Canon 70-200mm f/4L USM Telephoto Zoom Lens for Select Canon SLR Cameras
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If you're considering this lens, it means you are hoping the Canon EF 70-200mm f/4 L IS USM Lens for Canon Digital SLR Cameras version of this lens and the Canon EF 70-200mm f/2.8L IS USM Telephoto Zoom Lens for Canon SLR Cameras version of this lens are unnecessary. Let me tell you, I was in the same position: I really wanted the f/2.8L IS version, but didn't know if spending the extra $1K was worth it or not. I got this lens (f/4L, non-IS) and am COMPLETELY happy with my decision! This lens is about as light as an L lens gets, and f/4 is completely acceptable for this level of zoom, I've found. I'm really glad I saved my money (and put it towards the amazing Canon EF 16-35mm f/2.8L II USM Ultra Wide Angle Zoom Lens).
This lens isn't as white as I thought it would be. It seems to be more of an off-white, but that doesn't bother me. This is my first L Series lens, and I'm completely hooked! Everything about it is well-made! Even the surface of the lens is easy to grip and adjust,
This lens isn't as white as I thought it would be. It seems to be more of an off-white, but that doesn't bother me. This is my first L Series lens, and I'm completely hooked! Everything about it is well-made! Even the surface of the lens is easy to grip and adjust,
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I bought this lens to fill in the gap in my focal range until I could get a better lens. It's an economical L series lens so it was easy to afford (among the pro series lenses). I was quite surprised to see the quality of the images. Truly the only difference between this and the 70-200 2.8 IS is the 2.8 aperture and the lack of IS. For the apertures that it has available it produces nice sharp images at every f stop and focal length. I've had no regrets in buying it. I will likely upgrade one day, but I'm in no hurry. It's filling the gap just fine. When combined with my 200mm 2.8L I have quite a pair. I can take whichever I like and either is smaller and lighter than the 70-200 2.8L as well as I could split the lenses between myself and a friend out on the same trip or send one in for repairs while using the other.
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I used to have the EF 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6 L IS USM lens and it was a heavy tank! I still wanted a nice telephoto L glass but rarely needed it above 200mm (especially because I use a 30D and 40D with 1.6x FOVCF). Image stabilization wasn't that important to me as I mostly use my tele glass during the day when I can use faster shutter speeds.
This lens was the perfect choice for me!
PROS:
- lightweight
- travel friendly
- L glass quality
- comes with the hood and carry bag
- non-extending zoom!
- TACK SHARP!!!!
- two focus range modes
CONS:
- no tripod ring. Canon makes one for this lens, but it's rediculously priced @ over $150 !!!! WHY? Knock-offs on eBay are $25 and more than sufficient!
- only 67mm barrel. Would be nicer to have a 72 or 77.
price is JUST right!
This lens was the perfect choice for me!
PROS:
- lightweight
- travel friendly
- L glass quality
- comes with the hood and carry bag
- non-extending zoom!
- TACK SHARP!!!!
- two focus range modes
CONS:
- no tripod ring. Canon makes one for this lens, but it's rediculously priced @ over $150 !!!! WHY? Knock-offs on eBay are $25 and more than sufficient!
- only 67mm barrel. Would be nicer to have a 72 or 77.
price is JUST right!
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I used to have the EF 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6 L IS USM lens and it was a heavy tank! I still wanted a nice telephoto L glass but rarely needed it above 200mm (especially because I use a 30D and 40D with 1.6x FOVCF). Image stabilization wasn't that important to me as I mostly use my tele glass during the day when I can use faster shutter speeds.
This lens was the perfect choice for me!
PROS:
- lightweight
- travel friendly
- L glass quality
- comes with the hood and carry bag
- non-extending zoom!
- TACK SHARP!!!!
- two focus range modes
CONS:
- no tripod ring. Canon makes one for this lens, but it's rediculously priced @ over $150 !!!! WHY? Knock-offs on eBay are $25 and more than sufficient!
- only 67mm barrel. Would be nicer to have a 72 or 77.
price is JUST right!
