Canon EF 100mm f/2.8L Macro IS USM: The Best Macro Lens

Canon EF 100mm f/2.8L Macro IS USM Image

Canon EF 100mm f/2.8L Macro IS USM DEALS

The Canon EF 100mm f/2.8L Macro IS USM is no new lens to the market, having made its debut in the middle of 2009. Despite its age, photographers still enjoy using this lens. It has a convenient and practical focal length while still remaining quite light. You also can’t forget about the incredible image quality.

When Canon made the announcement of this lens, there was already the EF 100mm f/2.8 USM non-IS Macro lens which was held at a high standard due to its excellent performance. There was much anticipation for this lens because of the new feature Canon added to it – Hybrid Optical Image Stabilization.

Aside from this one new feature, Canon always delivered when it came to macro lenses. It stayed true to the meaning of macro keeping the 1:1 life-size magnification ratio and capturing subjects in their most accurate size. With that, the Canon EF 100mm f/2.8L Macro IS USM makes it ideal for anyone who enjoys shooting up close.

Canon EF 100mm f/2.8L Macro IS USM Image 2

Design and Build Quality

The Canon EF 100mm f/2.8L Macro IS USM is relatively large and has a familiar build to other lenses that are a part of the L-series. Although the lens is large, it does not weigh as much since the barrel is made of high-quality plastic. But, don’t let that trick you into thinking the lens is fragile because it is not. The mount is made of metal, of course. Along with the mount, you will find dust and moisture resistance with a protective seal around it.

Close to the mount, you will find a cylindrical area for mounting a tripod collar.

Control and Operation

Canon put three control switches on the side to make it easy to use and convenient to reach. There is also a focus ring that is broad and smooth when in use.

Features

Hybrid Optical Image Stabilization

The Canon EF 100mm f/2.8L Macro IS USM has a feature called ‘Hybrid Optical Image Stabilization.’ What this does is use a vibration gyro and acceleration sensor to control angular and shift movements. Since this is a macro lens, having this feature is especially useful as minor movement can have a great impact on the final image.

With image stabilization, you won’t always need to have a tripod at your hand. But make sure to activate the feature before shooting which can be done with the On/Off switch below the AF/MF selector.

Canon EF 100mm f/2.8L Macro IS USM Sample Image

Autofocus

The commonly used ultrasonic motor is used in this lens, as it has been used in many other Canon lenses. This is a dependable motor that works quickly and is also near-silent in operation. In comparison to older 100mm lenses using this motor, the Canon EF 100mm f/2.8L Macro IS USM focuses on subjects quicker. But even with a fast motor, there are also many factors that depend on the focal accuracy and speed like the camera body, the light levels, and the contrast among the subject.

Manual Focus

Manual focus is a crucial part of a macro lens, especially when working up close with a tripod. This lens is made for working with close subjects, which is why it receives so much positive feedback. The optimized focus ring is great for macro photos as it is precise and sharp.

How Does the Canon EF 100mm f/2.8L Macro IS USM Compare?

Canon EF 100mm f/2.8 Macro IS USMSigma 105mm f/2.8 EX DG OS HSM Macro
Has optical image stabilizationHas optical image stabilization
Has a minimal focal length of 0.3mmHas a minimal focal length of 105mm
Weighs 1.38lbsWeighs 1.6lbs
Has a chromatic aberration of 13Has a chromatic aberration of 3
Weather sealedIncludes a lens hood

Conclusion

In comparison to other L-series lenses, the Canon EF 100mm f/2.8L Macro IS USM might take the cake for being the best one yet. It has an extraordinary sturdy build, while still being lighter than most 100mm lenses, is weatherproof, and has an incredible optical design that captures sharp and detailed content. With that all, the Canon EF 100mm f/2.8L Macro IS USM is a top contender.

The Review

Canon EF 100mm f/2.8L Macro IS USM

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For those who enjoy focusing on the smaller subject in life, like insects, coins, or even wildlife, the Canon EF 100mm f/2.8L Macro IS USM lens will make you happy. Not only is the lens great for smaller objects but for portrait photography as well, so it is basically a two-for-one deal.

Pros

  • Produces very sharp images
  • Lightweight
  • Sturdy with a tough build and weather sealed
  • Has image stabilization
  • Fast USM Autofocus
  • Versatile lens - can be used for more than just a macro lens

Cons

  • On the pricey side
  • Lens hood is long

Canon EF 100mm f/2.8L Macro IS USM DEALS

Review Breakdown

Design

Durability

Features

Performance

Price

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