Comparing Two of Fujifilm's Best X Series Zoom Lenses: The XF100-400mm vs. the XF70-300mm
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- Опубліковано 4 жов 2024
- Which one of these lenses is right for you? Both the Fujifilm XF100-400mm and XF70-300mm are excellent quality zoom lenses that produce incredible imagery. They share many identical features and they have a similar focal length range, but they're also very different in some ways. In this detailed video, I outline the specs and features of both lenses, show you images I've shot with them and share my recommendations on which one might be the better choice for you.
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Great video, Dan. Doesn't make it easier to decide, which one I gone buy. But I tend to the 70-300, because it's the better allrounder to me. Thank's for your help.
Andreas, the 70-300 is certainly easier to travel with, and to me, this is an important consideration when buying a lens. If it's not convenient to carry, then you're less likely to have it with you when a photographic opportunity presents itself. The 100-400 is an amazing lens, but I don't use it as often since getting the 70-300. I still use it for specific things, but as an all around lens, the 70-300 wins out more often these days.
Awesome Dan. Thanks a lot. Now I know what lens I will buy 😄👍 the 70-300 mm and the 1.4 converter
Michael, that's a great choice!!! You'll have a ton of fun with that combo, I'm sure!! It really is a fun lens. I hope you can find one soon, I know they've been on backorder at many stores lately.
Dan - I liked the video comparing the 100-400 and 70-300 very much. Since my application is principally travel, I was glad to purchase the 70-300. I have coupled that with the 16-80 and an X-Pro3 as my basic travel kit. Couldn’t be happier. Jim
James, thanks for your comment. Sounds like you have a very capable kit with the 70-300 and 16-80. I'm glad you're enjoying it so much! What kinds of subjects do you like to shoot?
The 70-300 IS a great option as a walk around and travel lens, that being said the 100-400 is a better choice as a serious wildlife and bird photography lens I use the 100-400mm fujifilm on a XH2 makes for a great setup for sports, wildlife and birds. Prior to this setup I used a Sigma 100100-400mm on a Pentax k5 MKII. not as good as the Fujifilm system but I. Still did a lot of wildlife and birds along with a high school lacrosse game that worked perfectly.
This video really helped me decide on which lens I should get. Thanks Dan!
Thanks very much for your comment! I'm glad you found this helpful. Which one did you decide on, and what kinds of subjects do you like to shoot?
would love to see the 150-600 vs the 70-300 with TC in both price and weight and quality.
Hey there. I'm sure that quality with be very comparable between these two lenses. The 150-600 has more Super ED glass, but it also has 7 more elements than the 70-300, so it needs the extra correction for aberrations and fringing. Weigh is 1.3 lbs for the 70-300 and 3.5 lbs for the 150-600, and prices are $799 vs. $1999. I'm curious to see the 150-600 in person. Anything else you'd like to know?
I decided. Both 😀
The question is always the available resource. Is the 100-400 expensive? Not. Indeed, it is not expensive comparing to the same performance other brands.
If once we have a 100-400, it does not exclude to have the 70-300mm. It is another use as you explained.
That’s the right answer!! 😀 Yes, these two lenses compliment each other very nicely. The 100-400 is $1,899, so not cheap, but not wildly expensive.
Excellent summary Dan. I love both of the lenses. The 100-400 was a must have on our African safari I was on several years ago. I was worth its weight in gold and actually pretty small compared to all the full frame Canon and Nikon lenses that were on our trip. I bought the 70-300 more recently as a replacement to my 55-200 which had an untimely hard interaction with the asphalt streets of San Francisco. The 70-300 is a great "walk around" lens and is optically excellent like it's older/heavier big brother.
Steve, thanks for your comment. I agree with everything you said! The 100-400 is indeed worth it's weight in gold, for when you need that kind of performance, and the 70-300 makes an excellent walk around lens, an it offers such a wide range of creative options for shooting just about anything! What X Series body are you using these days?
@@DanBaileyPhoto I'm still using a couple of XT3's. Great cameras that I picked up for under 1K each. Maybe some day I'll hop on the IBIS train. I have the red badge 16-55 f2.8 that would love to be paired with an IBIS camera but for now, I either dial up the SS or shoot on a tripod.
Steve, the IBIS has never been a total deal breaker for me. I love the X-T3, but the X-T4 does have some new and upgraded capabilities that I like. However, for shooting stills, I like the X-T3 with its regular-style flip down LCD screen.
Very very helpful, thank you. You have solved my dilemma! I do wildlife photography (amateur) and struggle to carry the 100-400mm these days, and have been thinking about the 70-300mm. Was going to trade in the 400 and get the 300, but after listening to your review, I shall keep the 400 as it seems too good to let go - and I shall continue to save up and buy the 300 as well. The 400 for at home or short walking distance only, for instance, and the 300 for walkabout photography when I want to go a bit further. Thank you!!
I would agree, the 100-400 is definitely too good to let go, especially if you do wildlife photography, but you'll find that the 70-300 is a great compliment to that lens. Hopefully, you'll be able to safe and get that one too sooner than later. What Fuji do you use and where do you like to photograph?
@@DanBaileyPhoto Well, I'm about halfway with the savings so hopefully won't be too long a wait! I have the XT-2. Hopefully that will be fine with the 70-300 lens! I live in Dorset, UK, and capture my bird and wildlife images just in the local countryside/coast!
Awesome! Yes, the X-T2 should work fine with that lens. The X-T2 AF is little slower than the X-T3/4, but I think that overall performance should be very good with that camera.
@@DanBaileyPhoto Thank you so much for your thoughts on that. I appreciate it, and will bear in mind about the autofocus. Have subscribed, (and also just realised, I have one of your books that I purchased when I first got the XT-2!) 😊
Awesome!! I hope you've been finding it to be a helpful resource. 👍
Hi, Dan. Same conclusions for me. I have them both and both TC. 100-400, always paired with H1 griped and sometimes with 1.4TC, for airshows, horse races, wildlife. 70-300 on T3 almost always with 1.4 or 2.0 TC is with me in a truck every day and ready for anything, wildlife, bugs, flowers, even street. I feel 70-300 is sharper, especially with TCs. If someone already have 70-300 there are no sense to buy 100-400. Buy TCs and go for 150-600. Thanks, Dan for video.
