Canon EF 70-200mm f/4 L IS USM Review
General information
This is a zoom lens manufactured by Canon and the model was launched 2006.
The lens belongs to the category
telephoto zoom lenses, a telephoto lens where you have the possibility to zoom in and out.
- See all lenses released by Canon
- See all lenses that was released 2006
- Read more about tele photo lenses
Images taken by Canon EF 70-200mm f/4 L IS USM
Before reading further, here are a few images taken with Canon EF 70-200mm f/4 L IS USM that might inspire you. Click on the image you want to know more about. Each image has information with which camera and settings it was shot with. Do you want to see all sample images by this lens, click here.
See camera and lens details
1/400s 119mm f/4
See camera and lens details
1/60s 200mm f/8
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 70-200 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.
A positive thing is that this lens has a versitale zoom range, where the difference between 'maximum zoomed out' to 'maximum zoomed in' increases the lens versatility since you as a photographer easily can compose your picture without moving yourself physically.
- See compatible cameras and perceived/equivalent focal length
- See a full camera compatibility chart for Canon EF 70-200mm f/4 L IS USM
- Read more about focal length and your field of view
- Read more on the cameras impact on the perceived focal length
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.
A feature worth commenting, which is also related to lens brightness, is that the brightness and maximum aperture-value remains constant regardless of focal length used. This makes it easier for you as a photographer. No matter if you are have the focus ring and focal length at 70 mm or at 200 mm the aperture value can be f/4.
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
The lens has a traditional filter thread on the front and its measuring 67 mm which also the filter you will use must have. If you use for example an UV filter can be a cheap insurance against scratches and dust.
If you buy this lens it will come with a lens hood, whose model name is "ET-74".
Different versions of the lens
This lens has replaced an earlier version and this lens is currently the newest version but please compare it with the earlier versions before you buy it.
- Canon EF 70-200mm f/4 L USM (1999)
- Canon EF 70-200mm f/4 L IS USM (2006)
Prices and awards

EISA Awards 2007-2008: Professional Lens
Pictures (product and sample images)
In order to see larger product images of the lens, click the link below.
Besides looking at product images it is also of interest to see pictures taken with this specific lens. This can give you a hint of what kind of images this lens can achieve, what the focal length will be like etc.
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.
- Constant maximum aperture value regardless of focal length
- Has a built-in image stabilizer
- An impressive focal range
- Works on all sensor types
- A lens hood is included
- The lens is sealed against dust and moisture
- Light weight (760 gr)
- The lens is the latest among several editions
- The lens was awarded at EISA Awards 2007-2008: Professional Lens
- The lens can be used with a tripod mount but this is not included and must be purchased separately
Best deals on Canon EF 70-200mm f/4 L IS USM
Make sure to check out our price information page for best offers on this lens.
Reviews
![]() | fotosidan.se (reviews by users) |
![]() | bobatkins.com |
![]() | ephotozine.com |
![]() | fotosidan.se |
![]() | fredmiranda.com |
![]() | slrlensreview.com |
![]() | the-digital-picture.com |
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Pictures (product and sample images)
In order to see larger product images of the lens, click the link below.
Besides looking at product images it is also of interest to see pictures taken with this specific lens. This can give you a hint of what kind of images this lens can achieve, what the focal length will be like etc.
Different versions of this lens
Canon EF 70-200mm f/4 L IS USM has released different versions of this lens. Please make sure that you study the differences before buying.
Alternatives to Canon EF 70-200mm f/4 L IS USM for Canon photographers
Below you will find four interesting alternatives to Canon EF 70-200mm f/4 L IS USM . Make sure to compare these (and other) options before deciding which lens you will buy.
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Canon EF 70-200mm f/2,8 L IS II USM |
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Canon EF 70-200mm f/2,8 L IS USM |
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Tamron AF 70-200/2,8 LD IF Di Macro |
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Sigma EX 70-200mm f/2,8 APO HSM DG OS |
Popular searches for this lens
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