300 F 2.8 IS vs non IS

So what really is the advantage of the IS on this lens?

I own the non IS and use it exclusively on a monopod. I have never had any issues and the image quality is beyond expectations. It is nicer than the 300 F2.8 ED Nikkor I used to use.

So why upgrade to an IS version? I was under the impression that IS on a mono or tripod was not recommended.....do folks use this thing hand held that much? Just curious.....

Comments?

Handheld over 90% of the time, so IS is invaluable to me. I use IS on mono too, since my technique isn't the best(use a mono more for weight relief than to steady the lens.)

I suppose it can still be used but maybe for handheld shooters?

Here is a thread from a few weeks ago discussing the two lenses.

https://photography-on-the.net/forum/showthre​ad.php?t=543806

The consensus is that one should buy the IS over the non-IS due to the lack of service on the non-IS model. Since you already own one I don't think that is relevant. IQ is too close to tell. If you don't use a monopod than the IS is a nice thing to have.

I have never used the non IS version, but I suspect most of the time (depending on what you shoot) you will not see an improvement in IQ. Having said that, I upgraded my 70-200 2.8L to the IS version and am glad I did. If you have lots of cash laying around, upgrade.

Ditto to upgrade if you have the cash. If I had already owned the non IS 300 I would not upgrade. Save for the 200 2.0

In2Photos wrote in post #6136648
The consensus is that one should buy the IS over the non-IS due to the lack of service on the non-IS model.

What would it cost to upgrade to a used, newer, IS model that is supported by canon and is that potential issue of support worth it to you?

A used IS model goes for about $3500.

JC4 wrote in post #6136626
Handheld over 90% of the time, so IS is invaluable to me. I use IS on mono too, since my technique isn't the best(use a mono more for weight relief than to steady the lens.)

IS will give you more keepers. IS combined with a monopod is the next best thing to a tripod. i use my 100-400L with monopod more and more and my results have sure improved .

ed rader

Never used the non IS but I handhold the 300/2.8IS with great results

I never really use the IS on my 300mm 2.8. Some people say the non-is might be slightly sharper, but who cares because the 300mm 2.8 IS in rediculiously sharp. I was in the same spot as you, but i decided to spend the extra money and get the newer IS version because if your non-is ever breaks, your gonna be completly screwed (nobody has the parts to fix them anymore). It might be a good idea to sell it and spend about $1000 more and get a used (almost brand new) IS version. The IS version looks cooler too, haha