Canon EF 70-300mm f/4-5.6 IS USM Lens Review – Pros & Cons – Canon EF 70-300mm

The Canon EF 70-300mm f/4-5.6 IS USM Lens is a versatile telephoto zoom designed for both full-frame and APS-C Canon EOS SLR cameras. It serves as a significant upgrade from standard kit lenses, offering a broad focal range that is particularly effective for capturing distant subjects in sports, wildlife, and portrait photography. The lens construction includes fifteen elements in ten groups, featuring an ultra-low dispersion glass element that works to minimize chromatic aberrations and ensure high contrast and resolution throughout the zoom range.

Equipped with advanced three-stop optical image stabilization, the Canon EF 70-300mm f/4-5.6 IS USM Lens allows photographers to shoot handheld at much slower shutter speeds than would normally be possible without blurring. This system includes two distinct modes, with one specifically designed for normal handheld shooting and a second mode optimized for following moving subjects through horizontal panning. These stabilization features are essential for maintaining sharpness when working at the 300mm maximum focal length, where camera shake is most prominent.

The autofocus system of the Canon EF 70-300mm f/4-5.6 IS USM Lens is powered by a micro ultrasonic motor that provides fast and quiet performance. A dedicated zoom lock switch is located on the side of the barrel to prevent lens creep when the camera is being carried, ensuring the lens stays retracted at its shortest 70mm position. Additionally, the lens features a circular aperture diaphragm that helps produce a natural and pleasing background blur, making it a reliable choice for serious amateurs looking for professional-level optical characteristics in a portable package.

FEATURES:
– Image stabilization system
– Ultra-low dispersion glass
– Ring-type USM autofocus
– Compact and lightweight design
– Circular aperture for bokeh
– Focal length 70-300mm
– Lens hood compatible
– Full-time manual focus

The Canon EF 70-300mm f/4-5.6 IS USM Lens is a versatile telephoto zoom designed to provide high-quality imagery for Canon EOS SLR cameras. It covers a wide range of focal lengths, making it an excellent choice for nature, wildlife, and sports photography where reaching distant subjects is essential. The optical design incorporates an Ultra-low Dispersion glass element to effectively minimize chromatic aberrations and ensure high contrast and resolution throughout the entire zoom range.

PROS:
– Crisp images at all focal lengths
– Excellent optical performance
– Effective image stabilization
– Two stabilization modes for panning
– Quick autofocus
– Excellent build quality
– Compact and manageable design
– Versatile 70-300mm zoom range
– Good for portrait photography
– Close-focusing for small subjects
– Excellent value for the price
– Solid performance in limited light
– Better than 55-250mm lens

CONS:
– USM motor makes audible noise
– Lens hood is not included
– Not for true macro photography
– Aperture slightly softer when wide open
– Claimed macro feature is aspirational
– Heavy compared to smaller lenses
– Moon shots require heavy cropping

The Canon EF 70-300mm f/4-5.6 IS USM lens offers excellent optical performance with crisp images across a versatile zoom range, featuring effective two-mode image stabilization and quick autofocus that make it a superior value over the 55-250mm model. While it boasts a solid build and impressive close-focusing capabilities for portraits and small subjects, users should be aware of the audible USM motor noise and the fact that a lens hood is not included. Although it is relatively heavy and its wide-open aperture can be slightly soft, the lens remains a manageable choice for various lighting conditions, even if its macro and moon-shooting capabilities are somewhat limited. Read more…

Google Image Search Results for Canon EF 70-300mm Lens

Google Image Search Results for Canon EF 70-300mm Lens

The image shows a Google Images search result page. The search bar at the top displays the query for a Canon EF 70-300mm lens. Below the search bar are several filter buttons like Adorama and Diffractive optics. The main area features a grid of lens photos from various retailers. Several black telephoto lenses are visible in the first row. One lens features a distinctive green ring. Another lens in the second row has a white barrel design. Most of the thumbnails include links to Amazon or Adorama. A small shopping tag icon appears on many of the product images. The interface uses a clean white background. Various models of the 70-300mm lens series are represented here. The layout is typical of a modern desktop web browser.


Canon EF 70-300mm f/4-5.6 IS USM Lens

Canon EF 70-300mm f/4-5.6 IS USM Lens

The image shows a black telephoto zoom lens for a camera. It is a Canon EF 70-300mm lens with image stabilization. The lens has a textured zoom ring in the middle. A smaller focus ring is located near the front. The words image stabilizer are printed in white on the barrel. Gold lettering indicates the ultrasonic motor technology. Various focal lengths are marked with white numbers. A switch for auto and manual focus is visible near the base. The front element is surrounded by a black filter thread. The lens has a sturdy and professional appearance. It is designed for capturing distant subjects with clarity. The background of the photo is solid white.


