Canon RF 200-500mm f/4 L IS USM Lens to be Announced in Q4 2023

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The Current Canon EF 200-400mm f/4L IS USM Lens with Internal 1.4x Extender

Prepare to be amazed by Canon’s latest innovation, as the highly anticipated Canon RF 200-500mm f/4L IS USM lens is set to make its grand debut. This revolutionary zoom lens is a significant milestone for the RF mount, marking the transition from the esteemed EF 500mm f/4L IS USM II to its RF counterpart. Sources have confirmed that this remarkable Canon RF 200-500mm f/4L IS USM lens will likely grace the market in the Q4 of 2023, or possibly in the first quarter of 2024, just before the unveiling of the highly anticipated Canon EOS R1.

One might wonder if the Canon RF 200-500mm f/4L IS USM will boast a built-in teleconverter. Fear not, for Canon has a delightful surprise in store for photography enthusiasts. Not only will there be a teleconverter solution available for the Canon RF 100-300mm f/2.8L IS USM, but it will also be compatible with the Canon RF 200-500mm f/4L IS USM. Canon’s primary goal is to ensure that this lens is as lightweight as possible. Consequently, the absence of a built-in teleconverter contributes to its reduced weight and size, allowing photographers to capture extraordinary images without compromising on portability.

Contrary to previous speculations, the Canon RF 200-500mm f/4L IS USM will not feature a built-in conversion lens. However, rumors have intensified, suggesting a high probability of witnessing the lens’s much-anticipated arrival either later this year or early in the coming year. Canon Rumors, a trusted source renowned for its accuracy, has provided information with the highest rating of “CR3,” instilling confidence in this captivating narrative. While the nature of the teleconversion lens remains unknown, a patent application reveals an example of a teleconverter structure that might be utilized.

A few months ago, whispers about the Canon RF 200-500mm f/4L IS USM lens started circulating. As many are aware, Canon already offers a similar EF version of this lens, known as the Canon EF 200-400mm f/4L IS USM Extender 1.4x. However, the latest insights from Canon Rumors suggest that the new RF iteration will prioritize reducing overall size and weight, resulting in the omission of the 1.4x teleconverter. To compensate for this adjustment, an additional 100mm will be added to the focal length, ensuring photographers can capture breathtaking imagery without compromise.

Worry not, wildlife and sports photographers, as Canon Rumors also affirms that a distinct and ingeniously designed teleconverter extension is also on the horizon. This extension will seamlessly integrate with the recently introduced Canon RF 100-300mm f/2.8L IS USM lens, catering to the needs of professionals in the field.

At present, Canon’s renowned “big white” professional range features the RF 100-500mm f/4.5-7.1 L IS USM, a substantial super-zoom telephoto lens. Nevertheless, many photographers prefer a constant aperture lens to ensure consistency throughout the zoom range. Recently, Canon unveiled the remarkable RF 100-300mm f/2.8L IS USM lens, which offers a wide aperture but comes with a considerable price tag of around $12,000. Thus, a lens that bridges the gap between these two options would undoubtedly be a welcome addition for professionals seeking optimal performance and value.

For years, Canon has been synonymous with producing some of the most beloved and sought-after lenses for bird photography, wildlife documentation, and sports events. Their lenses have graced countless nature documentaries and have been trusted by professionals capturing awe-inspiring moments at prestigious sporting spectacles like the Olympics.

Mark your calendars, for the Canon RF 200-500mm f/4L IS USM is set to make its anticipated appearance at the end of this year or in the early days of 2024, perfectly timed to coincide with the arrival of the Canon EOS R1. As photographers gear up for the Paris Olympics next summer, they can eagerly anticipate the extraordinary capabilities of this groundbreaking lens, which is sure to elevate their craft to new heights.

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Via: CanonRumors