Quick answer
The 1999 stabilized 600mm f/4L, the first IS version in this class. It weighs about 5.4kg.
Pros
- f/4 with IS
- Weather-sealed L build
- Ring USM focusing
Cons
- Around 5.4kg
- Older IS generation
- Heavier than the II and III
Verdict
Capable but heavy. Later versions cut a lot of weight.
About this lens
The Canon EF 600mm f/4L IS USM is a telephoto prime lens covering 600mm at f/4 for Canon EF mount cameras, 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 600mm f/4L IS USM specifications
- Brand
- Canon
- Mount
- Canon EF
- Focal length
- 600mm
- 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
- 5.5 m
- Maximum magnification
- 0.12x
- Weight
- 5360 g
- Length
- 456 mm
- Diameter
- 168 mm
Specification source: global.canon
What can you shoot with the Canon EF 600mm f/4L IS USM?
- Wildlife
- Sports
- Motorsport
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 | 600mm | 3.4° | 4.1° |
| APS-C | 1.6x | 960mm | 2.1° | 2.6° |
Frequently asked questions
How heavy is the Canon EF 600mm f/4L IS USM?
About 5.36kg. Later versions are far lighter.
What replaced the EF 600mm f/4L IS USM?
The EF 600mm f/4L IS II USM replaced it in 2011, followed by the IS III in 2018. Both are lighter, with newer stabilization.
Does the EF 600mm f/4L IS support extenders?
Yes, Canon's EF 1.4x and 2x extenders fit. Autofocus with the 2x (f/8) depends on the camera body.
Alternatives for Canon EF from other brands
All Canon EF lensesSame mount, overlapping focal range, closest maximum aperture first.
