Canon EF 100mm F2.8L IS: Long Term Review | 4K

[@rexgigout1472]

This lens is one of Canon’s best. I bought my first one in November 2010, my first L lens, the purchase which firmly established Canon as my primary system. I used my Macro L while on duty, as a first responder, to photograph evidence and crime scenes, which, sadly, included all too many images of domestic violence victims. I used it during personal time for many, many flowers, bees, butterflies, portraits, and other beautiful things, to offset the sadder images captured while on duty. In early 2016, I bought my second EF 100/2.8L Macro IS, because the quickest-acting form of insurance Is to have an exact duplicate. Both lenses continue to serve well, with one almost permanently attached to one of my 7D II cameras, and the other usually be paired with my 5Ds R. I am a believer in the Hybrid Image Stabilization. It was quite normal for me to be photographing hand-held, while on duty, in places and situations where a tripod was not practical. (Using AI Servo is also helpful, at such times.) Excellent review, of a wonderful lens!

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

That's great feedback all around!

[@diegoeidelman]

This 100mm macro L is one of the lenses that I use most in my Canon 5D3 and 5D4 due to its image quality and versatility. I use it for product shots as well as for portraits and of course for macros.

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

That sounds very much like my own experience.

[@blurayauthority]

I read a lot of photography sites’ reviews of bodies, lenses, etc. But yours are honest, to the point and encompassing. In short: I trust what you say. Keep up the good work.

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

Trust is probably the rarest of commodities in my field, so I take that as a compliment.

[@kim0942]

Just watched this video to confirm the reason I still own this lens despite having moved pretty much to mirrorless. It’s such a great lens. I love your GAS comment (gear acquisition syndrome) as I now know the malady that I’ve had for my entire life. Don’t know if it’s genetic or acquired but I realize that it’s incurable and shared by others. Although it’s hard on the budget I quite enjoy the symptoms that go along with it.

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

LOL...at least you're honest about your addiction.

[@tellthemborissentyou]

I bought a second hand one to do some macro for a report I was working on. I was going to sell it after but I found it ideal for taking photos of my little nieces. You can set 1/1000sec on the camera and stand well back so you don't interrupt their play and on my crop camera the 160mm equivalent blurs the background and captures the action. The photos are some of the best i have ever taken.

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

That doesn’t surprise me. It’s a good lens for that, and if you set the focus limiter, the focus action is nice and quick.

[@Matteusus]

I just recently purchased this lens from previous user and as i see you review then I'm even more happy from that now. Can't wait to test it out more during spring. This lens seems to be great Value!

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

It really is a nice value.

[@ghengizkhan790]

I chose and bought this macro len some 8 years ago based on past good reviews. The len has been (and still) giving me much satisfaction in term of image quality and is built like a panzer tank. I seldom use the slow autofocus for macro shoot but the bokeh is amazing creamy. Your review of the len reassure that I had made a good choice of buying that len. Thanks for the informative review!

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

It's kind of nice to have your buying decisions affirmed, isn't it.

[@ghengizkhan790]

@@DustinAbbottTWI yup! 😋😋

[@VargasKoch]

I got it on a whim for macro use, but I rarely use it for that nowadays. It is my favorite portrait length telephoto. I pair it with the excellent 35/2 IS. That duo handles just about anything I want/need to do.

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

It is a very nice portrait lens.

[@RandomWalker1995]

Didnt expect that review!!!! really interesting . i really want to hear about that review! Starting now

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

Enjoy!

[@danieljohnston5306]

Simply love this lens...

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

It's a fantastic one.

It's a great lens for sure! I mostly use mine for portraits, and I think it is excellent at that, I can even appreciate the vignette, because it has a falloff that I think works well with many portraits

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

It is an excellent portrait lens.

[@shovelrocker7102]

Bought my 100mm L second hand. As it was just half year old back then that lens might just be the best thing I've ever bought. It did some weird things on my 5Dmk4 what comes to autofocus but now on my EOS-R it works like a charm. Absolutely love this lens.

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

It's fantastic how some of these older lenses work even better when ported over to mirrorless.

[@shovelrocker7102]

@@DustinAbbottTWI Agreed. Same goes to my 50mm Sigma Art. Not a single miss on autofocus after first try on EOS-R.