This lens was the perfect choice for me!
PROS:
- lightweight
- travel friendly
- L glass quality
- comes with the hood and carry bag
- non-extending zoom!
- TACK SHARP!!!!
- two focus range modes
CONS:
- no tripod ring. Canon makes one for this lens, but it's rediculously priced @ over $150 !!!! WHY? Knock-offs on eBay are $25 and more than sufficient!
- only 67mm barrel. Would be nicer to have a 72 or 77.
price is JUST right!
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While I was debating between this or a 100mm Macro, Idecided to get this for the versatility it offered me. Having superb optics is not the only thing this lens doeswell. It's lightweight, and is almost perfectly balanced onmy XT. Perhaps with a battery grip it would be perfect. Focus is FAST, and both rings on the lens are easy to turn,with enough friction to be responsive.Contrast and colours through this lens are better than anyother I've used.
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I purchased this lens in July and have been thoroughlypleased. My images have great clarity, sharpness, contrastand colour. Very lightweight for the size. Although it isnot the 2.8 IS by far, it is a quality lens and a MASSimprovement over my prior zoom lens, the 100-300 USM. Great lens for the young & new professional such as myself aswell as the amateur or seasoned pro. Great L quality for agreat price.
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If you took the next step in digital photography from point and shoot to DSLR and have not yet seen a "dramatic" improvement in your printed photos, this lens is a must for you. I used a really good digital camera from Panasonic, the DMC-FZ20, before buying a Canon 30D. The Panasonic produced great pictures. Indeed, at times the photos from the Panasonic looked as good as what I was getting from the Canon.
Purchasing this lens saved me from buyers remorse; the buyers remorse that was starting to build in me after spending well over $1K on my new Canon 30D. After pairing with the 70-200mm f/4L, one truly learns the value of a DSLR. Many of my pictures now receive that instant "wow" response from friends and family. The lesson here is simple; when it comes to image quality, the lens contributes even more than the camera itself!
Regarding the 70-200mm f/4L lens performance, the thing that stands out to me, beyond the obvious such as color and sharpness (outstanding, both counts), is
Purchasing this lens saved me from buyers remorse; the buyers remorse that was starting to build in me after spending well over $1K on my new Canon 30D. After pairing with the 70-200mm f/4L, one truly learns the value of a DSLR. Many of my pictures now receive that instant "wow" response from friends and family. The lesson here is simple; when it comes to image quality, the lens contributes even more than the camera itself!
Regarding the 70-200mm f/4L lens performance, the thing that stands out to me, beyond the obvious such as color and sharpness (outstanding, both counts), is
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I recently discovered that photography was my gift after using taking some amazing shots with a point and shoot digital camera. I have a 35mm Canon SLR I recieved as a college graduation gift. I did some research on Canon lenses knowing that they were interchangeable with different cameras. I decided to begin saving up for the Canon Rebel XTi. I started doing research on lenses and found this L lens which had nothing but good reviews. I chose it and purchased it when it was on sale earlier this year. Once I got it I attached it to my 35mm Canon and started viewing through it around the house. I was immediately amazed at the difference the view was from the stock lens my 35mm Canon camera came with. I showed it to my wife and she was equally amazed. I then took the lens attached to the 35mm Canon camera on a day trip to Letchworth State Park in Western NY. What resulted were portfolio-quality photos from just two rolls of film. Usually I have to take dozens of photos to get one
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I've been a canon fan for a LONG TIME. I have the 100-400mm ISL lens and just bought the 70-200mm F/4L lens and I LOVE IT. Takes AWESOME pictures. I use it on my 20D.
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I've owned dozens of Canon lenses including the 70-200 2.8L & 100-400 5.6L. This one is a featherweight by comparison. It is even lighter than my 28-70 2.8L. Build quality is superb and the optics are sharper than even my 2.8!!! It has become my favorite lens. Shooting mostly outdoor sports I don't miss the 2.8's bulk and at 200mm have no need for IS. I'm extremely happy and you will be too. I highly recommend this lens!