Canon EF 70-300mm f/4-5.6 IS USM Lens

Canon EF 70-300mm f/4-5.6 IS USM Lens

This is a high quality camera lens designed by Canon. It is a telephoto zoom lens. The lens features a black textured body. It has a focal length range of 70 to 300 millimeters. A gold ring is visible near the top of the lens. The text on the barrel includes the words Image Stabilizer and Ultrasonic. Several control switches are located on the side of the lens. These include an autofocus toggle and an image stabilization switch. The zoom ring has a ribbed rubber grip for easy handling. White markings indicate the specific focal lengths. This lens is used for wildlife and sports photography. It has a metal mount at the bottom. The front element is protected by a black plastic rim. This lens is a versatile tool for professional photographers.


Canon EF 70-300mm f/4-5.6 IS USM Lens

Canon EF 70-300mm f/4-5.6 IS USM Lens

The image shows a Canon EF 70-300mm telephoto zoom lens. It has a black textured barrel with several control rings. A gold ring near the front element indicates the ultrasonic motor feature. The lens has a large rubberized zoom ring in the center. Smaller markings show focal lengths of 70, 100, 135, and 200. The words Image Stabilizer are printed in bold white letters. The Canon logo and specific lens details are visible around the front rim. Multiple switches for focus mode and stabilizer settings are on the side. This lens is designed for full-frame and APS-C Canon DSLR cameras. It appears to be in clean and professional condition. The background is a solid light gray color. The lighting is even and highlights the lens details.


Google Search Results for Canon EF 70-300mm Lens

Google Search Results for Canon EF 70-300mm Lens

The image shows a web browser displaying Google search results for a specific camera lens. The search bar at the top contains the text Canon EF 70300mm f456 IS USM Lens. Below the search bar is a grid of thumbnail images showing various versions of this lens. Some lenses are black while others are white with a red ring. Some images include camera bodies or lens hoods. Each thumbnail has a website name and a short product title underneath. The websites include Amazon, The Digital Picture, B and H Photo, and Canon Inc. One image shows the lens attached to a Canon DSLR camera. Another image displays a collection of lens hoods. The overall layout is typical of a desktop image search interface.


Google Search Results for Canon EF 70-300mm Lens

Google Search Results for Canon EF 70-300mm Lens

The image shows a Google search results page for a specific Canon camera lens. The search bar at the top contains the text Canon EF 70-300mm f456 IS USM Lens. Below the search bar are various filter buttons like Reviews and Camera Lenses. A section labeled Sponsored products displays four different lens listings. Three of these listings feature white L-series lenses with red rings. The fourth listing shows a black standard lens. Prices for these lenses range from about 689 dollars to 1296 dollars. Retailers include Abes of Maine and B and H Photo Video. Star ratings and review counts are visible under each product image. At the bottom of the screen an AI Overview provides a brief summary of the lens features. A small portion of an additional product image is visible at the very bottom. The overall layout is clean and organized for a typical web shopping experience.


Google Shopping results for Canon EF 70-300mm lenses

Google Shopping results for Canon EF 70-300mm lenses

This image shows a Google Shopping search result page for a Canon EF 70-300mm telephoto lens. The top of the screen displays a search bar and the Google Shopping logo. A grid of product listings fills the rest of the view. Various camera lenses from brands like Canon, Fujifilm, Tamron, and Nikon are visible. Each listing includes a product image and a title. Pricing and seller information appear below the titles. Some items are labeled as pre-owned or used. Several listings mention free delivery and return policies. The lenses vary in color from black to white. One listing shows a lens with a hood attached. Another item appears to be a lens adapter or converter. Star ratings are visible on one of the product cards. The interface uses a clean white background.


Google Shopping results for Canon EF 70-300mm lenses

Google Shopping results for Canon EF 70-300mm lenses

The image displays a Google Shopping search page for a Canon EF 70-300mm lens. Multiple lens models are shown in a grid layout. Each entry includes a product photo and price. Information on delivery and return policies is visible. The lenses range from budget-friendly options to premium L-series glass. One listing is for parts or repair. Another listing includes a bundle with a tripod and carrying case. Prices vary significantly based on condition and specific model features. Brand names like Best Buy, Target, and eBay appear as sellers. Ratings and review counts are listed for several products. The user interface includes a search bar at the top.