Andrei, thanks for your comment and for sharing your insight. Sounds like you've got an incredibly capable system that's ready for anything! The 150-600 does look like a great lens, it will be interesting to see how it compare to the 100-400. I'm hoping to be able to do a review on that lens at some point.
This is a very good comparison. I do kayak photography and use the 70-300 which I love. There is no way I could manage the 100-400 and paddle at the same time, if I did I would have to get insurance for my gear. I can shoot the 70-300 one handed with a grip on the body of my X-T3. I can fit the 70-300 and the 16-80 in my 6L sling, either one mounted, and the other along inside. It's great for travel and landscape without using a backpack.
Fred, yea, can imagine. The 70-300 is definitely a way better lens for kayaking than the 100-400. Any lens that allows for one-handed shooting while you're doing adventures is the ideal choice in my book. It's so versatile and compact! Where do you live and like to kayak?
I live and kayak in Maryland, most recently kayaked Zekiah Swamp and Mattawoman Creek. I'll have to get a different boat for the 150-600. I'm also hoping that the X-T5 has animal eye detect.
Haha!! Yea, the 150-600 is a pretty big lens. Will definitely be curious to see what they bring with the X-T5, or whatever it is that they announce next.
This makes me look forward to cooler weather and colorful forests.
John, the cooler weather is definitely coming!! It's already here in Anchorage, we've been hovering in the 40s at night lately! Where do you live?
@@DanBaileyPhoto Smack dab in the center of Georgia. It’s really humid right now and the bugs will be awful. We don’t really have winter here, so it is great to be outside from late October to May.
I guess I can't complain much then. It's ben pretty humid here lately, but only in the 50s-60s during day. We took a trip the SE (North Carolina) this past April. It was pretty nice during that time of the year. I'm sure it gets pretty hot there during the summer months.
i have the 50-140 and the 1.4x TC which has been a great deal of fun! I'm still considering the new 70-300 for certain applications. man, that 150-600 new lens seems rad!!
Hi Spencer, thanks for your comment. Glad you're enjoying your 50-140, that's an absolutely killer lens, especially with the 1.4x. The 70-300 is a nice compliment, because it's considerably lighter and smaller, with a longer range. And yes, that 150-600 does look pretty rad!~! Hope you're having a great summer. What kinds of subjects have you been shooting lately?
I own both the lenses. In fact 100-400 was bought way back in 2018 but had less than expected "exposure" for personal reasons and later COVID restrictions. And the weight and handling makes me think if to take it along or not.
After watching you, sold my 55-200 and got a 70-300 last year and as you said it makes a great travel kit.
At many a times I think of selling off 100-400 (there's an offer for it as I type) but when I look at the results it gave, oh...why should I sell it?
The great lens dilemma!!!
I'm in the same boat. I've owned a 100-400 for about 8 years now, and it's always given me incredible results. I've been really impressed with it's AF capabilities, which has made it my #1 fast action lens for stills and video.
I don't have a bad thing to say about that lens, other than it's heavy, which is why I often end up using the 70-300 so much more often. It's just way more portable. I wouldn't even consider selling my 100-400, though. Even though it doesn't get used nearly as often, when I want the extra reach and performance it never lets me down. I'd say keep it. 👍
I have been using the 70-300 & 1.4x for a year+ and its a great combo, portable and versatile! Highly recommended!
Awesome! What kinds of subjects do you like to shoot with it?
@@DanBaileyPhoto wildlife and landscapes! Its portabilty is key. However hardcore birdwatchers probably prefers 100-400 mm
Yes, the 100-400 would definitely be a better choice for hardcore bird photography.
Dan, thanks for the comparison. I have the 100-400 and 2x TC. I recently purchased the 1.4x TC to pair with it. Wasn’t pleased with the 2x pairing.
Seems like the 70-300 would be a good substitute for the FC 90 mm macro.
Hey Michael, thanks for your comment. I kind of agree with you; I think the 2x doesn't offer as much performance as the 1.4x I think that part of the issue is that when you're doubling the focal length of a long lens, you're looking through that much more air, haze and heat, which can cause a considerable loss of sharpness in the image. So it may be that the 2x is not any less sharp, but it succumbs to the consequence of having to look through more of the atmosphere.
Which FC90mm macro are you referring to?
Sorry, I meant the FX80mmF2.8 Macro lens. I had been thinking about acquiring that lenses for it’s dedicated macro use, but your images using the 70-300 with the 1.4x TC and extension tube have me convinced that the 70-300 is a more versatile option to a dedicated macro lense.
Yes, the 80mm macro. That's a fantastic lens, and it does true 1:1 macro, but it's pretty big and heavy. For that reason, it's never really been on my own radar. The 70-300 is more compact and obviously way more versatile. And adding the 1.4x TC, and/or MCEX tube, you're do get that full macro capability.
Thanks for the comparison. I am looking at picking up an X-T4 or X-T5 soon, and thinking about the first couple lenses I'd like. Sounds like the 70-300mm will be a perfect choice for the longer range, with the semi macro performance and the portability. And lower price 😅
Thank you for you comment. Yes, the XF70-300 is an excellent choice for either of those two cameras. I've used mine with both the 4 and 5 with great results. You definitely get the range and close up capabilities along with reasonable portability. I do love the 100-400, but the 70-300 goes with me WAY more often. What kinds of subjects do you like to shoot?
Looks like the 70-300 is a perfect replacement for my aging (but beloved) 55-200. Now it boils down to how much I could get for that lens...
Hey Dan, yes the 70-300 is a very good upgrade from the 55-200. The close focus alone is worth the difference. Hope you're having a great summer. Are you still over in France?
Thanks Dan ! You have answered all my questions. Wow! you really have some great shots all along this video congratulation. BTW nice telecaster. ;)
Awesome! Glad to help! And thanks so much for your comments. And nice job, picking out the sound of the Tele! 😀 What Fuji do you use and what do you like to photograph? And do you have a Tele too?
