Canon PowerShot New Sensor Rumor: Smaller, More Advanced Chip Incoming – But Is It Smart?

Richard @ CanonNews

2026-04-09T21:37:00.0000000 2026-04-09T22:02:31.6530000

I regularly review the latest rumors, and someone passed me this one (thanks!). Today, a new rumor was published examining whether Canon will equip its anticipated new PowerShot cameras with a fresh image sensor.

According to the rumor,  an entirely new sensor will be equipped and will not reuse the 1.4-type sensor equipped in the V1. It will be smaller than the 1.4-type but will be a “more advanced” one. It is speculated that this sensor will be adopted in multiple PowerShot models.

It should be noted that information beyond the “entirely new” sensor is quite limited.   Any announcement is unlikely before late August at the earliest, and the exact form of the new PowerShot(s) remains unclear, as the possibilities range from a G7 X–style refresh to something more unconventional, akin to the V10.

While the prospect of fresh technology in the PowerShot lineup is intriguing, a degree of skepticism is warranted on economic and strategic grounds.

The Economics

Developing a completely new image sensor involves significant research and development costs, fabrication expenses, and yield optimization challenges. Canon, like most major manufacturers, typically seeks to amortize these investments by deploying a sensor across multiple camera bodies and generations where feasible. I lost count of how many times Canon used the DPAF 24MP APS-C sensor. 

Deliberately sidelining the relatively recent 1.4-inch sensor from the PowerShot V1, rendering it a one-off design, while creating an entirely new, smaller yet “more advanced” sensor for broader use in the lineup, appears counterintuitive from a cost-efficiency perspective.  Especially when you consider that the V1 delivered some of the best image quality of any compact-style camera.

We can see this in Canon's latest cameras, where they have avoided putting stacked sensors into their more "economical" cameras - if you can consider an R6 Mark III economical.

There are good reasons, though, for a new 1" Sensor

Now there are reasons why Canon may want to develop a new and smaller 1" sensor for a new line of Compact cameras, and that has to do with keeping the zoom range on new compact cameras as long as possible while maintaining a compact size and weight. 

But would this be Canon-made?  A stacked 1" sensor is a complex process for Canon, especially considering I'm not entirely convinced that Canon manufactures the entire stacked sensor, including all the substrates and packaging.  In the past, Canon went to Sony for small stacked sensors for its PowerShot lineup, because it was simply more cost-effective.

Notably, Canon has started to use with a high degree of frequency, describing their more advanced sensors as "Canon developed" and not "Canon manufactured".  A very important distinction.

Closing Thoughts

I have long been a vocal proponent of Canon getting its act together with the Powershot lineup, or whatever they call it in the future.  So a new sensor, or at least a new development versus reusing old components, and delivering mixed bag results, is always a good thing.

We will continue monitoring developments and provide balanced coverage as more details emerge in the coming months.

Think Tank Urban Access 10 Sling Bag (Black) – $60 Off at B&H Photo

Richard @ CanonNews

2026-04-09T21:31:00.0000000 2026-04-09T21:35:59.5370000

Currently, B&H Photo is offering a $60 discount on the Think Tank Photo Urban Access 10 Sling Bag (Black), model number 710469, bringing the price to $69.75, down from the original $129.75. This affordable sling bag will make it easy to transport your camera gear wherever you go, and even comes with complimentary fast 2-day shipping.

Weighing just 1.6 lb (0.73 kg) and coming in at 6 x 10.7 x 6.1 inches, the Urban Access 10 accommodates a small or medium DSLR/mirrorless camera with 2-5 lenses as well as a specially designed pad for a 10-inch tablet. It includes two rotating zippered access panels that rotate this bag front and back for instant gear access, plus 180-degree opening, adjustable padded dividers, and accessory organizer pockets.

The durable construction with water-resistant nylon material, along with the included seam-sealed rain cover ensures optimal protection. Featuring an adjustable and removable waist belt, top handle, ambidextrous sling strap (wearing it on either shoulder), and a front compression strap (used to attach a small tripod/monopod) makes it extremely comfortable to carry around all day long.

