Help! Which Lens

[rebenstein]

I am trying to decide what the next lens to buy for my D60 & EOS-3. I thought I had settled on the Canon EF 70-200 IS L f/2.8 but after having just gone to the Photodo site and looked at the lens tests, I am confused! The comparison between Sigma 70-200 f/2.8 and the Canon are very similar and in fact the Sigma does better at the higher focal lengths. The price difference between the 2 is over $1,000. Am I just paying for the Canon 'L' glass name?

[Roger_Cavanagh]

One significant difference between the lenses is Image Stabilisation. When you are handholding this is worth 2-3 extra stops, so instead of f/2.8 at 1/200, you could be using f/2.8 @ 1/50.

The Photodo assessment is based on the non-IS version of the Canon, which has now been superceded by the IS version. I can't comment on the Sigma - except to say I've had Sigma lenses in the past (not the 70-200) and don't own any now - but I do have the Canon 70-200 IS. It is a great lens.

Also I think it's generally accepted now that your D60 (same as D30 and now 1Ds) will show up lens weakness more easily than the film equivalents. I'm sure there is something of a premium on the Canon lens, but if you can afford it, I'd go for it. It will probably hold its value better in the long run.

Regards,

[jmublueduck]

read reviews on www.photographyreview.com or further search this site. the canon is a better lens, although the sigma does hold its own. i'd say the answer depends on the practical size of your wallet. good luck.

[rebenstein]

Thanks for the feedback. I was just at my local dealer and he is pushing the Sigma EX 120-300 f/2.8 over the Canon 70-200 IS f/2.8 on overall value.

Decisions...Decisions...Decisions..

Thanks,

- Ron

[Roger_Cavanagh]

rebenstein wrote:
Thanks for the feedback. I was just at my local dealer and he is pushing the Sigma EX 120-300 f/2.8 over the Canon 70-200 IS f/2.8 on overall value.

Decisions...Decisions...Decisions..

Thanks,

- Ron


"overall value" and the size of his margin, perhaps? Or am I just cynical? :)

If you are going to buy from this dealer, take your D60 and and try both lenses.

Regards,

[henkbos]

Another issue to consider is compatibility. Whilst Canon lenses will remain compatible with future models it's questionable for the Sigma. It will work on the current generation, but also on the next?

BUT: think I would bet on the Sigma. HAve to make the same choice in wide angle and the cost per picture do ount, especially if you're not a pro. Besides that, the 1.6 factor will reduce any lesser quality in the corners.

[David Lawson]

There have been a quite few reports of Canon 70-200 IS's locking up on digital bodies. I had this problem with 100-400 IS on 1N film bodies. Having said that if I could get one that didn't I would prefer it with a 1.4x extender to the Sigma 120-300 f2.8. If money were an issue I would step back to non IS 70-200 or even the f4 version if I didn't need low light capability at 280mm. Sigma does a very good 100-300 f4 which is relatively cheap these days. A good place to see what people think of lenses is:- http://www.photographyreview.com/Lenses/PSC_3787crx.aspx

[rebenstein]

david lawson wrote:
There have been a quite few reports of Canon 70-200 IS's locking up on digital bodies.
I haven't seen anything talking about this. Can you point me to where people are talking about this problem.

Having said that if I could get one that didn't I would prefer it with a 1.4x extender...
I am leaning toward getting the IS + 1.4x extender.

Thanks to all for their input and feedback!

[Mr. Fogle]

I use the Sig 70-200 2.8 on sports shots and have know complaints. IS, ya cool, but unless your target is standing still it don't matter. For me, moving targets made IS a mute point. 1,000$$$$$$$$$$$. If I had big bucks it would be a no brainer,but I don't. and that is a no brainer. Sig' great lense. Internal focus and zoom