Quick answer
The 1988 original EF 600mm f/4L, made before stabilization and lighter materials. It weighs about 6kg.
Pros
- f/4 aperture
- Ring USM focusing
- Solid L-series construction
Cons
- About 6kg
- No image stabilization
- Minimum focus of 6m
Verdict
A classic super-telephoto, and the heaviest of the EF 600mm f/4 versions.
About this lens
A 600mm f/4 telephoto prime lens, the Canon EF 600mm f/4L USM is designed for Canon EF mount bodies, from the Canon L series with ultrasonic-motor autofocus. A professional super-telephoto L-series lens, a fixture on sidelines and at wildlife hides.
Canon EF 600mm f/4L USM specifications
- Brand
- Canon
- Mount
- Canon EF
- Focal length
- 600mm
- Maximum aperture
- f/4.0
- Lens type
- Telephoto
- Format coverage
- full-frame
- Released
- 1988
- Optical construction
- 9 elements in 8 groups
- Aperture blades
- 8
- Autofocus motor
- USM
- Minimum focus distance
- 6 m
- Maximum magnification
- 0.11x
- Weight
- 6000 g
- Length
- 456 mm
- Diameter
- 167 mm
Specification source: global.canon
What can you shoot with the Canon EF 600mm f/4L USM?
- Collectors
- Wildlife from fixed hides
- 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 | 600mm | 3.4° | 4.1° |
| APS-C | 1.6x | 960mm | 2.1° | 2.6° |
Frequently asked questions
Is the Canon EF 600mm f/4L USM stabilized?
No, stabilization arrived with the IS version in 1999. This original relies on shutter speed and a sturdy support.
How heavy is the EF 600mm f/4L USM?
About 6kg, so a heavy-duty tripod or gimbal head is needed.
Can the EF 600mm f/4L USM be used on mirrorless EOS R?
Yes, through the EF-EOS R adapter. Autofocus carries over.
Alternatives for Canon EF from other brands
All Canon EF lensesSame mount, overlapping focal range, closest maximum aperture first.
