Canon 75-300mm f/4-5.6 III EF Mount Lens {58}

Canon's entry-level 75-300mm telephoto zoom, proven and lightweight.

The Canon EF 75-300mm f/4-5.6 III covers a focal range that handles portraits at the short end and reaches genuine wildlife-capable compression at 300mm. Its 13-element, 9-group optical construction is the same formula shared with Canon's USM variant, just driven by a DC motor than an ultrasonic one. At 4.8 inches long and 2.8 inches in diameter, it stays compact enough to carry without committing to a dedicated bag slot.

The 4.9-foot minimum focusing distance lets you fill the frame at 300mm with objects roughly the size of a dollar bill, which opens up close-detail work on flowers, insects, and small subjects without a dedicated macro lens. It accepts 58mm filters and is compatible with Canon's 58mm Close-up Lens 500D if you want to push that close-focus capability further. Full-frame compatibility means it works across the entire Canon EOS EF body lineup, and with an adapter it can run on Canon RF, Sony E, or Fujifilm X systems.

For shooters building out a Canon EOS kit on a budget, this lens punches well above its price point as a reach tool. Established across years of use in the field, it remains one of the most accessible ways to get to 300mm.

Who It's For

Canon EOS shooters who need telephoto reach without the weight or cost of a pro-grade zoom will find the 75-300mm range covers a lot of ground. Sports parents on the sidelines benefit from the 300mm reach for isolating subjects at a distance. Wildlife beginners can use the 32-to-8-degree angle of view to frame birds and mammals without close approach. Portrait photographers working outdoors get flattering compression starting at 75mm. Travelers keeping kit weight down have an usable telephoto in a 4.8-inch, compact package.

Key Features

• Canon EF mount, full-frame compatible across all EOS bodies
• 75-300mm telephoto zoom with f/4-5.6 aperture range
• 13 elements in 9 groups optical construction
• DC motor autofocus, proven reliable design
• 4.9-foot minimum focus distance for close work
• 58mm filter thread, compatible with Close-up Lens 500D

FAQ

What's the difference between this lens and the Canon 75-300mm USM?

Both share the same 13-element, 9-group optical design and 75-300mm range, but this III version uses a DC motor for autofocus instead of ultrasonic. The USM is faster and quieter, but this lens costs significantly less and performs identically optically.

Can I use this on mirrorless cameras?

Yes, with an adapter. It's Canon EF mount natively, so it works on all Canon EOS DSLRs. EF-to-RF adapters let you use it on Canon mirrorless, and third-party adapters support Sony E and Fujifilm X mounts.

How close can you focus at the long end?

4.9 feet minimum across the entire zoom range. At 300mm that's close enough to fill the frame with something the size of a dollar bill, making it capable of detailed work on flowers and insects without a dedicated macro lens.

Is this lens weather-sealed?

No. It's an entry-level design with no gaskets or protective coatings against moisture or dust. Keep it dry and consider a UV filter on the front element for protection.

What filters does it take?

58mm. It's also compatible with Canon's 58mm Close-up Lens 500D if you want to extend the close-focus capability beyond the standard 4.9-foot minimum.

How much does it weigh and how compact is it?

4.8 inches long and 2.8 inches in diameter. Weight isn't listed in Canon's specs, but it's light enough to carry without dedicating a separate bag slot, making it practical for travel kits.

Does this lens have image stabilization?

No. On Canon DSLRs, stabilization comes from in-body IS on some bodies or you'll need to rely on a faster shutter speed. At 300mm, hand-holding requires either good technique or adequate light.