Canon EF 70-200mm vs 100-400mm: Which Telezoom for Sports?
By Camix | Published: 2026-10-30
Category: Comparisons
Compare the Canon EF 70-200mm f/2.8L IS III USM and the Canon EF 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6L IS II USM for sports photography. Learn which telephoto zoom suits your field and budget.
Quick answer
For indoor or low-light sports where a wide aperture matters, choose the Canon EF 70-200mm f/2.8L IS III USM. For outdoor field sports or wildlife where extra reach is critical, the Canon EF 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6L IS II USM is the better fit.
Reach vs. Aperture: The Core Trade-off
The biggest difference between these two Canon EF telephoto zooms is the balance of focal length and maximum aperture. The 70-200mm f/2.8L offers a constant f/2.8 aperture, which excels in dim stadiums or evening games by letting in more light. The 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6L provides a longer reach of 400mm, ideal for capturing distant action on a field or track, but its variable aperture reduces light at the long end.
Both lenses are L-series, meaning they share robust weather sealing and excellent build quality. Your choice depends on whether you prioritize low-light performance or maximum reach.
Budget and Weight Considerations
The Canon EF 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6L IS II USM is priced at USD 1689.35 (down from USD 2599.00), while the Sigma 70-200mm f/2.8 DG OS HSM Sports for Canon EF is available at USD 750.00 (down from USD 1250.00). The Sigma offers a significant cost saving and still provides a fast f/2.8 aperture, making it a strong alternative for budget-conscious sports shooters.
Weight is another factor: the 100-400mm is heavier and bulkier, which can be tiring during long events. The Sigma 70-200mm is more portable and easier to handle for handheld shooting.
Trade-offs at a glance
- Indoor / low-light sports: Choose the Sigma 70-200mm f/2.8 or Canon 70-200mm f/2.8L for faster shutter speeds in dim conditions. The 100-400mm's variable aperture may struggle.
- Outdoor field sports (football, soccer, track): The Canon 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6L provides the reach to frame distant players. The 70-200mm may leave you cropping heavily.
- Budget priority: The Sigma 70-200mm f/2.8 is the most affordable option at USD 750.00. The Canon 100-400mm costs more but adds 200mm of extra reach. If you need both reach and low-light performance, consider saving for the Canon 70-200mm f/2.8L and later adding a teleconverter.
Product facts at a glance
- Canon EF 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6 L IS II USM Telephoto Zoom Lens: In stock – Order NOW 1 Year Warranty FREE UK DELIVERY Brand New Stock. Catalog price USD 1689.35 (was USD 2599.00). This lens offers 400mm reach for distant subjects, but its variable f/4.5-5.6 aperture is less suited for low-light sports.
Canon EF 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6 L IS II USM Telephoto Zoom Lens - Sigma 70-200mm f2.8 DG OS HSM Sports For Canon EF: In stock – Order NOW 1 Year Warranty FREE UK DELIVERY Brand New Stock. Catalog price USD 750.00 (was USD 1250.00). At half the price, this Sigma delivers a constant f/2.8 aperture, ideal for indoor sports, but lacks the 400mm reach of the Canon.
Sigma 70-200mm f2.8 DG OS HSM Sports For Canon EF
Which lens fits you?
Best for
- Indoor sports photographers who need a fast aperture (Sigma 70-200mm f/2.8 or Canon 70-200mm f/2.8L)
- Outdoor sports and wildlife shooters who prioritize reach (Canon 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6L)
Not for
- Budget-conscious shooters who need 400mm reach (consider the Canon 100-400mm only if your budget allows)
- Those who need a single lens for both low-light and extreme reach (no single lens in this comparison covers both extremes)
