Sigma 70-200 F/2.8 APO IF HSM -> Reb XT?

[Vetteography]

Sigma Zoom Telephoto 70-200mm f/2.8 EX APO IF HSM Autofocus Lens for Canon EOS $729.00 shipped.



Got a birthday coming up, need to pick a moderately priced lens for the wife to get me :D

Currently, I only have the kit lens that came with my DReb XT.

Will this lens work reliably with the XT? I have heard good things about the lens itself.

[tim]

Yes.

[Skip Souza]

I think your choice is very good.

Have yor considered the Canon 70-200 f/4 L (http://www.bhphotovideo.com/bnh/controller/home?O=productlist&A=details&Q=&sku=183198&is=USA) ? It is every bit as good as the Sigma and with the money you save you could get the 1.5X TC.

[Vetteography]

I figured the 2.8 would be better than the 4 even if a little more expensive. Though the thought of that sexy white lens makes me want it anyway :p

Is the general concensus here that the Canon is the better of the two lenses?

[tim]

Is the general concensus here that the Canon is the better of the two lenses?

You're not going to get a consensus. One interesting comment I read a while back said that people sell the sigma 2.8 for the Canon 2.8, but never the other way around. If you want F2.8 without IS go for the Sigma, it has a good reputation. There's a good comparision here (http://www.slo-foto.net/reviews-56-page1.html).

[cactusclay]

I like the F4 Canon.

[ScottE]

Several years ago I decide to buy a Sigma 70-200/2.8 HSM, but when I got to the store they had a Canon 70-200/2.8 L they were selling on consignment for about the same price. I chose the used Canon L. Based on cost/benefit my order of purchase priorities was:

1. used Canon 70-200/2.8
2. new Sigma 70-200/2.8
3. new Canon 70-200/4

Scott

[Redbird_xo]

The Sigma 70-200 EX has a newer DG version coming soon. The DG version has some coating(s) which will benefit shooting digital. Price difference should be minimal (based on listed price and street price variations with other Sigma lenses). As for release date, no solid word on it. I am guessing sometime in late summer to early fall (it was announced in PMA earlier this year, six months lead time appears to be in line with previous new products' release schedules).

[condyk]

A very good choice and I think the F2.8 of the Sigma v's the F4 L of the Canon is worth having. I loved my F4 Canon but just sold it to replace with the Sigma. I have no conclusion as to image quality of the two. Both are exceptional. I guess it comes down to the ability of the user.

For me, the SIgma gives that extra bit of usability performance with an extender or in poorer light. If the Canon F2.8 was closer in price to the Sigma then I would get it, simply because I would ideally prefer all Canon set up more than ultimate quality. Unfortunately, it's lots more expensive.

All three have good resale. Here in the UK the Sigma's sell very well second hand at very healthy prices and so it's a good option if you think you may upgrade in future. The new DG version may or may not impact on SH prices. It didn't really affect my choice. The F4 Canon sells well, but the amazing £399 price for new offered by 7dayshop has possibly started to hit SH prices, plus Canon current rebate/voucher scheme also lowers price by £70. Still an awesome buy if the F4 is OK.