The Ultimate DREAM LENS Shootout | Do Version 1 Lenses Still Hold Up? | 600mm Battle!

[@simon_dentremont]

Thanks Jan. I just picked up the RF 600 and for sure it’s weight and handholdability are amazing!

[@jan_wegener]

Enjoy!

[@DaneASmith]

Hey Jan! Excellent review! Your note about spare parts availability is spot on and one was one of the major factors that led to me going with the EF version 2. As a note for you (or anyone else that's interested): I called Canon Pro Services to ask when they expected the spare parts / service end of life to be for the version 2 and they told me it would be around 8/31/2025. While that isn't close, it's definitely something to be cognizant of. Hope that helps!

[@jan_wegener]

Thanks for the info!

[@AtaBoraBasar]

I have the canon ef 300mm f/2.8L IS USM II lens. I can say this much. Canon has achieved optical perfection in versions 2 of the 300,400,500,600,800mm lenses. In the following versions, it made minor coating additions and improvements especially for weight reduction. Also, another example, there is no difference in optical quality between the Canon EF 70-200mm f/2.8L IS USM II and III. The only difference is the Air Globe Coating (ASC).

[@texmex9721]

Thanks so much for this. I have a EF 600mm F4 IS II and the the two VIII extenders, which makes for a Wonderfull set. I use them with an R3. Recently I purchased an RF 2X extender with a modified adapter. The claim was this offered some sharpness over the 2X VIII, but I did not see any improvement, and the Meta data no longer shows the teleconverter. It does however make possible shooting at 2400mm using both 2X extenders. Not very practical, but a bit of fun.

[@MarkReese]

Super helpful rundown of all the Canon 600mm versions, thank you! 💯

[@jan_wegener]

My pleasure!

[@TheWildlifeGallery388]

I just recently purchased the V2 Lens and have it adapted to my R5 - While very heavy, I'm blown away with the difference in image quality and sharpness of this lens over the 100-400 v2 Lens I was shooting, it is well worth the money, as you said half the price of a new V3 or RF version.

[@Methodical2]

The 600II is the weight of my old 500 f4 lens and is one of several reasons I upgraded to the 600II back in 2014. To me, it is pretty light, but coming from a 100-400 it will definitely seem heavy.

[@hstein27]

I went with same setup. Aside from the weight and slow focus when hunting for birds in flight in the distance, I don't mind having all that money still in the bank instead of getting the RF.

[@TheWildlifeGallery388]

@@hstein27 - the best benefit of it - money for things

[@GlennBartley]

Lot's of great info here. Very comprehensive and honest assessment of the options out there.

[@jan_wegener]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@travishenry6764]

Great video, love the comparative analysis. I’ve used an R5 with a 100-400 L with adapter for years and loved the setup. But I recently purchased the RF 600 f/4 and I’m blown away by its sharpness and clean backgrounds. I run the R5 600 combo on a monopod now for good mobility. Good technique is necessary to ensure everything in the image is in focus especially with water birds with longer bills. But, the sharpness of the lens is truly incredible.

[@jan_wegener]

Thanks for sharing!

[@geoffn8963]

The Canon 600II was my first super telephoto and I loved that lens and used it for 6 years. I've borrowed the 600III and 600RF from Canon and both are great because of the weight savings. But I agree the 600II had a little something special with the IQ. I now use the Sony 600GM as my main lens (also own the 400GM). It is right on par with all the Canon lenses but balances better in the hand than the 600III/RF. The Canon lenses are just a little bit more front heavy and it is noticeable when shooting them back to back as I did during my time testing the latest Canon lenses. One interesting thing I found is the Canon III/RF has slightly more magnification than the 600GM even when shot at distances closer to infinity. Sony is fudging the focal length a bit more than Canon. But all of this is nitpicking as any of these lenses are amazing.

[@jan_wegener]

Thanks for sharing. Interesting observation. I noticed the same when comparing zooms

[@jeffolson4731]

Really nice video with great information. I wouldn't have thought about spare parts for older lenses. It makes a lot of sense but I bet that is something a lot of people miss while in search of a good deal.

[@wellingtoncrescent2480]

Awesome review, and timely, as someone offered me an EF IS -1 today, and I was tempted 😊. Thanks, too, for mentioning the issue of focus breathing, which is often ignored with these long telephotos.

[@fy7589]

Maybe this will sound crazy but I have a speedbooster adapter from metabones for EF lens to RF body. And that's why I'd probably go with the EF version 3 because believe it or not, once the speedbooster is attached, it produces a sharper image, I'd want to have a 412 mm F2.8 lens too therefore the EF version 3 will probably be the best for me but I'll have to test both and see of course and I'm not sure if anybody will let me test those since those lenses cost a fortune but that's like a next year thing for me. Great video by the way because as far as I can tell, nobody has made this comparison with all the versions.

[@jasyamaha]

That was truly a dream review. While I have an R3 and a 100-300mm for work, a 600mm lens will always be a out of reach but at least now I know the fine differences between them. I did use the version 2 for a day at the tennis a decade ago and I'll never forget just how good it was.

[@DanBetty]

I picked up that flex shooter and I love it. Also got a deal on a used EF 600 III. I would have preferred the RF but would have cost me $3,000 more. I am very pleased with the 600.

[@fpl66]

I don’t have the 600 but the 500 L IS version II. It had a little less reach but is smaller and easier to take photos from hides.

[@WildlifeInMotion]

I also own the 500L II, I think it is the best bang for the buck for a used big lens for canon. Great IQ, but still decent weight, stabilizer, autofocus. Can still fit in some hiking bags (fstop, thinktank mindshift.. etc) with camera attached (lens hood reversed) while the 600 usually can't.