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Basically what I am saying about this lens here has already been agreed upon by all users of this superbly built lens. As far as Canon lens goes, this is I think the best value lens in the whole EF line-up. The 50mm is good but the build quality is dreadful when compared to this one and is not as versatile this one.
I really want to stress the importance of value because I think many of us here cannot afford the best lens possible. So being able to get the best of what you paying for is really important. There are some lenses are sharper and many more faster than this one, but all about doubling the price and with certain limitations, such as the 85 F1.2. So if you are shopping for a lens with a limited budget, you have to consider this lens first!
Sharpness wise this can be regarded as one of the sharpest telephoto zoom lenses ever made. Again I don't deny there are lenses sharper than this but once you consider the whole package the choice is a no-brainer.
Build quality is equal
I really want to stress the importance of value because I think many of us here cannot afford the best lens possible. So being able to get the best of what you paying for is really important. There are some lenses are sharper and many more faster than this one, but all about doubling the price and with certain limitations, such as the 85 F1.2. So if you are shopping for a lens with a limited budget, you have to consider this lens first!
Sharpness wise this can be regarded as one of the sharpest telephoto zoom lenses ever made. Again I don't deny there are lenses sharper than this but once you consider the whole package the choice is a no-brainer.
Build quality is equal
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This is my first L glass lens and I couldn't be any happier. You just can't beat it for the price. I bought this lens after reading all of the reviews here and it definitely lived up to all the hype. I bought my 30D about six months ago and felt it was time for me to replace that kit lens. I will definitely be purchasing more L glass lenses in the future.
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This was my first L-Series glass and I'm addicted now. Verysharp pictures. It's lightweight as well and I can hand holdit without IS to as low as 1/20th of a second and still getgreat pictures. Works great with my 30D, and the f/4 is justfine for what I shoot.
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If you are in the market for a zoom lens then consider theCanon 70-200f4. I wanted a good quality zoom in which toshoot many subjects such as compressed landscapes, people,and close ups of building details. I was originally just going to purchase a budget zoom lens,then opted to save a little more as I want to buy into aquality SLR lens gear. When you first hold and use this lens it shouts quality fromthe word go. There build is excellent and the best thingabout it is that the zoom element is internal, and the zoomis ultra quite as well, it can hardly be heard. Its goodthat is also comes with lens hood, and carry pouch. On thelens hood, although it does the job well, it is a hassle toactually get it on. Its not something you would want to puton in a hurry as it takes a few turns in order to get itlocked in place. The other 'downside' is that the lensstands out with its off white appearance. Be prepared forlooks when you pull it out in public places!Its weight of around 700 grams
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Bought this from B&H for my new Canon 30d having madethe switch from the other manufacturer. I can only add towhat has been said before: this lens is first class. Nicebuild-quality, smooth controls, extremely sharp and not tooheavy despite its somewhat large size. I filmed some horsesin a field and found hand held shooting okay. The resultswere crystal clear and beautifully warm. Zooming in on mycomputer you could clearly see the individual hairs on thehorses' main despite shooting from at least 20 yards away. Had money beenno object the IS version would probably be the betterchoice but for a little over $500 this lens is a tough actto beat. I also purchased a Canon 17-40mm f4 but decided totrade it for a Sigma 18-50mm f2.8 Macro due to surprisingsoftness which I did not expect from an Llens.
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I take a lot of action shots from a distance, mostly siblings sprots events, i couldnt be more happy with the color i get form the pictures i think its amazing. I love the price too as an amature this lens doesn't break my budget.
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This is the sharpest and most contrasty zoom lens I own, beating out several other L zooms. It's actually sharper than my Canon 180mm macro lens!
The price is very economical for such a high-quality lens, and it is light enough to be reasonably portable, though the size and color will still make non-photographers gasp. It is the best bang-for-buck among any of the L lenses (the non-L 50/1.8 prime is the most bang-for-buck in the entire Canon line).
Disadvantages are the attention-attracting size and color mentioned above, and the lack of image stabilization. If you're shooting from a tripod, the lack of stabilization won't hurt you, but many people will want to use this handheld, and they won't get full advantage of the lens doing that.
