The king is dead, alive Mark II. After 15 long years, has Canon finally updated one of the best-selling TVs of all time?Canon 100-400mm F4. 5-5. 6L USM LENS. The Mark II version has the same specifications, but with enhanced features and better overall performance. While the new model is better, no doubt, when comparing the Mark I and Mark II side by side, it’s easy to understand why Canon took so long to release the new version: the Mark I version was, and still is, a decent lens. It has always been very popular and recognized for its good value in the used market, so Canon was in no hurry to change a winning formula.
The 100-400 mm Mark II retains the same focal length and maximum overall apertures of F4. 5-5. 6 as the original model. Both lenses move to F5 around the 125mm mark, and the Mark I also moves to F5. 6 at 250mm, while the Mark II holds a little longer, making the final change in just over 300mm. In addition to a small extra weight, the physical dimensions are basically the same, but everything else is new and updated. There’s a completely new optical design with the latest technology with more elements, a much improved image stabilization system, a minimal focus distance that has been halved, and a faster autofocus unit. The quality of the construction has improved a bit, now with a complete set of weather protection, and the push-pull zoom control (hated by some) has been changed to a more conventional swivel ring. was finished in canon’s last L colors, light grey, unlike the ancient cream white.
Improved optical design with 21 elements in 16 groups (compared to 17 in 14 for Mark I)
Updated image stabilization with 4-step benefits (compared to 2 steps)
Rotating ring zoom control (vs push-pull)
Weatherproof extended chassis (vs partially sealed)
The fastest USM autofocus unit
Focus about 98 cm, increase from 0. 31x to maximum focal length (compared to 180cm, 0. 2x)
Same size as the Mark I, although a little heavier with 1570 g (compared to 1380 g)
Canon now offers the widest selection of telephoto lenses from all brands, at various prices. In the high-end lens industry, there are four 70-200 mm zooms in the L Series, with a selection of maximum apertures of F2. 8 or F4, with and without image stabilization. The Canon 70-200 mm F2. 8 L IS USM Mark II lens is also relevant because it works well with 1. 4x 2x extensions, as an alternative to something longer.
The new optical design offers high performance
Transparent for all focal lengths, openings and frames
More pronounced than the Mark I version and the most pronounced in this kind of lens
Excellent image stabilization
Very close focus, increase of 0. 31xa 400 mm, surpasses all rivals
Fast, positive and accurate AF
High-end weatherproof construction
Easy operation of the focal length range, now with rotating ring zoom
Much more expensive than the Mark I version (albeit consistent with its rivals)
Is the Canon 100-400 mm F4. 5-5. 6L IS USM Mark II really a masterpiece and is it hard to see what realism could be significantly improved?At least not without a sharp increase in size, weight and cost. , Canon has struck a balance between performance and performance. Presentation vs very good price, in an extremely usable package. It takes a few months to sell and comments on the forums suggest that users agree that this new telezoom is really very special.
It’s a little more expensive than the Mark I, but in the same way as the other competitors, and that means there are some bargains to be done on the Mark I before it’s finally available.