Canon EF 600mm f/4L IS II USM
Announced February 7, 2011
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 600mm f/4L IS II USM is a benchmark telephoto lens that delivers stunning optical sharpness and fast autofocus performance. While it features a dramatically reduced weight compared to its predecessor, it remains a physically imposing and expensive investment for most photographers.
Weighted from 8 reviewer scores
Pros
- Fast, consistent, and reliable autofocus performance
- Significant weight reduction and improved handling compared to the previous model
- Exceptional image sharpness and optical quality even at wide apertures
- Effective 4-stop image stabilization
- Robust, high-quality build and weather sealing
Cons
- Substantial physical size and weight that can cause fatigue
- Very high price point
- Limited close-focusing capabilities
- Minor mechanical inconveniences like the lens cap fit and hood screw design
- Visible vignetting when shooting at f/4
- Launch price $12,999 (USD)
- Focal length & aperture 600mm f/4
- Mount & coverage Canon EF Full-Frame
- Stabilization Optical IS
- Close focus (0.15x)
- Filter thread 52mm
- Weight & size 3920g (8 lb 10.3 oz) · 168 x 448 mm (6.61 x 17.64 in)
Expert Reviews
Share a link to a review we should add, or tell us what to correct on this page.
-
I'm a big fan of, and highly recommend, the Canon EF 600mm f/4L IS II USM Lens.
-
It's just a sexy bit of glass. This lens is so sharp even wide open, it's redonk.
-
What a treat to be able to use this lens for an extended period of time for real world testing. There is basically nothing that I did not like about the lens. It is at the top of its class in every regard.
-
I think it was absolutely the right choice for me to have taken to Yellowstone. Moreover, if I’m ever in a position to buy a big telephoto prime, I’m still strongly leaning to the 600 over the 500 for many of the same reasons that I outlined in this article.
-
Without any doubt, the suite of improvements and enhancements that Canon has made to it, combined with the weight loss, mean that I consider this the best 600 mm telephoto lens available and a benchmark product in photography at the time of writing.
-
So can I recommend this lens? Absolutely, I still love it.
- Photo Feaver 5/10
I would say this Canon EF 600mm f/4L IS II USM is absolutely amazing.
-
Stunning in optical and build quality, the Canon EF 600 mm F4 IS II is everything I would ever need in those respects. However, the massive weight at 11.5 pounds, combined with the $11,000 price tag, keeps it from being a run and gun contender for my wildlife photography.
User Reviews
No member reviews yet. Kept separate from the expert score.
Be the first to review
Have real-world experience with the Canon EF 600mm f/4L IS II USM? Share your feedback to help others.
Write a Review
Already a member? Sign in to review
At least 20 words. No links or promotion — some reviews are held for an editor.
0 / 3,000