The biggest disadvantage of the lens is the annoying filter size--One of only a couple of Canon lenses to use this size.
If you want to shoot it from a tripod, this lens can't be beat. For those who won't use a tripod, I recommend the 70-300 IS lens
The price is very economical for such a high-quality lens, and it is light enough to be reasonably portable, though the size and color will still make non-photographers gasp. It is the best bang-for-buck among any of the L lenses (the non-L 50/1.8 prime is the most bang-for-buck in the entire Canon line).
Disadvantages are the attention-attracting size and color mentioned above, and the lack of image stabilization. If you're shooting from a tripod, the lack of stabilization won't hurt you, but many people will want to use this handheld, and they won't get full advantage of the lens doing that.
The biggest disadvantage of the lens is the annoying filter size--One of only a couple of Canon lenses to use this size.
If you want to shoot it from a tripod, this lens can't be beat. For those who won't use a tripod, I recommend the 70-300 IS lens
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I don't like zooms. Sure, they are covenient. And you don't need to carry alot of lenses with you. But I never liked the excessive distortions, poor sharpness, muddy contrast, and limp colors that tend to go along with the package. Yes, you can use post-processing to deal with some of this to some extent. But let's face it. Post-processing will NEVER beat an image that is great to begin with. And that brings me to this lens. Simply put, it is not like any other zoom lens I have ever owned. I can honestly say that this one is equal to some of Canon's better, consumer-grade primes (although slower). And for a zoom lens, this is somewhat of an accomplishment. Then again, this IS my first L-series lens. So maybe this is what I have been missing. Regardless, I would take this les over ANY Canon consumer zoom. Alot, for instance, has been said about this lens vs the 75-300mm. But this is how I look at it. Image stabilization is a high cost option on ANY Canon lens. Do you REALLY think that the
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Finally i own one of the L series lenses i am using it on an EOS350D and the results are really impressive, so if you are a canon owner you must buy this lens and you won't regret not even a penny.
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I'm using this particular lense on a Canon 350D ( Rebel XT ).
I originally started with a Canon 70-200 F4.5 USM III and was sadly
disappointed. I returned it to Amazon ( which was a breeze, very pleasant experience, kudos to Amazon ). I bought this lense to replace it
and I have to say .. its wonderful .. great price . smooth, fast , quiet operation. Most importantly .. NO CHROMATIC ABERATION .. and the images are a great deal more sharp and clear compared to the USM III under the
same conditions. It even came with the lense hood ..
I originally started with a Canon 70-200 F4.5 USM III and was sadly
disappointed. I returned it to Amazon ( which was a breeze, very pleasant experience, kudos to Amazon ). I bought this lense to replace it
and I have to say .. its wonderful .. great price . smooth, fast , quiet operation. Most importantly .. NO CHROMATIC ABERATION .. and the images are a great deal more sharp and clear compared to the USM III under the
same conditions. It even came with the lense hood ..
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Its the least expensive of there series. I am an amateurphotographer and people are always asking me what type oflens I use. I use this lens, its a great buy and it worksfantastic!
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I bought this lens last month and it's my first L series lens and I've been impressed with it. I was thinking about getting the 70-200mm f/2.8 IS model but i couldn't really justify the price, (I'm a full time college student......I'm kinda broke). This is my primary telephoto lens and I got the 1.4x teleconverter which really makes this lens a bargain. This lens is one of the cheapest L series that you can get but even though it's lower on the totem pole, Canon didn't skimp on it's design. The images are excellent, even on my Rebel XT. Iv'e gotten some incredible shots throughout the whole focal range and the pictures are nice and sharp. Night shots are a little tough if you want to hand hold it but hay, it's an f4 w/o the IS so what do you expect? If you use a tripod then it will be fine but if you need the hand held capability for night shots then I would get the f2.8 w/ the IS which is twice the price, a tripod costs around $30. A lot of people complain about the hood that comes
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This product has been extensively reviewed, and I don't have much to add. It is much less $$ than the 2.8L at the same zoom range. It does not have IS, which may be an issue to some but I don't have any IS lenses so maybe don't know what I'm missing. The optical quality is as good as advertised. On an APS sized sensor (like my Rebel XTi) the lens is equivalent to a 320 mm on a 35 mm film camera. It is the longest lens I own. This is good for "urban" birds and squirrels that let you get reasonably close, and may be good for larger wildlife. It is borderline for, say, small wild birds that will not let you get close enough to reasonably fill the frame even at 200mm (but I have gotten lucky here and there).
