topic Canon 500mm f4 v1 or rf 100-500? in Gear Guide

Canon 500mm f4 v1 or rf 100-500?

kalbairav — Fri, 22 May 2026 21:43:49 GMT

I have the 500 f4 v1 on the r5 and it’s great although i like to walk around and it does get a little heavy.

Do i sell and get the 100-500 or do yall think the 500 f4 is still great.

I get great wildlife results but like i said. I do like to walk around and carry.

Re: Canon 500mm f4 v1 or rf 100-500?

shadowsports — Fri, 22 May 2026 21:54:51 GMT

Greetings ,

This probably isn't a question that anybody can answer except for you.

The EF 500 f4 is built like a tank but weighs as much as a boat anchor.

The RF 100 500 is 3 lb and I use mine handheld 99% of the time. If you're using it to shoot wildlife, take a look at the RF 200-800. It comes in at 4.5 lb which is nearly half the weight of your 500 v1. If you're looking to keep the heft and weight down, you won't go wrong with the RF. 100-500.

Re: Canon 500mm f4 v1 or rf 100-500?

TomRamsey — Sat, 23 May 2026 00:52:56 GMT

If it's too heavy definitely go for the 100-50 or the 200-800. Even though a prime is probably going to be a little better than a zoom, it's worth nothing sitting at home because it is too heavy.