[@flaviopresutti]

I bought this lens in 2016 used ... and it's still working perfectly! The resolution it's really great for the work that I do ! Greetings from Uruguay.

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

I'm glad your lens has help up well, too.

[@mralexlex]

As usual, excellent review Dustin, speaking from experience. I have this lens for six years, find its place on Canon dslr and Sony milc (via mc11) and its simply gorgeous. Reliable, great iq, just superb.

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

It's a fabulous lens that has aged well.

[@vladislavboutorine6502]

I love this lens, with EF bodys I used to focus manually, moving my face smashed against the camera, or on a tripod... And since I bought the Eos R, the autofus / servo are truely reliable, it's so refreshing.

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

The focus system on modern mirrorless bodies really is a treat.

[@buyaport]

Best lens reviews. Thanks a lot for this one.

[@mvp_kryptonite]

I bought this donkeys ago used for a bargain price and even today I would do the same since they can be found even cheaper. I got the ishoot lens collar which I don’t think I have ever used but the lens is fantastic. The colours are sensational imo. I took it this week to Wakhurst Kew in the UK and got some fab shots with the kids and some close ups on my R7 and 0.71x adapter. It’s my only lens I keep in the box but like yours, it looks near new. I think I will grab one more EF lens (probably got too many now lol) but thanks for the review! I’d certainly recommend this lens as it’s feature packed and such great value

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

Definitely a great lens.

[@ChaitanyaShukla2503]

That 100mm L certainly is a cult classic.

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

For sure

[@marklawson3141]

A great robust lens. Mine like yours is still like new. Transitioned well from my 80D to Sony A7R3 too via MC11.

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

Nice!

[@pjf7943]

Hello again Rev. Abbott..!! It's nice to see a well organized and fair review of such a classic lens.. A 'Blast From The Past'..!! I am truly impressed with your photos using this lens and the resolution it displays.. As far as the bokeh, I don't believe I could expect anything more from this macro to entry telephoto lens.. Thanks again..

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

Thank you. I wasn't sure how the concept would be received, but people seem to really be enjoying it.

[@Comcaldone]

You surely make the best reviews! Thank you very much!

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

My pleasure!

[@bileamscorner]

About one year ago or so I noticed that there was one lens you used a lot, but still had not reviewed. I was just about to write to you and encourage you to do this review, but realized there were too many exciting new releases that kept you occupied; well now it is here, and I am really happy you did this. I own the lens myself, and enjoy it particularly for it's great, creamy bokeh and the excellent image stabilizer; but as always, it is very interesting to get your take on it. Hope to see more reviews like this from you. I also hope that you will make an episode called something like "Best Bang for the Buck", in which I suppose would include this lens. If I may share my personal favorite in that aspect, it would be the Canon 100 mm f3.5 from 1963 (M39 mount), which I paid 100 USD for in near mint condition, and gives the smoothest creamy bokeh and excellent center sharpness (but here of course it is all about image character) , at a remarkably modest weight and size (it is so small that I would call it "cute", the filter diameter is 34 mm!! ). Yes, the new mirrorless cameras has really opened up for the renewed use of many old lenses. I will follow you and sell my 5DMkII, and hope the wait for the R5 will not be too long.

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

It's a good moment to fit some of these reviews in, as some new releases have been delayed due to supply chain disruptions around the world.

[@AugmentedGravity]

I can't wait for Canon to release the RF equivalent to this lens.

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

Definitely. That's probably when I'll switch.

[@matt79hz]

@@DustinAbbottTWI did you switch ?

[@vizmatter]

After watching a review bench testing the EF 100mm macro and the EF 85mm 1.2 and seeing that the resolution between the two lenses was imperceptible, I decided to trade in my 85mm for the 100mm macro and haven't looked back. I feel I have two lenses in one. One for portraits and one for doing close up work in studio work.

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

There are a few things the 85 can do that this lens can't, but I do agree that in many situations (where you don't want the shallower depth of field), this lens does just as well.

[@vizmatter]

@@DustinAbbottTWI Absolutely. Nonetheless, it was a trade off I was willing to make. I have a 5d mk iii and even though I had the 85mm lens profile input in the camera I found that shooting at f1.2 was problematic. Yes, amazing bokeh but hit and miss with critical focus. I went on several Canon forums and found that this was not an uncommon issue with many shooters with the 85mm f1.2. It wasn't until about f1.8 to f2.0 that focus was more consistent.

