Quote Originally Posted by mc95112
What specifically is better about the 70-200 L?

Bryan's reviews for each of these lenses give a pretty clear idea of the ways in which the 70-200 f/4 non-IS is better. Here's the short version:
  • Twice as much aperture at 200mm (f/4 vs f/5.6).
  • Professional grade build
  • No distortion.
  • Less chromatic aberration.
  • Somewhat better contrast.
  • Somewhat higher resolution.
  • Much less vignetting.
  • Better focus and zoom rings.
  • Faster Ring USM (vs slower Micro Motor).
  • Full time manual focus.
  • Better bokeh.



The big downsides are the focal length range and lack of I.S.