Canon's EF 70-200mm f/2.8L USM Telephoto Zoom Lens is one of the finest telephoto zoom lenses in the EF line, comparable to a single focal length lens. It has 4 UD-glass elements to correct chromatic aberrations. Newly-designed multiple zoom group inner focusing brings high image quality throughout the zooming range. This lens can focus as close as 4.9' (1.5 m), and it's compatible with Extender EF 1.4x II and 2x II.
| Performance | |
|---|---|
| Focal Length | 70 - 200 mm |
| Aperture |
Maximum: f/2.8 Minimum: f/32 |
| Camera Mount Type | Canon EF |
| Format Compatibility |
35mm Film / Full-Frame Digital Sensor Canon (APS-C) |
| Angle of View | 34° - 12° |
| Minimum Focus Distance | 4.92' (1.5 m) |
| Magnification | 0.16x |
| Maximum Reproduction Ratio | 1:6.25 |
| Groups/Elements | 15/18 |
| Diaphragm Blades | 8 |
| Features | |
|---|---|
| Image Stabilization | No |
| Autofocus | Yes |
| Tripod Collar | Yes |
| Physical | |
|---|---|
| Filter Thread | 77 mm |
| Dimensions (DxL) | Approx. 3.3 x 7.6" (8.38 x 19.30 cm) |
| Weight | 2.86 lb (1.30 kg) |
REVIEW SNAPSHOT®
by PowerReviewsPros
Cons
Best Uses
Most Liked Positive Review
Very happy with it.
I've only had the lens a few weeks at this point, but, so far, I am very happy with it. I use it to shoot mostly animals-domestic and otherwise. This was a replacement...Read complete review
I've only had the lens a few weeks at this point, but, so far, I am very happy with it. I use it to shoot mostly animals-domestic and otherwise. This was a replacement for my well used 70-200 L f4 (non IS). I wanted a faster aperture because quite often I am shooting at dusk. Unfortunately, I have not had that opportunity yet. However, for the shoots I have done, it has performed quite well. (It's an L-it better)
The focus is quick and silent and photos are sharp and clear. It is on the heavy side which I was concerned about. However, I have not found that to be a problem. I am using it on a 7D mostly.
I do not like the way you put the tripod collar on though. Perhaps the way they designed it is necessary since it is quite a bit heavier than my previous lens. But, I do not like having to remove the lens from my camera in order to put the tripod collar on. I'm always cautious when changing lenses to not get any dust or foreign objects in the camera and having 3 dogs I am extra careful. Therefore, having to remove the lens from the camera body is an extra pain and concern.
It would also have been nice if they included in te documentation instructions on putting it on and removing it. (the tripod collar). It was not readily apparent that you had to line up the collar in order to put it on or remove it. (maybe I'm just dumb).
I also find the lens hood to be not easily put on and/or removed. You have to line it up with the dots and it STILL doesn't like to turn. Maybe that will improve with time.
However, because of the stellar optics I would still definitely recommend it.
VS
Most Liked Negative Review
Need to be a steady hand shooter
I was in a dilemma between this and 70-200 F4 IS version but decided to take a chance.Except the fact one step larger than F4 rest of the things are against it.Very heavy,blurry ...Read complete review
I was in a dilemma between this and 70-200 F4 IS version but decided to take a chance.Except the fact one step larger than F4 rest of the things are against it.Very heavy,blurry images on hand held.Definitely non IS is a no no unless you have a tripod.Looks Majestic and definitely a head turner and good in low light.I already returned it and order the F4 IS version.Some day will buy the F2.8 IS version.Till then.
REVIEWS
Reviewed by 498 customers
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Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Canon EF 70-200mm f/2.8L USM Telephoto Zoom Lens:
This lens is outstanding. I bought it to get into the sports photography market at my school. I also photograph bands from time to time, and this lens is PHENOMENAL for taking photos inside. I turned the ISO to 6400, and then left the shutter speed at 1/4000 just to try it out, and the pictures, while still dark, were close to being perfect. PERFECT AT 1/4000 SHUTTER SPEED. I mean honestly, that's amazing.