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

That's a serious liability, for sure.

[@TChoppy46able]

Great reviews. Do you notice the IS whirring noise all the time when pair with mirrorless? Like a soft zz noise, softer than the focusing noise. It would stop if i switch of IS. Seems only happens with mirrorless, i tried with my old dslr and it does not have that issue, it would make the same noise only when i am actively using the dslr, but not on standby.

[@AtaBoraBasar]

One of my favorite lenses. macro and portrait are definitely very successful.

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

It's true. It's pretty much good at everything.

[@geoffkeeton4311]

I don't have this lens in particular, but my Canon L lenses all still work, and I have certainly taken many, many pictures with them. I think the L lenses are real work horses, and I've accidentally even dropped a few without any issues. I really like the Canon IS as well. We've been out doing lots of birding and the 70-300 stays on my daughter's camera all the time. It's actually her favorite lens even when she's doing macro because the IS. Canon lenses just keep working and that's something to think about... thanks for the review.

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

That's a very valid point. Longevity is an important consideration.

[@marioplus321]

A very fresh beginning of sth exciting, Dustin 👍 Carry on this series !

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

Will do. Thanks! It's a good moment to fit some of these reviews in, as some new releases have been delayed due to supply chain disruptions around the world.

[@speecher1959]

While I've updated my 24-70mm and 70-200mm lenses to RF, I don't find myself motivated to do that with the EF 100mm F2.8L. It does very well what it needs to do. It took a fall on concrete a couple of years, but was unharmed. Dodged that bullet, but was glad for the build quality.

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

Agreed. It remains an excellent lens.

[@Twobarpsi]

Great review! I'm considering buying this now in Aug 2024.

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

Still a great lens.

[@goldenfrog6EsCoSes]

My lens (for Canon) just arrived today from Adorama, who threw in the Tamron tap-in console for free, which is cool. The lens is built like a tank and looks and feels like a quality instrument. The autofocus seems really fast and accurate, and the image stabilization lets me shoot at 1/6th of a second (so far). It makes a few clicks and whirrs when you switch it on, but I had to put my ear right next to the lens to hear them, so for all intents and purposes it's silent. It seems to be calibrated very well to my T6i. I live in a low-income country, so shelling out for this lens was a big decision (it's about two months' salary for me), but I know it will be worth every peso.

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

I'm curious why Adorama would include a Tamron tap-in for this Canon lens unless you are commenting on the wrong video. Is it the Tamron 90mm F2.8 VC lens that you purchased, by any chance?

[@goldenfrog6EsCoSes]

@@DustinAbbottTWI Yes, it is. It' seems I commented on your Canon review instead of the Tamron one you did.

[@JoshuaMNielsen]

10:00 Super amazing shot! Very cool.

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

Thank you!

[@powerlurker]

wow this new channel is amazing， look forward to see more character vintage lens reviews。

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

I'm really glad to hear that!~

[@Guio95]

Hi Dustin, how does this lens pair with the EOS R? Are there any problems?

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

It adapts quite well.

[@CanadianDrifter777]

Thanks for the great review Dustin. Just wondered if you have any thoughts on using this lens to copy/digitize 35 mm slides ? Thinking about getting this lens.

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

I'm afraid that's outside the scope of my expertise. I really don't know.

[@CanadianDrifter777]

@@DustinAbbottTWI Okay thanks for the reply back. Cheers.

[@samhartwig4640]

Great lens. I have it. An RF version of this would be crazy

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

I'm sure some macro lens is on the agenda for RF

[@SuperBuickregal]

Thanks for the video and I can only assume the RF version will be even better of an already great lens.

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

That's probably true, though that obviously remains to be seen.

[@dominicvideograph6426]

I also like this lens as a portrait lens (if you are using fullframe), if there is no dedicated portrait lens available. Also it draws much less attention than a 70-200. Great for video, too. A really nice lens.

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

Agreed.

[@AdrianWilsonBridders1234]

Dustin, nice to see reviews of older gear, many channels are just new stuff. I still have and use the non IS version, it’s a bit clunky and slow af, but optically excellent. I have G.A.S but trying to resist buying more as still use elderly 1d mark 3 and a 1ds3!!!

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

I'm glad you enjoyed the review.

