Canon Announces RF 14mm f/1.4L VCM Ultra-Wide Prime
Canon has expanded its RF-mount lineup with the RF 14mm f/1.4L VCM, an ultra-wide prime that becomes the widest non-VR lens in the company’s current mirrorless range. The lens joins Canon’s series of f/1.4L VCM primes, which began in 2024 with the 35mm model and later grew to include 20mm, 24mm, 50mm, and 85mm focal lengths. As with the other lenses in the series, the 14mm is designed for hybrid use, addressing both still photography and video production.
The RF 14mm f/1.4L VCM features an optical construction of 18 elements arranged in 13 groups. The design incorporates one fluorite element, one ultra-low dispersion (UD) element, and a Blue Spectrum Refractive (BR) element to control chromatic aberration. Moreover, three glass-molded aspherical elements are included to manage distortion and maintain sharpness across the frame. Canon also applies multiple coatings, including Super Spectra, Subwavelength Structure, and Air Sphere coatings, intended to reduce flare and ghosting. Finally, a fluorine coating is applied to the front element to facilitate cleaning. The diaphragm uses 11 blades.
Thanks to an eleven-bladed diaphragm the lens offers a maximum aperture of f/1.4, which is uncommon at this focal length. While ultra-wide lenses are typically limited to apertures between f/2.8 and f/4, the faster aperture expands low-light capabilities and may be of interest for applications such as astrophotography. The minimum focusing distance is 0.24 meters, providing a maximum magnification of 0.11×. The lens includes a dedicated aperture ring that operates without click stops, allowing smooth exposure transitions during filming. In addition to the aperture ring, the barrel features a customizable function button, a control ring, and an autofocus/manual focus switch. Full-time manual focus override is supported.
Autofocus is driven by a dual Voice Coil Motor (VCM) system. This linear electromagnetic actuator is designed to deliver fast and precise focusing with low operational noise: as with the other lenses in the VCM series, the optical design also aims to reduce focus breathing, a characteristic particularly relevant for video recording.
Physically, the RF 14mm f/1.4L VCM maintains dimensions similar to the other primes in the series, facilitating consistent balance when switching lenses on support systems such as gimbals. It measures 112mm in length, has a diameter of 76.5mm, and weighs approximately 578 grams. It incorporates an integrated petal-shaped hood and a protruding front element, which prevents the use of standard front screw-in filters. Instead, it provides a rear slot for pre-cut gelatin or polyester filters. The lens is not compatible with teleconverters or extension tubes.
Here are few sample pictures, courtesy of Canon:
As part of Canon’s L-series, the lens features weather sealing and a construction intended for professional use. It is supplied with a dedicated front cap, rear cap, rear filter holder, and a protective case.
The RF 14mm f/1.4L VCM is scheduled to be available toward the end of February 2026. In the United States, it is priced at $2,599, while European pricing may vary by region.
