Canon EF 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6L IS II USM
Announced November 11, 2014
PixelMeter The PixelMeter is our 1–100 aggregate of reviewer scores from trusted publications and creators. Weighted by source tier — not a raw average, and not PetaPixel’s own review.
Reviewer Consensus
Exceptional
The Canon EF 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6L IS II USM is a versatile, high-performing telephoto zoom that produces sharp, detailed images across its entire focal range. While its variable aperture and significant weight can be challenging in low light or during long handheld sessions, it remains a robust, weather-sealed tool favored for wildlife and action photography.
Weighted from 25 reviewer scores
Pros
- Exceptional image sharpness across the full focal range
- Highly effective image stabilization system
- Fast, accurate, and silent autofocus performance
- Robust, weather-sealed professional-grade build quality
- Impressive close-focusing capabilities
Cons
- Slow maximum aperture limits low-light performance
- Heavy and bulky physical design
- High retail price point
- Vignetting and corner shading at longer focal lengths
- Variable aperture can be inconvenient for consistent exposure
- Launch price $2,199 (USD)
- Focal length & aperture 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6
- Mount & coverage Canon EF Full-Frame
- Stabilization Optical IS
- Close focus 98 cm (0.31x)
- Filter thread 77mm
- Autofocus motor Ultrasonic
- Weight & size 1640g (3 lb 9.8 oz) · 94 x 193 mm (3.70 x 7.60 in)
What the Reviewers Say
All 25 expert reviews, weighted into the PixelMeter score.
Is this product missing a reputable review? Share a link to a review article or YouTube video for consideration.
-
The image center is generally excellent if not outstanding at max. aperture and down to f/11. The borders and corners are easily very good.
-
For those photographing fast and erratic subjects, such as birds or action sports, it doesn’t disappoint.
-
The Canon EF 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6L IS II is in an elite class of zoom lenses, capable of producing prime-grade image quality at all available aperture and focal length settings.
-
[T]he great image quality, reasonable size and heft, strong autofocus performance, and amazing minimum focus means that there is very little that this lens cannot do.
-
It's easily the sharpest lens I've ever tested that goes beyond 300mm, especially on an APS-C camera.
-
The Canon EF 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6L IS II USM delivers excellent sharpness and fast focusing.
-
If you can afford the hefty price-tag, then we can certainly recommend the Canon EF 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6L IS II USM as an excellent telephoto zoom lens for Canon full-frame DSLR owners that can very effectively take the place of several primes.
-
The Mark II edition of Canon’s classic 100-400mm IS USM lens is an ideal choice for sports, action and wildlife photography.
-
The Canon EF 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6L IS II USM is a telezoom lens with a compact design and incredibly sharp optics.
-
This really does feel like a worthy updated original. It functions sweetly and produces some tiptop images.
-
This is the lens for professional hand-held general-purpose nature and wildlife shooting. If you're taking an African safari, this is your lens.
-
[T]he great image quality, reasonable size and heft, strong autofocus performance, and amazing minimum focus means that there is very little that this lens cannot do.
-
Sure, it has a few quirks, but honestly, the versatility, sharpness and speed of this lens far outweigh any of the little issues I’ve mentioned in this review.
-
Compared to its predecessor there aren’t any places where the new EF 100–400mm f/4.5–5.6L IS II USM doesn’t make big improvements.
-
It’s just a little bit wider but I was surprised to see it’s actually a little bit shorter than the 70-200mm. However, with the large lens hood attached, it definely looks beefier than the 70-200mm.
-
This lens is probably one of the best wildlife lenses you could buy out there [...]
-
This lens is also pin sharp and one of the best super telephoto lenses on the market.
-
I think you're going to agree that this is about the sharpest lens you'll ever put your hands on.
-
This bugger is bloody sharp and 2nd generation IS is amazing.
-
Would I recommend this lens? The answer is yes, unless you are going to be shooting in low light situations or you're going to be on something like a safari where 400mm just isn't going to be enough. I love the weight of this lens, I love the range, and the price is right.
-
[R]ight now though, I love the versatility of this lens and it's just having that zoom of the 100-400mm as well.
-
That's why I use it; I don't think I'm going to go back to those big prime lenses anytime soon [...]
-
This is a professional-grade lens and is the perfect zoom lens for wildlife photography and I have very little complaints about it.
-
We asked the question, could we shoot an entire professional football game with one camera, one lens? Yes, absolutely we can, because we did.
-
[...] I've got no hesitation in recommending this lens. It's a fantastic option.
