Quick answer
The 1999 first stabilized 500mm f/4L, for pro wildlife and sports work. The II version replaced it in 2011.
Pros
- f/4 aperture
- Image stabilization
- Weather-sealed L build
- Takes Canon extenders
Cons
- About 3.9kg
- Heavier than the II
- Minimum focus of 4.5m
Verdict
A capable super-telephoto. The II is lighter and has newer stabilization.
About this lens
A 500mm f/4 telephoto prime lens, the Canon EF 500mm f/4L IS USM is designed for Canon EF mount bodies, from the Canon L series with Image Stabilizer and ultrasonic-motor autofocus. A professional super-telephoto L-series lens, a fixture on sidelines and at wildlife hides.
Canon EF 500mm f/4L IS USM specifications
- Brand
- Canon
- Mount
- Canon EF
- Focal length
- 500mm
- Maximum aperture
- f/4.0
- Lens type
- Telephoto
- Format coverage
- full-frame
- Released
- 1999
- Optical construction
- 17 elements in 13 groups
- Aperture blades
- 8
- Image stabilization
- Yes
- Autofocus motor
- USM
- Minimum focus distance
- 4.5 m
- Maximum magnification
- 0.12x
- Weight
- 3870 g
- Length
- 387 mm
- Diameter
- 146 mm
Specification source: global.canon
What can you shoot with the Canon EF 500mm f/4L IS USM?
- Wildlife
- Bird photography
- Sports
Its moderate maximum aperture works best in good light or with a higher ISO.
Full-frame equivalent and field of view
Calculated from the focal length and crop factor. Not measured.
| Sensor | Crop | Equivalent | Horizontal FOV | Diagonal FOV |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Full frame | 1.0x | 500mm | 4.1° | 5° |
| APS-C | 1.6x | 800mm | 2.6° | 3.1° |
Frequently asked questions
How heavy is the Canon EF 500mm f/4L IS USM?
About 3.87kg. Most users shoot it on a monopod, tripod or gimbal head.
What replaced the EF 500mm f/4L IS USM?
The EF 500mm f/4L IS II USM replaced it in 2011 with a lighter body and an updated stabilizer.
Does the EF 500mm f/4L IS work with the 1.4x and 2x extenders?
Yes. The 1.4x gives 700mm f/5.6 and the 2x gives 1000mm f/8, where autofocus depends on the body.
Alternatives for Canon EF from other brands
All Canon EF lensesSame mount, overlapping focal range, closest maximum aperture first.
