Canon RF45mm F1.2 STM review: an f/1.2 prime on a budget
Canon's low-cost f/1.2 standard prime for RF mount, launched in 2025 at $469.99. Who it suits: enthusiasts who want the f/1.2 look on a budget, on full-frame or APS-C RF bodies.
Why it exists. The RF45mm F1.2 STM is a low-cost, compact f/1.2 standard prime for RF mount. Canon calls it "a compact, lightweight prime optic with outstanding f/1.2 performance, ideal for everyday shooting and creative expression", "lightweight (approx. 346g)" and "equivalent to approx. 72mm on APS-C bodies like the EOS R7 or R50", using "PMo aspherical lenses and gear-type STM" to reduce size and weight compared with larger f/1.2 lenses (Canon U.S.A. release, Nov 6, 2025).
Who should buy it? Enthusiasts on full-frame or APS-C RF bodies who want the f/1.2 look without paying for an L-series f/1.2 lens.
The story
Canon U.S.A. announced the lens on November 6, 2025, alongside the EOS R6 Mark III: "The RF45mm F1.2 STM lens is expected to be available in December 2025, for an estimated retail price of $469.99."
On the OpticalLimits forum, one poster wrote "The corner resolution is basically non-existent until (including) f/2. Poor bokeh as well." Another expects that "for all it's faults this Canon lens will be a massive massive seller". Focus shift is raised there too. CanonRumors commenters argue about the price and call it the lightest AF f/1.2 lens for everyday carry.
Specifications
Key specs for the Canon RF45mm F1.2 STM, from Canon U.S.A.'s Nov 6, 2025 release. Other specs are not listed here because we did not take them from a Canon page.
