Canon’s New RF100-300mm f/2.8L IS USM: Unprecedented Telephoto Versatility

Canon today announced the RF100-300mm f/2.8L IS USM, a class-leading professional telephoto zoom lens for the RF mount. As Canon’s first-ever f/2.8 constant aperture zoom lens to cover the 100 to 300mm range, the new lens offers an unprecedented lightweight and versatile solution for sports, wildlife, and photographers who require extra reach while shooting at faster shutter speeds. The RF100-300mm f/2.8L IS USM innovates upon the EF300mm f/2.8L, a sports and action photography classic lens renowned for its technology and excellent optical quality.

The Speed and Flexibility to Capture Decisive Moments
f/2.8 constant aperture: Freeze action decisively from wide to close-up

The RF100-300mm f/2.8L IS USM’s constant aperture design allows users to utilise the large f/2.8 maximum aperture throughout the entire zoom range, even at the 300mm tele end. With this, users can freeze decisive moments at faster shutter speeds, which gives them a better chance of getting their desired shots.

The distinctive, extremely creamy bokeh achieved through telephoto shooting at f/2.8 makes the RF100-300mm f/2.8L IS USM useful for creative expression even in genres such as portraiture, fashion, and weddings.

Zoom convenience: Multiple lenses in one lightweight body

The RF100-300mm f/2.8L IS USM’s 100mm to 300mm zoom capability (160mm to 480mm on an APS-C camera) covers the range that typically requires at least two or three lenses to achieve (Combinations previously required to achieve 100-300mm at aperture f/2.8: 70-200mm f/2.8 lens + 300mm f/2.8 prime lens, or 100mm + 135mm + 300mm prime lenses). Users can now conveniently zoom to track and keep dynamic subjects, such as soccer ball or birds in flight within the frame, even in locations with restricted mobility. It also means less gear to carry.

Extender compatibility: Reach up to 960mm f/5.6

For occasions that require greater reach, simply attach one of the compact, lightweight RF extenders. With Extender RF2x, you can zoom up to 600mm (full-frame camera) or a whopping 960mm full-frame equivalent (APS-C camera/APS-C crop mode) while maintaining a maximum aperture of at least f/5.6!

The Lightest 300mm F/2.8 Constant Aperture Zoom Lens for Full-Frame Cameras on the Market[1]

The RF100-300mm f/2.8L IS USM + EOS R3 combination is lighter than the EF200-400mm f/4L IS USM Extender 1.4x alone, weight over 1kg less. It also offers substantial mobility savings than the EF300mm f/2.8L IS II USM while offering 3x zoom functionality.

 

Lens	Camera	Total weight
RF100-300mm f/2.8L IS USM (approx. 2,590g)	EOS R3 (approx. 1,022g)	approx. 3,612g[2]
EF200-400mm f/4L IS USM Extender 1.4x (approx. 3,620g)	Nil	Lens only: approx. 3,620g

 

Fast Focusing, Optical Excellence

Driven by precise dual Nano USMs, AF is quick and accurate, complementing deep learning-based subject detection and tracking on cameras like the EOS R3. An innovative new electronic floating focus control system improves image quality while reducing weight, enhancing the signature RF mount L-series optical quality. This would enable sharp shots of swift action, right down to every sweat drop or feather detail.

The lens supports focus breathing correction during video shooting, delivering professional-looking footage straight out of the camera.

Other Notable Features

• Up to 5.5 stops’ in-lens image stabilisation[3]; up to 6 stops’ image stabilisation through Coordinated Control IS[4]
• IS Modes 1,2, and 3: for image stabilisation optimised for different shooting situations
• 5 customisable lens function buttons: for direct lens operation regardless of camera orientation
• Signature white weather- and heat-resistant thermal barrier coating with matching Lens Hood ET-124

 

New Launch	MRP	Sales Date
RF100-300mm f/2.8L IS USM	₹ 919 995.00/U	May 2023

 

[1] According to a survey by Canon. As of April 2023.

[2] Including eyecup ER-h, battery LP-E19 and 1 CFexpress card.

[3] Focal length: 300 mm; using EOS R; confirms to CIPA standards (yaw/pitch directions)

[4] With a compatible camera body, Focal length: 300 mm; using EOS R3; confirms to CIPA standards (yaw/pitch directions)