The Fujifilm XF 70-300mm f/4-5.6 and XF 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6 are both telephoto zooms for X-mount cameras. The 70-300 is compact and easy to carry, while the 100-400 reaches much further and suits wildlife, birds and distant sports. Choose the 70-300 for portability and the 100-400 when reach matters more than size.
What Each Lens Is Built For
- XF 70-300mm f/4-5.6 R LM OIS WR: a relatively light telephoto zoom for travel, portraits at distance, kids’ sports and general outdoor use.
- XF 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6 R LM OIS WR: a larger lens for birds, wildlife, motorsport and field sports where you cannot get close.
On an APS-C body, 300mm gives a view like about 450mm on full frame, and 400mm gives about 600mm.
Key Differences
| Trait | 70-300mm | 100-400mm |
|---|---|---|
| Long end | 300mm | 400mm |
| Short end | 70mm | 100mm |
| Aperture | f/4 to f/5.6 | f/4.5 to f/5.6 |
| Size class | Compact for a telephoto | Large and heavy |
| Best for | Travel, general telephoto | Wildlife, birds, sports |
Confirm exact size, weight and teleconverter support on the maker’s page.
Reach Versus Carry
Extra reach helps only if you can actually bring the lens with you. A 100-400 is more demanding on a long walk, and it often calls for a monopod or a strong grip. The 70-300 fits in a regular bag and can be used all day without strain. Many beginners buy the longest lens and then leave it at home.
Also consider the short end. The 70-300 covers portrait distances, while the 100-400 does not go below 100mm, so you will need another lens for nearby subjects.
How to Choose
- Name your main subject. Small birds and far-off animals call for the 100-400.
- Think about distance. If you can move closer, the 70-300 may be enough.
- Think about weight. Try holding both in a shop if you can.
- Plan for support. A monopod makes the long lens far easier to use.
Baseline Settings
These are general guidance values to adjust. For moving subjects at long focal length, a shutter speed of about 1/1000 or faster freezes most movement. For birds in flight, many shooters go to 1/2000 or higher. Use continuous autofocus and raise ISO as needed to hold those speeds.
Both lenses include stabilization and weather resistance per the maker, so the decision comes down to reach and weight rather than features. Pair either one with a body that has a good grip, and consider a lens collar or monopod foot if the maker offers one for the larger lens.
FAQ
Is the 70-300 enough for wildlife?
For larger animals and nearby scenes, yes. For small or shy subjects, the extra length of the 100-400 helps a lot.
Can I crop instead of buying more reach?
Cropping works with a high resolution sensor, but it reduces detail, so true reach still helps.
The Short Version
Choose the 70-300 for a light, versatile telephoto that goes everywhere. Choose the 100-400 when distant subjects are your focus and you can handle the weight. Check the maker’s page before you decide.
