Our tradition here at CPW is to countdown the most popular Canon gear at the end of the year! We compiled statistics via our street price program as well as through our posted deals (new and refurbished), and we ranked by number sold. You can compare with 2023, 2022, 2021, 2020, 2019, 2018, 2017 and 2016’s list.
This year’s list is considerably different from the last few years: it features an item that is neither a camera, nor a lens! Also, a non-L lens has made it to the top ten for the first time.
- RF 70-200mm f/2.8L IS USM
The RF 70-200mm f/2.8 zoom was once the top lens, but has fallen precipitously — almost off the list. This is no doubt thanks to its successor, the RF 70-200mm f/2.8L IS USM Z being released. We’re certain that a 70-200mm f/2.8 will always be on our top-10 list, but it will likely be the new “Z” lens next year.
- EOS R7
The EOS R7 hangs on in the #9 position (down one from #8 last year). It continues to sell well as Canon’s spiritual successor to the EOS 7D Mark II, aided by some great refurbished sales. It continues to be popular amongst wildlife and sports photographers, with a 30 FPS electronic shutter.
- EOS R5
The replacement for the EOS R5 finally came in 2024, pushing the EOS R5 down on the list. Given the strong sales already seen for its successor, we don’t expect to see the EOS R5 on 2025’s top ten list. We bid farewell to a fantastic camera that has been near the top of the list for 4 years.
- RF 24-105mm f/4L IS USM
The RF 24-105L on our top-ten list is a good indication of first-time mirrorless body purchasers — this is often the first lens purchased with a new RF-mount body. This lens is a good performer, a good upgrade over the EF 24-105L II, and despite the price increase, is still a great value lens.
- RF 24-70mm f/2.8L IS USM
The RF 24-70mm has dropped down a few spots. Still a great lens, but many photographers have already purchased it, and the new RF 24-105mm f/2.8L Z lens is competing for the market share.
- RF 100-500mm f/4.5-7.1L IS USM
The RF 100-500mm holds its position as #5 overall (and #2 lens of the year). Its long focal range and sharp image quality make it the go-to telephoto for wildlife and sports shooters. This lens is as reliable as ever, with no signs of fading demand.
- RF 100-400mm f/5.6-8 IS USM
A non-L lens tops our lens list for the first time. The RF 100-400mm f/5.6-8 IS USM is already one of the best value RF lenses in the entire line-up, and some sales (on both new and refurbished) made this lens tremendously popular. The RF 100-400mm has carved out a niche as a budget-friendly alternative to Canon’s premium telephoto lenses.
- EOS R5 Mark II
The successor to the EOS R5 shows up at #3 with its first half-year of sales. With upgraded autofocus, improved burst speeds, and enhanced video features, it’s a worthy successor to the original R5, cementing its place as one of the year’s most exciting releases. We expect this camera to rocket up to #1 or #2 in 2025.
- Speedlite EL-5
A Speedlite? The Speedlite EL-5 makes an impressive debut at #2, the first time we’ve featured a Speedlite on our list. Some great deals during the year has earned this compact, powerful, and versatile Speedlite a spot in many photographers’ kits this year.
- EOS R6 Mark II
Reigning supreme for the second year in a row, the EOS R6 Mark II takes the #1 spot again. Its balance of features, including stellar autofocus, excellent low-light performance, and a competitive price, made it the ideal choice — but with a rumored replacement around the corner, will we see its success continue in 2025? Only time will tell!
As usual, it was great to bring you all the Canon deals in 2024. Happy New Year and all the best to our readers in 2025!