[@gary_michael_flanagan_wildlife]

Are you able to get on the ground with it pretty well? I have the 600mm II and although it’s amazing, at the beach it can be challenging getting it off tripod to the ground for shorebirds. I was curious if the 500 you use handheld most of the time? Thanks

[@gary_michael_flanagan_wildlife]

@@java5111 yes I use that also! But do you find that your flight photography is best of a gimbal or do you handhold it? Thanks

[@gary_michael_flanagan_wildlife]

@@java5111 got it. I love my 600mm II. Even with the 2x converter, mostly a stop down to f10 and it’s still really sharp. Surprisingly. I’ll probably end up keeping it. I debated moving up to the RF 600mm f4 but I think if I’m patient they will come out with a better L zoom or something else for travel use. Right now I’m debating a 400mm DO II lens or 300mm f2.8 II to bring to Hawaii with me with some TX’s. Both great travel combos.

[@MichaelThornton-hx6wt]

@@gary_michael_flanagan_wildlife I use my 500 f4 mk1 hand-held more than on a tripod. But, I'm getting older and hand-held is getting harder. (...then again, so is getting up and down off the ground, but there's still no better way to get those low-angle shots. :)

[@deekelly2578]

Great lens review Jan. I have great respect for you and having had the privilege of shooting with you and using your EF600 II, I dreamt of owning that lens, but the weight was just too much for me to seriously consider it. However, I was extremely fortunate to find possibly the only RF600 in Melbourne shortly afterwards and I bit the bullet and bought it. It now lives almost permanently on my camera. You will remember what I look like, so that will give you an idea of how manageable this lens is. I use it primarily with a monopod and have no issues carrying it around at all. It is a dream lens and I love the focal length limiter which I use often. It is really thanks to your advice that I bought it, and I haven't regretted that decision for one minute. 👍

[@jan_wegener]

Awesome thanks for sharing

[@TheMainakg]

A word about the choice in Nikon world : I was recently shopping around for a 600mm lens in India. I have Nikon DSLRs ( D850) while a friend has Canon (5D mk III) and another has Sony ( A7IV and A7RII) so I am comfortable with operation of all three brands. Personally, I find the menu and functions of Canon and Nikon comparable, so I was ready to switch systems if my crown jewel of 600mm f4 lens was up to the task. Sony and Canon 600mm lenses in India are about 20-30% more costly than the Nikon F mount ( for SLR) 600mm f4 FL E lens ( weighs 3.8 kg - same ballpark as the Canon version IS II) which makes it a no-brainer. It is true that Nikon Z mount 600mm is about 12% costlier than Sony : but this is a 2 in 1 lens : a 600f4 AND a 840mm f5.6 so if someone wishes both focal length ready at push of a lever, the lens is incredible value for money. In India, for someone planning a new grounds-up wildlife kit, Nikon rules the roost with better value for money and even lighter setups with better f-stops ( couple a Z6II with a 400mm f4.5) for the tropical low light conditions.

[@refuztosay9454]

Thanks for your interesting comments on pricing across various brands. I was wondering, are the large Z mount primes - 400, 600 - available for purchase in India? I searched for over a year in the USA and nothing was available. I think a few NPS members have been fulfilled but nothing yet for the enthusiast consumers. Even the big dealers like B&H and Adorama have nothing in stock.

[@TheMainakg]

@@refuztosay9454 to my knowledge, the Z400 mm f2.8 TC is available, maybe 2 copies in all of India at present ( our spring is from February to April, peak birding season, so some orders have been filled up) while the Z600 TC I last heard was on backorder but somewhere of a 6 month wait. Of course, NIKON will not officially mail a firm date of delivery, so whatever I hear from representatives I am writing here. The lenses probably will not have valid warrantee in US, so it will be a bad idea to plan purchase here unless you use the lens for a long time on indian soil ( maybe a long trip or movie or project) then sell off with almost zero depreciation.

[@refuztosay9454]

@@TheMainakg thank you for taking the time to reply with the inventory outlook in India - yep - I agree with your view on the "grey market" dangers of buying international versions. It's too much money to risk being told they wont fix it...

[@Dilemma1962]

I've had the EF 800 5.6 IS for 7 years. I've shot the 600 version II and version III. The image quality between these three is virtually indistinguishable. So is autofocus performance for that matter. What IS significant is the weight. You don't hand-hold the 800. There is the matter of speed to consider also. the 600 does give you an extra stop of light although noise reduction software has gotten so good it's not a deal breaker. Personall? I like the reach I get with the 800. But that's just me. Great content as usual.

[@axelhildebrandt]

Great summary, Jan! I went from an EF500 to RF600, which is not only 1.7 pounds lighter but also works amazingly well with the 2x converter. The only thing I had to get used to is the shallower DOF.

[@jan_wegener]

Thanks for sharing!

[@dglatz01]

One other benefit for EF 3 lens if shooting video on RF mirrorless - you can get Variable ND via the RF-EF mount adapter. There are other ways to get ND for video but this is the cleanest solution I’ve seen shooting RF mirrorless.

[@przybylskipawel]

One upside of using EF lenses on RF bodies is that you can use adapter with drop-in VND filter. It is great for video. However if you need to use VND then perhaps you don't need f4 prime lens and you can go with f6.3 zoom instead anyways.

