Canon EF400mm f/2.8L IS II USM is a top class super-telephoto lens that takes the quality of super-telephoto lenses to the next level. With outstanding image quality, a fast f/2.8 aperture and a drastically reduced weight compared to its predecessor it is a lens packed with features, optical excellence and reliability.

Key features

• L-type super-telephoto lens
• Four-stop Image Stabilizer for blur-free shots
• Three IS Modes
• Power Focus mode
• Fluorine lens coating
• Two fluorite lens elements reduce chromatic aberration and colour blurring
• Robust, but lightweight, build with superb handling
• Close focusing distance of 2m (6.56ft)
• Ring-type USM with high-speed CPU for silent, high-speed AF
• Security cable lock attachment point
• Long and short tripod attachments plates provided

The older EF400mm f/2.8L IS USM is a very well respected lens that produced high quality results in all situations. The new lens takes that performance level and raises it to new heights to produce a lens capable of delivering results no matter how tough the assignment.

The deployment of 16 lens elements in 12 lens groups, as well as the use of two Fluorite lens elements, effectively minimises chromatic aberration and eliminates colour blurring around the edges of a subject thus providing higher levels of resolution and contrast than the outgoing model.

The optical design and the placement of lens elements as well as the use of a Sub-Wavelength structure Coating (SWC) on the fourth group of lens elements reduces ghosting and flare when a bright light source is included within the frame.

The lens’ ring-type USM autofocus motor combines with an optimised AF algorithm to provide autofocus on par with the outgoing model. The new Power Focus mode is activated from the focus mode selector switch. This mode allows the lens to adjust the focus smoothly by driving the AF motor. It can be used when shooting movies with the lens to provide a pull focus effect.

Power Focus is activated by turning the focus preset ring. A small turn will drive the focus slowly, while a larger turn will provide a faster movement through the focus range. The addition of Power Focus mode allows you to activate a motor driven focus shift for use when shooting movies.

In a concerted effort to improve the handling of the lens, the size and weight have been reduced and the focus ring and switches have been redesigned and repositioned.

The weight reduction is 1.52kg (down to just 3.85kg from 5.37kg) compared to the previous model and this has been made possible by the use of Magnesium alloy and Titanium in the lens body construction. This saving of over 1.5kg makes the lens a viable prospect for both shooting hand held and carrying as part of a lens kit – it is now lighter than the Canon EF500mm f/4L IS USM lens, despite the faster maximum aperture. Indeed photographers shooting with the EF70-200mm f/2.8L IS II USM and the EF400mmm f/2.8L IS II USM will have a lens combination that, when carried, is 50g lighter than the previous EF400mm f/2.8L IS USM lens on its own.

The focus ring has been moved to fit in a more ergonomic position and it has been made wider so it is easier to find when your eye is at the viewfinder. The switch arrangement has also been modified. The switches are less likely to be knocked accidentally, and the arrangement is such that the most commonly used switches are placed closer to the camera body, while those used less frequently are placed further away.

Improved durability is another area that has been addressed. The new lens features better dust and moisture proofing and a more durable IS mechanism to ensure it keeps working in all environments.

Lenses like this are highly desirable and, unfortunately, can be targeted by thieves. To help to limit the risk of theft, the tripod collar-locking knob features a security attachment point compatible with Kensington-type cable locks. By attaching a cable lock to the locking knob rather than the lens itself, the lens can still be rotated within the tripod collar without tying the lens up in the cable lock.

Designed with lens extenders in mind, the EF400mm f/2.8L IS II USM lens functions perfectly with the Canon’s Mark III Extenders to still provide exceptionally high image quality and extra reach. With the EF1.4x III Extender you’ll achieve a 560mm f/4 focal length and with the EF2x III, 800mm f/5.6. To get the best performance out of the new lens with the Mark III extenders you must ensure that you always attach the Extender to the lens first, before attaching the whole unit to the camera. This ensures that the (combined) lens information is transmitted correctly to the camera body to provide the optimum image quality and focus performance.