Canon 100mm (2009–today)
A high-performance macro lens with image stabilization, built for precision and versatility.
Overview
The Canon EF 100mm f/2.8L IS USM Macro is a professional-grade macro lens introduced in 2009 and still in production. It was the world’s first image-stabilized macro lens and remains a standout for its 1:1 maximum magnification, sharp optics, and hybrid image stabilization. Designed for Canon’s EF mount, it excels in both dedicated macro photography and general telephoto use, including portraiture and handheld video. Three versions exist: the original EF 100mm f/2.8 Macro (1990–2000), the EF 100mm f/2.8 Macro USM (2000–2021), and the current L-series IS model.
Specifications
| Focal Length | 100mm |
| Maximum Aperture | f/2.8 |
| Maximum Magnification | 1:1 |
| Closest Focusing Distance | 1.0 ft. / 0.3m |
| Filter Size | 67mm |
| Weight | 22.0 oz./623g |
| Original Price | $1,299 |
| Image Stabilization | Yes |
| Autofocus | USM (Ultra Sonic Motor) |
| Focus Limiter Switch | Yes (three-position) |
| Lens Mount | Metal |
| Exterior Material | Plastic barrel with metal lens mount |
| Country of Manufacture | Japan |
| Lens Type/Suffix | Macro L |
| Lens Construction | 15 elements in 12 groups |
| Minimum Aperture | f/32 |
| Angle of View | 23.4° |
| Dimensions (Diameter × Length) | 3.07 × 5.13” (78 × 130.4mm) |
Design
The EF 100mm f/2.8L IS USM Macro features internal focusing, full-time manual focus override, and a non-compensating diaphragm, meaning exposure compensation is required at close focus distances. It includes a UD element to reduce chromatic aberration and is built with a high-quality plastic barrel, rubber-coated focus ring, and a metal lens mount. The front element does not rotate during focusing, making it compatible with polarizing filters.
Context
The 2009 EF 100mm f/2.8L IS USM Macro succeeded earlier non-IS models, offering groundbreaking image stabilization for macro work and general telephoto use. It replaced the EF 100mm f/2.8 Macro USM (2000–2021), which itself succeeded the original 1990 version—the first Canon lens to autofocus to 1:1 magnification. The L-series model was designed to offer superior optical performance and stabilization, positioning it as a premium option over the lighter, lower-cost non-L variants.
Market
The EF 100mm f/2.8L IS USM Macro launched at $1,299 and is valued today at around $500 used. The non-IS EF 100mm f/2.8 Macro USM, originally priced near $600, sells used between $284 and $354. Despite criticism over its all-plastic exterior relative to its price, the L IS model is praised for its sharpness, bokeh, and versatility beyond macro use.
eBay Listings
As an eBay Partner, we earn from qualifying purchases. This helps support our independent vintage technology research.