Canon EF 70-200mm f/4L IS USM Lens Imported
Retaining the excellent performance at maximum aperture of the much larger f/2.8L IS but in a smaller and more travel-friendly size, the Canon EF 70-200mm f/4L IS USM Lens is a professional zoom telephoto suitable for a broad range of applications from sports to portraiture. It is fully compatible with the Extender EF 1.4x II and 2x II teleconverters (requires f/8 AF sensitivity with EF 2x II), and its built-in image stabilizer allows the equivalent hand-holding ability of a shutter speed 4 steps faster-making this a great lens for capturing still subjects with a telephoto perspective in very low light. The stabilizer can be activated to only correct shake in the vertical axis for panning action when desired as well.
Like every autofocus Canon "L" lens, the EF 70-200mm f/4L IS USM delivers optical performance equal to similar fixed focal length lenses, with silent, high-speed focusing and full-time manual focus override capacity. Distortions and aberrations are remarkably small for a lens of such capability. This lens combines 1 artificial fluorite element with 2 UD (Ultra-low Dispersion) elements to help achieve images free of secondary spectrum aberrations, which are often the bane of consumer-grade telephoto zooms. Its aperture diaphragm is circular, to help create very natural out-of-focus background highlights.
This 70-200mm lens has a minimum focusing distance of 3.9' (1.18m) throughout its entire range of focal lengths, and it accepts 67mm screw-in filters.
- An autofocus telephoto zoom lens for both film and digital cameras
- Built-in image stabilizer action can be seen in the viewfinder
- Allows handheld images at shutter speeds 4 steps slower than without image stabilization
- Excellent f/4 maximum aperture performance at all focal lengths
- Fast, silent autofocus with full-time manual focus override
- Significantly lighter than the EF 70-200mm f/2.8L
- Uses 1 fluorite and 2 UD (Ultra-low Dispersion)elements to help control secondary spectrum aberrations
- Professionally sealed against moisture and dust ingress
- Internal zooming and focusing
- Circular aperture diaphragm for natural-looking out of focus highlights
- Uses 67mm filters
Go To
| Performance | |
|---|---|
| Focal Length | 70 - 200 mm |
| Aperture |
Maximum: f/4 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 | 3.94' (1.2 m) |
| Magnification | 0.21x |
| Maximum Reproduction Ratio | 1:4.76 |
| Groups/Elements | 15/20 |
| Diaphragm Blades | 8 |
| Features | |
|---|---|
| Image Stabilization | Yes |
| Autofocus | Yes |
| Tripod Collar | No |
| Physical | |
|---|---|
| Filter Thread | 67 mm |
| Dimensions (DxL) | Approx. 3.0 x 6.8" (7.62 x 17.27 cm) |
| Weight | 1.67 lb (760 g) |
REVIEW SNAPSHOT®
by PowerReviews(based on 514 reviews)
Ratings Distribution
100%
of respondents would recommend this to a friend.
Pros
- Fast / accurate auto-focus (562)
- Strong construction (370)
- Consistent output (334)
- Lightweight (314)
- Durable (305)
Cons
- Heavy (32)
- Poor in low light (24)
- Pricey / poor value (6)
- Noisy IS (4)
- Slow focus (4)
Best Uses
- Sports/action (291)
- General purpose (178)
- Landscape/scenery (174)
- Wildlife photos (161)
- Wildlife (140)
- Reviewer Profile:
- Enthusiast (152), Photo enthusiast (130), Semi-pro photographer (70), Semi-professional (50), Casual photographer (28)
- Was this a gift?:
- No (142), Yes (12)
Most Liked Positive Review
You won't be disappointed!
If you are looking at this lens you are looking at the perfect alternative to the 70-200mm 2.8 for half the price. Note: if you shoot or plan to shoot a lot and ...Read complete review
If you are looking at this lens you are looking at the perfect alternative to the 70-200mm 2.8 for half the price. Note: if you shoot or plan to shoot a lot and I mean a lot of low light work then stop here and go buy the 2.8 version. Marking this lens down and comparing it to that lens is insane; buy that lens and mark it down. Two different products!
For those of you not making 2.8 money and shoot a wider range of light, not a whole lot of low light work, or you own a flash and know how to control it, you will be very happy with this lens. Believe me when I say I wanted the 2.8 version however; like most semi-pro photographers money is limited and I wanted to eat and have a roof over my head for the next few months while getting the shots I need.
