Phase Fresnel Lens Design. The phase fresnel optic allows the lens to be smaller and lighter compared to its predecessor. This advanced optic system effectively eliminates chromatic aberration and ghosting, ensuring high-quality images. If this sounds vaguely familiar, Canon has used this same optical formula for quite some time under the name Diffractive Optics.

Super Telephoto Prime. The 300mm focal length is popular for sports and wildlife photographers. With its reduced size and weight, this lens targets the latter of the two.

Vibration Reduction. The stabilizer is rated for up to 4.5 stops of correction, which in turn enables better image quality when hand-holding. Additionally, a designated Sports and Action VR Mode provides a more accurate stabilization method when panning.

Silent Wave Autofocus Motor. Provides fast, nearly silent autofocus with full-time manual-focus override for instantaneous manual-focus tweaking. There’s also a focus-limit switch for limiting the focus distance to 3m or further.

Build and Optics. Fluorine coating on the front lens element repels dust, water, grease, and dirt for easy cleaning. In addition to the phase fresnel element, there’s a single extra-low dispersion element for aberration control. At 5.8 inches and 1.7 lb., this 300mm lens is remarkably small compared to other options in the same quality range.