Canon's professional ultra-wide zoom with constant f/2.8, a staple for photojournalists.
The Canon EF 16-35mm f/2.8L II USM is Canon's second-generation professional ultra-wide zoom, launched in 2007. Covering the essential 16-35mm range at a constant f/2.8, it served as the default wide-angle lens for Canon photojournalists, event photographers, and serious landscape shooters for over a decade.
Optical quality is good with strong centre sharpness and improved corner performance over the original Mark I. Flare resistance is robust. Ring USM autofocus is fast and silent. Build is professional L-series with comprehensive weather sealing. There is no image stabilisation which is unusual for the era but typical for ultra-wide professional zooms.
Canon EF mount only, 82mm filter thread. The Mark III succeeded it in 2016 with significantly improved corner sharpness. The RF 15-35mm f/2.8L IS USM is the mirrorless equivalent with IS. The EF 16-35mm f/4L IS USM trades aperture for stabilisation.
Good value used as the Mark III and RF version have reduced prices. Check weather seals, USM motor, and front element. The Mark III is noticeably sharper in the corners and worth the premium for landscape work. The Mark II remains a very capable professional ultra-wide.