[@mikebrownhill4662]

Thanks Jan - this video is very useful for me. I'm still using an EF mark 1 600mm but I'm planning to upgrade soon. The Mk1 has served me well - but it's starting to bother me. I've recently injured my shoulder so hand holding is out of the question as this lens is VERY heavy. Even before my injury I couldn't hand hold it for more than a few seconds and I'm not a weak man. Also, the autofocus is slow and the IS isn't great. I was thinking of getting the EF Mk3 but after watching your video I think I'll go the whole way and get the RF version because of your recommendation regarding teleconverters. I don't like that the RF version has no control ring but I do use teleconverters and if I can squeeze a bit more image quality by going RF then that's going to clinch it for me. Now my only problem is telling my wife that I'm about to drop £13,000+ on some chunks of glass...!

[@jan_wegener]

The MF ring doubles up as a control ring apparently Never tried it

[@mikebrownhill4662]

@@jan_wegener Thanks - I didn't know that! Even more reason to annoy my wife... 😁

[@blakeparry1983]

INcorrect on the Nikon, there is a lightweight FL lens for f-f-mount I shoot the canon non IS and yes it's super heavy, but use more for Sports. 300mm and TC if I need portable. Also used to have sigma sport 500mm which was great bang for buck, miss that lens

[@laku4412]

Version 2 all the way! :) I'm in love with the IQ and once the new ones came out, used prices dropped and I could upgrade from my 500 ^^ Now I have a lens I couldn't be happier with for the moment and save some money to eventually buy the future improved RF lens (hopefully +1.4x) in a couple of years! Well, that's the rough plan anyway ^^

[@jan_wegener]

Awesome!

[@Methodical2]

I've had the 600II since 2014 and very happy with it. The 600 paired with the R5s 45mp, I can crop 'til I drop and using Topaz Denoise and Ai sharpen helps maintain image integrity and quality. I am getting older and would love the lighter RF version, but with my luck as soon as I get the current RF version, Canon develops the RFII that is built from the ground up just for the mirrorless cameras, so I will stand down for now. Plus, the EF version is more versatile because I can use it on both the DSLR and mirrorless camera bodies. I still have the 1DX. While the 600 is a really nice lens, I found that the RF400 2.8 and RF2x is a sweet 800mm light weight walk around kit that captures stunning images. It is light and easily hand hold able. Interestingly, I don't use electronic shutter...12fps is good for me. I only tried ES once or twice. I'm not interested in culling 1000s of the same image evertime I go out.

[@jan_wegener]

Thanks for sharing

[@jonberube2489]

This is a perfectly timed video as I'm looking to finally getting the 600mm F4 to put on my R6II. I've been looking at the EF 600mm F/4 Mark II mainly because of the cost to weight ratio when looking at the Mark I or Mark III.

[@alexmirza5210]

With its optical perfection and results with a 2x teleconverter, the Mkii EF must be special. I would accept no optical compromise to save just a kilo. But the speed and lightness of the RF would be a delight. The mk1 at 6kg is in my budget..like the 1st nikon AF-S 600mm f4D lens.

[@ED-on8to]

Für die Deutschen. Zum Thema das die Gen. I Objektive nicht mehr gewartet bzw. repariert werden können. Ich habe neulich mit Exos Reworks aus Hamburg telefoniert und da wurde mir gesagt, dass sie vieles an den alten Tele-Festbrennweiten noch reparieren können und das wohl auch des Öfteren für ihre Kunden tun. (Da gibt es bestimmt auch noch mehr Kameraobjektivwerkstätten.) Ob das stimmt weiß ich nicht, ich habe dort keine Tele-Festbrennweite zum reparieren hingeschickt. Allerdings haben die mein EF 24-105mm F4L repariert, welches ansonsten ein Totalschaden gewesen wäre, und das Objektiv funktioniert jetzt super! Das macht für mich schon einen großen Unterschied, da damit auch wirklich alte Canon EF Objektive (wieder) kaufbar sind, wenn sie repariert werden können.

[@kilohotel6750]

I had the version 2 for years and loved it. I traded it in on the RF because I almost forgot my adapters once, I was grabbing my bags to head to the airport and noticed both of them sitting on my desk. When I got back from my trip I saw Canon had the RF 600 and both RF teleconverters in stock so I ordered them. I wish it had a built in 1.4 like Nikon but other than that I’m really happy with the upgrade the weight savings and IS improvement is nice.

[@jan_wegener]

Yes, same reason I updated. Having it all RF is less pieces to worry about

[@six66red14]

Merci Jan pour ces détails.

[@MrEcliptor]

I got a 600mm F4 L non-is off EBay for $1000. It’s a BRICK… and everytime I have to pack it around I just keep telling myself that it was only $1000 😂. I get amazing photos out of it too. Even though it’s not image stabilized, on a tripod in 20mph winds it was so dang heavy it didn’t move at all. As long as I keep a bottle of ibuprofen with me, I can handle the back pain 😂😂.

[@jan_wegener]

It’s a great leans but definitely very heavy!

[@carlosa7261]

haha thats so funny. The wind is always my issue when the camera is on a tripod.

[@alexmirza5210]

Who needs IS when the inertia of the lens serves to keep images sharp?

[@ldesilva]

My dream lens. In my bucket list. Will probably purchase the 200-800mm lens that’s rumored to be coming as a stop gap purchase. Maybe they will release an improved RF primes as you mentioned when I am ready to buy. Fingers crossed.

