55-200 vs 70-200 F4

[dirty]

Hey...

I currently have a 55-200 f4.5-5.6 (The one advertised as being great for the digital EOS cameras).. Now its a fine little lens for what Im doing (sports), but I've seen a few 70-200 F4 L kickin around at decent prices.

I'm wondering how much of a different am I going to see between these 2. First off, yes I do realize that the 70-200 has better glass in it (obviously eh ;)) ...
Second, I know that I can get another stop out of it. I'd say the vast majority of what I shoot is outdoors on either sunny, or overcast days. Very very little is indoor or in the rain.

Maybe I am just trying to talk myself into it, but I'm giving the pros out there a chance to really sell me on it. Oh ya, if I could afford it, I'd pick up the 70-200 f2 in a second..but well, starving university student and all...

thanks for the help
Kevin

[HJMinard]

Simply and to the point ... the 70-200/4L is a far superior lens to the 55-200. Build quality, glass quality ... faster ... consistent aperture. Buy it ... you won't regret it.

[Medic1]

Buy it, its a great lens. I looked at getting a 55-200 and the 70-200 f4L is a much better lens

[n8.]

I'm not a pro but I too would say get the 70-200. The glass is better and will result in sharper images (and likely better color, etc) but the aperture, focus speed and build quality are all better. You'll easily get used to the faster focusing and it just feels better to shoot with.

If you need convinced try to rent one for a weekend - I think that will do it if you haven't already ordered the lens.

(in other words since I got my first 'L' glass neither the 75-300 or 55-200 have been on my dreb - that's been about 6 months now) :)

[shaun3000]

Go to your local camera store and try out out. Take your camera, or at least a memory card and take a few shots. Compare them to your 55-200mm and you'll be shocked. If you don't have any decent camera stores in town, most larger Wolf Camera stores will have a couple ED 70-200mm f/2.8L lenses in stock. It is optically identical to the f/4L.

[FA_Productions]

I have the 70-200 and love it. I will only have L glass from now on.

[darkdrakon]

I almost bought the 70-200 F/4 bought the 100-400L insted :-) it's a very sweet lens buy it you wont be disapointed.

[Johnny V]

70-200 F4...sharp as a tack wide open!