@@DanBaileyPhoto I shoot with an X-T3 i have the 16-80 , 33 1.4 and i was thinking about the 70-300 for my travel kit .I'm heading to Italy next month starting in the Dolomite. :)
In October, I was in a camera shop and there was a choice of a new 70-300mm lens and a used 100-400mm lens for sale with the 100-400mm being about £150 more expensive. On comparing the lenses, the 100-400mm lens was too heavy to be practical for wildlife photography, taking on overseas holidays and for carrying around all day. So I bought the 70-300mm.
I have used it for photographing animals at a nearby park. It is a mile away and carrying it there was back was not an issue. I also took it on holiday to Spain and the camera bag, containing the camera with the 18-55mm kit lens and a 12mm lens, and the 70-300mm lens easily fitted into a backpack.
The plan is to buy the 1.4X teleconverter that will give a maximum 35mm equivalent focal length of 630mm.
After using a bridge camera to photograph previous total solar eclipses, I will be using the mirror camera and the 70-300mm lens to photograph the solar eclipse in 2024.
Hey Catherine! Awesome, I think you'll really like the 70-300. It's an amazing lens. I recently got an X-T5, and so far, that's the only lens I've been using when been walking around my neighborhood shooting winter scenes. It's even more powerful when using the 1.4x TC. I think you'll really enjoy that combo, have fun with it!
@@DanBaileyPhoto Thank you very much.
You're welcome, Catherine!
hi Dan! how are you? I missed your videos. thanks for this comparison, really very interesting. for now I have my nice 55-200, but in the future the 70-300, it seems to me a very interesting upgrade. good end of summer. 😉😉😉😉👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻
Hi Antonio! Yes, the 70-300 is an amazing upgrade from the 55-200, especially since it has compatibility with the Fuji teleconverters! Hope you’re enjoying your late summer days!! What have you been shooting?
@@DanBaileyPhoto in the last period I have done some macro shots, and landscapes. You then see them at the link I sent you. 😉😉😉
For the rest, these last few days are a bit difficult. I had a minor surgery on my left hand two weeks ago, and I'm slowly recovering. 🙂
On no!! I hope you bounce back quickly. I’ll definitely check out your latest work.
@@DanBaileyPhoto 👍🏻👍🏻❤️
For my use the 70-300 is just right. It would give me awesome reach for landscape and will go well with my 16-80 and 35mm f2.
Jamie, those three lenses make for a very capable and relatively compact kit! What kind of subject do you like to shoot?
@@DanBaileyPhoto I mainly shoot landscape and city details. I use the 16-80, 35 f2 and the XC 55-230 until I save up for the 70-300.
Cool. That sounds like a very versatile and fairly compact kit. The 55-230 is a surprisingly good lens, but the 70-300 is a truly amazing creative tool.
I enjoyed your video. Thank you for validating my consumer spending habits! As the owner of every lens you mentioned in this video, with the exception of the 200mm f2, I agree with your assessments!
I've only had the 70-300mm for a short time, but it has mostly supplanted my 100-400mm, despite its superior reach and auto-focus. As you said, those features are only superior if you actually have the lens WITH you, And it requires its own case or camera bag large enough to accommodate it horizontally.
My big first world problem now is that my camera bag does not have room to accommodate the 16-55mm, the 70-300mm AND my 50-140mm, each mounted to its own body.
;)
Thanks for your comment. You're right, a lens is only good when you have it with you and are able to efficiently carry/access it, and the 70-300 is a very convenient and capable lens to carry. What kinds of subjects do you like to shoot with long lenses?
@@DanBaileyPhoto Landscapes, birds and animals, people, industrial and botanical images. Jack of all trades, master of none. 😉
Awesome! That's the best way!! 😀
@@DanBaileyPhoto My 'tag line' is "Historical themes, rural scenes and Americana." Thanks for taking the time to respond to my comment. Cheers!
You're welcome!! Keep up the good work!
I now have the XF 70-300 and the XF150-600 both being used on an XT4 They have different uses due to size and weight and the new 150 to 600 is sharp all the way to 600.
Chris, thanks for your comment. That seems like an excellent combination. I haven't even seen the 150-600 yet, but it seems like a very powerful lens. How are you liking it, and what have you shot with it so far?
@@DanBaileyPhoto It is winter here and I have only had a couple of days when I could go out. The first day was overcast and I had added the 1.4 extender which was a mistake. Was shooting kingfishers hunting crabs on a tidal mud flat and using a monopod as they move around a lot. I have it on an XT4 and had to use a shutterspeed of 1/2000 and was surprised the f stop with the extender was f11 Due to conditions this meant very high ISO. In bright sunlight the following day without the extender was quite different and I used f8 at 600mm For focus I use a very small single point and high red focus peaking. At f8 there is still quite a shallow depth of field over about 50 meters and I have had to learn to make sure the bird is focused but I am getting shots that were impossible with the 70-300 with either the 1.4 or 2x extenders.
Great video Dan…difficult to decide and I want to get one or the other! I have your books and get your newsletters for a while now! Just subscribed to this channel. Thanks for sharing…be safe, Cheers..
Thanks for your support, Alejandro. Between these two lenses, I think it comes down to which one you'll be more likely to carry. What kinds of subjects to you like to shoot, and are they usually close to home, or do you often travel to do your photography?
Dan, I just got the XF100-400mm in mint condition used only a couple times for $1,100! I could not let passed…I do landscape and getting into IR locally. I have Kolari convert my older XT2 with a IR (720nm) filter at the sensor…they do great work! I have a XT4, X100v and a GFX 50Sii. My days with Fuji go back to the original X100s, XT1 and XPro1 (sold them and upgraded over the years). Cheers..
Alejandro, that's a great price for a 100-400!! Indeed, that would be a hard one for anyone to pass up! Sounds like you're well entrenched with your Fujis, keep having lots of fun with them!
Seems like the latest 150 - 600mm would be of interest.
Hillel, yes, that does look like a promising lens. I haven't seen it in person yet, but when I'm able to get my hands on one, I'll definitely do a review. What Fuji do you use and what do you like to photograph?
Great review
Thank you so much
My decision on the 300 has been solidified.
