Sigma 70-200mm APO F2.8 EX DG/HSM VS. Canon EF 70-200mm f2.8L USM

[DMacIntyre]

Hi All,

Hopefully this is not a constantly asked question, but I'm curious about the difference in these two lenses.

Sigma 70-200mm APO F2.8 EX DG/HSM

OR

Canon EF 70-200mm f2.8L USM

The Sigma lens is $200 cheaper than the Canon (where I live), but seem quite similar in function. Are you paying $200 extra for Canon's brand name L series lens or does the $200 buy you a superior product?

Opinions appreciated!

[In2Photos]

Originally Posted by DMacIntyre

...Hopefully this is not a constantly asked question, but I'm curious about the difference in these two lenses.

Nope never heard of those two.

[malla1962]

Got to your local store look and try both then make up your own mind

[DMacIntyre]

Originally Posted by malla1962

Got to your local store look and try both then make up your own mind

I'm new to the DSLR world having only recently purchased a 30D. I was hoping someone with a lot more experience than me and hopefully someone who has used both of these lenses would have some good advice.

[LightRules]

Both fine lenses. You may want to have a serious look at the all-new "Macro" version of the Sigma DG. It's just being released http://www.bhphotovideo.com/bnh/cont...ist&sku=435163

[DMacIntyre]

Awesome thanks Fstopjojo....even with exchange, the new lens is another $200 cheaper than the old Sigma...guess it pays to shop American!

[Tee Why]

I've the Canon and briefly tried the Sigma version.
The Canon has this really hard enamel feeling finish. The Sigma's finish is a bit more plasticky and prone to scratching (I Know b/c of my other sigmas). The AF on both is really fast and quiet, but the Canon one is a bit faster.

Both lenses are sharp, so that's not much of an issue for me. The Sigma has a warmer color tone and the Canon has a cooler color tone. This is a personal choice and not a big deal if you post process your shots.

For me, the Canon just feels a lot better and the price difference of $300-400 or so wasn't big enough for me, so that's why I got the Canon. Both lenses will serve you well. For other zooms like the normal range zoom (Canon EF 24-70 f2.8L vs Tamron 28-75 f2.8) the price difference is close to $800 or so. For me, that was too big of a difference, so I went with the Tamron.

Good luck.

[Tee Why]

Ah,
Looks like the new Macro version is out. That is a brand new lens with different optics, so I've no idea on how it'll perform. My guess is just as good or maybe even better than the old Sigma design. It's not a real macro with 1:1 magnification, more like a 1:2. But a nice feature to have if you don't have to make optical compromises.

[In2Photos]

Originally Posted by Tee Why

Ah,
Looks like the new Macro version is out. That is a brand new lens with different optics, so I've no idea on how it'll perform. My guess is just as good or maybe even better than the old Sigma design. It's not a real macro with 1:1 magnification, more like a 1:2. But a nice feature to have if you don't have to make optical compromises.

Actually it is 1:3.8. I don't get why they can classify that as a macro.

[subtle_spectre]

I have had 2 of the Sigma 70-200/2.8 lenses and 1 Canon 70-200 /2.8.

While I agree and have even said the Sigma is a fine lens, imo the Canon is better and worth the extra. The images are sharper/crisper and I prefer the color tones rendered by the Canon. It also focuses noticeably faster with USM.

[wreeder]

Is it truly that? I have a Sigma 24-70 2.8 and I used a 70 -200 2.8 Canon and was blown away with the color and the fast focus compaired to my Sigma. I would like to get the one that has bang for the buck. Canon vs Sigma ? I'm still unsure!

[05Xrunner]

Originally Posted by wreeder

Is it truly that? I have a Sigma 24-70 2.8 and I used a 70 -200 2.8 Canon and was blown away with the color and the fast focus compaired to my Sigma. I would like to get the one that has bang for the buck. Canon vs Sigma ? I'm still unsure!

umm your Sigma 24-70 does not have the Sigma HSM in it. You cant compare them at all in speed.

I had the Canon 70-200 f4L and it was very very nice..fast focus and sharp..I ended up selling it for the Sigma 70-200 DG and I have never looked back. Focus speed is just as fast. it is plenty sharp at 2.8 and the build quality is like a tank. I actually liek the feel of the sigma finish. The lens construction itself is SOLID and built just as strong as the L the finish just has a soft feel to it almost like a swede feel. I never had any issue with peeling or flaking off.
Between the two i would always choose the Sigma. Only way i would go with the canon is the IS version just for the IS