I was a little skeptical when a Canon representative told me that the new Canon EF 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6L IS II USM lens ($2,199) is just as good as the EF 70-200mm f/2.8L IS II USM , the best zoom lens of that range we've tested.

Incredibly sharp throughout zoom range; Optically stabilized; Quick focus; 1:3 magnification; Relatively compact

Pricey; Some barrel distortion at 100mm

This eagerly awaited telephoto zoom lens replaces the old 100-400mm lens in Canon's lineup of professional lenses. Its predecessor was popular due to its relative compact size, light weight and good value for money.

There is a good reason why Canon's 100-400 f/4.5-5.6L lens, though nearly a decade old now, is still a perennial favourite with photographers – it's a terrific all purpose and wildlife lens. The Mark II version is in many respects even better.

Sharp; Easy to handhold; Well constructed; Terrific usability thanks to wide zoom ring

Expensive; f/5.6 maximum aperture may deter some

This is an excellent lens and a wonderful alternative to the very expensive primes in this focal length. Focus drifts a little but it may be my camera settings are not optimal for the lens

The king is dead, long live the king! Seems as if Canon wanted to show the new mirrorless kids who is still the boss around. The Canon EF 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6 USM L IS was already good but the Canon EF 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6 USM L IS II is even better.

Im a surf photography or at least I would like to think so. The version II not being a push pull is a major winner for me.

Newest of the new design of the 100-400 from Canon. Twist focus and new 3 level stability.

Flawless Finish; New Design Tripod Mount; twist zoom; Unparelled Clearity

Weight

Is this the best telephoto zoom on the market? Find out in our testing team's Canon EF 100-400mm Mark II review. A 100-400mm lens is a versatile option for shooting faraway sport or wildlife.

This eagerly awaited telephoto zoom lens replaces the old 100-400mm lens in Canon's lineup of professional lenses. Its predecessor was popular due to its relative compact size, light weight and good value for money.

Good sharpness; Excellent build quality; Novel zoom ring resistance adjustment; Relatively lightweight; Reasonably low distortion; Weather and dust resistant; Low CA; Image stabilisation; Fast autofocus

More expensive than the old 100-400mm ever was; but differences may be worth it to some

The Canon EF 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6L IS II USM is a very capable but also pricey telephoto zoom lens that will appeal most to sports and wildlife photographers looking for a relatively lightweight and versatile lens.