A perfect choice for travel photography, hiking, landscape, or street photography, it offers exceptional organization and rapid access with its body-hugging design. This sling bag is ideal for those who use mirrorless cameras or smaller DSLRs.

Think Tank Urban Access 10 Sling Bag (Black) – $60 Off at B&H Photo

Key Features

• Holds DSLR or Mirrorless & 2 to 5 Lenses
• Dual Side Access to Main Compartment
• Allows Right or Left Shoulder Placement
• Movable Dividers for Camera Gear
• Padded Sleeve for 10" Tablet Computer
• Front Panel Pocket, Tripod Strap
• Organizer Pockets, Top Handle
• Padded Shoulder Strap
• Removable Waist Belt
• Weather-Resistant Exterior, Rain Cover

More Details

This black Urban Access 10 Sling Bag from Think Tank is a compact camera bag that can accommodate either a small to medium DSLR or a mirrorless camera body with two or five lenses each. Within the main compartment, five padded adjustable dividers can be configured according to the specific camera equipment being carried. To help maximize comfort, the shoulder strap can be shifted for wear over the right or left shoulder during extended use. Designed to fit snugly against the body, zippered panels on both sides of the bag allow it to be rotated from your back to front for easy reach into the main compartment, regardless if the sling bag is worn over the left or right shoulder. For either configuration, the top-facing zippered panel provides access to the main compartment with a 180° upward opening.

Above each of the main compartment zippered panels are additional zippered panels with organizer pockets that provide space for frequently used camera accessories such as batteries or memory cards. When the Urban Access 10 Sling Bag is worn, its dedicated compartment for a 10" tablet computer rests directly behind the shoulders, followed by the main compartment, and a front-facing storage pocket with a flap that is secured with a side-release buckle. Like the main compartment, the tablet computer compartment's zippered opening is accessible when the sling bag is rotated from back to front.

In addition to being worn across the body, the Urban Access 10 Sling Bag can be carried using its built-in top handle. For an enhanced fit, a removable waist belt is included. When used with the shoulder strap, the waist belt helps to prevent the sling bag from unintentionally shifting around the wearer such as when traveling over rough or uneven terrain.

Featuring durable nylon construction, the Urban Access 10 Sling Bag is built to be weather resistant and includes a seam-sealed cover for use under heavy rain. A front panel compression strap can also be deployed, allowing a larger item such as a tripod or monopod to be fastened against the Urban Access 10 Sling Bag while it is tucked into the front-facing pocket.

Capacity

• Compact sling bag that can accommodate either a small to medium DSLR or a mirrorless camera body with two or five lenses each
• Main compartment includes five padded adjustable dividers that can be configured according to the specific camera equipment being carried
• During use, dedicated, padded compartment for 10" tablet computer rests directly behind the shoulders, followed by the main compartment, and a front-facing storage pocket with a flap that is secured with a side-release buckle
• Built-in business card holder along the inside of the front flap
• Zippered panels with organizer pockets on each side of the sling bag provide space for frequently used camera accessories such as batteries or memory cards
• A front panel compression strap can be deployed, allowing a larger item such as a tripod or monopod to be fastened against the sling bag while it is tucked into the front-facing pocket

Handling and Fit

• Shoulder strap can be shifted for wear over the right or left shoulder during extended use to help maximize comfort
• Zippered panels on both sides of the sling bag allow it to be rotated from one's back to front for easy reach into the main compartment regardless if the sling bag is worn over the left or right shoulder
• In addition to being worn across the body, the sling bag can be carried using its built-in top handle
• Removable waist belt helps to prevent the sling bag from unintentionally shifting around the wearer such as when traveling over rough or uneven terrain
• Durable, weather-resistant nylon construction
• Seam-sealed cover for use under heavy rain

Think Tank Urban Access 10 Sling Bag (Black) – $60 Off at B&H Photo
 

A Modern 55mm f/1.8? Canon Patents New Batch of Consumer RF Primes

Richard @ CanonNews

2026-04-06T22:23:00.0000000 2026-04-06T22:32:26.0430000

The Japan Patent Office has published a Canon patent application that shows embodiments of quite a few interesting primes.

