ProductIndex
Canon RF 100-400mm F5.6-8 IS USM Telephoto Lens
One-line verdict
Compact lightweight telephoto for enthusiasts shooting wildlife sports and travel in good light sacrificing aperture speed for portability over pricier L-series alternatives.
How it compares
- vs Tamron 70-300mm F/4.5-6.3 Di III RXD ($500–$600): Canon RF 100-400mm wins on focal length reach (400mm vs 300mm) and IS implementation, Tamron wins on maximum aperture at the wide end and lower price
- vs Canon RF 85mm f/2 Macro IS STM ($550–$650): Canon RF 100-400mm wins on telephoto versatility and wildlife/sports utility, Canon RF 85mm wins on aperture speed and low-light performance
- vs Canon RF 35mm F1.8 Macro IS STM ($450–$550): Canon RF 100-400mm wins on reach for distant subjects, Canon RF 35mm wins on aperture, compactness, and low-light capability
- vs Sigma 18-50mm F2.8 DC DN ($550–$600): Canon RF 100-400mm wins on telephoto reach and subject isolation at distance, Sigma wins on constant f/2.8 aperture and versatility for everyday use
AI-summarized review themes
Frequently Praised
- Exceptionally sharp images across zoom range even wide open
- Lightweight build under 1.4lbs perfect for handheld travel
- Effective 5.5-stop IS enables steady shots at slow shutters
- Fast quiet Nano USM autofocus tracks birds and action well
- Excellent value outperforms expectations for mid-range price
Frequently Criticized
- Narrow f/8 aperture at 400mm limits low-light performance
- No weather sealing risks dust moisture in outdoor use
- Plastic construction lacks premium feel of L lenses
- Lens hood sold separately adds extra cost
Best for
wildlife birding, youth sports events, travel landscapes, enthusiast handheld shooting
Not for
low-light indoor events, heavy rain or dust conditions, professionals needing rugged build
Specifications
| Spec | Value |
|---|---|
| Focal Length Range | 100-400mm |
| Maximum Aperture | f/5.6-8 |
| Optical Image Stabilization | 5.5 stops |
| Autofocus Motor | Nano USM |
| Minimum Focus Distance | 0.88m |
| Maximum Magnification | 0.41x |
| Filter Thread | 67mm |
| Dimensions (WxL) | 79.5 x 164.7mm |
| Weight | 635g |
| Weather Sealing | No |
| Teleconverter Compatibility | Yes (RF 1.4x/2x) |
| Mount | Canon RF |
Data sources
- Estimated ~1000 purchase reviews via Amazon B&H Best Buy
- Review period: 2021–2026
- Sentiment confidence: high