Canon EF 85mm f/1.4L IS USM vs Canon EF 100mm F2.8L Macro 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 EF 85mm f/1.4L IS USM is faster by 2 stops (f/1.4 vs f/2.8), letting in more light.
- Canon EF 100mm F2.8L Macro IS USM is lighter by 325g.
- Canon EF 85mm f/1.4L IS USM goes wider (85mm vs 100mm).
- Canon EF 100mm F2.8L Macro IS USM reaches further (100mm vs 85mm).
- Canon EF 85mm f/1.4L IS USM is the newer design (2017 vs 2009).
| Spec | EF 85mm f/1.4L IS USM | EF 100mm F2.8L Macro IS USM |
|---|---|---|
| Brand | Canon | Canon |
| Mount | Canon EF | Canon EF |
| Type | Prime | Macro |
| Focal length | 85mm (wider) | 100mm |
| Max aperture | f/1.4 (faster) | f/2.8 |
| Released | 2017 | 2009 |
| Blades | 9 | 9 |
| Format | full-frame | full-frame |
| Groups | 10 | 12 |
| Af motor | USM | USM |
| Elements | 14 | 15 |
| Weight g | 950.0 | 625.0 (lighter) |
| Filter mm | 77 | 67 |
| Length mm | 105.4 | 123.0 |
| Stabilized | Yes | Yes |
| Diameter mm | 88.6 | 77.7 |
| Min focus m | 0.85 | 0.3 (closer focusing) |
| Max magnification | 0.12 | 1.0 |
Canon EF 85mm f/1.4L IS USM
The L-series 85mm f/1.4 with in-lens image stabilization and weather sealing, aimed at portrait and event work on full-frame EF bodies.
Pros
- Image stabilization on a fast prime
- f/1.4 aperture
- Weather-sealed L build
- Smooth background rendering
Cons
- Heavier than the f/1.8 version
- Not as fast as the f/1.2L
- Stabilizer does not freeze subject motion
Canon EF 100mm F2.8L Macro IS USM
The EF 100mm F2.8L Macro IS USM is a 1:1 macro lens with a hybrid image stabilizer that compensates for shift as well as angular motion. Weather-sealed and usable as a medium portrait lens.
Pros
- Hybrid IS for close-up
- 1:1 macro
- Weather-sealed
- Good working distance
Cons
- Heavier than the non-L
- Effective focal length shortens at close focus
- Narrow depth of field at close range