Canon EF 100mm f/2.8 Macro USM
Announced March 1, 2000
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
Strong
The Canon EF 100mm f/2.8 Macro USM provides sharp 1:1 magnification and excellent optical performance in a well-built, internally focusing design. Although it lacks modern features like image stabilization or weather sealing, the lens remains a high-value option for both macro and portrait photography.
Weighted from 10 reviewer scores
Pros
- Excellent image quality with high sharpness, contrast, and color rendition
- Fast, quiet, and internal ultrasonic autofocus system
- Reliable construction with constant physical lens length
- Minimal distortion and aberrations
- Affordable pricing providing strong value
Cons
- Occasional optical or focusing inconsistencies
- Minor ergonomic and design limitations
- Absence of image stabilization
- Vignetting at wide apertures
- Build quality falls short of professional L-series standards
- Launch price $537 (USD)
- Focal length & aperture 100mm f/2.8
- Mount & coverage Canon EF Full-Frame
- Stabilization None
- Close focus 31 cm (1x)
- Filter thread 58mm
- Autofocus motor Ring-type ultrasonic
- Weight & size 600g (1 lb 5.2 oz) · 79 x 119 mm (3.11 x 4.69 in)
What the Reviewers Say
All 10 expert reviews, weighted into the PixelMeter score.
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The old EF 100mm f/2.8 macro lens had a superb reputation but Canon managed to keep up the performance of the USM successor despite of the introduction of a true IF design allowing to keep a constant lens length throughout the focus range.
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If you are looking for a great macro lens, the Canon EF 100mm f/2.8 USM Macro Lens is a good choice. It offers excellent optical performance and middle of the road focal length, working distance and size/weight. Price makes this lens a great value.
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[A] well-made instrument with excellent optical and mechanical properties which is ideal for macro photography and portraits as well.
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There are virtually no criticisms of this lens that we can come up with! The build is a little short of L quality, but is still well built.
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The Canon EF 100mm f/2.8 Macro USM may not be the company's top of the line macro lens, but it does capture sharp images with 1:1 magnification.
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[T]his lens is a capable performer, with quick and silent autofocus system and generally good to excellent image quality.
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That being the case, it is worth saying that this ‘modest’ lens is already remarkably free of chromatic aberration.
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It does everything well and has no weak points.
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[I]mage quality at different magnifications, rugged construction, and reasonable price.
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I was really impressed by the image quality. I must say for a price point of just [...]
