Is Upgrading to the Canon 70-300 IS II Lens Worth It?

Deciding whether to upgrade from the Canon 75-300 IS lens to the 70-300 IS II lens can be a bit tricky. In this article, we'll take a comprehensive look at the pros and cons of the Canon 70-300 IS II, and evaluate if the upgrade is really worth the investment.

Pros of the Canon 70-300 IS II

The Canon 70-300 IS II USM is a high-quality lens that offers a number of advantages:

Compact and Reasonably Fast for its Price Range: The lens is designed to be lightweight and portable, making it a great choice for travel and everyday photography. Excellent Silent Motor: The silent USM motor provides smooth and quiet focusing, which is particularly beneficial for video recording and subtle photography without disturbing the subject. Fast and Precise Focusing: The lens boasts rapid and accurate focusing, allowing for quick framing and capturing of moving subjects. Weather-Sealed: The lens is protected from minor water exposure, though it is not waterproof, adding an extra layer of security for outdoor shooting. Sharp at the Center: Pictures taken at the center of the frame are noticeably sharp, especially at lower aperture settings (f/8-f/13). Superior Shock Resistance: The lens is exceptionally durable, withstanding accidental drops and recoil without significant damage.

Cons of the Canon 70-300 IS II

Despite its advantages, the lens also has some drawbacks:

Not Sharp at Faster Apertures: The lens may not provide the sharpest results at faster apertures (f/4-f/7.1). Susceptible to Fungus: The lens can quickly develop fungus and requires regular maintenance. Users must store it in a dry box and frequently clean it to prevent damage. Partial to Dust: The lens is prone to dust accumulation, which can be detrimental to the overall image quality and must be addressed promptly.

Evaluation of the Upgrade

My Honest Opinion: While upgrading from the Canon 75-300 IS to the 70-300 IS II may not bring about a noticeable difference in terms of image quality, it is certainly worth considering the upgrade, especially if you're looking to improve your camera's handling and stability.

The cost of the upgrade can be significant, but the benefits of using a more robust and feature-rich lens may outweigh the financial investment. Here are some tips for enhancing your droop:

Improved Hold on the Camera: Practicing better hold on your camera will help in achieving a more stable image, particularly in less than ideal conditions. Use a Tripod: When possible, use a tripod to maintain stability, especially in low light or when shooting distant objects. Utilize Timer Mode: Using the camera's timer mode can also help reduce camera shake, leading to clearer and more stable images.

Comparing the 70-300 IS II to the 75-300 IS

The Canon 70-300 IS II is significantly better than the 75-300 IS in many respects. The 75-300 IS is widely regarded as one of the worst kit lenses Canon has ever produced. It is often bundled with other cameras to make buyers feel they are getting more value, though in reality, it is not a standalone purchase.

For all intents and purposes, the 75-300 IS is nothing more than a marketing ploy. It is designed to give the impression that users are getting more for their money, which is often not the case in practice. Prospective buyers are advised against purchasing the 75-300 IS as a standalone lens, as the 70-300 IS II is the clear superior option.

Conclusion

While the Canon 70-300 IS II and the 75-300 IS are both f/4-f/5.6 optics, they offer the same overall image quality once the user removes any micro differences. The only real distinction is the 70-300 IS II's 5mm more at the short end, which can be achieved by simply stepping back slightly from the subject.

In summary, if you are considering an upgrade from the 75-300 IS, the 70-300 IS II is definitely worth the investment. The enhanced features and build quality make it a more reliable and user-friendly option, bridging the gap between entry-level and prosumer lenses. Whether you need a robust yet portable telephoto lens for travel, wildlife, or outdoor photography, the 70-300 IS II is a solid choice.