The optical designs shown in this patent application are slightly less complex than the VCM primes that we have seen released over the past few years, and sit around the same optical complexity as the existing RF STM primes.  It's hard to guess where Canon would be placing these lenses, but I would assume that these would be lower-end consumer-grade primes if Canon actually used this patent application.

Even though the Canon RF 45mm wasn't an optical giant of a lens, many people love it because it provides faste aperture at an affordable price point.  More affordable fast primes would certainly be a welcome addition to Canon's lens portfolio.

Canon RF 85mm F1.8 STM

Canon already has an 85mm F/1.8 consumer-grade lens, so it’s unlikely that this lens design would be developed, but there are quite a few 85mm f/1.8 designs in this patent application, so I had to pick one to show off.  With a back focus distance of 15.33mm, it sits slightly inside the RF mount.  The half image height is correct at 21.64mm, so no image stretching is needed for this lens.

Canon RF 135mm f/2.0 STM

Like the RF 85mm embodiments shown in this patent application, this RF 135mm shows a relaxed back focus distance and a full image circle coverage.  This is a lens that Canon has yet to make in a consumer variant, but with the Canon RF 135mm f/1.8L IS USM already out there, is there room in the market for a f/1.8 variant?

Canon RF 55m F1.8 STM

This is a curious embodiment.  In the past, 55mm was a popular focal length for film cameras, but the demand has faded since that time.  This is a serious 55mm with a slight lens mount ingress of 14mm, and a small compact form factor of around 58mm sticking out from the business end of your camera.  It also supports the entire image height, so no digital stretching is required.

Closing Thoughts

This is a curious patent application from Canon; however, most of the designs have already been explored, or if Canon released these lenses, they are too close to existing lenses that exist in the RF ecosystem.  The one notable exception to that is the RF 55mm lens.  That would be interesting, especially if Canon marketed it as a bang-for-the-buck prime.

Just a Reminder!

With all patents and patent applications, I have to stress constantly – this is simply a look into Canon’s research; the only thing we can quantify accurately is that Canon is researching this. A patent application doesn’t mean they are going to release this in the next month, or even year, or even at all.

Canon R7 Mark II Rumors: A New RF-S 15-70mm f/4 Kit Lens Coming?

Richard @ CanonNews

2026-04-06T20:54:00.0000000 2026-04-06T21:31:45.0530000

A new rumor has surfaced that the R7 Mark II will also come with a new RF-S kit zoom lens, rumored to be a 15-70mm.  Not much more is known, except that it's thought that it would be a constant F/4 aperture lens and be released with the R7 Mark II.

Canon has in the past applied for a patent application for an APS-C 15-70mm F/4 (Japan Patent Number 7770854), so we'll talk about this for a bit.  It will give us an idea of what Canon is perhaps thinking about.

A few things jump out at me.  This is quite a compact lens for the focal range, having a minimum size of around 90mm.  The backfocus distance is around 10.46mm, which means that the lens sits inside the lens mount around 10mm, which is a significant ingress into the mount.  The lens also employs a wide-angle stretching, which would seem to fit in with a simple RF-S non-L design.

Will Canon make this lens?

Would Canon do such a lens? Quite possibly, but I would be the first person to say that while the focal length is great, the optical quality will take second place to zoom range and price.  I'd expect the MTF to look something similar to that of the RF 24-105mm F4-7.1mm, but with a smaller image circle.  It's also very unlikely that a 4.5-year-old patent application will actually become the lens.

The EF-S 17-55mm was a decent lens for the EF-S system, but optically, it's much more difficult to extend the zoom range.  Quite personally, I would want the 15-45mm focal length returned to Canon's list of lenses, which translates to a more realistic 24-70mm, and is quite able to deliver far superior image quality than an extended 4.5x zoom range lens is capable of delivering.

