70-200Lf4 vs 70-300ISf4-5.6 more questions

I am not totally new to photography but still pretty "fresh". I am planning on ordering a Rebel XTi, a 17-40L, a 50mmf1.4, and a 580ex flash very soon. I also want a telelphoto zoom but am having a very hard time deciding between the subject lenses. I mainly plan on photographing family snapshots and vacation type photos with the possibility of taking some architecture, landscape, and animal/wildlife style shots.

I have read many threads on the topic here and in other forums as well as review sites. There are pros and cons for each. The fact that there is no real concensus among answers confirms it is a tough question. I admit I like staying in the Canon line for compatibility issues. Some questions I have for current owners:

1. How do the lenses feel on the rebel series camera since it is smaller? I am talking balance, handholding especially with the grip, and carrying it on a neckstrap as on vaction? Can a tripod be used on the camera with the 70-200f4 on or do you need the collar?

2. How durable/reliable is the IS on lenses? Is that something that more trouble is common with? I was wondering about servicing probability between IS and non IS lenses.

Thanks for you responses in advance!

You do not need the tripod collar on the 70-200 f4. It is a relatively light lens and is easy to carry around. I've never heard anything with regards to IS being any problem when it comes to reliability. Personally, I feel that the larger lenses balance better on the XT's with the grip, plus I like the added set of controls for portrait. As far as the 70-200f4 / 70-300IS debate is concerned, it's been discussed to death around here. Do a search, lots of threads on the subject. When I was looking at my first telezoom, I compared the two side by side, and what did it for me was the build quality and feel of the 70-200.

Quote "I feel that the larger lenses balance better on the XT's with the grip, plus I like the added set of controls for portrait."

Thanks for the response. Sorry, I should have been more clear. I meant with the grip on the camera since it is a smaller grip--not with the external battery grip attached although I have heard good things about it. I may but that later when I am not so tapped out from other purchases.

Even without the battery grip you'll be just fine with either lens. Neither one is that big, or heavy.

I guess it would depend on what you are wanting. The 70-200 F4 is one of the sharpest lenses in canon's arsenal and I believe that IQ is better (sharpness/color/contr​ast). (I have the IS version and love mine). The 70-300 IS is more versatile because of the range and IS, it's a slow lens but the IS does help with that. It's also slower focusing than the 70-200 F4. CA and vignetting seem to be well controlled in both lenses. So if you determine that you want the distance and IS, go with the 70-300 IS f4-5.6 but if IQ is your main concern, I'd go with the 70-200. (if it's in your budget, get the 70-200 F4 w/IS but if not, the 70-200 F4 can be found, even used for very good prices.)