Canon EF 70-300mm f/4-5.6 IS USM
Announced August 22, 2005
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
Good
The Canon EF 70-300mm f/4-5.6 IS USM is a lightweight telephoto zoom that provides sharp, well-corrected images across its range; however, its performance at the 300mm focal length and its variable aperture can be limiting for certain applications. It serves as a capable travel and nature companion that is compatible with both full-frame and APS-C sensor cameras.
Weighted from 7 reviewer scores
Pros
- Strong optical performance with high resolution, effective control of aberrations, and minimal distortion
- Highly effective image stabilization for handheld shooting
- Improved autofocus speed and accuracy compared to predecessors
- Solid build quality with smooth zoom operation
- Versatile compatibility with both full-frame and crop-sensor camera bodies
Cons
- Soft image quality and reduced performance at the 300mm end
- Inconsistent or slow autofocus performance
- Mechanical design issues including rotating front elements and lack of full-time manual focus
- Limited light-gathering capability due to variable aperture
- Susceptibility to lens flare and contrast loss when shooting against bright light
- Launch price $549 (USD)
- Focal length & aperture 70-300mm f/4-5.6
- Mount & coverage Canon EF Full-Frame
- Stabilization Optical IS
- Close focus 1.5 m (0.26x)
- Filter thread 58mm
- Autofocus motor Micro-type ultrasonic
- Weight & size 630g (1 lb 6.2 oz) · 76.5 x 142.8 mm (3.01 x 5.62 in)
What the Reviewers Say
All 7 expert reviews, weighted into the PixelMeter score.
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[I]f you're looking for a very good, light-weight tele zoom e.g. for travel photography this lens should be high on your shopping list.
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I prefer the Canon EF 70-300mm f/4-5.6 IS USM Lens over the 55-250, but my personal preference in this price range is for the Canon EF 70-200mm f/4L USM Lens over the 70-300.
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It's a better lens on full-frame cameras than it is on APS-C.
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Canon is better than Sigma, maybe not a whole lot but in almost every aspect.
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It may have a relatively old design, but this optic produces a great set of MTF curves at all focal lengths, with just a dip at 300mm when smaller apertures are used. If you can avoid these performance here is still very acceptable.
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[F]its the bill as an ideal "walking around" lens for nature, travel and sports photographers.
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[T]he Canon EF 70-300mm f/4-5.6 IS USM is worth looking at.