So while an RF-S 15-70mm sounds pretty cool, and I'm sure it's great for clickbait, I'd much rather have a more realistic kit lens for the R7 Mark II.

Then again, Canon also was the one that thought the Canon EF 28-135mm was a great lens to pair up with the 7D.

Benro MeFOTO Backpacker Pro Carbon Fiber Tripod (Black) – $130 Off at B&H

Richard @ CanonNews

2026-04-03T00:14:00.0000000 2026-04-03T00:17:48.3230000

Currently, B&H Photo has a sale on the Benro MeFOTO Backpacker Pro Carbon Fiber Travel Tripod (Model BMBPPROCBLK, Black). The 6-in-1 carbon fiber tripod kit is on sale for a discounted price of $130 off. This versatile carbon fiber tripod kit is a great value at a price lower than its original tag.

This 2.6 lb (1.18 kg) carbon fiber tripod has a load capacity of 13.2 lb (6 kg). It extends to a max height of 55.1" (140 cm) and folds down to a compact 15.2" (38.5 cm). The 6-in-1 carbon fiber tripod features a ballhead with a quick release plate, reversible center column, twist locks, rubber feet, a bubble level, and a sleek black finish. The 6-in-1 design allows for a variety of uses as a monopod, boom pole, selfie stick, high hat, or tabletop tripod.

This versatile 6-in-1 carbon fiber tripod kit is a great value at a discounted price. It’s a great choice for on-the-go photographers who want flexibility without sacrificing performance. The 6-in-1 design allows for a variety of uses. This versatile carbon fiber tripod kit is a great value at a price lower than its original tag. In stock with free shipping. This Deal Zone sale won’t last long.

Key Features

• Load Capacity: 13.2 lb
• Maximum Height: 55.1"
• Minimum Height: 15.9"
• Reverse Folded Length: 15.2"
• Leg Sections: 4
• Weight: 2.56 lb
• Carbon Fiber Legs with Twist-Lock Joints
• Arca-Type Ball Head with PM770 QR Plate
• Converts to 56.9" Monopod
• Includes Carrying Case

Purchase the Benro MeFOTO Backpacker Pro Carbon Fiber Tripod (Black)

Key Details

The MeFOTO BackPacker Pro 6-in-1 Carbon Fiber Travel Tripod from Benro is a versatile travel tripod that also acts as a monopod, boom pole, selfie stick, high hat, and tabletop tripod. It has a load capacity of 13.2 lb, making it compatible with compact and video cameras, Action cams, mirrorless cameras, and DSLRs. The included Arca-type ball head includes a PMM70 quick release plate, which folds out to convert into a smartphone clamp with cold shoe accessory mount. This compact tripod has a maximum height of 55.1", yet the legs reverse fold to a compact 15.2", making it easy to carry along whenever and wherever it is needed. Within the tripod's removable feet, you'll find a 3/8"-16 to 1/4"-20 adapter stud and an accompanying straight screwdriver to use with the stud, which allows the included phone PMM70 clip/camera plate to be attached to the tripod leg to create a selfie stick. The center column can be removed and combined with a removable leg to make a 56.9" monopod for situations where a tripod may be too bulky or slow, like when shooting wildlife or sports. The center column also conceals a compact folding tabletop leg set that can be combined with the ball head to form a tabletop tripod. The lightweight carbon fiber legs have independent leg spread and open out to three locking positions for easy leveling, even on uneven terrain. Each leg features a removable rubber foot that conceals a tool or adapter, so all of the tripod set components are always handy.

Canon Gear Deals at B&H: Extra Savings with Payboo Card on R5 & R6 Cameras

Richard @ CanonNews

2026-04-01T23:31:00.0000000 2026-04-01T23:35:32.0830000

So, if you are planning to buy some new gear from Canon, this is an incredible time to look at the ongoing Payboo sale at B&H Photo Video. This sale will give you additional instant discounts on some of the best Canon cameras, lenses, and accessories if you are a B&H Payboo credit card user.

