Very sharp. Fast focussing USM. Much smaller and less expensive than 300mm F2.8. Built in hood. Very rugged. IS works very well.

Fixed focal length...duh.

Not tiny.

IS can not replace wider aperature when subject is moving and you need higher shutter speeds.

The IS is a big plus on this focal length lens. Still I'm wondering if the extra versatility of the 100-400 IS wouldn't be a better value. I'd like to see Canon make a 100-300 IS F4 similar to this Sigma (http://www.sigma-photo.com/Html/news/Pixfs_100-300.htm) Compared to the 300mm F2.8 this lens is a fantastic value. It is slightly less of a value compared to the 100-400 IS so I'll give it 4 stars there.

Customer Service

Not needed.

Similar Products Used:

Canon 100-400 IS
Sigma 50-500
Canon 70-200 with 1.4x TC

Great design
Rugged
Compact and Lightweight
IS good technology

None

Top notch lens. Great design and a pleasure to use. Has a rugged and very well made fee. Images are well-sharp and crisp. Love it.

Similar Products Used:

None

Versatility of IS and lighter weight (as compared to 2.8 300) because I can use it on canoe trips and get good photos. Close focusing distance for a 300mm is a plus. Combined with 500D close-up lens one can get excellent macro shots.

Not as sharp as its 2.8 brother, but I accept the compromise.

This lens gives me more options because of its IS capabilities. I have used this on canoeing trips here in Texas and on a swamp tour in LA with great results. It does not focus as fast as a 2.8 nor does it give one the sharpness of the 2.8. However, the lens is a lot lighter and, as mentioned, even with the TC 1.4, one can get good photos.

The close focusing ability is also a big plus. Good macro shots are attainable with the 500D close-up lens. These two (lens and 500d) are a great combination.

I give this five stars for its overall versatility. Optically, it is not as fine as other Canon big glass. However, the compromises are worth it as it is still excellent glass.

Customer Service

N/A

Similar Products Used:

I have not had the opportunity to try other IS long telephotos

IS makes it real easy to take pictures of wildlife handheld or on monopod.

IS draws batteries really fast. Have spares handy!

Excellent lens. Not very heavy. Using IS I was able to take very sharp pictures of Alaskan wildlife handheld, even with 1.4x (Tamron) extender and even from a rocking boat. I used Provia 400 and Kodak 100 (on sunny days). Yes, it is expensier that 75-300, but it is sooooo much better!

Customer Service

Didn't need so far

Similar Products Used:

Sigma 170-500/5.6-6.3
Canon 75-300/4-5.6