Canon EF 70-210mm f/4 (1987–1990)
A lightweight, constant-aperture autofocus telephoto zoom lens from Canon’s early EF lineup
Overview
The Canon EF 70-210mm f/4 is a push/pull zoom lens with front-group focusing, introduced in May 1987 as Canon's first autofocus telephoto zoom. It was built for the EF mount and features electronic focus with the motor housed in the lens. The lens offers a constant f/4 aperture across its full zoom range and is noted for sharp optics with minimal color fringing in the center and mid-range focal lengths. It was discontinued in June 1990 and replaced by the EF 70-210mm f/3.5-4.5 USM.
Specifications
| Focal Length | 70-210mm |
| Maximum Aperture | f/4, constant |
| Optics | 11 elements in 8 groups |
| Diaphragm | 8 blades. Rounded up to f/8, octagonal from f/11 on. Stops down to f/32. |
| Filter Size | 58mm |
| Close Focus | 3.9' (1.2m) from the image plane |
| Maximum Reproduction Ratio | 1:0.24 |
| Infrared Focus Index | Yes, at 70mm, 100mm, 135mm, and 210mm |
| Size (at 70mm, infinity) | 2.975" diameter x 5.423" length from flange (75.57 x 137.75mm) |
| Size (at 210mm, infinity) | Extends an additional 1.438" (36.5mm), total length 6.860" (174.25mm) from flange |
| Size (at 210mm, close focus) | Extends an additional 0.771" (19.59mm) from infinity position, total length 7.631" (193.84mm) from flange |
| Weight | 20.4 oz (578g) |
| Mount | Canon EF |
| Zoom type | Push/pull |
| Focus type | A (autofocus with manual override via switch) |
Design
This lens uses a traditional push-pull zoom mechanism with front group focusing. The EF designation indicates electronic focus, with the motor located inside the lens. One element is rumored to be a molded aspherical.
Context
Introduced in May 1987, this was Canon’s first autofocus telephoto zoom lens. Its release marked a turning point in professional adoption of the EF system, contributing to sports photographers switching from Nikon to Canon in the early 1990s. It was replaced in June 1990 by the EF 70-210mm f/3.5-4.5 USM.
Market
Used prices range from $75 to $150, with some examples found on eBay for around $80. Lenses exported from Japan may have a gold JCII inspection sticker near the focus window; its presence often indicates careful handling and storage.
eBay Listings
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