Canon's workhorse full-frame standard zoom, an L-series staple for nearly two decades.
The Canon EF 24-105mm f/4L IS USM is one of Canon's most successful lenses. Launched in 2005 as a kit option with the original EOS 5D, it became the default walk-around lens for Canon full-frame shooters. The constant f/4 aperture, image stabilisation, and versatile zoom range made it a staple for wedding, travel, and general photography.
Sharpness is very good in the centre across the zoom range but softens in the corners, particularly at 24mm and 105mm. Bokeh at f/4 is pleasant but unremarkable. The ring USM autofocus is fast and silent with full-time manual override. Build quality is excellent with a metal mount, rubber seals, and the red L-ring.
Canon EF mount only, with a 77mm filter thread. A Mark II version with improved optics and coatings was released in 2014. The RF 24-105mm f/4L IS USM replaced it for mirrorless users in 2018. Both the original and Mark II remain widely available used.
Extremely common used. Check for sticky or stiff zoom rings which is a known issue on early copies, dust inside the lens which is common but usually cosmetic, and test IS operation. The Mark II is sharper but costs significantly more. The original remains excellent value.