[@simonthibodeau7082]

I've been using a 500 f4L mki for a couple of months now. Considering I got mine for around 2150 USD equivalent used (3000 cad total, including drop in polarizing filter), I'd say it is the true value king when it comes to big white primes. Even the v2 of that lens is nearly double the price, and only the non IS 600mm comes even close to it in terms of price (not worth it imo, OIS is a must even on a tripod). That lens cost me around 40% cheaper than a brand new RF100-500 here in Canada, considering we have sales tax. To me, this was a complete no brainer. I've been having so, so much fun with it! I mostly use on monopod with the wimberley monogimbal head and OIS is good enough to reliability hit 1/160, 1/100 even, plenty enough for me. Sharpness is amazing compared to any non L lens I have, I find the AF to be not necessarily "fast" in terms of raw speed for initial subject acquisition, but it's very steady and "sticky" when it comes to eye tracking, which I value much more anyway. Initial subject acquisition is a skill you have to develop no matter what. Either by MF or focusing on a nearby object before engaging eye AF, it's just something you have to do anyway. If your lens is set to the mfd and you're aiming at the sky to find a bird, you're gonna have a bad time with any lens. Great optical performance with the 1.4x TC mkiii, even with the R7 which is already demanding. However I can sense some degree of diminishing returns. Perhaps the mkii edges it in sharpness with a 1.4x. AF is also noticeably slower with a TC, which I also think the mkii version of the lens does better, from what I've read. Overall, it's hard to overlook the 500 f4 at that price imo. For me it put the big white tier in a price bracket that was actually reachable for me. While I can only dream of the 500 mkii or those 600mm lenses, I will say though, if you really have the money, I don't think they're a bad purchase by any means. I think that as long as you're in good enough physical shape to use it, purchasing any used big white prime probably makes more financial sense than buying something like the RF100-500. That might be a hot take, but at the retail price here in Canada, I decided to hold on to my RF100-400 instead for a couple years until we have more 100-500s in the used market for them to actually be purchasable at a reasonable price. The used older big white primes don't really lose their value over time either, which is certainly not true of any purchase of a brand new L lens. So in that sense, even buying the very steep 600 f4 mkii or iiis can be justified by the fact that it's not like they will devalue by that much over time, you can get a ton of use out of them and resell them after a couple years for the same price you bought them at. For obvious reasons, unless you're a pro, I think the RF versions are way overkill. So yeah, with the R7 and a 2150$ 500 f4 with OIS, I think the image quality for birding to price ratio there is completely unbeatable, not even in any other brand imo. I'm extremely happy with my gear. Another lens people look at a lot is the older 300 f2.8L. Having tried it, it's still bulky as hell, has no OIS, and is really too short imo for anything but sitting and waiting next to bird feeders, or big mammals. For birders, I'll keep preaching for the 500 f4 mki as the value king! Fantastic video Jan as always, not many people have had the experience you had to try all of them, so this is an extremely useful vid for people looking to make those purchases. Cheers and thank you!

[@MrTmiket0007]

Thanks for sharing another wonderful video like always 👍👌

[@jan_wegener]

Thank you! Cheers!

[@frostybe3r]

Had the Sony 600 f4 GM for a year, ended up selling and moving down to a 200-600, hard to justify the cost here in UK.

[@jpprovost64]

the best lens its the one we bring whit us ,,,? hope you are back on track !! take care Jan ! always excellent video !

[@jan_wegener]

Sure is!

[@jefferycassiersphotography]

Love your videos ! Would like to see a big lens battle between 400 F2,8 , 600 F4 and 800 F5.6

[@TexMex421]

You know there is a 1200mm now...

[@CarlLoop]

Thank you Jan, this video really informed me precisely how and where I needed it. Not yet ready for the mega lens. Do you have any thoughts or field experience using the R5 with adapted EF 100-400mm mkII and an EF 1.4 extender? Same questions for EF 2.0 extender? Also, what gen of EF 1.4 and EF 2.0 would you recommend for EF100-400mkII combo on R5?Thank you again!

[@magnegrimen3376]

Thanks! Great, and very useful review!

[@jan_wegener]

My pleasure!

[@_Creaux]

Jan, another great video. Cheers!

[@jan_wegener]

Thank you! Cheers!

[@Keven1]

Do you think r6ii and EF 400mm 2.8 L ultrasonic with 1.4x are good vs r6ii and 600mm f11?

[@AdrianWilsonBridders1234]

I am the proud owner of the 600mm version 1 and I have got my hands on a used 200 - 400 F 4.0L and looking forward to using this as of yet no RF, but it will no doubt cost the price of a new Tesla !

[@thepanel2935]

Jan, do you use or recommend RRS (Really Right Stuff) products such as lens foots, tripod legs and tripod heads? What is your opinion of these items? They are good, but they are also generally quite expensive.

[@jan_wegener]

Yes, they're pricy. I use the RRS replacement for for my RF 600. Whenever I wanted to get a tripod from them, they were out of stock, so I use a ProMediaGear one as my main tripod now with a FlexShooter pro head, which I really enjoy.

[@ED-on8to]

Hallo Jan, richtig starkes Video. Danke, das war genau was ich gebraucht habe! Würdest du, wenn man die Version 1 kaufen möchte, das 500 mm F4 aus Gewichtsgründen empfehlen? Das 500 mm Gen. I wiegt ungefähr so viel wie das 600 mm Gen. II. Danke LG Eike

[@hanswurst2829]

I bought the RF 600 last month. On my R5 the AF speed is a bit slow. Is this normal? The 100-500 is much faster

[@zeiss1382]

It might be a little slower. You need a R3 and up to take full advantage of the lens autofocus speed.

[@jan_wegener]

The 100-500 is super fast, so not that many lenses will match that. As Zeiss said, to take full advantage of the speed abilities of the RF lens you need a jug battery camera like the R3. But then you only got the 24mpix

[@ammadoux]

thanks Jan that was so informative. agree with you primes help to take photos to next level, i noticed that when i got the Zuiko 300 mm f4, as you said the overall performance is better and more reliable specially in not so great light.