[@gameshoes]

It's nice to see reviews of older lenses once in a while because most reviews are just too old. "Great, it looks nice on 12 megapickels, how about on 30? How fast is the autofocus relative to newer lenses?", etc, etc.

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

I'm really glad people are enjoying this concept, as I wasn't sure how it would be received.

[@karelvanhaaster6251]

Het is bijna hetzelfde als sony 2.8 / 90 mm lens macro. Raar mag dat wel?

[@humbertofilms3758]

Nice review Dustin. I mostly work with products and I looking for this lens to buy but I´m a Sony guy, could I get good results with this lens even with a sony and adaptor?

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

You definitely can. I've used it for that purpose in the past.

[@humbertofilms3758]

@@DustinAbbottTWI Awesome! Thanks.

[@wanakoplays8874]

I used to have the 100mm L Macro and it was such a brilliant lens!

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

It's a good one

[@Maestromarksherwin]

Hi Dustin! Need your advice, is it worth buying canon EF lens like Canon EF 100mm 2.8L macro IS USM when everyone is going mirrorless? I have plan to go mirrorless (Canon or Sony) but not in the near future since I still have my perfectly working Canon 5D Mark III. Also, I have EF lenses and afraid if I can use it with other non-canon mirrorless with 4k cameras in the future. Thanks.

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

If you don't plan to go mirrorless anytime soon, then definitely go for this lens. It works fine on mirrorless via adapter anyway.

[@digiphotog54]

Great review of a great lens! I've had mine for a decade also and it is one of my favorites!

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

Not surprised at all.

[@NeilSnapePhotography]

Really nice to see on an older lens with a new mirrorless body. I sold mine recently. The lens once fell from vertical to horizontal on my wood table. The stabiliser broke. I had it repaired by Canon very expensive as it was just out of warranty. Although working correctly I thing the close focus 1:1 never worked correctly as before. With the older non stabilised USM the 1:1 was extremely sharp. When the EOS R5 comes out I'll need another, yet I am afraid of the fragile parts, so I may get an USM non L. I would love to see a comparison between those two!

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

Hi Neil, I'm sorry to hear about your accident. I've fortunately never had any issues with my copy. I probably won't be doing such a comparison in the future, however, as I only did this older review because I happen to own the lens.

[@raghavendrakalal9670]

A very useful review... Thank you.. could you please suggest one lens for wildlife macro especially in rainforest. Between canon 180mm macro and canon 100mm IS macro if I wil have to choose one which one you recommend?

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

I like the 100L IS for the image stabilization and quality weather sealing. It will be more flexible in how you use it.

[@Jack-dj2tj]

Thank you for another great review, Dustin. Can you please comment on how well it works on a Sony body via MC-11 adapter? Any compromises? How well does it compare to the Sony 90mm Macro? Would you still recommend it on a 61MP A7R4 body? Many thanks again!

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

First of all, if your priority it to shoot on Sony, buy a Sony lens. It works fairly well via adapter, but you won't mistake autofocus performance for being native. It ultra resolution on the a7RIV is your goal, watch for my upcoming review of the Voigtlander 110mm F2.5 Macro, as it is an amazing performer.

[@Jack-dj2tj]

Thank you. Looking forward to it!

[@DigitalCapeTown]

Great great review - love this lens! Additionally, could you elaborate on your video set-up, this video is amazingly sharp and clear and rich. What's the secret?! Thanks.

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

Just a tip - my video setup is always listed at the end of my videos. The biggest secret is good lighting. I used the D&O 180W panel that I recently reviewed. I typically use a Sony a9 + Tamron 28-75mm F2.8 for my videos, though I think I may have used the Samyang AF 85mm F1.4 for this one. Everything in 4K

[@DigitalCapeTown]

@@DustinAbbottTWI Thank you.

[@zackchoy1969]

Thanks for the great review !

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

Thanks for the feedback.

[@m.z.9411]

For those who have tamron 90mm and sigma 105mm macro, do they work well on canon mirrorless? I am on Eos Rp. I find certain third party lenses rnt working well with the adapter

[@wiandryadiwasistio2062]

compared to sigma 85mm f/1.4 dg hsm art (for canon), which one is better? (camera: canon eos 6d mark ii) i see the canon 100mm is the better choice here, but according to dxomark, it has less points compared to sigma 85mm and camera versus also put more points to sigma 85mm (making it a comparison winner). canon 100mm is basically two lens as one (portrait and macro) and it’s really a big deal + there are clearance sale now in my region that canon 100mm is sold cheaper than sigma 85mm. but again, i’m confused with the results from dxomark and camera versus.