The discounts offered at this sale vary from $20 to $500 on various Canon gear, and some of the products are even marked with the struck-through original price and the discounted price with the Payboo sale. For instance, the Canon EOS R6 Mark II Mirrorless Camera is available for $1,999 after an instant discount of $300, while the high-end Canon EOS R5 Mark II Mirrorless Camera is available for $3,899 after a discount of $500. Other notable gear includes the Canon RF 50mm F1.8 STM Lens for $219 after a discount of $20, as well as significant discounts on telephoto zooms like the RF 100-500mm and RF 200-800mm.

Additionally, you will also save on sales tax if you are a Payboo credit card user. With the sale, you will save the sales tax amount on your order, which will be instantly credited back to you for shipment to most states.

To take advantage of the deal, simply use your B&H Payboo credit card to pay at checkout. If you’re not already a B&H Payboo credit card holder, you can apply or even prequalify for the credit card on the B&H website. The application process is quick. Just keep in mind this promotion only covers specific Canon products in the promotion. Additionally, this promotion won’t last forever. So if you see something you like, it’s a good idea to take advantage of the deal sooner rather than later.

As if the Canon products weren’t already appealing enough, B&H offers additional benefits with this promotion. These benefits include free next-day or two-day shipping on qualifying orders. Ready to check out the Canon promotion?

Click here to go to the dedicated Payboo Canon Savings page.Whether you’re in the market for a new EOS R series camera body or just want to add a versatile lens to your collection, this promotion can save you hundreds on quality Canon products.

Canon Announces the R100+

Richard @ CanonNews

2026-03-31T19:22:00.0000000 2026-03-31T21:32:35.6200000

The rumor mill was very quiet on this surprise announcement today.  I wanted, as many of you know, an R100 upgrade, but I never thought Canon would do this.

Preorders aren't announced yet, but I suspect we'll see B&H and Adorama start something soon.

Press Release

A Compact Full-Frame Mirrorless Camera Delivering Flagship Performance in a Highly Portable Body

Tokyo, Japan – April 1, 2026 — Canon Inc. today announced the EOS R100+, a new addition to the EOS R System. This compact full-frame mirrorless camera combines the advanced performance of the flagship EOS R1 with a significantly smaller and lighter body, offering professional photographers the flexibility to capture high-quality images without compromising on portability.

Building on Canon’s long-standing commitment to innovation, the EOS R100+ inherits core technologies from the EOS R1 while adopting the compact form factor familiar to users of the EOS R100 series. The result is a camera that delivers professional-grade capabilities in a body suitable for everyday carry and spontaneous shooting opportunities.

Key Features

• 12.1-megapixel APS-C stacked back-illuminated CMOS sensor — providing high-speed readout and responsive performance for both stills and video.
• Up to 10 frames per second continuous shooting with blackout-free electronic shutter and full autofocus and autoexposure tracking.
• Next-generation Dual Pixel Intelligent AF system, including Action Priority, Registered People Priority, and Eye Control AF for precise subject detection and tracking.
• 4K 15p RAW video recording internally, supported by an advanced micro heat-dissipation design for extended recording times.
• Dual memory card slots supporting CFexpress Type B and SD UHS-II media.
• 2-million-dot OLED electronic viewfinder with up to 90 Hz refresh rate and high brightness for clear, detailed viewing. The camera is equipped with a button-and-dial interface and features no touchscreen, providing the direct, tactile control preferred by many professional users.
• Dynamic range of 8 EV, optimized for photographers who prioritize accurate in-camera exposure.
• Robust weather-sealed construction for reliable operation in challenging environmental conditions.

The EOS R100+ achieves an impressive battery life of approximately 480 shots per charge, thanks to the power efficiency of the new stacked sensor and optimized processing architecture.

“We are pleased to introduce the EOS R100+ as a response to feedback from professional photographers who desire flagship-level performance in a more compact package,” said a Canon spokesperson. “By integrating key EOS R1 technologies into a smaller body while maintaining essential professional controls — including the removal of the touchscreen in favor of dedicated physical buttons and dials — we believe this camera will meet the needs of users who require both capability and portability.”

