The Canon RF 100-500mm f/4.5-7.1L 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. The rotation-type zoom ring features torque adjustment capabilities to fine tune the handling of the lens.

Versatile Performance Features

This lens spans a long telephoto range but to maintain portability it has variable maximum and minimum apertures. The Dual Nano USM focus system delivers fast and nearly silent autofocus while the IS offers three distinct modes: standard single-shot, panning-optimized, and a mode that only activates the IS during the exposure. The Canon RF 100-500mm f/4.5-7.1L IS is the ideal lens for when you need a super telephoto zoom but you don't necessarily need wide apertures but you do need portability.