CANON RF 100-500mm F4.5-7.1L IS USM
This super-tele zoom for R-system cameras represents a major step forward from the EF 100-400mm
There’s a wealth of super-tele zooms that you can fit to an EOS R System camera via an EF-EOS R mount adapter but, as an RF lens, the 100-500mm is naturally a perfect fit. It takes cues from the well-established EF 100-400mm, also on test and is physically slightly longer but a little lighter. It adds an extra 100mm of telephoto reach, albeit with a slowing in aperture by two-thirds of an f/stop, to f/7.1. The autofocus system, based on dual Nano USM motors, is blazing fast and well able to track moving subjects.
The optical path incorporates no fewer than six UD (Ultra-low Dispersion) elements and one Super UD element, while the image stabilizer is rated at an impressive five f/stops, the effectiveness of which is further boosted when used in conjunction with the in-body stabilizers of the latest EOR R cameras. Handling is enhanced by a similar torque adjustment ring for stiffening or loosening the zoom ring, as featured in the EF 100-400mm lens, along with the addition of a customisable control ring for altering the likes of aperture or ISO setting. High-end build quality sees the application of comprehensive weather-seals and fluorine coatings on the front and rear elements.
Performance
The autofocus system makes the most of the advanced ‘Deeplearned AI’ tracking abilities of recent R-system cameras, combining with a highly effective 5-stop image stabilizer to deliver an excellent hit rate for action, sports and wildlife shots. Sharpness itself is excellent throughout the entire zoom range.