New 100-400L IS II and the 1.4 TC

[Marina Scarr]

I understand that the new 100-400 can be used with a 1.4 TC. Has anyone used a Version II 1.4 with it or does it only operate with the new 1.4 III teleconverter?

Thank you for any info.

[Doug Schurman]

Yes, version II 1.4 TC works fine. I used it last weekend on a 1DX and it worked well even for flight shots.

[gail bisson]

The version 2 does work but compared to the version III it makes for slower autofocus.If you have the moolah I would get the version III.
I tried a friends version 2 and my version 3 during one afternoon and I found a difference in autofocus speed.
Gail

[Larry Weinman]

A version II will work on the 100-400 II. The version III teleconverters are designed with a chip that Canon says will increase focusing speed. I use both a version II and III and so far I do not notice any difference in focusing speed or sharpness between the two teleconverters. With the 2X teleconverters the version III is noticeably better both in focusing speed and image quality.

[Marina Scarr]

Thank you all for the advice. I am loving my new 100-400 and think I"ll try it with the 1.4 V2 before I spring for the V3.

[Dennis Zaebst]

Hi Marina,

This reply is a little late based on the original post, but I just returned from Alberta Canada, where I've had great luck with the 1D Mark IV, the 100-400 II, and the EF 1.4x TC II. The attached capture of a breeding plumage ruddy duck drake shows the sharpness, but the autofocus on the 1D IV is very fast as well. I have images of a lesser scaup doing a "flap" which is just as sharp. I have been pleased overall with the combination.

1D IV; ISO 800; 100-400 II + 1.4x TC II at 560 mm; f/8 @ 1/2500 sec. Captured at Gaetz Lake Sanctuary near Red Deer Alberta, Canada on 6/21/2015.

[Marina Scarr]

Thanks for writing, Dennis. I've been pleased with the same combination. At this time, I don't feel a need to buy the 1.4 V3. Glad you're enjoying this combo too!

[arash_hazeghi]

A version II will work on the 100-400 II. The version III teleconverters are designed with a chip that Canon says will increase focusing speed. I use both a version II and III and so far I do not notice any difference in focusing speed or sharpness between the two teleconverters. With the 2X teleconverters the version III is noticeably better both in focusing speed and image quality.

The CPU in the MK III TC's can only talk to the series II super telephoto lenses attached to a 1D-X body. It has no effect with any other combination.