Is the f/7.1 aperture at 500mm a problem?

In bright outdoor light it is fine and keeps the lens lighter. In shade or at dawn and dusk you will need higher ISO or a slower shutter speed than a constant f/4 or f/5.6 telephoto would allow.

Does it work on all Canon mirrorless cameras?

It uses the Canon RF mount, so it fits RF-mount bodies such as the EOS R series. It does not fit EF-mount DSLRs without an adapter, and EF lenses need an adapter to fit RF bodies.

How good is the stabilization?

Canon rates the optical IS at up to five stops. Owners report handheld shots at 500mm are usable, and it helps with video as well.

How close can it focus?

Minimum focus distance is about 2.95 ft, with a maximum magnification of 0.33x. That is decent for a super-telephoto but not a macro substitute.

What comes in the box?

Expect the lens, front and rear caps, a lens hood and a soft case, as is standard for Canon L-series lenses. Check the specific listing for the included accessories.

Is it worth choosing over a 100-400mm?

The extra 100mm reach and the RF-native design are the main draws. If you often shoot in low light, a faster 100-400mm or a prime may serve you better.

Where is the Canon RF 100-500mm F4.5-7.1L is USM cheapest?

At Abe's of Maine, for $2,339.00, 19% under what the other stores charge, as of our latest check.

What do buyers say about the Canon RF 100-500mm F4.5-7.1L is USM?

Rated 5 out of 5 from 33 ratings.

Where can I buy the Canon RF 100-500mm F4.5-7.1L is USM?

18 stores we checked sell it, including Newegg, Abt Electronics, Canon, Staples, Quill.

Canon RF 100-500mm F4.5-7.1L is USM

Best price now

$2,339.00at Abe's of MaineChecked 1 h ago

19% under what the other stores charge

Compared across 19 stores. Prices are checked against each store and labelled with when.

Visit Abe's of Maine

What reviewers say

5 / 533 ratings

Owners rate it very highly, praising sharpness across the zoom range, effective stabilization and fast, quiet focus. Most criticism centers on the slow f/7.1 long end and the weight during long handheld sessions.

What people mention

SharpnessPraisedOwners say images stay sharp from 100mm through 500mm, even wide open.
StabilizationPraisedReviewers report the five-stop IS makes handheld shots at 500mm practical.
AutofocusPraisedThe Dual Nano USM system is described as fast and nearly silent, well suited to wildlife.
ApertureCriticisedThe f/7.1 maximum at 500mm forces higher ISO or slower shutter speeds in dim light.
WeightMixedOwners find it manageable for a super-telephoto but tiring over long handheld sessions.
BuildPraisedWeather sealing and the fluorine coating are valued for outdoor use in dust and rain.

About the Canon RF 100-500mm F4.5-7.1L is USM

The Canon RF 100-500mm f/4.5-7.1L IS USM is a telephoto zoom lens for the Canon RF mount. It covers a short- to super-telephoto range. Its modest maximum aperture keeps the design relatively portable for handheld, walkaround use.

The optical design includes Super UD and UD elements to reduce chromatic aberration and color fringing throughout the zoom range. A fluorine coating protects the front and rear elements, and the lens is weather-sealed. Optical image stabilization helps steady photos and videos by up to five stops in difficult lighting.

The Dual Nano USM focus system provides fast, nearly silent autofocus with full-time manual focus override. A Control Ring on the lens adjusts exposure settings. The rotating zoom ring has torque adjustment to fine-tune its feel.

Lens Type

Telephoto zoom

Mount

Canon RF

Focal Length

100-500mm

Max Aperture

ƒ/4.5-7.1

Min Aperture

ƒ/14

Construction

20 elements in 14 groups