Sigma 80-400mm F4.5-5.6 EX OS question

[Nigel Wallace]

Folks

Has anyone used the New Sigma 80 - 400 Lens, the one with the optical stabilizer . Thinking of getting this as i can't quite afford the Canon 100 - 400 is but can't seem to find any reviews on this lens or pictures to compare the 2.

Anyone got any thoughts or comments out there on this

Thanks
Nigel :)

[Chrisc]

AP (UK) reviewed the lens a while ago and slated it. The AF was noisy and slow, and overall quality was poor. I don''t think it has the HSM focusing.

Try saving a few more pounds to buy the Canon 100-400, it will be worth it in the end, alternativley try a used one.

[KennyG]

I tried one out for a full day at a race circuit. It has the slowest AF I have come across, including other Sigma lenses, and I mean slow. Their version of IS (OS) is not as quick to come into action as the Canon. It does not have as good a contrast as the Canon.

As far as image quality over all is concerned, those few acceptable shots I got due to the other problems were OK. With the 100-400L I would expect over 90% of shots to be in focus and useable. With the Sigma it was less than 30% !! My own view was/is - best avoided, save up a bit longer.

[RichardtheSane]

Here's the way I see it.

If you want the Canon, buying the Sigma will not stop you wanting the Canon. It will get you 400mm, but you will still feel like you havn't got the best, and buy the Canon anyway, after possibly loosing money on the Sigma.

Buy the Canon, then you will know you have the best quality lens in that range.

[Nigel Wallace]

Folks

Many thanks for the info, I have taken your advice and ordered a 100 - 400, dam the expense . I managed to find a place that stocked a sigma tonight , had a play with it :shock: and yuk. It did all the things you said it did. Not impressed. I now look forward to my 100 - 400 making friends with my 70 - 200 F4 L in my camera bag

Cheers :lol:

[RichardtheSane]

You made the right decision, and thenks for letting us help you spend more of your money!!

[defordphoto]

Nigel: You will not regret purchasing the 100-400L. Once you start shooting with it, the costs will pale in comparison to the photos it will assist you in producing.

[Nigel Wallace]

Jim

I'm sure i won't regret it, just can't wait to use it :lol:

Cheers

Nigel

[Chris1le]

This is a no brainer. 8) The Canon is only $140 more at B&H right now. $1339 for the Canon. $1199 for the Sigma. With my current dealing with Sigma I'll never buy another. Wish I would have sprung for the Canon 70-200IS instead of the Sigma 70-200EX which I have not seen in over a month due to Sigma lousy service! :evil: I've got the 100-400. I'm loving it!

Oh I see you've already ordered the 100-400L. Oh well, Gives me another chance to rant against Sigma! :twisted:

[Nigel Wallace]

Well Folks my 100 - 400 IS arrived today :D , all i can say is WOW. Only problem is , i haven't had the time to use it yet. Hopefully will get a few hours tomorrow morning and take it for a spot of wildlife photography.
I am so pleased that i did not go for the Sigma 80 - 400, IMHO it would have been a complete waste of money. There is just no comparison , long live Canon :lol:
Nigel