Since the launch of the RF 35mm f/1.4L VCM in June 2024, Canon’s hybrid VCM (Voice Coil Motor) lens lineup has rapidly expanded to include six prime lenses, ranging from an ultra-wide 14mm to a classic 85mm. Now, rumors strongly suggest that Canon is preparing to cap off this innovative L-series family with one final addition: the Canon RF 105mm f/1.4L VCM.
Speculation initially bounced between a 105mm and a 135mm focal length for this final slot. However, an RF 135mm f/1.4 seems highly improbable. Canon designed the VCM series around a unified, compact form factor, and a 135mm f/1.4 would likely be much too large to fit that mold. Furthermore, Canon already offers the stellar RF 135mm f/1.8L IS USM, making a faster version somewhat redundant. This leaves the 105mm f/1.4L VCM as the logical and highly anticipated conclusion to the series.
While it is only 20mm longer than the existing 85mm VCM, a 105mm lens delivers a vastly different aesthetic, particularly regarding background blur and subject isolation. It promises to be an incredible tool for portraiture, as well as an excellent option for street, urban, and landscape photographers who prefer to keep a comfortable distance from their subjects.
A defining—and sometimes controversial—characteristic of the VCM line is Canon’s reliance on computational correction to handle lens distortion. While some purists may critique this, this software-side correction is exactly what allows these ultra-fast, f/1.4 L-series lenses to remain so impressively compact and agile.
While an exact release date remains unconfirmed, a Q4 2026 announcement seems highly plausible. For now, it remains a tantalizing prospect for Canon shooters, though it is wise to hold off on major purchasing decisions until the official announcement is made.
via: CR