In this review, we'll compare the Canon 400mm f2.8L IS II USM for the EF Mount with the Canon EF 400mm F2.8L IS III USM for the EF Mount, both Telephoto Prime lenses designed by Canon. Both lenses have the same focal length and max apertures of 400mm and F2.8 so they are very comparable in this regard.
We'll begin by briefly examining the main specifications of these two lenses. In the subsequent section, we'll delve into a more detailed analysis, outlining the strengths and weaknesses of each.
What type of photography are the Canon 400mm f2.8L IS II USM and Canon EF 400mm F2.8L IS III USM lenses good for?
The type of photography that you are planning to use is an important decision factor. Here we have evaluated the Canon 400mm f2.8L IS II USM and the Canon EF 400mm F2.8L IS III USM for their suitability to various photography scenarios:
Photography Type |
Canon 400mm f2.8L IS II USM |
Canon EF 400mm F2.8L IS III USM |
Bird/Wildlife | Excellent | Excellent |
Sports | Excellent | Excellent |
Portrait | Fair | Fair |
Travel | Poor | Poor |
Street | Poor | Poor |
Wedding | Fair | Fair |
Walk Around | Poor | Poor |
Vlogging | Poor | Poor |
Landscape | Poor | Poor |
Macro | Poor | Poor |
Size and Weight Comparison
The weight of a lens is equally significant as its external dimensions, particularly if you intend to handhold your camera and lens combination for extended periods. Canon EF 400mm F2.8L IS III USM weighs 2840g, 26% (1010g) lighter than the Canon 400mm f2.8L IS II USM's weight of 3850g.
Below you can find the dimension and weight table of the Telephoto Prime Lenses in Canon EF Mount for size comparison purposes.
Super Telephoto Lenses in Canon EF Mount for Size Comparison
Filter Threads
Both the Canon 400mm f2.8L IS II USM and the Canon EF 400mm F2.8L IS III USM have the same Filter thread size of 52mm.
Below are links to the 52mm filters that we recommend you to consider for these lenses:
Lens Mounts
Both the Canon 400mm f2.8L IS II USM and the Canon EF 400mm F2.8L IS III USM has the same Canon EF lens mount. Some of the latest released cameras that are compatible with the Canon EF lenses are Canon 1D X III, Canon 6D MII and Canon 5D MIV.
Focal Range
Both lenses have the same focal range of
400mm and the fastest aperture of
F2.8.