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RF 100-400 vs EF 70-300 L ?

rmhh
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p.1 #1 · p.1 #1 · RF 100-400 vs EF 70-300 L ?

I acquired an R8 earlier this year and currently my only RF lenses are 24-105 (STM and L).

Would it be worthwhile to replace my (adapted) trusted EF 70-300 L by a RF 100-400 f/5.6-8? I like the weight reduction and extra reach, but how does the IQ of the RF hold up vs the EF L, especially towards the corners?

My typical subjects are landscape and architecture (frequently travel, rarely wildlife).

Sep 16, 2024 at 03:27 PM

rscheffler
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p.1 #2 · p.1 #2 · RF 100-400 vs EF 70-300 L ?

Comparing test chart photos at The Digital Picture suggests the 70-300 is better at the wider end. By around 300mm the two appear quite similar. At 400 (with the 1.4x TC on the 70-300), the 70-300 appears somewhat better centrally but less so in the periphery.

But that is test charts and might not be representative of real world longer distance performance. In addition to the weight savings of the 100-400, it should also have better IS performance, rated at 5.5 stops against 4 stops for the 70-300L.

The test chart photos were on the 45MP R5 and 50 MP 5DsR, so at 24MP on the R8, the differences might not be as noticeable. I guess it might depend on how much you prioritize image quality over convenience.

Edited on Sep 16, 2024 at 03:45 PM · View previous versions

Sep 16, 2024 at 03:43 PM

ptys
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p.1 #3 · p.1 #3 · RF 100-400 vs EF 70-300 L ?

You can check it here

https://www.the-digital-picture.com/Reviews/ISO-12233-Sample-Crops.aspx?Lens=1572&Camera=1508&Sample=0&FLI=3&API=1&LensComp=738&CameraComp=979&SampleComp=0&FLIComp=4&APIComp=1

Sep 16, 2024 at 03:43 PM

rscheffler
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p.1 #4 · p.1 #4 · RF 100-400 vs EF 70-300 L ?

^ Looks like we posted at the same time.

Sep 16, 2024 at 03:46 PM

ISO1600
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p.1 #5 · p.1 #5 · RF 100-400 vs EF 70-300 L ?

A few considerations outside image quality alone-

Do you have other EF glass you'll still be adapting? I find ditching the adapter is so refreshing.
The EF-L is sealed, the RF is not- but neither is the R8.
The RF's focus and IS will probably be a slighty better optimized experience on the R8, especially if you do any video at all; but ring USM in the EF-L is lightning fast.

It's been a long time since I've used that EF-L, and remember enjoying it a lot, but the RF 100-400 really surprised me. I love this lens. I initially was using it on the R8, but now on R7. This lens punches way above its weight and price IMO. The close (and fast!) focus, stellar IS, and images are just wonderful. Fantastic travel lens.

Sep 16, 2024 at 05:38 PM

rmhh
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p.1 #6 · p.1 #6 · RF 100-400 vs EF 70-300 L ?

Many thanks for the responses, much appreciated. Indeed I have more EF lenses, but usually take only one adapted lens with me at a time. After 50 years of photography, I have become much more conscious about the weight of my equipment. I might even part with my excellent 100-400 L ii for that reason.

Sep 17, 2024 at 12:43 PM

Pixelpuffin
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p.1 #7 · p.1 #7 · RF 100-400 vs EF 70-300 L ?

rmhh wrote:
Many thanks for the responses, much appreciated. Indeed I have more EF lenses, but usually take only one adapted lens with me at a time. After 50 years of photography, I have become much more conscious about the weight of my equipment. I might even part with my excellent 100-400 L ii for that reason.

I cannot envisage me ever selling my copy of the EF100-400Lii. It is a magnificent lens. Likewise I’ll never sell my 70-300L either.

Sep 17, 2024 at 03:46 PM

robstein
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p.1 #8 · p.1 #8 · RF 100-400 vs EF 70-300 L ?

I grabbed a real cheap RF100-400 from one of the lens rental sales... I was shocked that it was so good. Very light to carry and far better sharpness than I was expecting. Test charts are test charts and an adapted 300 is fine but either choice is good.

Sep 17, 2024 at 04:42 PM

Gochugogi
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p.1 #9 · p.1 #9 · RF 100-400 vs EF 70-300 L ?

I own both the EF 70-300 4-5.6L and the RF 100-400. Sharpness is in the same ball park but the old L is more flare resistant if you shot sunsets and slightly more contrasty. Also build like a mini bazooka. I often shoot at twilight and dusk so the extra stop of the 70-300 is very useful. For midday shooting of butterflies and other small critters I usually reach for the RF 100-400: lighter and much closer focusing. While the RF 100-400 has a better IS rating in practice I haven't noticed much difference in hand holdable shutter speeds.

Sep 17, 2024 at 05:02 PM

kakomu
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p.1 #10 · p.1 #10 · RF 100-400 vs EF 70-300 L ?

I owned both. I'd go for the 100-400 over the 70-300 in most cases. The extra weight of the 70-300 is also a PITA over the 100-400.

Biggest caveat is if f/5.6 at 300mm is important. IS will solve most of your handheld shake problems, but you still need a nice sunny day to make the most of 400mm f/8.

Sep 17, 2024 at 06:42 PM

Z250SA
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p.1 #11 · p.1 #11 · RF 100-400 vs EF 70-300 L ?

A friend has the 70-300L and use it with great results, now on my former R7. It is clearly a great lens. I was about to get one for the smaller size than my 100-400LIS2 when Canon turned to mirrorless.

I got the RF100-400 when it came out, the size and weight and the reviews were nice. It is a nice lens. The one small thing, would not call it a problem, is as Gochugogi says, some flare with some loss of contrast. But its nothing that would make me take my 100-500 instead if I need a lightweight setup that day.

I would use the 70-300L and perhaps find a RF100-400 to test, some day. No hurry as the 70-300L is a gem.

Sep 18, 2024 at 02:32 AM

rmhh
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p.1 #12 · p.1 #12 · RF 100-400 vs EF 70-300 L ?

Cordial thanks for sharing all these thoughts and experiences. My concluding impression is that both lenses have their very strong sides.

Sep 22, 2024 at 05:22 AM


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