I was also worried about not having the IS on this lens, but it hasn't been a problem for me. I used it to cover when Westboro Baptist Church came to my school recently, and I'm pretty sure i'll win an award or two for some of the photos I took. Couldn't have done it without this lens. The Bokeh is EXCELLENT.
BUY IT. You won't be disappointed.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Canon EF 70-200mm f/2.8L USM Telephoto Zoom Lens:
Predictable results from this lens.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Canon EF 70-200mm f/2.8L USM Telephoto Zoom Lens:
If I had to give up all of my lenses save one, this would be the keeper. Sharp, fast, beautiful, with superb bokeh and built to last. This lens has it all. I have owned mine for ten years and it performs as well as it did the day I bought it. IS would be nice but I only miss it occasionally in dark situations and the newer cameras with high ISO make up for that. Don't worry about the weight, it's never been a problem for me. Far superior to the f4 version. Buy it, you will love it!
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Canon EF 70-200mm f/2.8L USM Telephoto Zoom Lens:
Bought this to shoot indoor volleyball on a 5D3. Was changing between a 135 f/2 and 85 f/1.8 and got tired of never quite having the right range. Not quite as sharp as the 135 but a match for the 85. For sports not having IS was fine with me. The 5D3 lets you get away with high ISOs and a fast shutter. Bokeh at 200mm is very creamy. But man, this thing is a heavy brick. It is not fun to hand hold over a weekend of work. Will bring the monopod next time!
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Canon EF 70-200mm f/2.8L USM Telephoto Zoom Lens:
I used this lens for weddings, portraits and sports photography!!!
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Canon EF 70-200mm f/2.8L USM Telephoto Zoom Lens:
I decided to go with this version instead of paying the extra cash for the IS. I am not a professional photographer therefor this rewviw is not technical. I prefer to shoot outdoors and this lens is great for that purpose. I love this lens and the creamy bokeh it provides.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Canon EF 70-200mm f/2.8L USM Telephoto Zoom Lens:
If you're debating between the f4 IS vs f2.8 without IS, unless the hefty weight is a problem for you get this one. Sure, it was designed in 1999, but wow does it still deliver amazing results. It's tack-sharp wide open and doesn't lose much in the corners at all. Such great optical quality for such a low price. Incredible value.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Canon EF 70-200mm f/2.8L USM Telephoto Zoom Lens:
Portrait and wedding photography....Always wanted an L lens,now I have a GREAT one!!!
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Canon EF 70-200mm f/2.8L USM Telephoto Zoom Lens:
Fast, sharp and great resolution. I have another L-series lens and these have excellent optics with minimal chromatic abberation.
I use this lens for both still and motion shooting.
Don't have the stabilized version, as I use this lens mostly on a tripod. A little heavy, but not unexpected. Auto aperature a little noisy for video shooting.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Canon EF 70-200mm f/2.8L USM Telephoto Zoom Lens:
As a landscape photographer I was torn between this and the 70-200 f4. I opted for this one because I occasionally do weddings and that extra stop can sometimes make or break a photo in low light. So far I have done one wedding in moderate indoor lighting and a couple of landscapes. This lens is great. Crystal clear optics, great automatic focus. The other reason I opted for this over the f4 is that this one works better with the 1.4 and 2x extender i.e. the aperture is better. The one con is the weight, about 2.5 pounds but I knew that buying it. Would definitely recommend however those who only do landscapes might want to consider the 70-200 f4.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Canon EF 70-200mm f/2.8L USM Telephoto Zoom Lens:
Was looking for a good all around lens for shooting sports and bands with. My first uses with it have met or exceeded all of my expectations. I did some basketball pictures this weekend and they are far and away better than my previous lens was giving me. I also used it outdoors a little bit and was amazed at the colors it was giving me and how crisp everything was. I considered another brand but was concerned with its ability to focus in low light at high school football games. So far I am glad I spent the extra money on this lens instead.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Canon EF 70-200mm f/2.8L USM Telephoto Zoom Lens:
Shoot wide open at f/2.8 to throw the back-round out of focus and every picture looks great. I don`t need the image stabilizer so I saved about [$]
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Canon EF 70-200mm f/2.8L USM Telephoto Zoom Lens:
I am using this lens for my son's volleyball games and despite the lack of good lighting in most gyms, the pictures are coming out much better than from my other non-L Canon lens; the auto-focus is much faster and the 2.8 lens allows for faster shutter speeds. The lack of an Image-stabilizer has not been an issue for me thus far although I don't use any monopod. The lens is heavier so I need to rest my hands more often though. I was worried about the maximum 200 mm range but since the pictures are crisp, I have been able to enlarge them to fit my needs well. With football coming up, I might need to use an extender due to the distance from the stands.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Canon EF 70-200mm f/2.8L USM Telephoto Zoom Lens:
This lens is fast and sharp. I opted for the non IS lens because I typically shoot at a high shutter speed in order to freeze action. The fact that it's a bit smaller and lighter is a bonus as well.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Canon EF 70-200mm f/2.8L USM Telephoto Zoom Lens:
I'm a wedding photographer/videographer so I knew I had to buy this lens. Often times I'm in very dark ceremonies and receptions shooting both photo and video. With it's small depth of field this lens allows me to get a good exposure in low light. The IS version would be great to have, but for now this will work just great!