The EOS R100+ will be available body-only with an estimated retail price of $1,299. Shipping is scheduled to begin in late May 2026. Pre-orders will open soon through Canon authorized dealers and the Canon online store.

For more information, including detailed specifications and sample images, please visit the Canon website.

About Canon Inc. Canon Inc. is a global leader in imaging and optical technologies. Through its commitment to the “Kyosei” philosophy — living and working together for the common good — Canon strives to contribute to a better society through technological innovation.

Canon Executives at CP+ 2026: RF Lens Roadmap, R6 Mark III Choices, AI Philosophy & Third-Party Plans Revealed

Richard @ CanonNews

2026-03-28T20:04:00.0000000 2026-03-28T20:11:49.4000000

In a recent roundtable interview conducted at CP+ 2026 in Yokohama and published by Phototrend, Canon assembled five of its most senior executives, including its Executive Vice President, Go Tokura, who heads its Imaging Division, to answer questions about its intentions for its EOS R system, its most recent technical decisions, its latest RF lens releases, its evolving relationship with other lens makers, and its measured approach to AI. Having been a keen observer of Canon’s activities for many years, I thought the interview came across as polished and assured, yet once again, I felt like Canon is holding its cards very close to its chest.

In terms of the EOS R6 Mark III, Canon’s lead developer, Kazumasa Yoshikawa, offered insight into its decision to fit the camera with a front-side illuminated sensor and not to include its Digic Accelerator, like its flagship R5 Mark II and R1 models: "We believe we have found the best balance between performance and cost, which is the reason for these technical choices for the EOS R6 Mark III." Of course, one might wonder whether enthusiasts upgrading from the original R6 to the Mark III might think its specification is slightly conservative, while still offering excellent Dual Pixel AF performance.

In the lens section, more concrete enthusiasm was expressed. Optics director Tetsushi Hibi talked about how the RF mount’s large diameter and short flange back allowed the new RF 14mm f/1.4 L VCM to deliver L-series image quality in a surprisingly compact design: “Thanks to the RF mount with its large diameter and short mechanical flange, we have gained flexibility in optical design, including for the peripheral regions of the image.” This is thanks to Blue Spectrum Refractive lenses, aspheric lenses, and coatings.

With the RF 7-14mm f/2.8-3.5 L Fisheye STM, Canon’s first fisheye in years and sporting a world’s first 190° angle of view, Hibi spoke candidly: “We have not targeted a specific use case, whether in photography or video. We aimed to offer this lens to creators who wish to express their creativity or explore something different.” The ability to combine two of these lenses with another to capture a 360° image also feels like Canon giving photographers something new and interesting to play with, rather than targeting a professional niche market.

The RF 45mm f/1.2 STM also garnered some excitement as Canon’s attempt to deliver a more affordable bright prime. Hibi explained the design compromises: “To achieve this large aperture in a compact format, we had to reduce the number of optical elements. By effectively utilizing molded plastic aspherical elements and adopting a gear-driven STM motor, we achieved a compact and lightweight design, offered at an affordable price".

He also mentioned Canon’s plans to “continue to explore additional varieties of accessible lenses,” which may bode well for photographers who have been turned off by the high price of bright primes.

Optimism from the horse’s mouth: Tokura himself declared the progress of the RF mount in its eighth year: “We have reached a pace of six to eight new lenses per year, and last year we surpassed 60 RF lenses in total. We aim to sustain this pace and continue to enrich the lineup.” He claimed that the flexibility of the RF design allows for “greater flexibility in optical design than the EF system,” offering more choices in theory.

Third-Party: Once they are in, they are in

The biggest challenge, however, was third-party access to the RF mount. Tokura readily agreed that “collaboration with new third-party optics manufacturers will intensify in the future,” though he immediately qualified it with “some restrictions related to our commercial strategy.” Tokura did, however, assure that Canon would not interfere once the third party opens the segment. “Once a third-party manufacturer is active in a given segment, we do not position ourselves to comment on or control their product decisions.”