I needed the reach and performance of that 2.8 without the price and this lens is it. This lens is smaller and lighter than the 2.8 which makes it nice to carry around all day especially if you are a location type photographer. It fits in my sling bag mounted to the camera (barely) keeping my load light. The lens performs excellent on my 40D and yes the IS does talk to you however; you begin to use the sound when focusing on the fly. Image quality is amazing, it made me wish I had purchased this lens sooner and I have no regrets not buying the 2.8 version. The colors come out amazing and the CA coating reduces noise seen from cropped sensor cameras . Sports Photographers will not be disappointed, I was able to shoot paraglider's from a cliff the other day and the color and sharpness at 200mm F/4 w/o a UV filter or tripod is amazing. Post processing was minimal in Lr and the prints were ready in no time. In addition, I have used this lens indoors with one 430EXII flash mounted on an umbrella combined with natural light and the shots came out just as good as being outside.
The lens comes with a hood, lens bag/pouch ( I don't like it) and no tripod ring. At first, I thought I needed that ring however; I would say it depends on what you are shooting and the size of your camera. I have the 40D with the battery pack bottom and the camera feels well balanced when this lens is mounted. I imagine if you did not have the battery pack it would feel a bit more front heavy but still manageable. If you own a smaller camera or will be shooting a lot in one day then consider the tripod ring. I was able to mount my camera using the stock camera mount with lens looking straight down and the tripod did not flip over so, I still do not need the ring. This lens is compatible with the Canon EF Extenders 2x and 4x along with the EF25II and EF12II Extension tubes. I have used it with the EF25II Extension tube and the zoom capability and image quality for macro work is amazing. You can shoot bugs at a nice distance without disturbing them and still get that close up detail. The lens comes with a manual explaining the F-stop loss using the Extenders 2x and 4x. Overall, the F-Stop loss is too great for me when starting at F/4 however; that depends on what you are shooting and the availability of light.
I did not buy this lens at B&H, I was able to buy it in new condition from another photographer who barely used it in her work flow and put it in a closet for 8-9 months. That is why I suggest taking a serious assessment of your current work flow before buying any lens. It is a lot of money to just put in a closet for 8-9months. I use this lens constantly know that I have it and I only take it off for wide angle shots. I hope this helps, I wanted to keep it short yet provide you with information that would help you make the best choice when buying this lens.
VS
Most Liked Negative Review
Heavy Duty Performer
I had until now been using the kit 70-200mm zoom lens that came as part of my D-SLR camera package. Having bought the Canon L macro lens earlier this year and been blown away...Read complete review
I had until now been using the kit 70-200mm zoom lens that came as part of my D-SLR camera package. Having bought the Canon L macro lens earlier this year and been blown away by it, I was all eager to get the L zoom lens too. I am pleased with the new zoom lens - colors are good, images are sharp - but am not blown away by it as I was with the macro lens. At close range there is a detectable improvement in quality of shot, detail and colors, but photographing a normal scene of my daughter at play for instance, I find it good but not brilliant and you do need a decent amount of light to get a crisp shot. This lens is heavy - but not overwhelmingly so and I find it manageable and without a tripod can get good shots. What I do not like is the overall size - toting it about and packing it to take out with me for the day is proving troublesome. I am glad I did not get the f/2.8 as it is larger and heavier however if you offered me my money back I'd be tempted to take you up on it and go buy the wide angle lens I had my eye on when deciding what lens to buy next!
REVIEWS
Reviewed by 514 customers
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Displaying reviews 1-20
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Pros
- Consistent Output
- Durable
- Easily Interchangeable
- Fast / accurate auto-focus
- Lightweight
- Rugged
- Strong Construction
Cons
Best Uses
- Night Photography
- Sports/Action
- Wildlife Photos
Comments about Canon EF 70-200mm f/4L IS USM Lens:
Great optics comes with hood.
sharp and high quality
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easily Interchangeable
- Strong Construction
Cons
Best Uses
- Landscape/Scenery
- Sports/Action
- Weddings/Events
Comments about Canon EF 70-200mm f/4L IS USM Lens:
Great lens for capturing candid kid moments.
Works wonderful for kids sports, as well as, capturing your kids on-stage.
IS works excellent and as advertised.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Constant aperture
- Durable
- Fast / accurate auto-focus
- Nice Bokeh
- Strong Construction
Cons
- Noisy
Best Uses
- Landscape/Scenery
- Portraits
- Sports/Action
- Weddings/Events
Comments about Canon EF 70-200mm f/4L IS USM Lens:
I have used the product mostly for portraiture. It has fast focus, tack-sharp images, and the constant f4 is wonderful! The IS is a little noisy but not as noticeable if you have other sounds going on around you. Great product!