YouTube search results for Canon 70-300mm lenses

YouTube search results for Canon 70-300mm lenses

The image displays a YouTube search results page for a specific Canon telephoto lens. A search bar at the top contains the text Canon-EF-70300mm-f456-IS-USM-Lens. Below the search bar is a horizontal row of YouTube Shorts videos. These videos show various black and white telephoto lenses mounted on cameras. Some videos feature the lens packaging while others show the lens in use on a tripod. The view counts for these Shorts range from sixteen thousand to over two hundred thousand. At the bottom of the screen is a standard long-form video result. This video is titled Canon EF 70-300mm F4.5-5.6 DO IS USM lens review. It was posted fifteen years ago by the channel Retro Games Archive. A man is visible in the thumbnail of this video holding a lens. The YouTube sidebar on the left shows icons for Home, Shorts, Subscriptions, and You.


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Best Canon Ef 70 300mm F 4 Deals

Canon EF 70-300mm f/4-5.6 is USM Lens for Canon EOS SLR Cameras

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Key Features

  • ✅ 70-300mm telephoto zoom lens with f/4.5-5.6 maximum aperture for Canon EOS SLR cameras
  • ✅ 3-stop Image Stabilizer for reducing camera shake; ring-type ultra-sonic monitor (USM), Macro Focus Range : 1.50 m
  • ✅ Electro-magnetic diaphragm (EMD) helps create attractive background at large apertures
  • ✅ Super Spectra lens coating and lens element shaping suppresses flare and ghosting,Filter Thread: 58 mm
  • ✅ Suitable for Nature/concert/potrait and close up/product photography. Measures 3 inches in diameter and 5.6 inches long; weighs 22.2 ounces; 1-year warranty

Product Details

Brand:Canon
Model:0345B002
Size:300mm
Color:Black
Dimensions:5.62991 X 3.03149 X 3.03149 inches
Warranty:1 year coverage for parts

Canon EF 70-300mm f/4-5.6L is USM UD Telephoto Zoom Lens for Canon EOS SLR Cameras

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Key Features

  • ✅ Impressive focal range.Diagonal Angle of View 34 - 8 15'
  • ✅ Travel friendly size, packs small and stays small with a manual lock switch on side of barrel. Note: lens can only be locked at 70mm range as it is for travel only. Focal Length & Maximum Aperture: 70-300mm 1:4-5.6
  • ✅ Focus Adjustment Type - lens extension via inner focusing focus cam, plus floating mechanism.Closest Focusing Distance: 1.2m/ 3.9ft
  • ✅ Note that when the inner lens is fully extended (300mm) it's approximately 8.25" in overall length. The 5.6" measurement is at the 70mm range when lens is closed/locked.

Product Details

Brand:Canon
Model:4426B002-cr
Size:1
Color:Black, White
Dimensions:5.63 X 3.5 X 3.5 Inches
Warranty:90 days limited warranty

Canon EF 70-300mm f/4-5.6 is USM Lens for Canon EOS SLR Cameras International Version (No Warranty) (Renewed)

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Key Features

  • ✅ 70-300mm telephoto zoom lens with f/4.5-5.6 maximum aperture for Canon EOS SLR cameras
  • ✅ 3-stop Image Stabilizer for reducing camera shake; ring-type ultra-sonic monitor (USM)
  • ✅ Electro-magnetic diaphragm (EMD) helps create attractive background at large apertures
  • ✅ Super Spectra lens coating and lens element shaping suppresses flare and ghosting,Filter Thread: 58 mm
  • ✅ Measures 3 inches in diameter and 5.6 inches long; weighs 22.2 ounces

Product Details

Brand:Canon
Dimensions:5.6 X 3 X 3 Inches
Warranty:90 days limited warranty

Canon EF 70-300mm f/4.5-5.6 DO IS USM Lens for Canon EOS Cameras

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Key Features

  • ✅ Ultra-compact 70-300mm telephoto zoom lens with f/4.5 to 5.6 maximum aperture
  • ✅ Super-fast and silent autofocus with ring-type USM; 4.6-foot close focus distance
  • ✅ Optimized to suppress ghosting and flaring; zoom lock button keeps lens secure
  • ✅ Measures 3 inches in diameter and 5.6 inches long; 1-year warranty; accepts 58mm filters

Product Details

Brand:Canon
Model:9321A002
Size:1
Color:Black
Dimensions:3.937 X 3.22834 X 3.22834 Inches
Warranty:Limited 1 year

Canon Cameras US EF 70-300 is II USM 70-300mm f/4-5.6 Fixed Zoom Telephoto Camera Lens, Black (0571C005)

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Key Features

  • ✅ Canon EF 70-300mm f/4-5.6 IS II USM Lens
  • ✅ Front-focusing method with helicoid ring drive
  • ✅ No deductibles or hidden fees. Free shipping on all repairs. Fully transferable.
  • ✅ Plan contract will be emailed from Asurion within 48 hours of purchase. This will not ship with your product.

