Canon EF 70-200mm f/2.8L II IS USM Telephoto Zoom Lens for Canon SLR Cameras Review
Canon EF 70-200mm f/2.8L II IS USM Telephoto Zoom Lens for Canon SLR Cameras Feature
- EF 70-200mm f/2.8L IS USM II telephoto zoom lens
- Compatible with Canon EOS film and digital SLR cameras
- Effective focal length:
- 70-200mm with full-frame digital or film cameras
- 112-320mm with APS-C sensor cameras

I previously owned the version I (v.1) of this lens for almost 2 years. While v.1 had amazed me during my ownership, with IS, with speed, with color, with bokeh…..it does not come close to this new mk2 (v.2) version by any means. I am glad I sold v.1 for 1750 and received 1550 in cash after all fees was deducted (2months ago). Here is why:
Mk2 PRO (vs Mk1):
1) Super sharp at all focal length even wide open at f2.8 (now those 70-200 F4 IS fan boys can’t complain about the lack of sharpness on the f2.8 big brother anymore). The shorter minimum focusing distance (mfd) makes this lens even more usable indoor.
2) The focusing speed feels more responsive and accurate. It is also quieter, almost inaudible.
3) IS is truly improved. Although a tiny bit heavier, I still manage to take sharp pics with shutter as slow as 1/15 of a second handheld. (You can put the mk1 on a tripod, and the pic you take with mk1 will always be softer than my mk2 handheld, especially at 200mm)
4) Fluorite element: this is not a gimmick, and the reason it is inside all the larger L white lenses. It really controls light better so images doesn’t appear washed out or have unwanted light under extremely bright situation.
CONS:
Price? (Before you own the lens price can be a CONS. Once you use it, it will be a non issue with regards to value/performance ration). Just think about having one zoom from 70mm~200mm that gives you sharp picture wide open through out, that easily translates to 3 to 4 prime lenses (to offer the same sharpness at each focal length)…then think how much you would have to pay for those lenses and how much they would weight together, and how much time you will waste swapping lenses, while with this lens you just turn the focusing ring, shoot, and smile ^_^.
I will post some pictures later on, but so far I am totally satisfied as you probably have seen from other owners. If you can afford to spend the extra 7~800 for this zoom range you need or have always wanted, I guarantee you will not have any remorse. Thank you for reading!
***Similar products I am using include: Canon 40d, ef-s 17-55 2.8is, 100mm 2.8L is Macro, 200mm 2.0L is, 70-200 2.8L is mkII, Canon EOS 7D and tokina 11-16 f2.8. Canon 180mm F3.5L Macro lens (already sold it due to lack of sharpness)***
UPDATE:
Still impressed with 70-200 f2.8L IS mkII. Although 200mm f2L is faster and sharper, better bokeh, color saturation…it does not replace this zoom, due to fixed focal length and weight. I really like the flexibility of this zoom, with it’s ultra sharp results and excellent color. This lens will be in my bag permanently, along with 100mm macro, and my 17-55mm (my next zoom lens will be 24-70 2.8L…so I have full coverage from 11mm~200mm all at f2.8) You will not be disappointed I promise.
Canon EF 70-200mm f/2.8L II IS USM Telephoto Zoom Lens for Canon SLR Cameras Overview
Improving upon one of the most celebrated lenses in the Canon EF line is no easy feat, but Canon has done just that. The all-new EF 70-200mm f/2.8L IS II USM increases the speed, performance and optical quality of the EF 70-200 f/2.8L IS USM while maintaining all of the characteristics that have made it a legend for professionals and advanced amateurs alike. The EF 70-200mm f/2.8L IS II USM features one fluorite and five UD elements for increased optical quality and reduced chromatic aberration. It has a minimum focusing distance of 1.2m/3.9 ft. at all zoom settings, which is useful for photographers in smaller spaces trying to get closer to a subject. It features a next-generation Optical Image Stabilizer, providing up to 4 stops of correction at all focal lengths. And as with all L-series lenses, the EF 70-200mm f/2.8L IS II USM is dust- and moisture-resistant and designed for use in the challenging environments typical of rigorous professional use.
Canon EF 70-200mm f/2.8L II IS USM Telephoto Zoom Lens for Canon SLR Cameras Specifications
*** Product Information and Prices Stored: May 31, 2010 12:57:17