Awesome! Glad you found this helpful, Frank! What Fuji do you use and what do you like to photograph?
@@DanBaileyPhoto moving to Fuji
Just bought a T-X3 to take the place of my Minolta 570.
Bought a Nikon 5500 and I hate it
I’m not a photographer, I’m a painter. So I’m hoping the Fuji becomes my best friend (other than my dog) lol
Haha!! Yes, if you're like a lot of us Fuji shooters, your X Series camera will definitely become your best friend!!! 🤣
Great video thank you Dan! I can across this as I was about to upgrade my 50-230 XC I got last year as I get more serious for sport and some occasional aviation and bird photography
The 100-400 is out of my price range so was looking at the 70-300, having said this the Sigma 100-400 seems like a great option too and is half the price of the Fuji 1-400
Thanks so much for your comment! The XF70-300 is a fantastic lens. Although it's not as fast as the 100-400 with regards to auto focus, I found to be very capable for a lot of situations. With good technique, you can even nail those fast-moving subjects. I haven't tried the Sigma 100-400, but having read a couple reviews, I'm not sure that the auto focus would be any faster than the Fuji 70-300. Which X Series body are you currently using?
@@DanBaileyPhoto thanks for replying Dan, I have an XT-4. Decisions decisions…
I do think the 70-300 sounds like it will focus better but I’m worried I will lose reach at 300 vs 400
That's what the 1.4x TC is for! 😀 It works exceptionally well with the 70-300.
@@DanBaileyPhoto thanks Dan! I didn’t even think about the teleconverter, but that sounds like the perfect solution and would get me to 420mm’
Yes, the 1.4x TC is a very good combination for any of the compatible X Series lenses. You get that extra reach, but with only one stop loss in light, which is hardly a penalty, given the great performance of the X Series sensors.
Great comparison Dan. Unfortunately, it is not easy to find thr 70-300mm lens easily. Stay safe.
Thanks, Alvin! Yes, it seems that the 70-300 is quite popular and on back order with many dealers. Be patient, you’ll find one soon, I hope!! What Fuji do you use and what do you like to photograph?
Very nice review as usual. I was surprised to read that the aperture ring lacks markings and that there is no af/mf switch on the 70-300 lens. 17:15
Thanks for your comment. Yes, many of the X Series zoom lenses have non-numbered aperture rings. And I don't think that any of the Fuji zoom lenses have a Manual/AF focus switch. They're not necessary, as the AF-C/AF-S/M control is on the body. The only 3 lenses that have a dedicated manual focus "switch" are the 14 2.8, 16 1.4 and 23 1.4, which all have at the push-pull clutch on the barrel itself, which puts the lens into Manual focus mode.
What Fuji do you use and what do you like to photograph?
@@DanBaileyPhoto Thanks for the information. I have the XT3 with the 14 and 33mm lenses and I am considering buying a short zoom lens or the 90 f2. I engage in mostly street, family, and travel photography.
Oh... Hi Steve!! Didn't recognize your YT username and just realized who you are!
No problem. Thanks again for the help.
Yep, I'm still in France. I'm flying back to North Carolina on September 14.
Don’t remember if I told you, we visited NC this past spring. Raleigh area and Asheville. Had fun there!
@@DanBaileyPhoto Yes, you had mentioned it. I've been to Asheville a few times' it's a fun and artsy kind of place and a great town for street photography. I've even seen all kinds of wildlife in the streets (once a bear on a very early morning walk through town. Wouldn't happen in Raleigh!)☺
Dan, when we were riding our bike in Raleigh along the Tobacco Trail, we saw one cyclist who was carrying bear spray. I can imagine that there are a lot of black bears that in the forest around that area.
Am currently hiring the 70-300 for 2 weeks to use on my XT3.
Mainly due to its size & weight.
Want to take sailing photos (here in the UK) at a regatta. Also try to capture birds in flight.
Also enjoy shooting racing cars and motorcycles.
Have a Canon 70-200 f4 with an f'ringer adapter which has worked well for me.
Have the 18-135 which is a lovely, useful lens.
The 100-400 will be too heavy for me.
Roger, thanks for your comment. Let me know your thoughts once you've had a chance to try out the 70-300. The 18-135 is a very versatile lens indeed. That was Fuji's first weather sealed lens for the X Series, and the first in the line that used the Linear AF motor.
does the 70-300 focus better then Canon 70-200 f4 with an f'ringer?
@@DanBaileyPhoto Have had this lens for a while now and must admit its a lovely lens, still learning but the focus and clarity is brilliant (imo) for me. Focusing on my XT3 is very good and the lightwiight and compactness is much better for me. Have caught some cracking photo's of Red Kites, Egrets and Seabirds etc. Also my sailing shots are coming along nicely too. Have bought the 1.4 extender and am still learning with this. A busy sailing week coming up shortly so lets see how we get on.
Am also wondering whether trading in my XT2 (which I keep as a spare) and the XT3 for an XT4 which I believe may have better focusing ability. Something to consider.
Hi Dan, love to see your review of new 150-600 lens, just swap 100-400 into 150-600, thanks in millions in advance
HI Lee, thanks for your comment. I haven't actually seen the 150-600 in person yet, but when I get a chance to play with it, I'll definitely do a review. But you're right, I think that it would be a similar comparison against the 70-300. It's about the same wight as the 100-400, but even longer. And it's white. 😀 Hope you've having a great summer. What have you been shooting lately?
@@DanBaileyPhoto I live in China, still have some kind of limit of free traveling, so can not explore nature too far, but gear up is kind of psychologically readiness……..
Yes, you can always gear up so that you'll be ready when the restrictions finally do open up!
I have the 100-400, never used the 70-300. No way Id give up my 100-400. I also use canon DSLR and to be honest even my canon L 100-400 cant compare to it, very sharp and the image stabilisation is amazing. I use it for wildlife and close up
Julie, thanks for your comment. I feel the same way; the Fuji 100-400 is a spectacular lens. I'll never trade mine for anything. Superb quality and highly capable stabilization. As I said, a total rock star lens. What kinds of wildlife have you been shooting lately?
