Canon EF300mm f/2.8L USM

• Specifications
• Reviews
• Sample Images
• Initial launch information.

A superb quality white lens that helped launch Canon's EF lens mount.

Lacking the AF refinements and IS found in later models, it's an excellent performer in low light. Widely used in sports photography, so check any examples very carefully for damage and wear.

Available from: Amazon.com | Amazon.co.uk | B&H | Adorama

Lens specifications

Focal Length & Maximum Aperture	300mm 1:2.8
Lens Construction	10 elements in 8 groups
Minimum Aperture	32
Maximum Magnification (x)	0.11
Closest Focusing Distance	3m
Filter Size	48mm
Max. Diameter x Length, Weight	125 x 253mm, 2,855g

300mm versions

Version	f/2.8L USM	f/2.8L IS USM	f/2.8L IS II USM	f/4L USM	f/4L IS USM
Image stabilizer	No	Yes	Yes	No	Yes
Ring USM	Yes
L-series	Yes
Diffractive Optics	No
Ultra-low dispersion glass element	Yes
Macro	No
Maximum aperture	f/2.8			f/4
Minimum aperture	f/32
Weight	2.855 kg	2.550 kg	2.400 kg	1.165 kg	1.190 kg
Max. Diameter x Length	12.8 cm x 25.2 cm		12.8 cm x 24.8 cm	9.0 cm x 22.1 cm
Filter diameter	48 mm drop-in	52 mm drop-in		77 mm
Horizontal viewing angle	6° 50'
Vertical viewing angle	4° 35'
Diagonal viewing angle;	8° 15'
Groups/elements	8/10	13/17	12/16	7/8	11/15
Diaphragm blades	8		9	8
Closest focusing distance	3 m	2.5 m	2 m	2.5 m	1.5 m
Release date	November 1987	July 1999	September 2010	December 1991	March 1997

Note that there is a Canon 300/1.8 lens used for horse racing photofinishes - there is however very little info about this rare lens and it is not listed on any Canon sites.

EF300mm f/2.8L USM reviews and articles

• Canon UK / US Information Page
• Amazon
• Northlight Images
• Canon CPN article
• Fred Miranda
• Lens Tip
• Digital Picture
• PhotoZone
• SLR Gear
• Lens Review
• ePhotozine

Written a review? Contact us and we'll add it to the list.

Sample images

None available.

Product launch

No information available on the 1987 launch of this lens.