What's the difference (Canon 100mm)

[Duckys54]

Can anyone tell me what's the difference between these three lenses aside from price and aperture? Is there a huge quality difference between them? Does one handle CA over the others? etc.

http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/647011-USA/Canon_3554B002_EF_100mm_f_2_8L_Macro.html
http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/194451-USA/Canon_4657A006_100mm_f_2_8_USM_Macro.html
http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/12058-USA/Canon_2518A003_Telephoto_EF_100mm_f_2_0.html

[ziggy53]

If you need a true macro 1:1, the first 2 listed are true macro lenses. The last lens is a Canon prime lens of 100mm. It lacks macro capability but is pretty good quality.

The macro lenses are generally better quality but cost significantly more. The latest macro has somewhat better quality and IS, and the very highest price tag.

All make a pretty good portrait lens for head shots and head-and-shoulders. The 100mm, f2 would be somewhat better for really low light, but the IS in the "L" Macro version mitigates the issue somewhat.

The "L" version is brand new so the reviews are forthcoming. For now, the best reviews to compare the lenses:

http://www.the-digital-picture.com/Reviews/Canon-EF-100mm-f-2.0-USM-Lens-Review.aspx
http://www.the-digital-picture.com/Reviews/Canon-EF-100mm-f-2.8-USM-Macro-Lens-Review.aspx
http://www.the-digital-picture.com/Reviews/Canon-EF-100mm-f-2.8-L-IS-USM-Macro-Lens-Review.aspx

[Duckys54]

Thanks for the links and fast response, Ziggy!