Comments about Canon EF 70-200mm f/2.8L USM Telephoto Zoom Lens:
Great for filming and shooting
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Canon EF 70-200mm f/2.8L USM Telephoto Zoom Lens:
Great lens all around. Center sharpness isnt great on paper, but outstanding in real world use.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Canon EF 70-200mm f/2.8L USM Telephoto Zoom Lens:
Love this lens, quality is exceptional.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Canon EF 70-200mm f/2.8L USM Telephoto Zoom Lens:
I am a wedding & portrait photographer based in Charlotte, NC and have been shooting professionally since 1996. This lens is a workhorse and a must for anyone thinking of getting into the business. With that said...it's a heavy lens and does get to be tiresome after a while. I also have the F4 70-200mm version and its 1/2 the weight. In a perfect world I would only use the F4 lens to save weight...however the 2.8 produces stunning depth of field! I'm old school so for you newbies..BOKEH! I will say that its not the best to hand hold in lower light so use a tri/mono pod when in low light or using slower shutter speeds. I would not waste your $$$ on the IS version IMO but to each their own. It's not the fastest for focus but you expect that with any zoom in my experience. It's a must but if you can't afford the 2.8 than go with the f4 version...both produce killer shots and you would only be giving up 1 stop with the F4. If you got the coin...go with the F2.8 for bragging rights!
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Canon EF 70-200mm f/2.8L USM Telephoto Zoom Lens:
fast 2.8/f stop throughout the range of the lens. Nice "Canon" glass color. Sharp, durable,. A great long lens.
REVIEW SNAPSHOT®
by PowerReviewsPros
Cons
Best Uses
Most Liked Positive Review
Very happy with it.
I've only had the lens a few weeks at this point, but, so far, I am very happy with it. I use it to shoot mostly animals-domestic and otherwise. This was a replacement...Read complete review
I've only had the lens a few weeks at this point, but, so far, I am very happy with it. I use it to shoot mostly animals-domestic and otherwise. This was a replacement for my well used 70-200 L f4 (non IS). I wanted a faster aperture because quite often I am shooting at dusk. Unfortunately, I have not had that opportunity yet. However, for the shoots I have done, it has performed quite well. (It's an L-it better)
The focus is quick and silent and photos are sharp and clear. It is on the heavy side which I was concerned about. However, I have not found that to be a problem. I am using it on a 7D mostly.
I do not like the way you put the tripod collar on though. Perhaps the way they designed it is necessary since it is quite a bit heavier than my previous lens. But, I do not like having to remove the lens from my camera in order to put the tripod collar on. I'm always cautious when changing lenses to not get any dust or foreign objects in the camera and having 3 dogs I am extra careful. Therefore, having to remove the lens from the camera body is an extra pain and concern.
It would also have been nice if they included in te documentation instructions on putting it on and removing it. (the tripod collar). It was not readily apparent that you had to line up the collar in order to put it on or remove it. (maybe I'm just dumb).
