Canon RF-S 55-210 mm F5-7.1 IS STM vs Canon RF 100-500mm F4.5-7.1 L IS USM
Side-by-side comparison from our catalogue data. Better values are highlighted only where a clear difference exists.
Verdict at a glance
- Canon RF 100-500mm F4.5-7.1 L IS USM is faster by 0.3 stops (f/4.5 vs f/5.0), letting in more light.
- Canon RF-S 55-210 mm F5-7.1 IS STM is lighter by 1100g.
- Canon RF-S 55-210 mm F5-7.1 IS STM goes wider (55mm vs 100mm).
- Canon RF 100-500mm F4.5-7.1 L IS USM reaches further (500mm vs 210mm).
- Canon RF-S 55-210 mm F5-7.1 IS STM is the newer design (2023 vs 2020).
| Spec | RF-S 55-210 mm F5-7.1 IS STM | RF 100-500mm F4.5-7.1 L IS USM |
|---|---|---|
| Brand | Canon | Canon |
| Mount | Canon RF | Canon RF |
| Type | Zoom | Telephoto Zoom |
| Focal length | 55-210mm (wider) | 100-500mm |
| Max aperture | f/5.0 | f/4.5 (faster) |
| Released | 2023 | 2020 |
| Blades | 7 | 9 |
| Format | aps-c | full-frame |
| Groups | 8 | 14 |
| Af motor | STM | USM |
| Elements | 11 | 20 |
| Weight g | 270.0 (lighter) | 1370.0 |
| Filter mm | 55 | 77 |
| Length mm | 92.9 | 207.6 |
| Stabilized | Yes | Yes |
| Diameter mm | 69.0 | 93.8 |
| Max magnification | 0.28 | 0.33 |
| Min focus m | n/a | 0.9 |
Canon RF-S 55-210 mm F5-7.1 IS STM
A compact telephoto zoom for Canon APS-C RF cameras with stabilization and a stepping motor, a light companion to the 18-45mm kit lens.
Pros
- Light and compact (270 g)
- Image stabilization
- Useful reach on APS-C
Cons
- Slow aperture
- Needs good light
Canon RF 100-500mm F4.5-7.1 L IS USM
A long telephoto zoom for Canon RF full-frame cameras with stabilization and weather sealing. Popular for wildlife and sports.
Pros
- Long 500mm reach
- Image stabilization
- Weather-sealed L build
- Compatible with RF extenders
Cons
- Slow at the long end (f/7.1)
- Heavy to handhold (1.37 kg)
- Large