon lenses are compatible with your mirrorless camera
Identifying which lens is compatible with your Canon camera requires the same procedure as a DSLR camera. Check the lens mount index after safely removing your lens from the camera. If you spot a red line, your camera will correspond with RF and RF-S lenses. However, if you see a white circle, your camera is compatible with EF-M lenses.
Another reason why professional photographers are switching to mirrorless cameras is because their mounts are adaptable to EF and EF-S lenses. However, you should note that EF-M and RF’s mirrorless mounts are mutually incompatible. Neither can use lenses designed for the other, although both can use EF and EF-S lenses.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does every lens fit every Canon camera?
No. Not all lenses can fit a Canon camera. There are different mounts and classes for Canon lenses. For example, EF and EF-S lenses are designed for Canon DSLR cameras, whereas the RF and EF-M lenses are compatible with mirrorless Canon cameras.
How do I know if a lens is compatible with my Canon camera?
It simple! Remove the lens from your camera and check the lens mount index. If the lens mount index on your DSLR camera has only a red circle, your camera is compatible with EF lenses. On the other hand, your camera is an APS-C DSLR if you spot a red circle and a white square. If you spot a red line, your camera will correspond with RF and RF-S lenses. However, if you see a white circle, your camera is compatible with EF-M lenses.
What is the difference between EF and EF-S lenses?
EF lenses were created for full frame Canon APS-C DSLRs, whereas EF-S lenses were designed for APS-C cameras due to their smaller image circle. In terms of size, EF lenses are bigger compared to EF-S lenses. Additionally, EF lenses cost more than EF-S lenses.
Can an EF lens fit on EF-S mount?
Yes. EF lenses do correspond with EF-S mounts. In fact, all Canon EOS cameras accept Canon EF lenses.
Final Thoughts
It’s evident that not all Canon lenses can fit all Canon cameras. The best way to get your desired results is to use the right lens for the right camera. From EF that fits full frame Canon lines to the RF that fits the R System camera, ensure you carefully check that the lens mount is compatible with your camera to avoid any damage.