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Canon 100mm f/2 USM EF-Mount Lens {58}
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$354.00
Canon's 100mm f/2 USM: a portrait prime with staying power.
Released in 1991 and still circulating for good reason, the Canon EF 100mm f/2 USM occupies a specific and useful spot in the EF lineup. At f/2, you get meaningful subject separation without tipping into the weight and cost of faster glass. The 8-blade diaphragm keeps out-of-focus areas smooth and round, which matters when backgrounds are busy and your subject needs to pop cleanly. Eight elements in six groups is a compact optical formula that keeps the barrel short at 74mm and the weight at 460g, light enough to carry all day without second-guessing the choice.
The ring-type USM motor delivers quick, quiet autofocus with full-time manual override, so you can fine-tune focus without switching modes. Rear-focus design means the front element stays put during focusing, which is practical when you're using a polarizer or graduated ND. The distance and depth-of-field scales are there when you need them for zone focusing or confirming working distance. Minimum focus sits at 0.90m with a maximum magnification of 0.14x, so this isn't a macro tool, but it handles close portrait work without issue.
On Canon RF or Sony E systems via adapter, this lens pulls its weight alongside modern glass at a fraction of the replacement cost. For the image quality it delivers at f/2 on a proven 100mm field of view, it remains a hard lens to argue against.
Who It's For
Portrait photographers shooting indoors or in tight spaces will find the 100mm focal length and f/2 aperture give them enough working room without the bulk of longer telephoto glass. Event photographers who need quiet, fast autofocus in situations where motor noise is a liability will appreciate the USM system. Film shooters working with Canon EOS bodies get a lightweight, native-mount option that covers full-frame with no compromises. Mirrorless shooters on Canon RF, Sony E, or Nikon Z systems running EF adapters gain a compact, capable prime that performs well wide open.
Key Features
- 100mm f/2 prime with 8-blade diaphragm for smooth bokeh
- Ring-type USM autofocus with full-time manual focus override
- Rear-focus design keeps front element stationary
- Distance and depth-of-field scales for zone focusing
- Compact 460g weight and 74mm length
- 0.90m minimum focus, 0.14x magnification
- 58mm filter thread, Canon EF mount
FAQ
- Is the Canon EF 100mm f/2 USM still worth buying in 2025?
- Yes. The optical formula is straightforward and effective, the f/2 aperture handles subject separation without the bulk of f/1.4 glass, and the USM focus is genuinely fast and quiet. On Canon EF bodies or adapted to RF and Sony E, it outperforms many cheaper modern options at half the price.
- How does the f/2 aperture compare to faster 100mm primes?
- You trade a full stop of light and background blur against a significantly lighter barrel and lower cost. The 8-blade diaphragm keeps bokeh smooth even at f/2, so the compromise isn't visible in actual portraits.
- Does the rear-focus design affect image quality or handling?
- No. Rear focus keeps the front element stationary, which is actually better for polarizers and variable ND filters. It also contributes to the compact design without optical compromise.
- What's the minimum focus distance and will it work for close portrait work?
- 0.90m (35 inches) minimum with 0.14x magnification. Not macro range, but tight enough for beauty shots and head-and-shoulders framing without backing up unnecessarily.
- Does this lens have image stabilization?
- No. Weight stays down at 460g because there's no stabilizer, and Canon's philosophy in 1991 favored compact optics over IS. On modern bodies with in-body stabilization, it's irrelevant.
- Can I use full-time manual focus while autofocus is active?
- Yes. Ring-type USM lets you grab the focus ring and tweak focus without switching modes, so fine-tuning after AF locks is seamless.
- What mount is this and will it work on mirrorless?
- Canon EF mount. Works natively on Canon EF and EF-S bodies. On Canon RF via EF-M adapter or Sony E via third-party adapters, it functions fully but loses AF on some older RF bodies.
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Focal Length | 100mm |
| Max Aperture | f/2 |
| Min Aperture | f/22 |
| Mount | Canon EF |
| Stabilization | No |
| AF System | Yes |
| Min Focus Distance | 0.90 m (35.43") |
| Lens Type | Prime |
| Diaphragm Blades | 8 |
| Elements | 8 |
| Groups | 6 |
| Maximum Magnification | 0.14x |
| AF Motor Type | Ultrasonic (USM) |
| Full Time Manual Focus | Yes |
| Focus Method | Rear |
| Distance Scale | Yes |
| DOF Scale | Yes |
| Diameter | 75 mm (2.95") |
| Length | 74 mm (2.89") |
| Materials | Plastic barrel, metal mount |
| Weather Sealing | No |
| Color | Black |
| Filter Thread | 58 mm |
| Aperture Ring | No |
| Hood Product Code | ET-65 III |
| Optional Accessories | Hard Case LH-B12, Soft Case ES-C13/LP1014 |
| Weight | 460 g (1.01 lb) |
This description was generated using AI based on KEH's internal product standards, product expertise, and knowing what customers care about most. While we strive for accuracy, details may vary by individual item.
| Brand Name | Canon |
|---|---|
| Filter Size | 58mm |
| Focus Type | Autofocus (lens motor) |
| Lens Mount | Canon EF |
| Lens Type | Short Tele / Portrait |
| Max Focal Length | 100mm |
| Min Focal Length | 100mm |
