Buy Telephoto Sigma or Canon?

[ToitelStilz]

I have a 300D and need some feedback on buying either the Sigma - 70-300mm f/4-5.6 APO Zoom Macro Super II Lens (http://www.ritzcamera.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/ProductDisplay?storeId=10001&catalogId=10001&langId=-1&productId=7465729&bct=t1004%3Bc1022%3Bc914962) or the Canon - 75-300mm f/4-5.6 III EF Lens (http://www.ritzcamera.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/ProductDisplay?storeId=10001&catalogId=10001&langId=-1&productId=30287&bct=t1004%3Bc1022%3Bc914962). They are about the same price. Is one better than the other?

[weasel]

As a general rule, the more you can stick with Canon lenses for your Canon camera the fewer heartaches.

[condyk]

I would go for the Sigma as it seems to perform better overall ... in fact, when faced with the same choice when I first got a DSLR I decided to choose between the Sigma or a 100-300mm USM Canon after much research. In the UK the Canon is rather more expensive so I took the Sigma ... I also liked the 'close up' capability of the Sigma. There are some fine shots taken with it here: search for Nitsch or Mattym and check their shots. The 75-300 is also Ok if budget very tight. Note the Sigma has a new DG model of this lens which should be a fine buy.

[cfcRebel]

when faced with the choice I decided to choose between the Sigma or a 100-300mm USM Canon
Ditto. In fact, I have seen pictures taken with the Sigma better than mine taken with the EF100-300. Of course, it has to do with my poor skills too. :)

[Andrew Pratt]

As a general rule, the more you can stick with Canon lenses for your Canon camera the fewer heartaches.

But in this case you'd have heartaches with the Canon 75-300 USM when you go to view the pictures. The Sigma's a much better choice in this case. Generalizations are just that and need to looked at on a case by case basis.

[Naveed]

^^^ Agreed. As mentioned the skill of the photographer can make the lens look great or like a piece of trash.

I picked up the Sigma this week, but I am still working on being good enough to show it off. Be sure to use this speed lens with a lot of light (ie: outside) and either one 'should' make you happy :)