17-40 f4 L or the 85 1.8??

I am trying to decide between the two on sharpness. could I get some feedback on these, as I am just learning my lenses.
Thanks
Ben

Two very different lenses. If you are shooting inside in poorly light gymnasiums for example the 85 becomes indispensible. If on the other hand you will always have bright (and I mean bright) light the 17-40 would do okay. Depends on your shooting style.

You cant realy compare the 2,depends what you want to do.85 1.8 for indoor portraits and the 17-40 for landscapes.

If you're implying that relative sharpness should be the decider as to which to buy, then I can't agree.
These are two different animals. Your first decision must be what focal length is best for your type of photography:- a wide zoom or a short tele prime. Then compare with other lenses of the same range.

Get both, they complement each other...

I own both, and I'd have to give the 85mm f1.8 the edge in sharpness. But as others say, these are two very different lenses and a direct comparision isn't going to tell you much about whether the lens will be right for you. The value of a lens isn't just in it's sharpness, but also depends on contrast, flare resistance, build, maximum aperture, bokeh, and compatibility with your shooting style.

Mark

Thank you so much for input. I guess I am trying to pick out a lens sub grand That will make my small beginner collection much better.( 18-55 kit and tamron 28-300,50 1.8. Any ideas below 1000 bucks

I would definitly choose the 85 in your situation.
Currently you have your range covered, but a good low light prime will do you wonders - and the 85 is a great choice.
Sharpness blows the socks of my good copy of 17-40l

Definitely buy the 85mm. It's a marvelous lens at a bargain price. You can't go wrong with it!

Both on your wish list are good lenses- don't worry about eithers' sharpness. Your choice still depends on where your photographic interests lie. If you're currently using the kit lens most, then the 17-40 should be first on your list. If the kit lens isn't getting you close enough to the action and you're taking most pix in the Tamron's mid-range, then go for the 85

i to own both and the 85 is the sharpest.but as already stated hard to conpare there so diffrent.
Rob

No one said anything about rebates. There is a Canon rebate going on right now. Go for the 85 because that is a good buy. You'll grab that lens more than you imagine.

SuzyView

I've owned both and liked them both equally. Because they both served completely different purposes. I don't have either right now as I've sold them. I may end up buying the 85 1.8 again though as it was very useful. I used it succesfully at a fashion show. with low light. It was a great portrait lens.

thank you all i got some thinking to do. I am looking for an all around lens in some tight places. Plenty indoors, and without breaking the budget for now. Does anyone have any ideas on other lenses other than these two?? Or is it time to sit and save for some big L lens?? Thanks
Ben

You mention below 1000. You can get both for under 1000. They would compliment eachother pretty well.

Tamron has a 17-35 f/2.8-4, that might work for indoors, but you have to keep it wide in order to take advantage of the 2.8(low light abilities).