@@DanBaileyPhoto mainly birdlife and kangaroos, the magpie on my page up close singing video was taken with the 100-400 and an XT3, the footage is handheld and unedited
I love you magpie video, Julie! They're such interesting birds, we have a lot of the in Anchorage. Between them and the ravens, there is always some very interesting conversations going on around town! 😀 Keep up the good work and keep having fun with it!!
looking for woodland photography some zoom lens, looks like 100 400 amazing lens but really I don't need such a beast for stills 70 300 it is then, probably one of the best comparisons I have seen
Thanks for your comment. Yes, the 100-400 is a great lens, but it's certainly bigger and heavier than is practical for most types of shooting. I think you'll find the 70-300 to be an excellent choice for woodland photography. 👍 Which X Series camera are you shooting with?
@@DanBaileyPhoto Thanks for your answer, Im using xt3.
👍
Great video. I have the 100-400. My problem is it’s really slow to get focus on my XT-2.
Hey Patrick, thanks for your comment. Not sure what the issue is, I was always highly impressed at how fast the AF was with my 100-400 on the X-T2. I've shot tons of fast action with that setup over the years. What kinds of subjects are you trying to capture with it?
@@DanBaileyPhoto Mostly birds, both large and small. It just hunts more than I like. It is my main lens that I use so I am sticking with it and hope to get a newer camera at some point. I know that won't fix everything though. I was taking photos of Osprey at the ocean last September and was bummed on how many photos were out of focus or missed focus - it would focus on the waves etc. or just hunt like crazy. I'm sure most of it is my technique or lack there of. No teleconverters. Thanks.
Patrick, shooting subjects like birds can be extremely challenging, if not the most difficult type of photography. Depending on the situation, you're often asking a lot of the camera, and in many cases, it ends up being more a fact of user error and not fully understanding all of the variables at play. It takes a full analysis of the situation, knowledge of your gear and tons of practice. A newer model will help, but the X-T2 and 100-400 is still a very capable combo.
I actually have a full online course about the Fuji AF system that might help you better understand the system and get better results: courses.danbaileyphoto.com/p/mastering-the-fujifilm-autofocus-system
At the very least, I would recommend watching this video: ua-cam.com/video/PSIjQPJGiaQ/v-deo.html
@@DanBaileyPhoto thank you very much for the links.
I want both and if the 100 to 400 was a bit smaller it would be great for me. I mostly shoot landscape, and some wildlife. Getting close up landscape shots between NYC bridges makes me want a 100 400mm to get cityscape and bridges. Traveling the 70 300mm will be more suitable......decisions decisions.
Decisions indeed!! I do have both, and I do LOVE the 100-400, but lately, I find myself taking the 70-300 much more often, unless I'm headed out specifically to shoot action/wildlife/birds, and sun/moon photos.
@Dan Bailey Yeah, I do all of that and lots of landscape shots. I can get an international import 100 400mm for 1099.00 new.
That sounds like a very good price!!
Great video. Answered my questions perfectly!!
Glad to hear! What Fuji do you use and what do you like to photograph?
@@DanBaileyPhoto xt3. All sorts. Recently got back into wildlife. I jave a canon70d and a 100-400 l series lens that needs selling.
Cool! I hope you've having fun with your X-T3!
A few months later, have you managed to compare the quality of the 70-300 with the 1.4x TC and the 100-400? The former setup is fairly close to the latter in focal length, but I'm curious about AF performance or IQ.
Thanks for your comment. I have found the 70-300 to be an excellent quality lens. I've been extremely happy with his performance in this regard, even when using the 1.4x TC. That said, I haven't done any critical tests to gauge IQ differences between this and the 100-400, but in my experience, both of these lenses produce excellent quality images.
However, they definitely differ in AF performance. 70-300 is good, and I've certainly gotten some great action photos using it, and some stunning bird shots, but the 100-400 is, without a doubt, the superior lens when it comes to auto focus. I think it's Fuji's fastest AF zoom lens, and I've been highly impressed at just how capable it is, even when shooting video and fast moving subjects in low light.
For action and fast moving subjects, the 100-400 is hands-down the better lens, which is not all that surprising, considering it costs over twice as much.
What Fuji do you use and what do you like to photograph?
The 70-300 is also wonderful for handheld video in average light levels - the IS makes it rock-solid.
I totally agree, Martin! The stabilization on this lens rocks and definitely makes it more usable for shooting handheld. Which X Series model camera are you currently using?
@@DanBaileyPhoto T3 for me. No IBIS so this lens is wonderful.
Indeed! I've been a huge fan of the 55-200 from my X-T1 days, and the 70-300 is a fantastic upgrade to that style of lens. They're very similar, pretty much identical in design.
Dan, I'm going whale watching soon with the 100-400mm on a 137" sailboat tour. As you say the 100-400mm is a hefty/heavy lens. I'm wondering if I should use my XH-1 or my XPro3 with this lens (I'm only considering the savings of weight by using the XPro3). I'm sure handling would be better on the XH-1 especially with the battery grip. It is only a four hour roundtrip sailing tour BTW. My only other consideration is my airline carry on weight restrictions. I have nightmares about the flight attendant wanting to gate check my camera backpack! Which BTW is a ThinkTank Retrospective 15.
Bill, the X-Pro 3 will give you better image quality and faster autofocus performance on the newer body than you will on the X-H1. And I've found that even though a grip does help balance the larger 100-400 lens, I've shot plenty of times with the 100-400 on cameras that don't have a body grip, and it's been fine. And it obviously saves weight and space while packing. That said, it really should come down to which camera setup you're most comfortable with. Have you used the 100-400 much on your X-Pro 3?
@@DanBaileyPhoto Dan, I think you just saved my life! ;) I have used the 100-400mm with the XPro3 with a Gariz half case. Considering I am only going to use the 100-400mm for 4 hours round trip ( and God only knows if I sight a whale) I do think I'll opt for the XPro3. I plan to do some street photography for several days, and a tour of the docked USS Midway. So the XPro3 and a 10-24mm or primes would would probably work better for me for most of the 5 day trip. Again thanks from this amateur photographer who started with film in 1972!
You're welcome, Bill. That sounds like it will be a great setup!! What primes do you have?
