Canon's improved L-series 24-105mm with better corner sharpness and nano coatings.
The Canon EF 24-105mm f/4L IS II USM was released in 2016 as the second-generation version of Canon's standard L-series kit zoom, improving on the original 24-105mm f/4L IS USM with a revised optical formula, 10 aperture blades (versus the original's 8), and updated IS algorithm. The 24-105mm equivalent range covers the full standard working spectrum on full-frame. It was widely bundled with the EOS 5D Mark IV at launch. L-series dust and moisture sealing and ring-type USM AF are included throughout.
The optical design uses 17 elements in 12 groups, including aspherical and UD elements. Ten rounded aperture blades produce smooth bokeh — a notable improvement over the original's 8-blade design. The 77mm filter thread is the L-series professional standard, compatible with most established filter collections. At 795g the lens is substantial for a standard zoom. Minimum focus distance of 0.45m. Constant f/4 aperture is maintained across the full zoom range. Ring-type USM provides fast, silent AF with full-time manual focus override. L-series dust and moisture sealing is built in. IS provides handheld stability across the zoom range.
The 24-105mm f/4L IS II covers the full standard professional working range — from 24mm environmental wide-angle through 50mm natural perspective to 105mm moderate telephoto for head-and-shoulders portraits. The constant f/4 aperture is consistent and simplifies exposure management across scenes. The 10-blade diaphragm in the Mark II produces better bokeh quality than the original, particularly relevant at f/4-5.6 where depth of field is moderate. The 24-105mm range is a practical single-lens solution for event, travel, and portrait photography.
On the used market the IS II is widely available at accessible L-series prices. Condition checks: ring USM response, IS engagement, L-series sealing at the zoom barrel, and front element for coating marks. The original 24-105mm f/4L IS USM is available at lower prices — the Mark II's primary improvements are the 10-blade diaphragm and revised optical formula rather than a fundamental capability change. The Canon RF 24-105mm f/4L IS USM is the native equivalent for EOS R users. Compatible with all Canon EOS DSLR bodies and via EF-RF adapter on EOS R bodies.