I would guess it is good for sports, but you need enough light to allow a reasonable shutter speed at f4.I have used it for macro closeups, and you get great bokeh.
You can get creative with it. Why use a lens this long indoors? Well, why not?
There is an optional tripod collar. The lens
I would guess it is good for sports, but you need enough light to allow a reasonable shutter speed at f4.I have used it for macro closeups, and you get great bokeh.
You can get creative with it. Why use a lens this long indoors? Well, why not?
There is an optional tripod collar. The lens
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I LOVE, LOVE, LOVE THIS LENS! THIS IS THE FIRST LENS I PURCHASED AFTER MY REBEL XTI PURCHASE AND I RESEARCHED FOR WEEKS TRYING TO DECIDE WHICH ONE TO GET. IT WAS BETWEEN THE 70-300 IS AND THIS ONE. I WOULD HAVE LOVED THE IS FEATURE AND THE 300 ZOOM RANGE, BUT AFTER CONSULTING WITH A SPORTS PHOTOGRAPHER, HE RECOMMENDED THIS ONE. I TAKE LOTS OF GOLF SHOTS AND THEY ARE PERFECT. I AM IMPRESSED WITH THE PHOTOS SOMEONE INEXPERIENCED LIKE MYSELF CAN TAKE. I CAN'T WAIT TO LEARN MORE ABOUT MY CAMERA'S FEATURES AND MORE ABOUT THIS LENS. THE QUALITY OF PHOTOS I GET MAKES ME WANT TO TAKE PHOTOS ALL THE TIME. TAKING SHOTS OF MY SON'S JUNIOR PROM TODAY. THIS LENS GIVES BEAUTIFUL PORTRAIT SHOTS ALSO. I WOULD HAVE LIKED THE IS FEATURE AND THE 2.8F BUT THOSE WERE MUCH TOO EXPENSIVE FOR ME. PERHAPS I'LL UPGRADE IN THE FUTURE, BUT ALL YOU WHO GAVE SUPER REVIEWS FOR HIS LENS WERE RIGHT. ITS WONDERFUL. THANKS FOR YOUR INPUT. ALL MY PHOTOS HAVE BEEN TAKEN WITHOUT A TRIPOD.
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This is the only lens I have that sharpness doesn't change from F4-F8, which shows how good it performs wide open. I got great portrait and candit shots out of it. I had almost every non-L version lenses for this focal range, finally I found a keeper. I may upgrade to the new IS version one-day, but so far, don't see the need.
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It is an entry level Canon L lens. A few points,
1. Very sharp, essentially better than those non-L canon lenses, especially at the telephone end.
2. F4 is good for most out door applications, an 1.4 extension tube will make it 292mm, without lost much in image quality.
3. The price, cannot be better.
4. It is not good for indoor stage shooting - you need F2.8 one in that sense.
5. It is not good enough for bird shooting, sports shooting, etc, even with 1.4x extention tube. You will need at least 400mm in that sense.
6. I do not think you need to spend 400 more for the IS version of this le
1. Very sharp, essentially better than those non-L canon lenses, especially at the telephone end.
2. F4 is good for most out door applications, an 1.4 extension tube will make it 292mm, without lost much in image quality.
3. The price, cannot be better.
4. It is not good for indoor stage shooting - you need F2.8 one in that sense.
5. It is not good enough for bird shooting, sports shooting, etc, even with 1.4x extention tube. You will need at least 400mm in that sense.
6. I do not think you need to spend 400 more for the IS version of this le