Sigma EX - 24-70 or 28-70?

[EOSAddict]

I am expecting condyk to chip in here .... :D

The 24-70 looks like a great lens but is a hulking bit of kit (82mm etc). The Sigma EX 28-70 2.8 looks exaclty same spec apart from 4mm and 67 mm which suits me much better.

Anyone any experience of the 28-70 lens - compared to the equivalent Tamron? I am thinking of the Tokina 12-24 to cover the widest but don't see the 'missing 4mm' as a problem.

The other option would be the Sigma 15-30 but am concerned because you can't put a filter on it for protection.

[RikWriter]

Try the 24-60 Sigma f2.8. It's MUCH smaller and lighter and you only give up the last 10mm. I love mine, it's very sharp.

[condyk]

Spec doesn't mean much. I don't think the 28-70mm is quite as good tho I wouldn't stake my life on that statement at all. Seems to be around at a nicer price now the new one is out, so quite competitive. But, I believe there were some issues with the chip and use of flash as far as I remember. These are probably sorted if you are after a second hand one as Sigma replaced some internal gubbins for free if there was a problem.

fstopjojo is the person to ask about this lens. I think he ... I think fstop is a he :) ... has had both. I trust his opinion as always very objective. It scores quite well at fredmiranda.com too, but I wouldn't go the older lens route myself. Have a read through user comments at fredmiranda before you buy one, just in case.

I think over time the new Sigma will become the standard zoom bee's knee's. It certainly looks 'impressive' :lol: and I've never seen a bad shot yet. If you don't fancy the new Sigma then go for the Tamron. Well loved and an easy walkaround due to weight. Handling is really important and if you don't fancy a biut of mass then fair enough. Would make a good club if you ever got mugged anyway :lol: Whichever you get will be great I'm sure.

I never use UV filters so the Sigma's 82mm isn't a issue. If you do use them let me know as I have one that size: a new Hoya HMC Super UV(O) I got when I bought my 100-300mm f4. Make me a fair offer. I know they're expensive and that probably makes the Tamron more attractive cash wise if you do use 'protection'.

Yes, the 20-40mm is an option, as well as the 18-50mm 2.8 that I'm currently after if you want a bit more on the wider end, rather than buying a separate wide angle.

[LightRules]

The Sigmas 24-70/28-70 and the Tamron 28-75 can all be good optically. I also used 2 copies (brand new) for about 2 weeks of the Sigma 24-60, and while I liked its size and overall sharpness and color, both copies front-focused on my 20D and hence was too unreliable. Given good focusing copies, it can be an excellent piece of glass. Between the 24-70 and 28-70, the new 24-70 is simply better: wide open sharpness, bokeh, AF speed, "feel" during handling, etc. It is bulkier though and for me I prefer it. I'm used to the Bigma and 70-200IS so it really does feel "small" for me. I'd recommend you TRY OUT the lenses you're thinking of, if possible. The 28-75Di is a very good optic too, but vis-a-vis the Sigmas, the build isn't there for me. Again, try them out if possible.

CondyK, I had a 18-50 that was amazing and it sold very quickly. You'll have to get a PM from someone else...Best wishes!

[lost]

I went with the Sigma 24-70 2.8. I have been very pleased with it. I dont find it too big, but you are correct about the 82mm Filter. I have seen very few deficiencies with the build quality. Namely the zoom is rather stiff at first, it seems to have loosened. The agrivating double clutch of the non-HSM sigmas drives me nuts on occasion. And the AF motor is a little noisy at times.

With ALL that said. I would buy it again. The sharpness is excellent.

BTW I just got an Elan 7n and WOW 24mm is really WIDE on a FF. Forgive me I started on digital P&S's years ago.

[LightRules]

LOST, that's one of the funniest signature statements I've read. But FWIW, "genatils" is spelled "genitals". ;) Go get another thrifty fifty ASAP.

[lost]

Already got it. Yeah, I noticed the misspelling the day after I put it up there, but left it in honor of CDS.

[EOSAddict]

Thanks for feedback. Will definately be going to do some hands-on testing anyway!

Knew I could rely on condyk!

[condyk]

Thanks :D

Warning ... the day I only recommend Sigma, or Tamron, or Canon, or Tokina is the day that you WILL know never to rely on a thing I say. Get the tool that does the job at the quality that matters to you. If you can save some cash doing it then either pocket it and buy some chocolate or give a little to Oxfam.

[EOSAddict]

Exactly. Or maybe make a donation to Pekka! ;)

First I need to sort out where I see my photography going before spending a fortune on 'toys' rather than 'tools'. I would hate to buy a great lens only to never use it because it is sat in the cupboard at home. At least I know that with my Tamron, I am more likely to take my camera with me on 'non photo' trips and hence will have more opportunity to take pictures.

Had a close look at some of my recent pics and even at 300 they are pretty sharp in the centre (edges are soft). Will try and post some anyway once done all the PP.

That's not to say I still don't yearn after some nice glass like the rest of you!