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Consistent Output
- Fast / accurate auto-focus
- Rugged
Cons
- Loud focus
Best Uses
- Landscape/Scenery
Comments about Canon EF 70-200mm f/4L IS USM Lens:
This is a great Landscape lens. I am very impressed at the clarity in the glass on this lens. It truly defines the Canon L series lens. The focus is fast, but a little noisy. The build quality is very solid, the weight is low, and the balance when mounted on my camera is great. Thank you Canon for another lens well made.
Pros
- Consistent Output
- Fast / accurate auto-focus
- Strong Construction
Cons
- Loud focus
Best Uses
- Landscape/Scenery
Comments about Canon EF 70-200mm f/4L IS USM Lens:
This is a wonderful landscape lens. It performs well outside capturing outstanding detail. I am very impressed with the clarity and detail this lens is able to capture. The focus motor is louder than I thought it would be, but I don't capture wildlife so I'm not too concerned.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Fast / accurate auto-focus
- Strong Construction
Cons
Best Uses
- Landscape/Scenery
Comments about Canon EF 70-200mm f/4L IS USM Lens:
This is a great lens. I am super impressed by the clarity of the photo's I am able to take with it. The weight and balance feel good, as well as the zoom ring. The focus motor is not the quietest, but I'm not shooting any animal wildlife, so that is not a super concern to me. I recommend this lens to any landscape photographer looking to get the best lens out there.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Consistent Output
- Durable
- Easily Interchangeable
- Rugged
- Strong Construction
Cons
Best Uses
- Sports/Action
Comments about Canon EF 70-200mm f/4L IS USM Lens:
I use this lens for nighttime high school football. Despite the the f/4, the lens was able to capture most of the action. Although not an an f/2.8 that could make it across the field, the f/4 makes it to most of the action. Lens was fast, clear, and rugged. Also appreciate that there is no lens creep.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Consistent Output
- Fast / accurate auto-focus
- Lightweight
- Nice Bokeh
Cons
Best Uses
- Wildlife Photos
Comments about Canon EF 70-200mm f/4L IS USM Lens:
I'm using the lens for wildlife photography.
It focuses extremely fast even in low light and the image quality is excellent. It's sharp at f/4.0 but even better at f/5.6. The colors are realistic, contrasty, and vibrant.
The image stabilization works well and the lens is easy to hand-hold for long periods of time. Definitely my favorite lens!
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Lightweight
- Nice Bokeh
- Superb
Cons
Best Uses
- Landscape/Scenery
- Sports/Action
- Wildlife Photos
Comments about Canon EF 70-200mm f/4L IS USM Lens:
Why did I wait so long to get this lens? I borrowed a friend's 2.8L version of this lens to compare. The f4 is the hands down winner. It is sharper, lightweight and much cheaper. I have even used it indoors with a flash. Probably up there with Canon's finest glass.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Comments about Canon EF 70-200mm f/4L IS USM Lens:
70-200mm IS is very suitable for my expectition.I am a freshone in SLR, but do not want to waste money to purchase lens of low quality.I want high quality picture but do not want to carry so heavy instrument. EF 70-200mm f/4L IS USM Lens is not that weight so that my hand will not tremble. I do not want to carry tri-pod. the IS function helps alot.The white color is very attractive, I can notice that some people noticed that when I take picture outside, which make me feels good. The lens is pretty good at takeing the picture of head-portrait. It make the image different what we see with naked eyes. But the image becomes more delightful. BTW, I am using Canon 60D with this lens.
Pros
- Consistent Output
- Durable
- Easily Interchangeable
- Fast / accurate auto-focus
- Lightweight
- Nice Bokeh
- Rugged
- Strong Construction
Cons
- NONE
Best Uses
- people
- Wildlife Photos
Comments about Canon EF 70-200mm f/4L IS USM Lens:
This lens is a great walk around lens. It's sharp as a tack and much lighter than the 70-200 f/2.8. Not quite the shallow depth of field as the 2.8, but still pretty good. This lens is a must have for your bag.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easily Interchangeable
Cons
Best Uses
- Landscape/Scenery
Comments about Canon EF 70-200mm f/4L IS USM Lens:
Lens make my very wonderful faces and images of nature
It's beautiful, strong and fast
Used by many
- Was this a gift?:
- Yes
Pros
- Consistent Output
- Durable
- Easily Interchangeable
- Fast / accurate auto-focus
- Lightweight
- Rugged
Cons
- Poor in Low Light
Best Uses
- Landscape/Scenery
- Sports/Action
- Video
- Wildlife Photos
Comments about Canon EF 70-200mm f/4L IS USM Lens:
this lens i use for sports during the day
it is light and strong.
but, best part of the lens is that is white!!
