Canon's flagship 500mm super-telephoto — the EF 500mm f/4L IS II for professional wildlife and sports.
The Canon EF 500mm f/4L IS II USM was released in 2011 as Canon's second-generation flagship 500mm super-telephoto prime. Featuring fluorite elements and the IS II stabilisation system, it delivered outstanding optics with a significant weight reduction over the original. It became the standard for professional wildlife and sports photographers in the Canon system.
Optical performance is outstanding — one of the sharpest super-telephoto primes ever made. Fluorite elements provide extraordinary chromatic aberration control. IS II stabilisation provides approximately 4 stops of correction — essential at 500mm. Ring-type USM delivers fast, precise AF for tracking fast-moving subjects. Compatible with Canon 1.4x and 2x extenders.
Canon EF mount, full-frame. Rear drop-in filter holder for 52mm filters. Weight is approximately 3,190 grams — significantly lighter than the Mark I thanks to magnesium alloy and fluorite construction. Build quality is outstanding L-series with full weather sealing and fluorine coatings. Hard case and tripod collar included.
Available on the used market at significant but below-new prices — the RF 500mm f/4L has reduced demand. Check IS, AF, and all elements. Despite the mirrorless transition, this lens remains one of the finest 500mm f/4 lenses ever made. Adapts to Canon RF mount via the EF-RF adapter with full functionality.