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

If you are looking for also having macro capabilities, this lens is a great option. It does a better job doubling as a portrait lens than the Sigma does doubling as a macro lens.

[@takoboi]

Would u recommend this over the 135? I know that this 100 have macro capabilities but in terms of portraits.... that said, could u get a similar look with a cropped image from the 135mm?

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

I found that I reached for it more than the 135 (which I eventually sold). The 135L is slightly more special for full body portraits, but the stabilizer in the 100mm made for more consistent results.

[@russeli1941]

Great review! I just picked one up for $435 US in mint condition on ebay and I can't wait to use it.

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

That's an amazing price for a great lens.

[@gregoryminor7441]

Most informative and helpful. Thank you kindly!

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

Glad it was helpful!

[@Knszr]

do you recommend this lens for wedding and fashion photography?

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

I think so. The AF isn't top tier fast for event shooting, but if you utilize the focus limiter it should be fine. The macro capabilities are definitely useful to pick up the fine details in those settings.

[@morvegil]

I love this lens, been in my kit for years.

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

Yep. I just never seem to review another lens that makes me desperate to get rid of it.

[@morvegil]

@@DustinAbbottTWI I agree....its a great whole package

[@Kick_Rocks_]

I have an 80D and looking for a macro lens for it. I’ve read some reviews on the 65mm and now I’m checking out the reviews on this 100mm. Do you have any suggestions on which one would be the better choice for my camera? Thanks in advance.

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

I prefer this lens, myself. Having image stabilization makes a huge difference if you want to handhold macro.

[@mikewinburn]

funny...i've never watched a review on this lens, either! However, i purchased one when it first came out. i also purchased the tripod ring at the same time as it allowed me to switch from landscape to portrait while on a tripod without removing the camera from the mount. Still the same way i use it today. Your lighting set up for this review was exceptional, Dustin.

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

I think this lens landed before video reviews were a "thing". Thanks on the lighting, by the way.

Terrific review - No doubt this will become a go-to resource for people considering this lens. I shoot almost exclusively macro and this is my standard lens and a noticeable upgrade in IQ from the previous Canon 100/2.8 USM Macro. Still haven't taken more than a handful of shots with the IS activated though. Since I use it together with a Raynox DCR-250 to get closer than 1:1 I have a diffused flash and then the IS becomes a non-factor. Just wanted that said as there seem to be a lot of macro photographers who use flash and think this is the lens they need because of the IS. Also, the AF noise test at 13:31 - why haven't the IS been disabled as the camera obviously is on a tripod? That clicking sound at the end of each focus change is the image stabilization working and has nothing to do with the AF noise so why not turn it off to have just the AF noise in the vid?

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

Hi Calle, thanks for the feedback - actually the IS was off, and that is AF noise you hear.

@@DustinAbbottTWI Wow, it was? Thank you for getting back. I just tried mine (on a 5D3 body) and that clicking is there (though a little milder). Cheers.

[@WilliamJohnston]

Do you use EOS r for weddings now or do you use a different system for that in the interim before getting the R5?

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

If I were to do a wedding before the R5 came out (which may happen, depending on release), I'll use a mix of the EOS R and my Sony bodies.

[@peterebel7899]

This lens is worth the tripod collar. It was all the years on digital DSLRs. But now even more used with EOS R (and its swiveling screen): Mount it via tripod collar to the reversed center column of a tripod and a new universe of unwatched very low perspectives/ closeups in nature opens itself to your photography!

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

Interesting feedback.

[@peterebel7899]

@@DustinAbbottTWI Mirrorless frees the camera from the photographer's eye to enable perspectives which don't fit to human bodies (like the drones are doing in the other direction). Enablers for doing so: - Macro capabilities - IS to enable free hand shots - flexible mounting like tripod collar - compact size to fit in narrow spaces This great lens checks 3 of 4 of the boxes. It was the 3rd most used in DSLR times, now paired with EOS R even more used, on same level is 1.8 35mm which checks 3/4 boxes as well. Don't worry: "Classical photography" using viewfinder and creamy primes, versatile zooms or fast long lenses for sport/wildlive is of great fun as it was now and in future..