[@Kajama-g9c]

Great video thanks for the review

[@oastorga]

I have the Canon 600 F4 V1 IS V1. I use it primarily with my Nikon z9 and Z6II. I also use the Sony 200-600 with an AIV but mostly with my Nikon Z9. The Canon gets called a lot for early morning shoots or late sunset photos. My dream lens now is the 400 2.8 with built in TeleConverter. I’m about a year out before it becomes doable to get it. Meanwhile I hope I don’t break the current Canon V1 because that may make act irrational and get the 400 2.8. So shooting and waiting 😅

[@josefmolina3510]

I was a great fan of the 600mm f/4 until Nikon published the Nikkor 800mm f/6.3. Since that the perfect combo for me is the 800mm f/6.3 and a 100-400mm f/4.5 - 6.3. For most of my images I used the 600mm f/4 with a 1.4 TC anyway. Wish Canon would publish such a brilliant 800mm lens too. It is for birds simply an outstanding performer.

[@j4kke046]

I love my version I 600mm, it gives you a real workout though while in the field, there’s bargains to be made as I bought mine for €2000 in pristine condition. Negatives are as you say the weight, not the full fps in mechanical shutter and now with my R6 mark ii no 40 fps in electronic shutter. However for that price you just can’t beat it in my humble opinion! Nice video Jan 👏🏻👌🏻

[@TeddyCavachon]

Thanks for the comparison of the four versions. Something I realized after upgrading from a 50D to R6mkII with my EF lenses is using an EF-RF converter with a VND makes it very convenient for changing video exposure when ISO, shutter and aperture are kept constant. Given the fact the R bodies are dual purpose and more and more photographers are shooting video with them it is shortsighted of Canon not to build VND capability into the RF lenses. Granted they would be a bit longer, but for a super tele does an extra inch really matter? I purchased the 100-500mm as my first RF lens and have been amazed at the results I’ve been getting. To get more reach which would produce the best results, a 1.4 extender or the 800mm f/11?

[@jan_wegener]

I opted for the extender on the 100-500 cause its much smaller to take with me

[@Andy_Thomas]

Question for everybody, please: Markets for used camera equipment here (in Canada) appear to be limited, with eBay having most selection. Most "big white" prime Canon lenses on eBay seem to be posted by overseas vendors (particularly Japan). Have you purchased lenses from these vendors, and if so, how did it go?

[@WildlifeInMotion]

Have you checked on facebook marketplace? This is how I got my 500mm II for a decent price (eastern canada)..

[@13_cmi]

I won’t buy these since I don’t have the money and don’t use canon. But I definitely will get an old manual focus lens like this. The bang for your buck is much better with those old lenses and I just enjoy slow paced manual focus shooting. A comically large camera lens is essential for any photographer and I will be getting one.

[@CZOV]

In a Nikon world i would get a pf lens these days and run happy. Sadly Nikon still dont have replacement for the D850/D500 combo.

[@artofwomenphotography]

i have the EF 600mm Version 3 with the 1.4 and 2.0 extenders version 3 and love it. Don't see me getting the RF version for a while.

[@minusinfinity6974]

Exactly the same lens. Canon took the lazy approach of sticking the EF-RF adapter on the EFIII lens and charging several thousand more for the privilege. RF lens prices are ludicrous in Australia. The RF only will make sense when they release a native RF version II with built-in 1.4x TC, but that will cost $30K for sure.

[@colintraveller]

I saw a EF500 f4.5 L .... 2nd hand for a very appealing price but decided to buy a 24-70 F4 L IS instead 2nd hand in mint condition virtually brand new I think it might be B stock for a fraction of the RRP .. .

[@thehoundGOT]

Really interesting video, thank you

[@jan_wegener]

Glad you enjoyed it

[@mikehogan2829]

Did you ever use the iii usm with ef - rf adapter and extender? If so, how did you mount it (first extender, than adapter or vice versa) with which extender (EF III or RF)? Thank you very much for your excellent videos and for your help in advance.

[@jan_wegener]

Always the adapter first

[@RollTideUK]

Another fascinating video even though I'm not a Canon shooter. I would never have thought about the availability of spare parts.

[@jan_wegener]

Yes it’s one of those things we ignore until we need them

[@runefagereng6023]

So, should one buy an version ii 600mm now or wait for the new canon tele zoom?! ;) Any news on pricing and zoom range?

[@jan_wegener]

We don't know if and when that lens comes.

[@thomasreay]

Hi Jan I’m looking at getting a used 500 f4 mk 1 Is Lens for my R7 would you still recommend the lens.

[@jan_wegener]

Personally I would prefer a 100-500. It's not a prime, but much faster AF, much better IS, higher fps and so much lighter

[@ramanjitahluwalia]

which lens you recommend for wild life photography for a beginner

[@jan_wegener]

Which system ?

[@carlosa7261]

Which would you recommend for video using an R5?

[@jan_wegener]

Version II EF. Version III and RF will have weird vibrations unless you turn the IS off or keep moving the lens slightly while filming

[@pedzsan]

Have you worked with or used the RF 800mm f/5.6? It is 50 grams heavier but a little shorter and, of course, one stop darker.

[@jan_wegener]

For me personally 800 mm is too long, I prefer the flexibility of 600mm

[@thepanel2935]

*_LOL,_* Canon CPS, which I've been a long-term member of, told me that the 600mm f/4 L IS (Version I) "was *_NOT_* a good lens"!

[@Karkawry1970]

I would say the Nikon 600mm F4 E FL ED AF-S VR would be the best bet for the 'budget' minded. Although as new used copies of the EF 600mm II go for under £1,000 less from what I can see. The only issue I am aware of apart from the need for an adaptor (same for Canon) is the current Nikon mirrorless cameras, with the exception of the pricey Z9 are considerably slower to focus. Not sure how well the Nikon take a 1.4x compared to the M2 Canon 600 primes either?

