Choosing the right telephoto zoom lens can be a challenge, especially when balancing price, performance, and usability. If you're considering a Canon lens in the 100-500mm range, you have multiple options, each with its own strengths and trade-offs. Knowing which one best suits your needs is crucial.
Coming to you from Jan Wegener, this detailed video compares three popular Canon telephoto lenses: the EF 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6L IS II USM, the RF 100-400mm f/5.6-8 IS USM, and the RF 100-500mm f/4.5-7.1L IS USM. Wegener explains why the original EF 100-400mm version I lens isn't a strong choice today, citing its outdated push-pull zoom design and dust-prone construction. He then focuses on the newer models, breaking down their strengths. The EF 100-400mm II remains an excellent choice for DSLR users, offering strong image stabilization and solid sharpness, but requires an adapter for mirrorless bodies. The RF 100-500mm, on the other hand, provides an extra 100mm of reach with a lighter build, making it ideal for wildlife and travel photography.
A key takeaway is how the RF 100-500mm balances focal range and usability. It’s slightly larger but lighter than its EF counterpart, giving it an edge for handheld shooting. Its f/7.1 maximum aperture at 500mm may seem limiting, but advances in high ISO performance help compensate for the smaller aperture. The lens also handles well with teleconverters, though a design quirk prevents zooming wider than 300mm when using them. Meanwhile, the RF 100-400mm offers surprising sharpness in a compact, budget-friendly package but struggles in low-light conditions due to its f/8 aperture at 400mm.
Wegener also emphasizes autofocus differences. The RF 100-500mm features a Nano USM motor, offering a balance between speed and smoothness for both photo and video. The EF 100-400mm II uses a ring-type USM, excelling in speed but less fluid for video tracking. The RF 100-400mm, with its STM motor, is the slowest but provides smooth performance for video. Another crucial factor is weather sealing—both L-series lenses (EF 100-400mm II and RF 100-500mm) offer superior protection against the elements, whereas the RF 100-400mm lacks full sealing and premium lens coatings. Check out the video above for the full rundown from Wegener.
