Canon USM lens

[aweb108]

what is USM is it required for a beginner..should i get this of its it not worth it and i should just get the newer one with USM and IS
Canon EF 100mm f2.8 macro (non-USM) - eBay (item 260503993626 end time Nov-13-09 22:39:01 PST)

 

[Derrel]

Ultra Sonic Motor = USM

The specific Canon 100mm f/2.8 NON-USM lens shown uses the regular ring-style focusing motor Canon used/uses in older or lower-end lenses. That exact lens was made before the year 2000,and is the only Canon 100mm macro to have a solid,metal lens barrel. it also extends *tremendously* when focused to 1:1, since the lens has a rather simple extension focusing method of achieving close focus--the lens grows longer to focus closer. The subsequent design, the 100mm f/2.8 USM,which I own, does not gain any physical length when it focuses.

The original 100mm f/2.8 shown in the auction however does have one redeeming value--it is considered one of the world's best bokeh lenses. Seriously.

 

[Hardrock]

Get the one with usm. Thats just my 2cents.