@@DanBaileyPhoto 23mm, 35mm, 50mm f2.
Ah... the tiny Fujicron kit. Those are three awesome little lenses!
Hi Dan, super great video. I would like to hear what you think about which to choose from. I'm, by all means, not a professional photographer, i.e., photography is not my main job but more of an interest. I plan to use this lens to shoot some sunset/moon or lunar eclipse, wildlife or birds while camping and hiking, or some sea mammals while on the boat or hiking near the coast. Do I have to choose the 100-400 lens for these kinds of needs? Or the lightweight and wallet-friendly 70-300 will be good enough for the job.
Hi Ryan, yes, the 70-300 works be more than suitable for shooting those kinds of subjects. It’s a great lens with excellent quality. It doesn’t have quite the AF performance of the 100-400, but it does have a linear focus motor, so it may take a bit more practice to nail really fast bird shots, bits certainly capable, and would excel in most photography situations. And of course, it’s WAY more convenient to take along when you’re hiking. Overall, the 70-300 is a real winner. As I said in the video, I didn’t know just how much I’d love it, but it quickly became one of my favorite and most used/versatile lenses.
@@DanBaileyPhoto Thank you for the recommendation! I'll definitely pull the trigger if I find some discount at the end of this year :)
You didn’t mention the minimum focus of the 100-400.
Greg
Hey Greg, the min focus distance on the 100-400 is 1.75 m, or 5.74 ft.
These are good for outdoor shooting. Fuji needs to come out with a 50-140 2.8 refresh and add ois. I need something for indoor sports. Sigma please hurt us..
The XF50-140mm f/2.8 already has OIS, which is a very capable lens for shooting indoor sports and lower light situations. And there's always the XF200mm f/2, but of course, that one costs a little bit more. 😀 What Fuji do you use and what kinds of sports do you like to photograph?
@@DanBaileyPhoto I have the xt-3. But since I don’t have a long tele I still use my Nikon d500 and tamron 70-200mm 2.8
Cool. The X-T3 is a great camera. Pairing that with the 50-140 would definitely be a good combination.
Thanks, really honest and good review
Thanks for watching! I'm glad you enjoyed this. What Fuji do you use and what do you like to photograph?
I can only echo what others have said: this comparison after extended use is very helpful. I'm more trying to decide whether to buy the xf90 or the xf70-300 first. When you're shooting action sports, particularly mountain biking and to a lesser degree road biking, is the range around 90-100mm enough reach for some shots? (So can the 90 get me singletrack trailside or streetside road cycling shots like you have? What focal lengths do you often use when you're shooting the mountain and road bikers with the 70-300 and 100-400? I currently have an XT3 and my longest lens is the 18-55.
Hey there, thanks for your comment. For shooting fast action, I would recommend the 90mm over the 70-300. Both are great lenses, but the 90mm has a quad linear motor, where the focus elements are basically floating in between an array of magnets, kind of like a mag-lev train. In my own experience shooting mountain bikers who are basically jumping into the frame, the 90mm is extremely fast and quick to acquire and track subjects. You won't see that kind of performance from the 70-300. And yes, for shooting single track, the 90mm is often very adequate for capturing those kinds of scenes, and it's slightly more portable than the 70-300. It depends on your environment and desired vantage point, but I've found the 90 to be a very capable lens to carry while cycling.
When I'm shooting cyclists with those two lenses, it just depends on the look I'm going for. I've used the entire range of focal lengths, but I do like to take advantage of the long telephoto zoom and high compression capabilities they offer. With road biking, I'll often shoot at a higher zoom setting to get the full effect of the telephoto.
Hope this helps. Where do you usually shoot cycling?
Thinking about getting the 70-300 with the X-H2. Still using a T3i….
David, that would be an excellent combination. The X-H2 looks amazing, and the 70-300 is one of the XF lenses that's been designed to get maximum benefit from Fuji's new 40MP sensor.
@@DanBaileyPhoto I like the idea of jpegs. I want a hybrid so I’m also considering the A7IV with all the lenses to choose from. No hurry to buy since I have a Canon T3i 😂
JPEG sooting can be so liberating!
What photos would this suit? I don’t see any.
Both of these lenses are suitable for shooting just about any kind of subject matter. I've used them to shoot landscapes, nature, travel, sports, action, birds, and video. Here's a more comprehensive look at what I've shot with the 100-400: ua-cam.com/video/rYHNNTRAQfA/v-deo.html and there are some examples of my 70-300 shots in these videos: ua-cam.com/users/shorts9LBDrCGvrsU and ua-cam.com/video/qK2g73Iyn3I/v-deo.html
What Fuji do you use and what do you like to photograph?
Your 100-400mm must be very different from mine, as it isn't as fast, struggles a lot with fast moving objects like birds in flight (as the video example you show is not sharp from beginning to end), even with the XH2s, with a lower hit rate than the 50-140mm and not very sharp at the higher end, so I gave up shooting smaller birds, as the feather details aren't so great and the rendering of the background tends to look a little bit artificial.
It's far away from "highest performance possible".
Agree totally - lots of frustration with this lens.
I'm sorry to hear that you're having trouble with this lens. It's exactly the opposite with me, the 100-400 definitely outperforms the 50-140 lens with its newer AF motor and upgraded algorithms. I find it be incredibly fast and accurate when photographing birds and other fast moving subjects, and captures subjects with incredible sharpness and resolution. If you think that something is wrong with the lens, then I would get in touch with the Fujifilm tech support people. In the U.S. this number is 1-800-800-FUJI.
Rob, sorry to hear. What kinds of issues are you having with your 100-400?
@@DanBaileyPhoto Hi Dan - everything lumberjack3008 said pretty much covers the problems. I have tried all sorts of setups, watched endless set up tutorials, but the lens focus hunts all the time. I can have a large dark eagle on a plain well lit sky and the thing will lose focus and rarely comes back no matter what focus points I'm using. I can get sharp images when it sticks, no problem there, but the hit rate is pretty dismal in my books. I do a lot of video since owning the xt4 and this lens. I get the best results with manual focus, which makes life a lot harder chasing birds moving towards you. Absolutely can't rely on auto focus.
