The Canon RF 100-400mm f/5.6-8 IS is part of Canon's EOS R system, one of Canon's most important releases since the EOS system began about 30 years ago. To support the optical technologies of this new system, a new mount type RF has been introduced. RF lenses take full advantage of the benefits of a mirrorless design.

Lens and Sensor Distance

The distance between the RF lens' mount and the surface of the EOS R sensor has been reduced from 44mm in the EF/EF-S system to a mere 20mm. Having larger optical elements very close to the sensor means fewer aberrations, greater brightness, and better image performance overall. The number of contact pins has been increased, elevating the speed and volume of communication between the lens and camera. This is supported by a new microprocessor within the lens that increases communication without significantly increasing power consumption.

Control and Customization

Taking advantage of the communication features listed above, RF lenses provide the unique ability to assign custom shooting functions directly to the lens. A special tactile control ring on the barrel of the lens can be assigned to functions like aperture value, shutter speed, ISO adjustment, and exposure compensation. Rotation clicks give you the sensory cue needed to make these settings changes via the while while composing your shot. You can also can change the direction of manual focus control for the focusing ring.

Versatile Performance Features

Incorporating a new NANO Utrasonic Motor that combines a stepping motor-like mechanism with traditional USM, this lens exhibits smooth, silent, and ultra-quick AF performance to meet the demands of video shooting. The relatively narrow f/5.6-8 maximum aperture allows this lens to be extremely lightweight and easy to handle but performs best outdoors or in good light. The Optical Image Stabilizer system helps minimize the appearance of camera shake by 5.5 stops, which will help when you are in lower light situations. The massive zoom range makes this lens a great choice for sports and wildlife/safari subjects and it's compatible with RF 1.4x and 2x extenders.