[@NomadOutdoorAdventures]

I’ve been looking for the last couple of weeks at different lenses for macro photography and I am really looking for high image quality I got the Canon 5D Mark four that I would be putting it on what lens would you recommend for me

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

This is still a great choice.

[@Willymaze]

Tamron's 90mm SP lens, the newest version. I'm a Nikon shooter and the overall consensus is that it beats the Nikkor 105mm. I've also read that it beats Canon's as well, but Canon shooters are more reluctant to acknowledge a third party lens being better.

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

I covered the Tamron is detail, and there are a few areas where it is better (and a few it is not).

[@孫振新]

If you are OK with manual focus and don't need 1:1 macro and IS, the Zeiss 100mm F2 makro (or the newer Milvus version) is excellent. Larger aparture, higher contrast and resolution than the Canon. Been using it for 10 years on 5D2 and love it. Only problem of CA correctable with post processing.

[@InfernoBaybeee]

How does the Rf 35mm f1.8 compare to this lens? Which is better if you had to choose one for both videos and pictures?

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

I like this lens much better than the RF35 lens for many reasons.

[@InfernoBaybeee]

@@DustinAbbottTWI well what about the 35mm f1.4 L ii vs the 100mm 2.8L? Would you still choose the 100? If so then I'm buying the 100 today for video and photography

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

Those are completely different focal lengths. I own both lenses, but I would never substitute one for the other in any given circumstance.

[@trailofdan1]

Another great review, thanks Dustin...another lens to add to my wish list :)

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

It's worthy of the add!

[@stakstonkvinge]

I own way too many great and expensive lenses, most of them more expensive than the 100L. In my honest opinion, the Canon 100L macro produces images that has a look to them that I often prefer over most if not all of the more expensive lenses. Its only weakness to me is the comparably slow aperture of f2.8. (On the upside though, the slower aperture makes you seek better light sources, which again results in more keepers...) The 100L is a bargain in the Canon lens line up.

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

It really is one of the best values in the Canon lineup.

[@picattiu4813]

As usual great review, can you get a comparison with the non L variant?

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

I'm afraid not. I'm just doing this review because I own this particular lens.

[@98vwgolf]

I'm assuming this is more for macro? Would you pick this vs the 135? Is it as sharp as the 135?

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

It is very sharp, yes, and I’ve reached for it as a portrait lens often for the simple reason that it has IS and I got more reliable results in some settings vs the 135L

[@laimonasapavicius5643]

Dustin, can we expect Canons 135mm F2 review? From all bunch 135`s the main one is missing. Or cant find it.

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

I'm afraid not, as I no longer have that lens in my kit.

[@otameal]

@@DustinAbbottTWI Would you say that the 135mm f2 doesn't add anything unique that you can't already get out of a 70-200mm f2.8? Or did you have some other rationale for not keeping it?

[@Suppenkasper123]

Great Review 👍🏼 but my Canon 100 L IS USM makes strange noises while focusing. I was with this and another Canon lens that makes the same noise at Canon Germany, but they couldn't fix the stutter. With my 70-200 2.8 L IS USM II, for example, the entire technology, lenses, IS and the motors were replaced. I used the lenses on a EOS R and a 6D II.

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

That doesn't sound like typical performance to me. I've never seen anything like that.

[@tintin69rr]

Great review I’m looking at mostly a portrait lens around the 100 mm focal length and this being macro as well is just a bonus within the results it pulls off looks awesome love how the old lenses are being brought back to life with the mirrorless bodies think this will be my next Addition to the R6👍

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

It's definitely true that improved focus makes lenses like this even more fun.

[@denizaydinovski]

Hello, I just bought this lens. It's really amazing but there is a rattling sound coming from inside. I search on Google, some comments say it's totally normal because of the IS system, some comments say it's not normal. What do you think?

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

It's very hard to diagnose sounds over the internet. I would suggest monitoring it. If it gets worse, then contact Canon, but if it stays the same, it's probably fine.

[@denizaydinovski]

@@DustinAbbottTWI thanks for the reply.

[@jubjuber1]

if the rattle is big, its because the IS elements are floating free. if u don't shut off the camera before removing the lens, sometimes it will not relock the group.

