EF300vs300is

I have been so lucky to have both of these lenses at the same time, giving me a fine opportunity to compare a little bit on my own. I have always been told that the non IS is a little bit sharper then the IS model. The non IS model was introduced in 1991 and I think it was discontinued about the same time as the IS model was introduced in 1997.

The IS lens has 15 lens elements in 11 groups and the 300 non IS has only 8 elements in 7 groups. This may affect the lens performance.

As you can see the IS lens on the left is a little bit longer. About a lens cap longer. And the tripod collar is a little bit different. The focus ring is also a little closer on the non IS model, but the focus ring on the IS model is about double the width. It is concealed behind the retractable lens hood on this picture.



So if the lens is bigger it should be heavier. According to Canon the IS lens is 1190g and the non IS 1165g. My kitchen scale (not the most expensive one) says IS model is 1275gr. and non IS 1225gr. with both lens caps on. So all the extra lens elements and IS stuff is not plastic, or is it? 7 more elements and motors electrics and switches and only 50 gr. difference.



This is a indoor shot with bad lighting and no flash. About 5 meters free hand.	Same shoot with the non IS lens at same conditions. As you can see the IS helps you in low light handhold conditions.



IS center sharpness	Non IS center sharpness



IS cornes sharpness	Non IS corner sharpness

Canon EF 300mm f/4L USM vs EF 300mm f/4L IS USM