Canon's flagship RF super-telephoto zoom with L-series optics and 500mm reach.
The Canon RF 100-500mm f/4.5-7.1L IS USM was released in 2020 as the L-series telephoto zoom for the RF system, covering the 100-500mm range with L-series dust and moisture sealing. The ring USM motor provides fast, quiet AF suited to sports and wildlife tracking. IS is built in for handheld telephoto use. It accepts a 1.4x and 2x RF teleconverter for extended reach of 700mm and 1000mm respectively, retaining autofocus with compatible bodies. The variable f/4.5-7.1 aperture is faster than consumer telephoto alternatives across the zoom range.
The optical design uses 20 elements in 14 groups. Nine aperture blades produce smooth bokeh. The 77mm filter thread is the Canon L-series telephoto standard. At 1,365g without the tripod collar the lens is substantial for handheld use; the included tripod collar adds approximately 165g. Minimum focus distance varies: 0.9m at 100mm, 1.0m at 300mm, 1.2m at 500mm. IS is built in. Ring USM provides fast, responsive AF with full-time manual focus override. Accepts RF 1.4x TC (reaching 700mm f/10) and RF 2x TC (reaching 1000mm f/14). Variable aperture from f/4.5 at 100mm to f/7.1 at 500mm.
The 100-500mm range with L-series sealing and teleconverter compatibility is the RF 100-500mm's defining practical position for wildlife and sports: the 500mm reach covers most outdoor wildlife distances, and the 1.4x teleconverter extends this to 700mm when more reach is needed. L-series weather sealing enables use in rain and challenging conditions. The 77mm filter thread is consistent with several RF L-series lenses for filter carry-over. The f/7.1 maximum at 500mm requires adequate outdoor lighting for fast shutter speeds.
On the used market the RF 100-500mm L IS USM is available at premium telephoto zoom pricing. Condition checks: ring USM AF response, IS engagement, L-series sealing at the zoom barrel, tripod collar thread, and front element for marks. The Canon RF 200-800mm f/6.3-9 IS USM provides longer reach at lower cost but without the internal zoom. Compatible with all Canon RF-mount bodies; the RF 1.4x and 2x teleconverters are required for extended reach use.