[@flightscapeaviationphoto]

Great info as always... I've contemplated this one for a while (though I mostly shoot bigger glass as an Airshow/Aviation shooter). I wanted something w/ IS as the 24-70 f/2.8 L II is great but wish it had IS when I want to get up close to static planes and engine details. I have not jumped to mirrorless yet but the FPS and AF of this new EOS R5 is definitely getting my attention. You said you sold your 5DMk4 and on the EOS-R now. Assume you've chosen to stay with Canon and didn't jump the track to Sony?

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

I’ve also had Sony for years. I have an a7rIII and an a9 and a full kit of lenses for Sony as well. I’m also extremely interested in the R5; I’ve sold off other gear in preparation for purchasing that.

[@James-qr9vp]

I use this lens a lot. While it is sharp, it hunts like crazy for close up. So much so, that I am somewhat unhappy with it. It is a pain to have to often shoot in manual focus. And the AF is so loud. I hear Canon is making an RF 90mm macro. Looking forward to seeing what that’s all about.

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

That’s interesting, James, as that doesn’t seem to reflect either my experience or the vast number of anecdotal responses here. You may have a copy that needs some AF service.

[@harrison00xXx]

I got it 2nd hand some years ago, i had the option: - Non L version but "as new" in the description for 250€ - The L Version but broken Stabilizer for slightly more I miss the stabilizer a bit when doing anything else than macro, but its still AWESOME and the broken one was the only one i would have afforded, the good/working ones would have costed 600€-750€ 2nd hand these days

[@harrison00xXx]

As long i used APS-C DSLRs.... i really loved the convenience of my Sigma 50mm 2.8 1:1 Macro lens, i realized with the upgrade to full frame mirrorless that my Sigma 50mm is just ok, but 100mm Macro is the way to go on full frame. Im very impressed of the 100L 2.8 Macro, especially for astrophotography in F4 its SUPER SHARP on 26MP Full Frame!

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

I'm glad you are enjoying the lens despite not having the IS

[@harrison00xXx]

@@DustinAbbottTWI This lens is beside small, cheap 50mm primes probably one of the best value lenses i think. Awesome optical performance, also at F2.8 its pretty much usable for anything, just for astrophotography a bit slowing down is good for nice images into the corners. The broken stabilizer is something which i can live very good with, considering i paid about half the price compared to a lens with working stabilizer (i just though the IS wont be worth 2x the price as long i have the optical performance of the L lens at least)

[@erico6247]

Nice presentation!

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

Thank you!

[@casamayer]

Glad this just came out. I just sold this lens to wait for the RF version...

[@juliewillson3378]

I haven’t seen it in the timeline. Surely they are planning an RF version, but is it in the near future?

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

I suspect something will come, but I'm not aware of anything planned.

[@juliewillson3378]

Dustin Abbott you would think since this is such a classic lens and one so many photographers find useful in their kit, it would be a priority. I just purchased the EOS R, and went ahead and purchased this lens since it has been at the top of my wish list for so long. I wasn’t sure I wanted to pay the 2 grand plus I’m sure it will cost.

[@jpadventures7880]

Incredible review....thank you!

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

Glad you liked it!

[@fabersosa]

Wooow, great video. Obrigado desde Brasil.

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

Thanks!

[@Chilled_Wombat]

What tripod mount I need for this lens? Is there a original Canon version available?

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

There is a Canon version available, though after ten years of use, I've never needed one.

[@matt79hz]

I just went through gear acquisition syndrome pretty heavily. Took a few months really but really burst into action for the last week.. Went to ef lenses on R system. Ef 100mm 2.8l plus 16-35 f4. The 14-35 f4 gave me headaches.

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

It's a bit of a frustrating lens.

[@matt79hz]

@@DustinAbbottTWI yep.. it's gone ! Lol. spare 16-35 saved me 900aud

[@lanep4322]

Great review Dustin. Re: USM vs STM, I have the 40mm f2.8 STM and it is the noisiest autofocus motor I have. It's unusable for video on my 6D Mk II or 80D. Still don't understand why they are claimed to be better for video (has the latest firmware upgrade also). USM is far quieter in my experience.

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

Interesting, as that hasn't been my experience overall. To be fair, however, the 40mm was the very first Canon lens with an STM motor, and so obviously the technology has vastly improved since then.

