Canon EF 400mm F4 DO IS USM Review

General information

This is a prime lens manufactured by Canon and the lens was released 2001.
The lens belongs to the category telephoto prime lenses, a telephoto lens where you do not have the possibility to zoom in and out.

Product description from Canon

At launch 2001 Canon wrote this regarding Canon EF 400mm F4 DO IS USM :

"The EF400mm f/4 DO IS USM is the world´s first super telephoto lens incorporating the exclusive Canon-developed multi-layer diffractive optical element for camera lenses. The optical element, which incorporates light diffraction, is a major technological breakthrough, and it features an exceeding ability to correct chromatic and spherical aberrations and render high-quality images. By including this optical element in the lens design, the lens has achieved tremendous savings of 26% in overall length and 36% in weight compared to comparable lenses incorporating only conventional refractive optical elements. Moreover, the size and weight advantage comes at no cost to image quality, with the EF400mm f/4 DO IS USM delivering performance equivalent to conventional models in its class.

Canon’s breakthrough multi-layer diffractive optical lens technology provides photographers with superior super-telephoto performance in a smaller and lighter design with enhanced correction for chromatic aberrations. We’ve also added our highly effective Image Stabilization system that gives the equivalent effect of a shutter speed two stops faster. And, it’s built to our professional standards with fast AF, full-time mechanical focus and dust and water-resistant construction."


Compatibility, autofocus and focal length

This lens is constructed to fit all models of Canon cameras, regardless of camera model or type of sensor.

The ability to use autofocus is available for all cameras.

The lens has a focal length of 400 mm. Depending on which camera the lens is used, the experienced and perceived focal length will be different. Please visit the list of compatible cameras below, it will provide the equivalent focal length you get on each camera.

Lens brightness and image stabilizer

The lens brightness and aperture value is f/4.

The lens is to considered fairly bright.  This will make it so much easier shooting in darker environments where you do not want or can use flash lighting, for example in churches or at different sports venues. Lenses with good aperture values and longer focal lengths, such as this lens, tend to be popular amongs sports and nature photographers.

Inside the lens there is an image stabilizer, which helps to fend off possible movements and tremors. This is very positive and can be of great help in situations and conditions where the light is inadequate and not enough for decent shutter speeds.

Filter and Lens Hood

If you want to use filters on this lens the slot-in filters  (52 mm) would be the ones to use, which is very common at these larger telephoto lenses.

If you buy this lens it will come with a lens hood, whose model name is "ET-120".

Tripod Mount

This lens is equipped with a tripod mount, which makes use of a tripod easier and more stable.

Things to consider before buying

Below you will find some summarized points and facts that can be considered as the 'pros and cons' of this lens. These are based entirely on the facts and values that are accessible through the lens specification, so we highly recommend that you also read the reported reviews available (see tab 'Reviews'); this in order to get a more complete view of the lens and its capabilities. Reviewer opinions reflect the lens, its use and its optical performance in a more accurate way, but any way - here a few different points to consider before buying this lens.

  • Has a built-in image stabilizer
  • Long focal length with its 400 mm
  • Works on all sensor types
  • A lens hood is included
  • A tripod mount is included
  • The lens is sealed against dust and moisture
  • Heavy (1940 gr)
  • The price (more info)

Our Review Ratings

Time to grade Canon EF 400mm F4 DO IS USM .

Build Quality     
Image Quality     
Autofocus     
Sharpness     
Versatility     
Value     
Overall rating 3 of 5

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