Though the current emphasis is on APS-C RF-S lenses with Sigma and Tamron, Tokura downplayed the rigid division between full-frame and crop sensor. This, according to him, is only an “external point of view.” One can only wonder if Canon’s top officials are entirely convinced about their claims with regard to the full-frame RF system.

On the issue of artificial intelligence, Canon’s position is reassuring. “Our policy is to use AI to reproduce reality as it is, and not to generate visual content. Specifically, we intend to apply AI more in four areas: noise reduction, color correction, aberration and distortion correction, and upscaling.” The aim is to achieve greater image detail, improve subject recognition that is consistent with the user’s intention, and capture exactly what the user wants.

More 3D in our Future

Further out, Tokura provided a vision for the future: “We envision that the next big step forward will be the move from 2D to 3D. The term ‘3D’ simply sounds more real than ‘2D.’” He expects great things from AI and deep learning for image quality, user interfaces, possibly voice interfaces, and workflow in the coming years, but not image creation. The whimsical “Analog Concept Camera,” a waist-level viewfinder camera inspired by the classic Rolleiflex, was revealed to be the brainstorm of “a designer at our company.” It was not part of any product plan.

A special edition PowerShot G7 X Mark III was produced to celebrate the 30th anniversary of the PowerShot series, but was not presented as a harbinger of things to come for enthusiast compact cameras.

Closing Thoughts

The interview reinforces Canon’s confidence in their RF mount but presents a company that is pragmatic, protective of their own interests, and committed to ensuring AI plays a role in supporting authentic images rather than being a replacement for creative vision. Whether the floodgates of cooperation will be opened wide or remain suitably contained is the question that Canon seems content to answer incrementally. As with most things Canon, we'll see how the lenses and cameras they actually ship tell the story.

USM on the way out? Highly Unlikely

Richard @ CanonNews

2026-03-27T21:04:00.0000000 2026-03-31T19:42:42.1930000

An amusing article crossed my path today (thanks!) about particular musings about VCM and USM.  The author of the article assumed that because Canon hasn't released many ring-type USM lenses and was focusing on VCM, USM must be on the way out the door in terms of optical design at Canon.  Even though this sounds like clickbait (it probably is), it is an interesting thought nonetheless.  So I thought it would be a good idea to drill into this subject in a bit more technical depth. 

It should be noted that most of Canon's VCM primes also have a Nano-USM motor as well as a VCM motor.  Yes, most of them are dual motor, even though the lens simply states VCM. Perhaps, people not well-versed in Canon technology from a technical level may make this common error and assume that it simply has VCM motors because that's the name of the lens.

There are some distinct advantages that ring-type USM brings to Canon's lenses that VCM simply at this time would struggle to replace.

Higher Torque

There is a reason Canon uses ring-type USM on its super telephotos: with super telephotos, more than any other lens, there is a need for high torque and speed of movement. These lenses are longer, and at times, the groups have to move far more.  Even though Canon has done a lot to minimize the size of these elements to maintain excellent image quality and low aberrations, they are still larger than those of a small prime.  VCM excels in small, fast movements but doesn't have nearly as much torque for larger elements, such as what super telephotos will have.

High Holding Force with Zero Power

Many people complain about the "rattle" with the VCM lenses, as VCM motors do not hold the optical group while powered off, so if the lens is in your bag, or your camera is powered down, the optical group is free to shift around inside the lens.

Canon's L series lenses employ a physical image stabilization lock, so the small image stabilization group does not freely move inside their L series lenses when they are powered down.  Shown below is an excellent illustration from exclusivearchitecture.

Canon goes through this trouble on its professional gear to ensure that elements don't shift around much during transport and while not in use, so I can't see them suddenly thinking that a larger optical group can suddenly move around at will as you are transporting your gear.