I also find the lens hood to be not easily put on and/or removed. You have to line it up with the dots and it STILL doesn't like to turn. Maybe that will improve with time.
However, because of the stellar optics I would still definitely recommend it.
VS
Most Liked Negative Review
Need to be a steady hand shooter
I was in a dilemma between this and 70-200 F4 IS version but decided to take a chance.Except the fact one step larger than F4 rest of the things are against it.Very heavy,blurry ...Read complete review
I was in a dilemma between this and 70-200 F4 IS version but decided to take a chance.Except the fact one step larger than F4 rest of the things are against it.Very heavy,blurry images on hand held.Definitely non IS is a no no unless you have a tripod.Looks Majestic and definitely a head turner and good in low light.I already returned it and order the F4 IS version.Some day will buy the F2.8 IS version.Till then.
REVIEWS
Reviewed by 498 customers
Sort by
Displaying reviews 1-20
Previous | Next »
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Canon EF 70-200mm f/2.8L USM Telephoto Zoom Lens:
This lens is outstanding. I bought it to get into the sports photography market at my school. I also photograph bands from time to time, and this lens is PHENOMENAL for taking photos inside. I turned the ISO to 6400, and then left the shutter speed at 1/4000 just to try it out, and the pictures, while still dark, were close to being perfect. PERFECT AT 1/4000 SHUTTER SPEED. I mean honestly, that's amazing.
I was also worried about not having the IS on this lens, but it hasn't been a problem for me. I used it to cover when Westboro Baptist Church came to my school recently, and I'm pretty sure i'll win an award or two for some of the photos I took. Couldn't have done it without this lens. The Bokeh is EXCELLENT.
BUY IT. You won't be disappointed.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Canon EF 70-200mm f/2.8L USM Telephoto Zoom Lens:
Predictable results from this lens.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Canon EF 70-200mm f/2.8L USM Telephoto Zoom Lens:
If I had to give up all of my lenses save one, this would be the keeper. Sharp, fast, beautiful, with superb bokeh and built to last. This lens has it all. I have owned mine for ten years and it performs as well as it did the day I bought it. IS would be nice but I only miss it occasionally in dark situations and the newer cameras with high ISO make up for that. Don't worry about the weight, it's never been a problem for me. Far superior to the f4 version. Buy it, you will love it!
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Canon EF 70-200mm f/2.8L USM Telephoto Zoom Lens:
Bought this to shoot indoor volleyball on a 5D3. Was changing between a 135 f/2 and 85 f/1.8 and got tired of never quite having the right range. Not quite as sharp as the 135 but a match for the 85. For sports not having IS was fine with me. The 5D3 lets you get away with high ISOs and a fast shutter. Bokeh at 200mm is very creamy. But man, this thing is a heavy brick. It is not fun to hand hold over a weekend of work. Will bring the monopod next time!
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Canon EF 70-200mm f/2.8L USM Telephoto Zoom Lens:
I used this lens for weddings, portraits and sports photography!!!
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Canon EF 70-200mm f/2.8L USM Telephoto Zoom Lens:
I decided to go with this version instead of paying the extra cash for the IS. I am not a professional photographer therefor this rewviw is not technical. I prefer to shoot outdoors and this lens is great for that purpose. I love this lens and the creamy bokeh it provides.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Canon EF 70-200mm f/2.8L USM Telephoto Zoom Lens:
If you're debating between the f4 IS vs f2.8 without IS, unless the hefty weight is a problem for you get this one. Sure, it was designed in 1999, but wow does it still deliver amazing results. It's tack-sharp wide open and doesn't lose much in the corners at all. Such great optical quality for such a low price. Incredible value.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Canon EF 70-200mm f/2.8L USM Telephoto Zoom Lens:
Portrait and wedding photography....Always wanted an L lens,now I have a GREAT one!!!
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Canon EF 70-200mm f/2.8L USM Telephoto Zoom Lens:
Fast, sharp and great resolution. I have another L-series lens and these have excellent optics with minimal chromatic abberation.
I use this lens for both still and motion shooting.