Thanks for taking an interest Dan
Hmmm... I don't know what could be the issue. I do know that shooting action with long lenses does present unique challenges, and it does take a lot of practice, especially when subjects are moving directly towards or away from you. That's by far the hardest type of thing to shoot and get sharp images. I would highly recommend trying the PRE-SHOT ES setting. This can make a HUGE difference in helping you capture those really fast moving subjects. I've found it to be an invaluable tool for this kind of photography, especially with things like birds. You can watch my PRE-SHOT tutorial here: ua-cam.com/video/B0lvATlx0U8/v-deo.html
What bodies have you tried with the lenses?
Mark, I have used the 100-400mm lens with X-T2, X-T3, X-T4. X-T5 and X-H2S. The 70-300mm lens, I have used with X-T3, X-T4, X-T5, and X-H2S. Both lenses give incredible results with every body. What Fuji do you use and what do you like to photograph?
I just managed to get the 70-300 after a 6 month wait. So far I like it for all kinds of shots. What is the benefits to the Fuji TCs vs the cheaper no glass TCs from third parties?
Awesome, Bill!! I see that they're finally starting to come back into stock. I haven't tried any of the 3rd party teleconverters for the Fuji lenses. In fact, I don't know of any 3rd party TCs that work with the X Series lenses. Most of the 3rd party TCs seem to only work with Canon and Nikon. A no glass TC would effectively be an extension tube, and if it's a non-Fuji model, then it wouldn't have the contacts that allow the lens to talk to the camera.
What Fuji do you use and what do you like to photograph?
Thanks Dan. Yes I was thinking mostly about Extension tubes and how they fair against real TC. I have the X-S10 and your book one X series. I like to shoot macro shots and inventory jewelry for insurance purposes. Focus stacking is fun! Most of my pictures are from trips which I put together into movies using Corel Video Studio. I also use Corel PaintShopPro for editing. Not an Adobe fan.
Bill, the teleconverters do allow for increased magnification, but you can't get nearly as close as you can with the extension tubes. Of course, you can combine them for even more dramatic closeups.
Can you recommend which lens for making video? I have XH2 camera.
The Fujifilm XF18-120mm f/4 is a newer lens that's great for stills, but is optimized for video and motion. It has a stepless aperture control and a powered zoom/focus functions via a Zoom/Focus Control ring and a Zoom in/out button that allow for smooth transitions when focusing and zooming in and out. bhpho.to/3urryX4 I've tried this lens out a bit and I'm pretty impressed. It's on my list since I'm shooting more video these days. It will perform very well on the X-H2S. What kinds of videos/scenes do you like to capture?
Thanks Dan I’m a convert to the 70-300
Hi David, it IS a really great lens. I think you'd have a ton of fun with it.
15:15 great shot!
Thank you!! Are you a Fuji shooter?
@@DanBaileyPhoto i try to be)
Unfortunately i have a lot of bad experience in missing shots with fuji af and i thinking to switch from fuji ro sony.
For me its important to have reliable af system and also compact apsc such as a6400 plus 70-350 sony lens...
At this moment i have xt3 plus 100-400 lens
Great lens but to heavy to go around with... The kit also for me is quite large...
I have the 50-230 fuji lens but its that snappy as 100-400 and of course not that well in other categories...
The Fuji's 70-300 is good option but i think it will not outperform sonys af anyway...
Thats my thoughts at this moment)
Hmm… why not compare the XF 150-600 to the 100-400? They have similar use cases
I haven't seen the 150-600 in person yet, but as soon as get one in hand, I'll do a review. That said, I have gotten quite a few messages and comment from people who are curious about these two zooms, so I thought it would be helpful for some people. Do you have either of these lenses?
@@DanBaileyPhoto I have the 100-400, and it works well, even on the X-H2S! I do think however, that the Nikon 300 PF ED f/4 using the Fringer adapter works better than the native lens!
I haven't seen the X-H2s either! Glad you're enjoying it, though. Sounds like a really capable camera to use with the 100-400.
@@DanBaileyPhoto the X-H2S IS a good camera! Please don’t just take the reviews of e.g. “angry” and “Casey from conspiracies” at face value… part of their gripes, maybe even a major part of them, relate to the facts that the new camera has quite a few new ways of achieving control in a shooting situation… Those differences can however be overcome, or quickly become a part of habits.
Great comparison and agree.
We have and love the 100-400 BUT now prefer using it on a tripod... finally got the 70-300 (after almost a year on backorder) and popped it on the xt4 with a polarpro cpl...sweet... will live on the camera as my main lens. It is so much lighter, still uses the 1.4x tc (love that thing), great edc. Fits that range I like (used to use a 90-230mm with the 35mm as main lens) except this is even better.
Thanks for your comment. I'm glad to hear that you're having so much fun with the 70-300! It does make a good companion to the 100-400, but it's definitely a much more convenient lens in many ways. What kinds of subjects do you like to shoot?
@@DanBaileyPhoto Outdoor stuff from closeups to long range, wildlife, prefer candid shots of people rather than posed. Sadly, work has been so crazy the last few years, haven't had much time to bring out the cameras. Not allowed to have them at work and won't leave them in the car...so the phone has been getting more use. Still, hoping to get back to the good stuff in the next year. 🙃😉
Yea, I totally understand how work can get in the way of fun pursuits. Hopefully you can find some time to shift back towards photography in the coming year. 👍
For casual sport & daily candid, which one is best ?
I would say the 70-300, simply because of its smaller size and weight. It's much easier to carry around, and so the chances are high that you'll actually have it with you during these candid moments. The 100-400 is a great lens, but it's just not as easy to carry and fit in most camera bags. Which Fuji camera model do you use?
@@DanBaileyPhoto thank you 🫡 my friend said just buy 50-140,but i need more reach 😅. Still using old XS10 sir 😅
The 50-140 is an awesome lens, but the 70-300 is definitely smaller, lighter, easier to carry, focuses closer and has twice the range. 😀
The 70-300 is a great lens but it have one week point. It's not an good lens for action. You can't zoom while shooting in continuous or filming video! It looses the focus.
