Canon has made an official announcement regarding its latest addition to the lineup, the EOS R100. This mirrorless camera, equipped with a 24MP APS-C RF mount, stands out with its remarkably low suggested retail price. Accompanying this release is the introduction of the RF 28mm F2.8 STM, a fixed focal length lens designed specifically for Canon’s RF mirrorless system.
Canon EOS R100
The EOS R100 showcases Canon’s innovative approach to affordability by incorporating components from existing models. Engineers repurposed the sensor and Digic 8 processor from the EOS M50 Mark II, while also utilizing the Canon LP-E17 battery from the M50. This resourcefulness has resulted in the creation of the most cost-effective representation of the EOS R camera.
The camera’s OLED electronic viewfinder (EVF) boasts a modest 2.36 million dots. The SD card slot exclusively supports UHS-I cards and the rear screen is fixed without touchscreen functionality. In terms of controls, the R100 features a single control dial positioned for easy access with the index finger. However, it has done away with the rear joystick, and similar to other entry-level EOS R cameras, lacks in-body image stabilization (IBIS).
The R100 employs a single mechanical shutter with a rear curtain design, which means the camera does not open the mechanical shutter to initiate the exposure but rather closes it to complete the process. This implementation not only reduces the weight and cost of the shutter but also impacts the camera’s burst speed. With Servo AF, the burst speed is limited to approximately 3.5fps, while with One-Shot AF, it reaches up to 6.5fps.
Price and release date
The Canon R100 mirrorless camera is currently available for pre-order on Adorama.com & Bhphotovideo.com and is scheduled to go on sale in July 2023 at a retail price of $479.99. Additionally, it can be purchased in combination with the RF-S 18-45mm f/4.5-6.3 IS STM for $599.99 or with the RF-S 55-210mm f/5-7.1 IS STM for $829.99.
Canon RF 28mm F2.8 STM
In conjunction with the affordable mirrorless camera, Canon has also introduced the full-frame RF 28mm F2.8 STM lens, designed specifically for the RF mirrorless system. This fixed focal length lens offers a maximum magnification of 0.17x at a minimum focusing distance of 0.23m. With dimensions of 69mm in outer diameter and 25mm in length, the RF 28mm F2.8 STM is a lightweight option, weighing in at a mere 120g.
Canon’s new lens incorporates eight elements arranged in six groups, including three aspherical lenses. The lens also features Canon’s Super Spectra (SSC) multi-layer coating, effectively eliminating issues such as ghosting and flare caused by reflections on the lens surface. The company claims that this results in an optimal color balance.
Similar to other budget-friendly R-mount lenses, this pancake lens includes a single control ring that can be easily switched between focus and a custom setting of your preference using a switch on the lens body.
Price and release date
The Canon RF 28mm F2.8 STM lens is currently available for pre-order on Adorama.com & Bhphotovideo.com and is set to be released in July 2023 with an estimated retail price of $299.99.
