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Get information and user reviews for this lens from Amazon: Canon Zoom Telephoto EF 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6L IS (Image Stabilizer) USM Autofocus Lens
Photo Zone
The Canon EF 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6 USM L IS is a very good performer with few weaknesses … that’s assuming you get a good sample – the first tested sample was mediocre whereas the second one performed very fine. The resolution of the lens is on a very high level throughout the zoom range with only a marginal performance penalty at 400mm. Vignetting, distortions and CAs aren’t really field relevant on an APS-C DSLR. Typical for Canon L grade lenses the build quality is great. However, you may need to get used to the push-pull zoom mechanism which is a bit unusual these days. Regarding the sum of its characteristics the EF 100-400L is THE still portable super-tele zoom for Canon users. READ FULL REVIEW
Other Canon 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6L IS USM EF Reviews
SLR Gear
It’s not surprising to hear people swear by this lens: in 1998, there wouldn’t have been much else in the price range that would have been as sharp. The push-pull design doesn’t appeal to everyone for a variety of reasons, but it’s hard to deny the lens’ obvious versatility. The only deciding factor in a purchase of this lens would be the quality of the sample you’re considering, as we mentioned previously, this is a lens that seems to have a fairly high sample inconsistency, so you should try and make sure you can return the lens if you’re not happy with the results you’re getting. That said, if you can find a good copy, you shouldn’t be disappointed. READ FULL REVIEW
Digital Picture
The Canon EF 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6 L IS USM Lens has an excellent focal length range that includes the longest focal length found in a Canon zoom lens. This long focal length and focal length range combine with very good image and build quality to make the 100-400 one of the most popular serious wildlife and sports lenses Canon sells. … Weighing 3 lb (1,380g) and measuring 3.6″ x 7.4″ (92.0 x 189.0)(DxL retracted), the 100-400 is solidly built and feels like it. One of my favorite lens features found on the 100-400 is image stabilization. … Considering the focal length range of this lens, the sharpness delivered is simply excellent. The wide focal length range and long max focal length make the Canon EF 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6 L IS USM Lens a highly versatile and a very popular lens. This is one of the lenses I most-frequently recommend. READ FULL REVIEW
Pop Photo
The one question mark on this lens is optical performance at the smallest apertures at 400mm. As this lens is obviously intended for substantial handheld use, we would not consider this a major flaw. Optical performance in every other case is a fine balance of sharpness and contrast, with minimal flare and light falloff. The added, very real benefit of Canon’s dual-mode image stabilization will make this pricey lens attractive to serious nature and sports photographers-for that matter, any photographer looking for a handholdable long tele-zoom. READ FULL REVIEW