In an interview with Cnet at Photokina 2014, Canon confirmed what we’ve been hearing for a long time in the rumor mill – that it is working on a replacement for the long in tooth EF 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6L IS USM lens.
Rumors of this lens’ replacement have been around for so long now that many were starting to doubt the lens would ever be updated. Canon’s Chuck Westfall stated that the lens is “definitely on the boards for replacement” but didn’t go so far as to say when it would be replaced.
The rumor mill had been churning pretty hard on this lens prior to Photokina and it appeared that the lens might be announced alongside the new Canon 7D Mark II. Of course, that didn’t happen.
Previously, the 100-400mm lens replacement had been rumored to feature a rotating zoom ring and a new IS system.
Canon EF 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6L IS II Lens Rumored Features
- Rotating zoom ring
- New IS system
- Lighter weight than predecessor
- 82mm filter thread
- New coating
- $2399 USD
At least we finally got a quasi-official word that this lens is coming; however, “on the board” and “it’s coming next year” are two very different things. We’ll keep you posted when there’s more on the 100-400mm successor.
[via CR]
The Canon 100-400mm was the second “big” lens I purchased for my 40D. I wasn’t completely certain what I’d do with it, but I put it to use and quickly found I liked it best with sports (of which I don’t photograph much, but very much enjoy when I do). But I found the 40D’s autofocus options limited and wasn’t particularly happy with the results.
However, with my replacement 7D I have been very happy with my outings and results. I cannot speak to it’s sharpness (as I have nothing to which to compare it), but the 100-400mm range is so very beneficial in moving quickly from more close-up action to further away.
And while I found the push-pull zoom feature really weird at first I think it’s much quicker than a rotating zoom ring (like on my 70-200mm) and therefore very handy for sports. I kinda hope Canon sticks with it.
Don’t bother Canon. We now have Tamron and Sigma 150-600 for much better price.