Canon 70-200 f4L vr Sigma 70-200 f2.8 hsm

[pmarz]

I am considering these two lenses, any comment from those with experience with these lenses are appreciated. I will be using the lens with a 10d

[rodbunn]

I like them both. I use my Sigma more for portrait because of the 2.8, I like to blur the background sometimes. Some will argue though to stick with Canon for future compatability and I agree.....

Good luck,
Rod

[pmarz]

Thanks

[randyk]

I think it comes down to personal preference, there are strong fans of both. If you want a faster lens and willing to buy 3rd party, go with Sigma. If speed is less important and you want compact and light, go Canon f4.

[Malaxos1]

I had the same dillema a few weeks ago. I decided to get the Canon instead as I have read to many things that say the sweet spot on the Sigma is f8 and that f2.8 is a bit soft. Therefor, being that the sigma is really good at f8 and up f4 would be faster. The Canon is sweet throughout. I will continue using this lens util I am able to get th Canon f2.8. What you can do is go to www.photosig.com and veiw photos by lens. This has helpped me out a lot. Plus wedding guru photographer, Monte Zucker uses the f4 as well...Dean

[pmarz]

Thanks for the help

[kahfluie]

"L" Glass is typically better... however because of price and that extra stop, I went with the Sigma. I'm don't regret it a bit.

Here is a link: http://debbielou.com/photography/concerts/avalon_030504/index.htm - I used the lens a couple of days ago at a concert. Every shot is using f2.8.

Good luck in making your decision - it certainly isn't an easy one.

[pmarz]

Wow you just made the decision harder. i looked at your pics, they are great. I was leaning towards canon out of the compatibility fear. If the Sigma is totaly compatible I would like the 2.8.

[kahfluie]

It's going to be what you're comfortable with. I shoot concerts, so I needed that extra stop. The price difference between the Sigma f2.8 and the Canon f2.8 was too much for me - so I went for the sigma.

There is one thing that I don't understand about the Sigma lens... most times the "Focal Length" on the EXIF reads 456mm. It doesn't hurt the image, and I'm not bothered by it... just makes it hard to know what the length really was when you took the shot. Other than that - it works like a charm. If you plan on carrying the lens, it will get heavy after a while.

While the Sigma is compatible with the 10D and the Digital Rebel, there's no guarantees it will be compatible with a new Canon body 5 years from now - however Sigma has been rechipping lenses as a courtesy at no charge, except freight charges. Hopefully 5 years form now, they will continue to do so.

Again, it's going to be what you are comfortable with, what your main use will be and what you can afford.

[CyberDyneSystems]

I went with the Sigma when facxed with this decision because I NEEDED the f/2.8 and I could NOT afford at the time a Canon with f/2.8

I was not disappointed. This particular Sigma is very highly regarded.

So,... Do you NEED the f/2.8?

[pmarz]

I am looking for the lens to give me the best photos. I would use this lens for outdoor shots and indoor and outdoor sporting events.

[Andy_T]

Be aware that even among the Sigma fans in this forum, there is a notion that with Sigma, one particular lens of a certain model performs great, but another version of the exact lens does not perform as well ... quality issue.

If you buy it, buy it at a place where you can try it out before!

Best regards,
Andy

[Jmurman]

I have read about the dreaded 99 error message with the Sigma...and then having to have the lens re-chipped.

I am seriously considering the 70-200 F4 and will be making a decision soon.

[pmarz]

I have a Sigma on my film base Rebel and tried it on my 10d and also got the 99 error message.

[Jmurman]

I have a Sigma on my film base Rebel and tried it on my 10d and also got the 99 error message.

did you have to get the Sigma re-chipped?

[kahfluie]

I've heard a few people have gotten their older Sigma's re-chipped with no trouble and no charge (except freight). If you like the lens, might be worth having it done.

[pmarz]

Actually its an old(3year) 28-200mm used on a rebel 2000.I dont use it on my 10d. I just tried it out and got that messeage.