The new Canon EF 24mm f1.4 Mark II still leaves a lot to be desired.

The Canon EF 24mm f1.4 L Mark II review is out at slrgear. Based on the results that they've obtained, this is what I think... Looking at the graphs, sure its a whole lot better than the Mark I version of the lens but it still leaves a lot to be desired. Compare this len's performance against that of the competition; Namely the Nikkor 14-24mm f2.8 G and the Nikkor 24-70mm f2.8 G. Both Nikkor zoom lenses have better and more even sharpness across the frame than the Canon. Just look at the test graph. The graphs below from slrgear.com show the comparison against the Canon when all lenses are set at 24mm f2.8.

The graphs above shows the Canon 24mm against the 24-70mm Nikkor, both at 24mm f2.8. You will see the the Nikkor offers better sharpness across more of the frame.

This graph shows Nikon's 14-24 f2.8 G. The results are even better here. And these are zoom lenses!!!!

Moreover, look at the graph below. It shows the Canon EF 24mm f1.4 L Mark II at f1.4. It shows horrendous corner softness at up to 6BxU (blur units) as measured by Slrgear.com. What if I want to compose a shot where the subject / object is off center and I want narrow DOF? With this lens it would effectively mean a soft picture where it really ought to be sharp.

Whats worse, we are comparing a prime lens against two zooms. This prime is Canon's newest wide angle lens with SWC (Sub Wavelength Coating), Canon's own technology to give performance similar to Nikon's Nano Coat technology. And guess what, this Canon prime performs less well. Quite disappointing really.

At this stage, its not looking good for Canon in terms of its new lenses. If this new Canon L lens is any indication of things to come, Canon WA lenses at least are not standing up to the best Nikkors. This will have real implications if your style and type of photography calls for sharp pictures, wide open with the subject matter often framed off-center.