Canon EF 70-200mm f/2.8L IS II USM vs Canon EF 70-200mm f/4L IS USM

Side-by-side comparison from our catalogue data. Better values are highlighted only where a clear difference exists.

Canon

EF 70-200mm f/2.8L IS II USM

Canon

EF 70-200mm f/4L IS USM

Verdict at a glance

Canon EF 70-200mm f/4L IS USM is lighter by 730g.
Canon EF 70-200mm f/2.8L IS II USM is the newer design (2010 vs 2006).

Specification comparison
Spec	EF 70-200mm f/2.8L IS II USM	EF 70-200mm f/4L IS USM
Brand	Canon	Canon
Mount	Canon EF	Canon EF
Type	Telephoto Zoom	Telephoto Zoom
Focal length	70-200mm	70-200mm
Max aperture	f/70.0	f/70.0
Released	2010	2006
Blades	8	8
Format	full-frame	full-frame
Groups	19	15
Af motor	USM	USM
Elements	23	20
Weight g	1490.0	760.0 (lighter)
Filter mm	77	67
Length mm	199.0	172.0
Stabilized	Yes	Yes
Diameter mm	88.8	76.0
Min focus m	1.2	1.2
Max magnification	0.21	0.21

Canon EF 70-200mm f/2.8L IS II USM

The second-generation 70-200mm f/2.8L zoom from Canon, widely used by professionals. A stabilized, weather-sealed telephoto for full-frame EF bodies.

Pros

Constant f/2.8
Stabilized
Weather-sealed
Strong optical reputation

Cons

Heavy (about 1.5 kg)
Large and conspicuous
Older coatings than the III

Canon EF 70-200mm f/4L IS USM

A compact, light telephoto zoom with a constant f/4 aperture and stabilization. Popular with travel, landscape and wildlife photographers who watch their weight.

Pros

Light and compact for the range
Sharp optics
Stabilized
Dust and water resistant

Cons

Slower than f/2.8 versions
Blurred backgrounds are harder to achieve

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