[@TherconJair]

Thanks for the review! Will you, at one point, be reviewing the RF 70-200 f/2.8l? :)

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

That's my sincere hope, though I'm dependent on Canon Canada making loaners available for me.

[@mygreethumbdotxyz9109]

I just ordered this lens direct from Canon for $900 new I still use EF lenses with my R5, and it's 2023 !

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

Exactly!

[@kevincurr]

why are you going to mirrorless? what are the advantages?

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

Much better autofocus, in body image stabilization, no need to calibrate lenses, better video performance, much better manual focus performance and aids, plus all the design energy is on the mirrorless front

[@kostaskonstantinidis7318]

Dustin, do you have any "relationship" with Greece? I just noticed that greek drahma bill at the bottom right corner in your test screen..haha!

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

I don't. I used to collect money from around the world, and since my audience is global, I thought it would be fun to put some of those bills on my test chart.

[@tomhalbouty3653]

Very nice review Dustin. I own this lens and the performance with the Canon R5 is superb. I've found no reason to buy the newer RF version as this lens does indeed get the job done. I think more fresh look reviews of older lenses is important as many buyers frankly can't afford the newer RF L counterpoints. The large array of Canon EF glass make third party lenses less important as the used EF glass seems to work great on Canon mirrorless bodies. I've had a few problems with 3rd party EF glass so I personally stick with Canon on Canon bodies.

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

I'm glad to have helped out.

[@tysonator5433]

This is a great lens and I also do portrait with thid lens

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

Awesome!

[@feelda303]

How do you keep the focusing ring clean?

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

I've never put much thought into it as I haven't had any problem.

[@papabear7875]

Great review of the lens. The current price for Canon EF 100mm F2.8L about $1300 from B and H ...

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

It's insane how the price of a lens this old has climbed like this.

[@papabear7875]

​@@DustinAbbottTWI Current RF 100mm cost $1400

[@Tainted-Soul]

you know its great to see a review on the older great lenses like this one I got mine way back in 2010 to saved up for it to fit on to my 50D that I had just got in 2009 . now it sits nice onto my EOS-R which with the ISO available I can hand hold macros in not so good light or wanting a bigger FOV so F stopped it up F16 or so with ISO to 2000 I could hand hold it nice this also makes a great portrait lens too I would go to say this lens is my favourite in my bag small bag though saving up for the RF24-70 F2.8 next . talking about the EOS-R I would like to just say thank you for your review on that too with your review and an other youtuber I made my mind up to get one and I am very happy with it but would like to point something out that you wanted a expo compensator ring :) It had one the one just above the Bar :) also I have set the LOCK button to lock both the front lens ring and the Bar so once happy I just lock it don't have to take my eye from the view finder Thanks you for all the reviews you do keep it up

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

Hi Brian, thanks for the feedback. P.S. Exposure compensation can be loaded to the rear dial, but only if you sacrifice something else. My standard setup is shutter speed up front and aperture in the back.

[@JimBailey]

Thank you Mr Abbott

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

You're welcome.

[@camxiong]

I thought this was a sharp lens, but adapted to my R5....subjects are soft/blurry near the edge (not even the extreme edge). It's bad enough that when shooting portaits in portrait orientation, faces look blurry.

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

That almost sounds like an IBIS error. Test it by putting it on a tripod or something still and turning off IS and seeing if you get the same result.

[@carlossouthward8578]

I luv this lens...

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

Me too

[@cnottagejr]

is this better than the 85mm

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

Which one?

[@cnottagejr]

@@DustinAbbottTWI the 100mm lens

[@lbcitylacounty4982]

Yes! CANON! 💪

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

Enjoy :)

[@prakashgajjar7940]

Thanks buddy

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

Happy to help

[@omenworks]

RF 100mm photos leaked just now. I will be first one in line to buy it!

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

Does sound interesting, for sure.

[@omenworks]

@@DustinAbbottTWILooking forward to your review :)

[@cardiacade]

If I hadn't knocked mine off of a table onto concrete a few years ago it would still look great.

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

Yes, that does have a way of causing some damage!

[@Darth.Nihilist]

this lens has gone from £649 GBP to £969 GBP over 5 years. How is that right or justified by Canon? how are they able to increase the rrp of their products like that?

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

In some markets the prices have really gone up.