[Saralonde]

Originally Posted by F1Annie

Can someone explain (in simple terms!) the difference between these two lenses? What makes the second one more than twice the price of the other & what is 'DO Element'?

http://www.canon.co.uk/For_Home/Prod..._USM/index.asp

http://www.canon.co.uk/For_Home/Prod..._USM/index.asp

You are looking for the difference between the 70-300mm f/4-5.6 IS and the 70-300mm f/4.5-5.6 DO IS. The main difference is the DO or Diffractive Optics. Basically this technology is what makes this lens smaller, lighter and more expensive than it's cousin. I have read reviews where people complain about the DO's lack of sharpness, even compared to the less expensive non-DO. Here are some reviews for the non DO and the DO.