[@jan_wegener]

Historically canon has always performed by far the best with teleconverters

[@guybob548]

I need to start my big prime lens savings account!

[@Xirpzy]

Crazy. The ef v2 sits at 10k here and the rf at 16k. Maybe 5 years work and I could buy one. It would feel strange to save up so much money for just a lens when I could buy a car or something. Even then Im not throwing money at fancy food and parties like my friends. Oh well

[@jefferyrobbins3468]

Thanks for the detailed comparisons. I prefer to hike around, stay mobile, and hand hold the lens. It sounds like a very impressive lens indeed, but I need something lighter than a 600 f4 prime, and one that fits in a camera pack for transport in the field.

[@jan_wegener]

100-500 😄

[@jefferyrobbins3468]

@@jan_wegener Ha! Yes, that helps, and I'm currently using that. However, I was actually hoping for a 100-500 max f5.6 L zoom lens with integrated 1.4x extender, and I'd be willing to pay Canon prices for that.

[@Bikerbeest]

My first pick up as a Nikon Shooter would be the Nikon Z 600 mm F4 , but the price is above the budget what I want to spend on a lens I am saving now to buy the Nikon Z 600 F6.3 and in the Netherlands I can buy 3 times the Nikon Z 600 mm F6.3 for 1 x Nikon Z 600 mm F4

[@ravisinghj]

Hi Jan, I am looking to buy a used Canon 600mm F4.0L IS II USM lens for my R5 body using it with an adapter, I also have Canon 1DX Mkii body. Which camera body out of these 2 will work more better with this lens? Can I use EF TC 1.4 or 2X iii with adapter on R5

[@TexMex421]

I had that combo and it worked great. I now have an R3. I use both the EF TC 1.4 or 2X iii extenders and they work amazing well with that lens. I've seen a few wildlife photographers say the EF VII lens is better with extenders than the EF III or RF lens.

[@erkkisiekkinen286]

Now I bought my first 600mm ,version IS ll ,quite expensive but in perfect condition ,actually like new ,3,9 kilos is a bit heavy but I am gonna use it with monopod. I have had earlier 500mm IS ll .I photograph now with R6 mark ll ,my only dsrl is the old classic 10mpx 40d ,sometimes have to try also it with this 600mm.

[@jan_wegener]

nice!

[@davepastern]

Jan - what are your thoughts on the v1/2/3 TCs (both 1.4x and 2x)? AFAIK, v2 is identical optically to v1, but has weather sealing. v3 has new optical design and weather sealing and also has faster/more accurate AF with v2 super telephotos.

[@jan_wegener]

III are the best for sure

[@davepastern]

@@jan_wegener interesting, as I have both mark 1 and 3 1.4x TCs and optically, the mark 1 holds its ground equally with the mark 3 based on my testing (with both my 500f4 and 300f4, on both my R3 and 7D II). Some have suggested that the mark 3, which was bought used recently, is 'faulty'. Perhaps...

[@dimitristsagdis7340]

Tnx - i waited so long for this video since you first announced that you were planning a comparison when you got the 600 back from service that in the meantime I bought the 500 f/4 II. Based on what you said I don’t regret my choice. Also 500+1.4x is a sweet spot 600 is often not enough reach and 600+1.4x is a bit too tight.

[@jan_wegener]

Hope you enjoy it!

[@dimitristsagdis7340]

@@jan_wegener Tnx yeah, very good. Super happy with it. Many more keepers for BIF, moving the AF speed with the 1.4x is much better than the 300 f/2.8 with the 2x or the 100-400 with the 1.4x I’ve been using till now.

[@helloianzakharov]

As far as I use EF 600/4 IS L v.1 and RF 600/4 IS L, I noticed v.1got more pleasing microcotrast with some cinematic look. I also noticed new RF got IS mostly silent. But RF has some bugs with R5. For example some clanks inside when power is off.

[@jan_wegener]

The silken IS is certainly great, especially for video

[@jamesseward9263]

Any updates on the proposed variable 0-2x TC attachment for RF lenses? I’d hate to have to buy a whole new lens to have a built in TC!

[@jan_wegener]

Not a word

[@jamesseward9263]

@@jan_wegener I’m seriously think about upgrading from the 600mm v2 to the RF version I a couple of months and would hate it if they come out with a built in version vs an add on lol

[@TexMex421]

The idea of a variable teleconverter sounds great! But also a little hard to believe. A TON of pro photographers claim the 2X converter does not produce enough image quality for them, but now they are going to make a 0-2X converter? That's like Tesla saying they can't make an EV go 500 miles on a charge, so instead they will make it fly and the distances will be shorter.

[@divercraig65]

Thanks Jan, really helpful video as I'm considering buying one of these lens'. However, following your recent video with the new Canon lens' coming this year, it will be harder to make a decision between the 600mm f4 and the 300-700 f5.6. At the moment though the 600mm f4 is winning......

[@jan_wegener]

We still don't know 100% what zooms will come. Touch choices hehe. Prime will always have a nicer image look about it

[@djack4125]

What are the issues of using teleconverters with the 600 lll? AF, IQ or maybe stabilization?

[@jan_wegener]

Mainly IQ, especially with the first released lenses and directly compared to V2

[@CNCTurboStep]

I was playing around with my old 500 F4 when I realised it too "suffered" from focus breathing. Obviously I was aware of this phenomenon but I never considered it in connection with my expensive (back in the day) telephoto lenses. At the minimum focussing distance it only corresponds to a focal length of around 415mm. I've been cheated!🙃 That corresponds to around half a 1.4x converter! I then compared it to my RF 100-500 at 500mm and the same subject distance and that came out even worse. Have you ever compared the 600mm lenses for focus breathing??? Oh, it just occurred to me that you might be interested to compare this affect between the Canon RF600 the new Nikon you have. Just a thought....