Don't have the stabilized version, as I use this lens mostly on a tripod. A little heavy, but not unexpected. Auto aperature a little noisy for video shooting.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Canon EF 70-200mm f/2.8L USM Telephoto Zoom Lens:
As a landscape photographer I was torn between this and the 70-200 f4. I opted for this one because I occasionally do weddings and that extra stop can sometimes make or break a photo in low light. So far I have done one wedding in moderate indoor lighting and a couple of landscapes. This lens is great. Crystal clear optics, great automatic focus. The other reason I opted for this over the f4 is that this one works better with the 1.4 and 2x extender i.e. the aperture is better. The one con is the weight, about 2.5 pounds but I knew that buying it. Would definitely recommend however those who only do landscapes might want to consider the 70-200 f4.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Canon EF 70-200mm f/2.8L USM Telephoto Zoom Lens:
Was looking for a good all around lens for shooting sports and bands with. My first uses with it have met or exceeded all of my expectations. I did some basketball pictures this weekend and they are far and away better than my previous lens was giving me. I also used it outdoors a little bit and was amazed at the colors it was giving me and how crisp everything was. I considered another brand but was concerned with its ability to focus in low light at high school football games. So far I am glad I spent the extra money on this lens instead.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Canon EF 70-200mm f/2.8L USM Telephoto Zoom Lens:
Shoot wide open at f/2.8 to throw the back-round out of focus and every picture looks great. I don`t need the image stabilizer so I saved about [$]
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Canon EF 70-200mm f/2.8L USM Telephoto Zoom Lens:
I am using this lens for my son's volleyball games and despite the lack of good lighting in most gyms, the pictures are coming out much better than from my other non-L Canon lens; the auto-focus is much faster and the 2.8 lens allows for faster shutter speeds. The lack of an Image-stabilizer has not been an issue for me thus far although I don't use any monopod. The lens is heavier so I need to rest my hands more often though. I was worried about the maximum 200 mm range but since the pictures are crisp, I have been able to enlarge them to fit my needs well. With football coming up, I might need to use an extender due to the distance from the stands.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Canon EF 70-200mm f/2.8L USM Telephoto Zoom Lens:
This lens is fast and sharp. I opted for the non IS lens because I typically shoot at a high shutter speed in order to freeze action. The fact that it's a bit smaller and lighter is a bonus as well.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Canon EF 70-200mm f/2.8L USM Telephoto Zoom Lens:
I'm a wedding photographer/videographer so I knew I had to buy this lens. Often times I'm in very dark ceremonies and receptions shooting both photo and video. With it's small depth of field this lens allows me to get a good exposure in low light. The IS version would be great to have, but for now this will work just great!
Comments about Canon EF 70-200mm f/2.8L USM Telephoto Zoom Lens:
Great for filming and shooting
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Canon EF 70-200mm f/2.8L USM Telephoto Zoom Lens:
Great lens all around. Center sharpness isnt great on paper, but outstanding in real world use.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Canon EF 70-200mm f/2.8L USM Telephoto Zoom Lens:
Love this lens, quality is exceptional.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Canon EF 70-200mm f/2.8L USM Telephoto Zoom Lens:
I am a wedding & portrait photographer based in Charlotte, NC and have been shooting professionally since 1996. This lens is a workhorse and a must for anyone thinking of getting into the business. With that said...it's a heavy lens and does get to be tiresome after a while. I also have the F4 70-200mm version and its 1/2 the weight. In a perfect world I would only use the F4 lens to save weight...however the 2.8 produces stunning depth of field! I'm old school so for you newbies..BOKEH! I will say that its not the best to hand hold in lower light so use a tri/mono pod when in low light or using slower shutter speeds. I would not waste your $$$ on the IS version IMO but to each their own. It's not the fastest for focus but you expect that with any zoom in my experience. It's a must but if you can't afford the 2.8 than go with the f4 version...both produce killer shots and you would only be giving up 1 stop with the F4. If you got the coin...go with the F2.8 for bragging rights!
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Canon EF 70-200mm f/2.8L USM Telephoto Zoom Lens:
fast 2.8/f stop throughout the range of the lens. Nice "Canon" glass color. Sharp, durable,. A great long lens.