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lightrules | all galleries >> Lens Tests by LightRules >> Canon 70-300 F4-5.6 IS USM v Canon 70-200 F4 L IS USM > Test4 [Border]
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Test4 [Border]
11-NOV-2006

Test4 [Border]

The border and edge performance of the f4 IS is, in a word, phenomenal. It rivals (and possibly exceeds) my Sigma 150 f2.8 EX DG HSM MACRO at the borders, which is no small feat. Most lenses would be proud to have their center resolution even near the L's border numbers.


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Joan Soles 30-Jan-2007 23:01
Thanks...again!
lightrules 30-Jan-2007 21:43
Hi Joan, regarding the TCs, the Kenko Pro (or Tamron SP) series TCs are optically similar to the Canon ones. I recommend the Kenko/Tamron TCs because they are also smaller and will fit any EF lens (whereas the Canon is quite restrictive in this sense). And to boot, these TCs also cost much less. Enjoy.
Joan Soles 30-Jan-2007 20:28
I am so glad I found this! I've been torn between these exact 2 lenses, but leery about spending so much (for the L). Looks like it's well worth it, especially as long as I can use the Kenko teleconverter!
Have you tested the Kenko vs. the Canon TC at all? If so, I can't find it.
Thanks agian for all your work!
Guest 06-Dec-2006 21:41
Thanks very much!
lightrules 06-Dec-2006 21:31
If you're outdoors in good sunlight, the non-IS 70-200 will save you lots of money over the IS version and will do the job great. For action shots, you need a faster aperture lens, maybe like the 85 f1.8 prime. But the AF of the 70-200 lenses is much better than the 70-300IS, though the 70-300IS will probably suffice in most your shots.
Guest 06-Dec-2006 18:46
LightRules, last question: which one do you feel is best for shots of fast moving little kids?
Guest 06-Dec-2006 17:40
Really? Strongly recommend the 70-300? Wow. And just when I was ready to pull the trigger on the 70-200... ;-) Thanks!
lightrules 06-Dec-2006 17:05
I would strongly recommend the 7-3 to you. It's IQ is still very good, and it seems like, from what you've said, it is the right one for you. Best wishes and enjoy the light.
Guest 06-Dec-2006 15:01
I am VERY tempted by this new price. I'm no pro -- not even close -- so I really don't "need" a lens this good or this expensive. I'm sure the 70-300 non-DO IS would suit me just fine (and I even prefer the black color). But man, I'm reeeally tempted. :-)
lightrules 05-Dec-2006 15:53
I stand corrected about the pricing. Today (Dec 5 2006) Amazon.com has the new f4 IS for $1038. I'm truly shocked at this pricing. What a deal.
lightrules 28-Nov-2006 23:18
Under $1K? I don't think so. It came out at $1250 at most places, though a few places have it already for $1150-$1200. But under $1000, I don't think it's going to happen. My guess is that it will settle around the $1090-$1190 mark, depending on where you look. But if it does get to under $1100, I don't think it will be for a good while still.
Guest 28-Nov-2006 22:07
Think we'll see these for under $1000 anytime soon?
lightrules 28-Nov-2006 17:16
...And if you can get over the sticker-shock! But seriously, the lens is so good optically and mechanically, the cost of the lens will fade quickly.
Guest 28-Nov-2006 17:12
Wow. If I can get over the "white lens" thing, I'm sold! :-)
Toney Smith 12-Nov-2006 04:40
"In a word" _ impressive!