[@jan_wegener]

I've only ever done zoom vs prime and the prime is much longer

[@CNCTurboStep]

@@jan_wegener I just had to re-measure the zoom and the number turned out to be exactly a factor of 1.4 at the above distance (4.35m). Shouldn't Canon provide us with a free 1.4x converter so we can achieve the published focal length? No?

[@jan_wegener]

@@CNCTurboStep I guess it’s like those miles per gallon measures the car manufacturers publish

[@falxonPSN]

I, too, was looking at a used EF version 2 600 mm, but the price difference between those and the EF version 2 500 mm meant that I went with the 500 mm as my first super tele. It's definitely a lot bigger and heavier than what I'm used to, but absolutely handholdable even for a complete wimp like me. For someone that has the 500, would you recommend an eventual upgrade to 600 a few years down the road, or would you rather recommend holding on to it and looking for a deal on a 400 f/2.8 that could be used with a 2X teleconverter?

[@minusinfinity6974]

No not for the huge cost difference and the fact we now have 45MP sensors. The difference in subject size is only 20% and software like Gigapixel can easily upscale with superb results if you need to. I prefer the 500mm size even though the new 600 is lighter. Such a shame Canon didn't even bother updating the 500mm since 2010. I switched to Nikon now, lenses like the 400 f/4.5 which only weigh 1.2kg and 800 f/6.3 PF ar 2.35kg are amazing and IQ is also superb. The two lenses are lighter than a Canon 600 f/4 II. I hoping Nikon release the 600 f/5.6 PF or a 500 f/4.5 with built-in 1.4x as both will be very light and Nikon's pricing on these lenses has been incredible.

[@jan_wegener]

For me 600mm is a great focal length. I don’t like the 2.8/400. Because using a 2x all the time is never ideal.

[@Just_because998]

I know you are mostly a Canon shooter, however do you have any thoughts on a Sony 400 2.8 with and without teleconverters. Thanks.

[@jan_wegener]

It looks like a fantastic lens

[@TheLukaszpg]

Hi Jan, I have R7. Would you go for non-IS if mostly shooting from a tripod and to have a taste of the prime lenses on a budget or would it be a waste of money? Or would you rather go 600/f11 RF because the AF performance would be comparable? Thanks a lot

[@mvp_kryptonite]

So I have the R7 and plenty of L, and EF-S glass and honestly the 600/11 is a joy to use. If you use it in the right conditions it’s great! I got the ishoot tripod foot so I can hold that when walking around with the lens but if Duade Paton and Brent Hall talk highly of them, then I don’t see why anyone else can’t. Super value when picked up used Edit: Hugh Sweeney likes the 800/11 too! The Non IS would let in much more light of course but you will be on your own repair wise and the weight no doubt need a tripod or monopod

[@TheLukaszpg]

​@@mvp_kryptonite thanks a lot. Jan, what do you think?

[@jan_wegener]

Why do you want a 600, that’s the main question. The 800/600 f11 will be great and lightweight but have a diffrent image look to an F4 prime lens

[@TheLukaszpg]

​@@jan_wegener I would love to taste the big prime lenses without taking another mortgage and see how much better they are compared to the zooms. That is the main reason. And having one and using it occasionally would just give me joy

[@JoelRiveraMD]

What about if I shoot with multiple camera system ? Right now I have the 3 major one R5/R8, Sony A7s3 and Z8. I love to shoot with all of them . What would be your recommendation?

[@jan_wegener]

Get one for each 😅😆

[@jan_wegener]

Nikon has the best 600 prime imo

[@MannyScoot]

my 600mm V2 IS was giving me an error code and it wont focus in the near, it acquires focus further than the 70 feet mark......I sent it in for repair and was told the part Main PCB Part YG2-2900 is not found anywhere (Bad DC to DC circuit board ) and returned it to me...... I found the part in Australia for $125.00 bucks P/N YG2-0352-000 and replaced it myself in 30 minutes..... and it again works like a champ ......

[@jan_wegener]

Glad you could get it fixed

[@Methodical2]

Do you have masterclass for Lightroom?

[@jan_wegener]

Not at the moment, but hopefully soon :)

[@Methodical2]

@@jan_wegener Looking forward to it.

[@Wszyc]

Awesome video Jan I'll no longer bother you on social media with the questions about those :) those 600 looks to be out of my reach but 500 f4 mk1 is half of the price of 600 f4 mk2 in my country and I use 7dm2 so I got attitional 1,6 crop it tempting to give it a go we will see.

[@MichaelThornton-hx6wt]

I have the exact setup you're considering, and I absolutely love the results (though it's even better on my 5D mk4). I can't even imagine better performance from a lens -- but, then again, my 500 f4 mk1 is also the only super lens I've ever been able to afford. I do have these caveats: the lens is a really big pain in the rear to travel with on international flights; and I have, indeed, already experienced the problem of no parts for repairs. In my case, the lens hood screw-down assembly broke, rendering the hood useless. But the lens is so good, and the used price was such a great deal, that I'm still happy with my purchase years later. Once I move to a Canon mirrorless body, however, the limited frame rate of which Jan speaks will definitely be a problem for me.

[@Wszyc]

@@MichaelThornton-hx6wt big thanks for sharing your experience with the lens!

