Autofocus on Canon's 70-200 F2.8 lenses...

[RichardtheSane]

I have been have in a search for this, but couldn't really get exactly what I am looking for.

Is there any difference in the AF speed between the standard 70-200 F2.8L and the IS version of the same lens?

I am in the market for a 70-200 F2.8 and AF speed is the most important thing for me. I don't need IS, but if the IS lens has superior AF then I will have to get tha model.

Can anyone help here?

[ron chappel]

I vaguely remember reading the IS version had slightly improved AF-or af electronics to match the newer bodies maybe.
i'll see if i can find out where i read that........ :?

[Olegis]

If there is a difference, most likely you won't notice it in my opinion.

[RichardtheSane]

Thanks for your comments so far.

I should have been more clear.

I know that part of AI servo tracking is the body, but also the AF performance of the lens makes a difference. I am starting to get work photographing peoples dogs, and for the motion shots my 100-400L AF does struggle a bit.
I would like to be able to use the non-IS version because it is lighter

:)

[Haifidelity]

I don't think you're going to see any real life differences, if any. Using the 70-200 IS or NON-IS with the AF system in a 1 series (or EOS3) camera will be light years ahead of any other EOS camera body.

[RichardtheSane]

I've got a 10D, not a 1 series :)

[CyberDyneSystems]

I haven't used the Non IS. so I can't give you the answer to your question.. but I can say that the focuis speed and focus tracking improves dramtically when going from the 100-400mm IS to the 70-200mm IS...

[Pekka]

With IS version you use all 1-series focus points when 1.4X is attached, with non IS version you can use only center point (or that is the only recommended one). Another matter is that IS version has a different MTF curve (touch softer, better bokeh) and it is softer with 1.4X extender - this info is from MTF provided by Canon Lens Work III.

I have been very happy with my non IS 70-200, it rivals all primes in sharpness and is my most used lens. There are few occasions where IS would have been nice, mainly indoor low light shooting when I did not have a monopod with me.

[RichardtheSane]

Thanks CDS & Pekka.

I think it sounds like there will be virtually no difference in the AF, and the non-IS will be fine for what I need it for.

Which is good. It means I can save nearly £400 for 'other stuff yet undecided!)