Canon's MOST Underrated Lens! | RF 100-400mm f/5.6-8 IS USM

Watch my full video HERE

This post contains affiliate links. If you click and make a purchase, I may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Thanks for your support!

 

Canon’s RF lens lineup is filled with exceptional options, from budget-friendly choices to professional-grade behemoths like the $3,000 RF 100-500mm. However, if you’re looking for a lens that delivers incredible value without breaking the bank, look no further than the Canon RF 100-400mm f/5.6-8 IS USM. At around $600, this lens is essentially a “baby” version of the RF 100-500mm, and here’s why it’s the most underrated lens in Canon’s RF lineup.

Top Features of the RF 100-400mm

1. Superior Image Stabilization

• Offers up to 5.5 stops of stabilization, outperforming the RF 100-500mm’s 5 stops.

• While the difference of 0.5 stops may not be noticeable in practice, it’s an impressive stat for a budget lens.

2. Dedicated Control, Focus, and Zoom Rings

• Unlike many budget RF lenses, the RF 100-400mm includes:

  • A separate control ring for customizable settings (e.g., ISO, aperture).

  • Distinct focus and zoom rings for precise adjustments.

• This setup mirrors the functionality of Canon’s higher-end lenses, providing excellent control for photographers.

3. Exceptional Close-Focus Distance

• Capable of producing near-macro shots, outperforming even the RF 100-500mm in close-focus capabilities.

• Adds versatility for shooting small subjects and details.

4. Nano USM Autofocus

• Features Nano USM motors typically reserved for premium lenses.

• Delivers fast, accurate, and quiet autofocus—ideal for wildlife and action photography.

Downsides to Consider

1. No Weather Sealing

• Lacks the weather resistance of the RF 100-500mm.

• While it’s possible to use in light rain (at your own risk), it’s not recommended for harsh outdoor conditions.

• This can be a dealbreaker for outdoor and wildlife photographers.

2. Slow Aperture

• Features an aperture range of f/5.6-8, making it less suitable for low-light scenarios.

• Challenges include:

  • Limited background separation.

  • Need for higher ISO in dim environments, which can result in noisier images.

• Works best in bright conditions or when paired with full-frame cameras for improved low-light performance.

Who Should Buy the RF 100-400mm?

• Wildlife and Sports Photographers: Its long zoom range and fast autofocus make it perfect for capturing distant subjects.

• Budget-Conscious Shooters: At ~$600, it offers exceptional value for RF-mount users.

• Versatile Creators: With its close-focus capabilities, you can easily switch between telephoto and near-macro photography.

Final Thoughts

The Canon RF 100-400mm f/5.6-8 IS USM might not have the pro-level weather sealing or fast apertures of its big brother, the RF 100-500mm, but it punches well above its weight in terms of performance and versatility. For photographers seeking a capable and affordable super-zoom lens, this is a standout choice in Canon’s RF lineup.