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Consistent Output
- Durable
- Fast / accurate auto-focus
- Nice Bokeh
- Rugged
- Strong Construction
Cons
- A little Heavy
Best Uses
- Indoors/Low Light
- Landscape/Scenery
- Portrait work
- Sports/Action
- Wildlife Photos
Comments about Canon EF 70-200mm f/4L IS USM Lens:
I have a beautiful mountain range about 1 to 1 1/2 miles from the back of my
home that I photograph in all types of weather. I am extremely pleased with
the first 25-30 images of the mountains with this lens on my Canon 7D. The
image quality is a significant improvement over my images with my old Canon EF 75-300 mm IS lens. The detail is much improved! So far all of my shots have been hand-held with Image Stabilization on. I am anxious to try it on my tripod to compare the IQ with the (hand-held) IS images.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Consistent Output
- Durable
- Easily Interchangeable
- Fast / accurate auto-focus
- Lightweight
- Rugged
- Strong Construction
Cons
Best Uses
- Landscape/Scenery
- Sports/Action
- Weddings/Events
- Wildlife Photos
Comments about Canon EF 70-200mm f/4L IS USM Lens:
I purchased this lens as used. When it came I found it was factory refurbished and came with a lens pouch, and lens covers. It was cosmetically perfect and it functioned equally well. I am an amateur wildlife photographer and this amazingly crisp lens is perfect for what I do.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easily Interchangeable
- Lightweight
- Strong Construction
Cons
Best Uses
- Indoors/Low Light
- Landscape/Scenery
- Macro Photography
Comments about Canon EF 70-200mm f/4L IS USM Lens:
i am very happy with the lens, taking beautiful pics as the way you want it.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Canon EF 70-200mm f/4L IS USM Lens:
This lens is quick and clear and I have gotten beautiful colors. I mostly shoot outdoors so the f/4 with excelent sharp and crisp my images are. I have Shooting on a Canon 7D and using a UV filter. Is sharpest than 24-105 on 70 and 100 focal length.
I plan to use this lens when traveling instead of another heavier lens, like 100-400 or 70-200 F2.8 IS II.
This lens is wonderful. The IS is outstanding and the pictures are sharp as a tack. You'll love it!
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Fast / accurate auto-focus
- Lightweight
- Nice Bokeh
Cons
- NONE
Best Uses
- Sports/Action
- Wildlife Photos
Comments about Canon EF 70-200mm f/4L IS USM Lens:
I'm a semi-pro shooting wildlife, especially white-tailed deer. This lens is everything I hoped for. Fast, accurate focus, sharp, and lightweight. I couldn't be more pleased! I've been shooting in very dim light and the lens focused both quickly and accurately. It is extremely sharp, especially at f/5.6. Well worth the money!
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Consistent Output
- Durable
- Fast / accurate auto-focus
- Rugged
- Strong Construction
Cons
Best Uses
- Landscape/Scenery
- Wildlife Photos
Comments about Canon EF 70-200mm f/4L IS USM Lens:
Paired with the 7D this lens is incredible. I shot at 7.1 snd had a B and W cirular polarizer.I shot 100 pics of a pair of swans at 14 feet away. The results were professional. Jaw dropping results made me aware that I was on what I had hoped for in photography. I guess there's nothing like your first set of great exposures. Night and day compared to 18-135 kit lens.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Image stabilization
Cons
- Pricey but worth it
Best Uses
- Landscape/Scenery
- Sports/Action
- Wildlife Photos
Comments about Canon EF 70-200mm f/4L IS USM Lens:
I really like having IS, I've got some great wildlife shots even without a tripod. It is a fairly recent purchase, but so far it an A+
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Displaying reviews 1-20
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Filters & Filter Kits
- Price: $32.85
- Price: $34.95
Hoods & Covers
- Price: $13.75
- Price: $18.75
Cases & Wraps
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- Original: $13.79
- Save: $1.38
- Price: $12.41
Protection/Camouflage
- Price: $79.95
- Price: $89.99
What's in the Box
- 67mm Snap-On Lens Cap
- Lens Dust Cap E (Rear)
- ET-74 Lens Hood
- LP1224 Lens Case
- 1-Year B&H Warranty
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