100-400 or the 70-300 ?

Looking at long zooms, just wondered which is the better lens the 100-400 or the 70-300?
Both F 4 / 5.6 and is ?

I have the 100-400 and have no complaints at all. When looking at a long lens, the options I was looking at were the 100-400 and a 400 prime. Didn't even consider the 70-300.

Snide answer with some truth: the 70-300 is better from 70-99 and the 100-400 is better above 300.

I haven't used the 70-300 but if you go that route, maybe one of the 70-200 lenses with a 1.4x converter might be another option to evaluate. It's close to the same range (up to 280mm) and stays as fast or faster.

dsteve wrote in post #14190623
Snide answer with some truth: the 70-300 is better from 70-99 and the 100-400 is better above 300.

I haven't used the 70-300 but if you go that route, maybe one of the 70-200 lenses with a 1.4x converter might be another option to evaluate. It's close to the same range (up to 280mm) and stays as fast or faster.

Did you mean to say above 100? Because if not then that leaves a gap between 100-299 where no lens is better. Haha

I too have been searching for something longer, and I am leaning towards the 100-400, as it can be had for about $1200 used.

Brendo666 wrote in post #14190661
Did you mean to say above 100? Because if not then that leaves a gap between 100-299 where no lens is better. Haha

Heh. No, I just didn't answer what's better between 100-300 because I don't know what's better in that range. I don't have the 70-300 or the experience to say

The 100-400 has:
+ included tripod collar
+ 400mm
+/- push pull zoom -> allows to zoom very fast, but some people dislike it
- older generation IS (2-3 stops?)

The 70-300 has:
+ is supposed to have better IQ
+ latest generation IS (3-4 stops? + other advantages)
+ smaller size and weight (but still significant)
+ better weather sealing
+/- rotating zoom, less fast but some prefer it
- no included tripod collar

As you see both have their (dis)advantages. It really depends on your preference and what you will use it for.
The 70-300 has some advantages, but I end up shooting at 400mm most of the time so I would not let go my 100-400 for it.

dsteve wrote in post #14190674
Heh. No, I just didn't answer what's better between 100-300 because I don't know what's better in that range. I don't have the 70-300 or the experience to say

haha, that works then.

I had the 100-400 it's ok if you got allot of light but I absolutely hated the push pull zoom it allows allot of dust to get inside and gets hard to hold if you constantly have it out at 400mm. The 70-300L is newer in every aspect but it's not really any better in low light it has newer IS, newer coatings on the glass, I think lighter weight materials, and better glass as far as I know.

Personally I found that a 70-200 2.8L with a 1.4x and 2x is the best option just my opinion.

Thanks for the help guys. Think it may be the 70-300.

MPCman wrote in post #14190730
T

As you see both have their (dis)advantages. It really depends on your preference and what you will use it for.
The 70-300 has some advantages, but I end up shooting at 400mm most of the time so I would not let go my 100-400 for it.

I also like having 400mm !

If you'll be using at the shorter focal lengths much, keep in mind the 70-300 is a faster lens at those lengths.

The 70-300 is great if size is a factor. It's pretty compact considering the range and quality. Most people who rip it have never tried it. It's a great lens.

I haven't used the 70-300 but I had consistent great results with the 100-400mm. If you need the reach go for the 100-400 but the 70-200 w/1.4 telecon would be a more versatile option if you don't need the reach.

28-300 L IS

I have the 70-200 IS and had a 1.4x converter. There is a definite loss in IQ and loss in AF when adding the 1.4x converter. It will be even more so with the 2x converter.

If you want fast focusing and sharper pics, a lens without a converter is the best option.

I have not had my 100-400 for long but find that I use the 400mm often. I do shoot soccer and baseball though.

What will you be using the lens for? The extra 100mm could come in handy for outdoor sports or widlife.