As long as you don't touch the zoom ring while shooting everything is fine.
Thanks for your comment. I would generally agree with you on this. I have gotten some stunning action shots with the 70-300, and it is a capable AF lens when you have a good light, but it does have limitations find on the higher end, more expensive glass. Overall, an awesome lens, and certainly of my favorites!
Des 2023 update fixed that. Youre welcome 👌
A great comparison! I really would love to get the XF 70-300, but I borrowed one recently and when I had on my X-T3 or X-H1 it wouldn't let me use the AF+MF feature turned on (where you half hold shutter and manually focus for fine tune) or use manual mode. It just wouldn't do anything. The same lens worked fine on an X-T4 and my X-E4. With my X-T3 still being my main camera for now, I was curious if that was ever fixed in firmware. I don't see it listed anywhere, so I am assuming not.
Michael, the AF/MF feature should work fine with this lens on the X-T3. Not sure why you’re having troubles. I’ll look into this with my own X-T3 and 100-400 and see what’s going on.
@@DanBaileyPhoto it was the 70-300 that I was having issues with. I'd love to get one, but the two I tried all had issues with my X-T3 (which is the WW newest version, on latest firmware). The size of this lens really interests me.
Oh, ok. I’ll try using that feature with my 70-300 and see what happens.
Michael, I just tried using the AF/MF feature with my 70-300 on the X-T3 and it seemed to work just fine. I didn't have any problems. Are you still having this issue?
@@DanBaileyPhoto Yeah, still am with latest firmware on both lens and camera body. Thanks for your testing, I guess I'll reach out to Fuji support. I really appreciate it!
Haven't tried the 100-400mm yet, but have a high interest on 70-300 to upgrade from my 55-200mm. How much improvement you'd say I'll get if I replace my 55-200 with the 70-300?
BTW, I tried the X-H2s with 150-600mm and 200mm two days ago. Boy oh boy, I don't know Fujifilm could do tracking like THAT! I've been using single point constantly with my X-E3, now my camera felt slow lol.
Putra, yes, even the X-T3 can do very fast tracking when using Zone AF. Combine that with the Electronic Shutter and the PRE-SHOT ES setting, and it's still a very capable camera. That said, there's no doubt that the new X-H2s is a fantastic upgrade.
Regarding the 55-200 vs the 70-300, the main performance differences you'll find with the 70-300 are of course, the longer 300mm range, the much closer focus capabilities, the fact that it works with the 1.4x ad 2x teleconverters and the weather sealing. AF is definitely a bit faster on the new lens, and it has slightly better stabilization, but from what I've experienced, the vastly extended range from very far to very close makes the 70-300 an much more capable lens and a worth upgrade. The 55-200 is still a great lens, but you get a lot more options with the 70-300. Hope that helps.
@@DanBaileyPhoto Thank you for the response! Yes, I want to get the 70-300 mainly for the ability to attach the TC. Not saying that 55-200mm is lacking, I just think, as you said, the 70-300 will opens up a lot more options. It's the "cheapest" option to get a 600mm, since the cost of 150-600 is too prohibitive for me.
Indeed! When I first got the 70-300 last year, I had no idea how much I would love it. I already had the 55-200, which yes, is a little lacking in some areas, but is still a very good lens. However, the 70-300 offers a much more expansive level of creativity.
I think you have just sold me the 70?300 Dan, weight and cost and I don't do wildlife. Hope all is well with you.
Hey Iain, I think you’ll really enjoy the 70-300. Doing well, and getting ready for another season of cyclocross, which starts next weekend!! 😀 You?
@@DanBaileyPhoto CycloCross should be starting here soon als0 I had the Covid but had the vax too so it was annoying more than anything, still feeling below 100% though. Yes I will be getting the lens within the next two weeks.
Man, I want to come race cross in the UK sometime!!! Sorry to hear about your CVD inconveniences. I hope you bounce back soon!!
this lens 70-300 is a good idea to portrait photography? Thanks for ur video.
Yes, definitely. The XF70-300 is a very versatile lens that works great for portraits, landscapes, travel, even some action and wildlife. I doesn't have as wide an aperture as some standard "portrait" lenses, but if you zoom in a bit more, you can blur the background and get some great results. Which Fuji model do you use?
@@DanBaileyPhoto thanks for reply. I have an fuji xt30
Cool. That's a great little camera!! What other lenses do you have with it?
@@DanBaileyPhoto to be honest i got a job to buy a new one haha I have only the kit lens 18-35 and Helios 44 old Soviet haha I love this two
Another thing that's amazing about the X Series. The little kit lens is awesome and you can use vintage lenses with the cameras and get great results!!
Is 70-300 compatible with xt30??
Yes, absolutely. The XF70-300mm lens will work with any of the X Series camera bodies. What kind so subjects do you like to shoot?
@@DanBaileyPhoto thanks for the information. I do nature landscape and wildlife photography
You're very welcome! I hope you're able to get a 70-300 lens soon. There's so much fun to be had with that one!
Great video. Thank you
Thanks, David! You're welcome!! Do you have one of theses lenses, or are you thinking about getting one of them?
100-400 3 tiny screws siting in plastic holding heavy front elements . VERY cheap.
I answered this in the other video thread. No need to post duplicate comments, I see every one in my dashboard.
Are you awesome!
Thanks so much, Stefan!! 😀 I assume that you're awesome too, right?
Thank you! Great video and explication 👍🏽👍🏽🙂
You're welcome, Peter! Glad it was helpful! What Fuji do you use and what do you like to photograph?
@@DanBaileyPhoto I'm from Italy, I use Xt3 for humanitarian photography in South East Asia. I always read your newsletter 👍🏽🙂
Awesome!!! Thanks for following me!
i dont like zooms with extensions of barrel. They just look cheap and ugly.
Thats why i have only 50-140 and 100-200
Silvio, thanks for your comment. It definitely comes down to personal preference. Internal zoom/focus lenses do look more tidy, but the advantage of an extension zoom barrel is that a long range zoom sometimes end up being more compact. It might fit into a certain camera bag, while an internal zoom might not. What camera do you use and what do you like to photograph?