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Pros Pros
  • Excellent image sharpness and contrast across the zoom range
  • Versatile focal length range in a relatively compact build
  • Fast, quiet, and accurate autofocus performance
  • Effective image stabilization for handheld shooting
  • Intuitive push-pull zoom mechanism for tracking motion
Cons Cons
  • Cumbersome push-pull design that can extend unintentionally or suffer from friction adjustment issues
  • Ergonomic interference between the zoom friction and manual focus rings
  • Lack of robust weather sealing and potential for internal dust accumulation
  • Limited close-focusing capabilities
  • Visible vignetting at the long end of the zoom on full-frame sensors

Launch price Launch price $2,300
Focal length & aperture Focal length & aperture 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6
Mount & coverage Mount & coverage Canon EF · Full-Frame
Stabilization Stabilization Optical IS
Filter thread Filter thread 77mm
Autofocus motor Autofocus motor Ultrasonic
Weight & size Weight & size 1380g (3 lb 0.7 oz) · 92 x 189 mm (3.62 x 7.44 in)

Announcement date Announcement date October 1, 1998
Launch MSRP Launch MSRP $2,300
Lens mount Lens mount Canon EF
Image circle coverage Image circle coverage Full-Frame
Lens type Lens type Zoom
Lens line / series Lens line / series L-series

Elements Elements 17
Groups Groups 14

Focal length (wide) Focal length (wide) 100mm
Focal length (tele) Focal length (tele) 400mm
Max aperture (wide) Max aperture (wide) f/4.5
Max aperture (tele) Max aperture (tele) f/5.6
Diaphragm blades Diaphragm blades 8

Diagonal angle of view Diagonal angle of view 24° - 6°

Autofocus motor Autofocus motor Ultrasonic

Optical stabilization (OIS) Optical stabilization (OIS) Yes

Weight Weight 1380g (3 lb 0.7 oz)
Maximum diameter Maximum diameter 92mm (3.62 in)
Length Length 189mm (7.44 in)
Filter thread Filter thread 77mm
Weather sealing Weather sealing None