Canon EF 70-210mm f/4 (1987–1990)

Name: Canon 70-210mm
Brand: Canon

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 with front-group focusing. Canon introduced it in May 1987 as its first autofocus telephoto zoom. It was built for the EF mount, with electronic focus and the motor housed in the lens. The aperture stays at a constant f/4 across the whole zoom range. The optics are noted as sharp, with minimal color fringing in the center and mid-range focal lengths. Canon discontinued it in June 1990 and replaced it with 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

The zoom is a traditional push-pull design with front group focusing. The EF designation means electronic focus, and the motor sits inside the lens. One element is rumored to be a molded aspherical.

Context

This was Canon's first autofocus telephoto zoom, introduced in May 1987. Its release marked a turning point in professional adoption of the EF system and contributed to sports photographers switching from Nikon to Canon in the early 1990s. The EF 70-210mm f/3.5-4.5 USM replaced it in June 1990.

Market

Used prices range from $75 to $150, and some examples turn up 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.