Product Details

Brand:Canon
Model:EF 70-300 IS II USM
Size:300mm
Color:Black
Dimensions:5.7 X 5.7 X 5.7 inches
Warranty:1 Year

Canon EF 70-300mm f/4-5.6 is USM Lens

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Key Features

  • ✅ Telephoto zoom lens - 70-300mm focal length, fast f/4-5.6 aperture
  • ✅ Image Stabilizer gives equivalent effect of a shutter speed three stops faster during hand-held shooting
  • ✅ UD lens elements to effectively correct aberration for high quality throughout the zoom range
  • ✅ Closest focus distance of just 1.5m at all zoom focal lengths

Product Details

Brand:Canon
Model:0345B002
Size:300mm
Dimensions:3.01181102055 X 3.01181102055 X 5.62204723836 Inches

Canon EF 75-300mm f/4-5.6 III Telephoto Zoom Lens for Canon SLR Cameras

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Key Features

  • ✅ 75-300 millimeter telephoto zoom lens with f 4-5.6 maximum aperture for Canon SLR cameras
  • ✅ Improved mechanism makes zooming smoother; front part of zoom ring sports silver ring
  • ✅ Measures 2.8 inches in diameter and 4.8 inches long; weighs 16.8 ounces; 1-year warranty
  • ✅ 4.9-foot closest focusing distance; 32- to 8-degree diagonal angle of view
  • ✅ Image Stabilization: No

Product Details

Brand:Canon
Model:6473A003
Size:7.40in. x 4.30in. x 4.30in.
Color:Black
Dimensions:4.80314 X 2.79527 X 2.79527 inches
Warranty:1 year limited

Canon EF 70-300mm f/4.5-5.6 DO IS USM Lens for Canon EOS Cameras (Renewed)

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Key Features

  • ✅ This Certified Refurbished product is tested and certified to look and work like new. The refurbishing process includes functionality testing, basic cleaning, inspection, and repackaging. The product ships with all relevant accessories, a minimum 90-day warranty, and may arrive in a generic box. Only select sellers who maintain a high performance bar may offer Certified Refurbished products on Amazon.com
  • ✅ Ultra-compact 70-300mm telephoto zoom lens with f/4.5 to 5.6 maximum aperture
  • ✅ Super-fast and silent autofocus with ring-type USM; 4.6-foot close focus distance
  • ✅ Optimized to suppress ghosting and flaring; zoom lock button keeps lens secure
  • ✅ Measures 3 inches in diameter and 5.6 inches long; 1-year warranty; accepts 58mm filters

Product Details

Brand:Canon
Size:1
Color:Black
Dimensions:3.94 X 3.23 X 3.23 Inches
Warranty:90 days limited warranty

Canon EF 75-300mm f/4-5.6 III Telephoto Zoom Lens for Canon SLR Cameras, 6473A003 (Renewed)

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Key Features

  • ✅ EF Mount; Aperture Range: f/4-45; DC Autofocus Motor; 4.9' Minimum Focus Distance; 58mm Filter Thread Diameter
  • ✅ 4.9-foot closest focusing distance; 32- to 8-degree diagonal angle of view
  • ✅ Measures 2.8 inches in diameter and 4.8 inches long; weighs 16.8 ounces
  • ✅ Improved mechanism makes zooming smoother; front part of zoom ring sports silver ring.

Product Details

Brand:Canon
Model:6473A003AA
Color:Black
Dimensions:8.9 X 5.35 X 5.4 Inches
Warranty:90 days limited warranty

Canon EF 75-300mm f/4-5.6 III Lens Bundled with 58mm UV Filter + Lens Cap Keeper + Microfiber Cleaning Cloth (4 Items)

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Key Features

  • ✅ Kit Includes 4 Products -- All Items come with all Manufacturer-supplied Accessories:
  • ✅ [1] Canon EF 75-300mm f/4-5.6 III Lens + [2] 58mm UV Filter + [3] Lens Cap Keeper + [4] Cleaning Cloth
  • ✅ Canon EF 75-300mm f/4-5.6 III Lens Features: EF-Mount Lens/Full-Frame Format, Super Spectra Coating, Aperture Range: f/4 to f/45, DC Micro Motor AF System, 7-Blade Diaphragm
  • ✅ Canon EF 75-300mm f/4-5.6 III Lens Box Includes: Canon EF 75-300mm f/4-5.6 III Lens, Canon E-58 II Lens Cap, Canon Lens Dust Cap E (Rear Lens Cap), Limited 1-Year Manufacturer Warranty
  • ✅ ***PLEASE NOTE: This lens only fits Canon EF Mount Cameras. This does NOT fit EOS R/RF Mount cameras!

Product Details

Brand:Canon
Model:BCAN6473A003-002
Dimensions:4.8 X 2.8 X 2.8 inches
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