Canon EF 70-200mm F4 L USM Review
General information
This is a zoom lens manufactured by Canon and the lens was released 1999.
The lens belongs to the category
telephoto zoom lenses, a telephoto lens where you have the possibility to zoom in and out.
Product description from Canon
At launch 1999 Canon wrote this regarding Canon EF 70-200mm F4 L USM :
"High-performance, L-series telephoto zoom lens combining light weight and compactness with an f/4 maximum aperture. Inner focusing and the ring USM enable quick and quiet autofocusing. Also, a circular polarizing filter can be attached and used without difficulty because the front lens element does not rotate during focusing. The tripod collar (sold separately) is the same one used with the EF 300mm f/4L USM.
This high grade telephoto zoom lens responds to the exacting requirements of professionals and advanced amateurs, yet at a reasonable price. One artificial crystal fluorite and two UD (Ultra-low Dispersion) glass lens elements in its optical system eliminate secondary spectrum, which is often the Achilles´ heel of telephoto lenses resulting lower picture quality. These elements assure high resolution and high contrast throughout the entire zoom range. The latest optical design gives a minimum focusing distance of 1.2m and 0.21x maximum magnification. This lightweight, compact zoom lens, having the same level of optical performance as EF 70 - 200mm f/2.8L USM, assures good portability and operability. The ring USM (Ultrasonic Motor) and inner focusing system achieves high-speed silent autofocusing. Manual focusing, even while in AF mode, is possible thanks to full-time manual focusing mechanism. Extenders EF 1.4X and 2X can be used with this lens, and the optional Ring Tripod Mount A (W) is being marketed concurrently."
Compatibility, autofocus and focal length
This lens is constructed to fit all models of Canon cameras, regardless of camera model or type of sensor.
The ability to use autofocus is available for all cameras.
The lens has a focal length of 70-200 mm. Depending on which camera the lens is used, the experienced and perceived focal length will be different. Please visit the list of compatible cameras below, it will provide the equivalent focal length you get on each camera.
A positive thing is that this lens has a versitale zoom range, where the difference between 'maximum zoomed out' to 'maximum zoomed in' increases the lens versatility since you as a photographer easily can compose your picture without moving yourself physically.
- See compatible cameras and perceived/equivalent focal length
- See a full camera compatibility chart for Canon EF 70-200mm F4 L USM
- Read more about focal length and your field of view
- Read more on the cameras impact on the perceived focal length
Lens brightness and image stabilizer
The lens brightness and aperture value is f/4.
The lens is to considered fairly bright. This will make it so much easier shooting in darker environments where you do not want or can use flash lighting, for example in churches or at different sports venues. Lenses with good aperture values and longer focal lengths, such as this lens, tend to be popular amongs sports and nature photographers.
A feature worth commenting, which is also related to lens brightness, is that the brightness and maximum aperture-value remains constant regardless of focal length used. This makes it easier for you as a photographer. No matter if you are have the focus ring and focal length at 70 mm or at 200 mm the aperture value can be f/4.
The lens lacks image stabilization, which otherwise os good for avoiding the blur that can occur when using slow shutter speeds.
Filter and Lens Hood
The lens has a traditional filter thread on the front and its measuring 67 mm which also the filter you will use must have. If you use for example an UV filter can be a cheap insurance against scratches and dust.
If you buy this lens it will come with a lens hood, whose model name is "ET-74".
Images of Canon EF 70-200mm F4 L USM
In order to see larger product images of the lens, click the link below.
Things to consider before buying
Below you will find some summarized points and facts that can be considered as the 'pros and cons' of this lens. These are based entirely on the facts and values that are accessible through the lens specification, so we highly recommend that you also read the reported reviews available (see tab 'Reviews'); this in order to get a more complete view of the lens and its capabilities. Reviewer opinions reflect the lens, its use and its optical performance in a more accurate way, but any way - here a few different points to consider before buying this lens.
- Constant maximum aperture value regardless of focal length
- An impressive focal range
- Works on all sensor types
- A lens hood is included
- Light weight (705 gr)
- No built-in image stabilizer
- The lens can be used with a tripod mount but this is not included and must be purchased separately
- The lens is not sealed against moisture and dust
Our Review Ratings
Time to grade Canon EF 70-200mm F4 L USM .
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| Overall rating | 3 of 5 |
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