Rare Earths

I originally thought that perhaps more rare earth materials could be used in ring-type USM than in VCM, and that may be a reason why Canon leans towards VCM over USM; however, it turns out it's actually the reverse.  VCM motors employ several stator magnets that are usually rare-earth magnets, while with ring type USM, rare earths are used as a doping material, and not as a dedicated magnet.

If supply chains get a little messed up when it comes to rare earth materials and, more importantly, rare earth material processing, then VCM motors may actually have a harder time with it.

Low Power Consumption

USM motors only consume power when you are moving the elements. If the lens is focused or the elements are parked stationary (for example, you aren't taking a photo that instant), then the lens motors consume no power.  VCM, however, requires power to "hold" the optical elements in place; this means that the lens itself is continually drawing power when the camera is turned on, regardless of focusing. 

This means that there is a continual "leakage" of power to keep those VCM motors actively energized to maintain the optical group's positioning, something that is completely unnecessary for ring-type USM.

While for smaller primes this may not be a problem, the problem compounds with larger motors and larger optical groups, as this will increase the draw of these motors and drain your battery faster.  If you compound adverse weather that super telephotos are often used in (extreme cold, for example), all this compounds and aggravates an existing problem of battery drain even further.

Closing Thoughts

VCM motors are certainly useful, and OEMs such as Sony regularly use them in a multitude of lenses, including super telephotos.  However, Canon's strength is picking the best technology for the specific lens and the use case.  For the case of high torque and fast movement, not to mention the security of not having a lens rattle when powered off, Canon's ring-type USM does excel over that of VCM.

Will Canon get away from USM altogether? It's highly unlikely that ring-type or all forms of USM motors will disappear, even in Canon's latest technology VCM primes; nano-USM motors are still employed.

It should be noted that nano-USM is a rather new invention from Canon, coming out in the mid 2010's, so primes that still use ring-type USM would most likely adopt nano-USM motors, while I could see the super telephotos sticking it out with USM.

Save $200: Manfrotto MT290XTC3US 290 Xtra 3-Section Carbon Fiber Tripod

Richard @ CanonNews

2026-03-24T23:17:00.0000000 2026-03-24T23:19:47.0900000

Currently, the B&H Photo website is offering a discount of $200 on the Manfrotto 290 Xtra Carbon Fiber Tripod (MT290XTC3US). This 3-section tripod is normally priced at $384.95 but is now available for only $184.95. This is more than a 50% discount on a new item in stock with free 2-day shipping.

This high-quality 3-section tripod is crafted from premium carbon fiber and weighs only 3.4 lb (1.54 kg), yet it can hold 22 lb (10 kg) of equipment. It can reach a height of 65.2" (165.6 cm), or 56" (142.2 cm) without the center column. It can also fold down to a compact 24.5" (62.2 cm), making it easy to take anywhere. This tripod has flip locks with adjustable tension, four different leg angles, a reversible center column, and rubber feet for stability. It also has a comfortable rubber grip on one leg. A shoulder bag is included.

This is a great offer for anyone looking for a high-quality tripod for their photography needs.

Key Features

• Load Capacity: 22 lb
• Max Height: 65.2"
• Min Height: 12"
• Folded Length: 24.5"
• Leg Sections: 3
• Weight: 3.4 lb
• Four Leg Angle Positions
• Shoulder Carrying Bag Included

Purchase the Manfrotto MT290XTC3US 290 Xtra Carbon Fiber Tripod for $184.95

More Details

The Manfrotto MT290XTC3US 290 Xtra Carbon Fiber Tripod extends from 12" to a maximum height of 65.2". It weighs 3.4 lb and can hold up to 22 lb of gear. The tripod's 3-section legs have flip locks to individually change the height of each leg. The locks are tension-adjustable to help maintain a tight lock over the tripod's lifespan. Four leg angles allow you to position the tripod in a variety of ways. A rubber grip on one of the legs aids in carrying the tripod, and rubber feet keep it stable on slippery surfaces. Included with the tripod is a shoulder bag for added comfort and protection during transport.