Alongside the development of the EOS R3 and the launch of the all-new RF 100mm F2.8L Macro IS USM, Canon has revealed a pair of super-telephoto primes for its full-frame mirrorless system. Both the RF 400mm F2.8L IS USM and RF 600mm F4L IS USM employ the same optics as their current EF-mount siblings, the EF 400mm f/2.8L IS III USM and EF 600mm f/4L III USM respectively, but gain updated features and handling. In particular, the RF mount versions promise faster autofocus, multi-speed manual focus, and enhanced image stabilisation.
Canon RF 400mm F2.8L IS USM
Both lenses support a new double power drive method that’s said to enable fast autofocus with future bodies, which obviously refers to the EOS R3. There’s a choice of three manual-focus speeds to balance speed against precision, along with full-time manual focus. Two focus distance pre-sets can be saved for quick recall, for example the two goals on a football pitch, or the start and finish lines of an athletics track. In addition, the manual focus ring can do double-duty as a control dial with certain EOS bodies.
Canon RF 600mm F4L IS USM
In design terms, the new lenses appear to be identical to their EF-mount cousins, save for a silver-coloured extension at the rear to accommodate the RF mount. As a result, users can expect Canon’s usual pro-spec handling and weather-resistance. Both lenses are also compatible with the firm’s 1.4x and 2x RF Extenders for even greater reach. In terms of price they’re the same as their EF-mount counterparts, at £12,449.99 for the 400mm and £13,409.99 for the 600mm.
See also:
Canon is developing the sports-focused EOS R3
All-new Canon RF 100mm F2.8L Macro IS USM for full-frame mirrorless
Revamped Canon super-telephotos for RF mount
