Covering a variety of telephoto focal lengths, the Canon RF 100-500mm f/4.5-7.1L IS USM spans a short- to super-telephoto range within a sleek and portable form factor. The modest maximum aperture enables a relatively portable design that is well-suited to handheld, walk around use and optical image stabilisation also helps to steady photos and videos by up to five stops when working in difficult lighting conditions. This lens is also characterised by its advanced optical design, which includes a series of Super UD and UD elements to greatly reduce chromatic aberrations and colour fringing throughout the zoom range for a degree of clarity and colour accuracy.

Balancing the distinguished optical assets is the Dual Nano USM focus system, which delivers fast, nearly silent autofocus performance with full-time manual focus override. A unique Control Ring is also integrated into the lens design for intuitive control over exposure settings from the lens itself and the rotating zoom ring also feature torque adjustment for fine-tuning the feel of the lens. Additionally, this 100-500mm is weather-sealed and has a fluorine coating to protect the front and rear elements.