[@Wszyc]

@@MichaelThornton-hx6wt I wonder how much those lenses are different from the other glass in canon lineup maybe some parts can be harvest elsewhere :) ( of course not the lens cap screw assembly but electronics) If I will ever get the lens for my self and anything happens to it I'll post then solutions how to fix it :) for example 70-300 is usm mark 1 i fixed with parts from watch and 2 other lenses :)

[@3island]

@@Wszyc The main parts that would go out, I hope, would be the IS motor or the AF motor. I have the first IS, recently purchased for 2500. I have had great luck with R6 and having the IS motor OFF in the lens. The R6 of course has its own. If the AF motor goes out, the new mirrorless cameras have a 10x zoom one can use (by pushing the magnifying glass button) that allows one to get very good focus with manual focus. I always have had trouble focusing in manual with prior Canon bodies until I discovered this feature.

[@Wszyc]

@@3island in the worst case scenario I would need to rebuild the motos or do new ones myself yeah I know that for most of the people it sounds crazy but some people are capable of fixing such stuff and Im one of them :D so I will be ok but thanks for all the tips and tricks even if I can fix such stuff its a nice tip with that zoom option if you are in the field and gear fails on you

[@runefagereng6023]

RF 200-800 or the EF 600mm mk2? :)

[@epsonc882009]

What lens cover/coat do you have on your 600mm? Thanks

[@jan_wegener]

It’s a lenscoat

[@epsonc882009]

@@jan_wegener thanks

[@OhhhhhhhBugger]

The MTF charts don't lie... The 500mm mkII probably had the most god tier levels of resolution and contrast. The 600mm mkii is just a touch behind it.

[@OhhhhhhhBugger]

@@r2hildur The only thing they could do to improve it would be weight, (maybe the stabilizer too?). If they found a way to bring the weight down by like, a pound, or pound and a half, it would be THE lens for me. I've actually been pretty happy with the RF 100-500 though.

[@photojasinski]

I own the 500 f/4L IS II and recently bought a 400 f/2.8L IS II and found it to be less sharp than my 500mm. I've been tempted to replace my 500 with a 600 II but the size, weight and quality of the 500 is something I have a hard time letting go!

[@OhhhhhhhBugger]

@@photojasinski I don't blame you. The 600mm mkii is about 1.5 pounds heavier. I try to travel as light as I can personally.

[@fp9745]

Hi Jan, great video and comparison of Canon 600 lenses. As a user of a 10 year old EF 600 II lens and EF 1.4 & 2.0 III extenders on an R5, I am very pleased that from your point of view there is only a minimal difference in IS performance and the image quality is exactly the same. The 900 g additional weight is not a problem for me, since I either use a tripod or otherwise always an excellent monopod. The EF 600 II lens is even better on the new Rx bodies than on the xD bodies, without a doubt, the EF 600 II still performs perfectly today. Greetings from Bavaria

[@WernerBirdNature]

Hi Jan, damn right these are dream lenses !! But I fear that by the time I might be able to afford such lens, I'll probably be too old to carry it around hahah. In your comparison you didn't touch the MFD, but maybe all of them are focusing from a bit over 4m onwards ?

[@jan_wegener]

Good point. The older ones are 5m+

[@WernerBirdNature]

@@jan_wegener If I'd suddenly have money to burn, the MFD of 2.6m might tempt me to opt for the 800/5.6 which has about the same weight. But with extender the 600/4 becomes 840/5.6 so it seems slightly brighter and has stronger IS rating .. though choice I guess, but without the funds I don't need to worry about that 😀

[@mlevesque33]

Yes I keep dreaming of owning a 600mm lens for wildlife. One day I will own one.

[@refuztosay9454]

I shot Nikon for decades - but the debacle of their inability to manufacture large primes lenses forced me to switch to Sony. Here we are headed towards 2 years from the announcement of the Z9 - which I bought anticipating a reasonable availability of Zmount big glass - and you can’t buy any pro level glass for wildlife. What a joke. No 400mm f2.8, no 600mm f4 no 800 f6.3 (which is debatable if it’s pro or not. So, you ask what lens would Nikon shooter get? The answer is nothing. Btw - I have now the A1 and R7V - with a 400 f2.8, a 600mm f4 and a 200-600 zoom. I was able -not only to buy it all at once - I was able to get competitive quotes from 3 dealers to get the best bargain - from what a was a once in a lifetime brand migration. Thanks again for the great video.

[@hellopsp180]

So in Summary - make sure to get Version 2 with IS for long term available parts Get the super old Non IS version for the best deal. But risk being out of pocket if it ever breaks down

[@skakdosmer]

I would never even for a moment consider buying a big prime - even if I could afford one. And if someone were to give me one for free, I'd be afraid to bring it anywhere, so I'd immediately sell it. I love the flexibility of my 150-600, and the image quality is more than good enough.

[@Twobarpsi]

12lbs of weight for the version 1 🥵!!

[@tibtechtalks]

Thanks again for sharing your nice video. The RF version looks amazing but the price….maybe I have to sell my car 😜😀

[@kevinvandenhoven1348]

Nikon 600 F4 FL 🎉❤

[@yorkshirekoi2246]

have you considered the sigma 500mm F4 sport os ?

[@jan_wegener]

no :)

[@yorkshirekoi2246]

@@jan_wegener why not did you not like it ?

[@ThreeCeeProductions]

Very nice analysis. I wish you would compare the new Canon 600 and 800 f11 lenses to these. I know you can’t get a $10,000.00 lens for $1000.00 dollars but would be interested in your opinion. Most never make a dime with Bird Photography and these trade offs with these new RF Lenses might be acceptable.

[@jan_wegener]

I did one video in the past, but will use the 800 again, soon