70-200 ~ f/4 with IS or f/2.8 without IS

I used to own a f2.8 non-is and sold it for two reasons: (1) weight - it's a very large beast, and (2) lack of IS. I found I was leaving it at home more often than not, just because I didn't want to carry it around. I replaced it with a f4 IS (about three years ago) and have never, for an instant, regretted my decision. The f4 IS is great for action shots in daylight, and the IS is wonderful for static subjects. My keeper rate, even in low light, is better with the f4 IS than it was with the f2.8 non-IS. Also, the f4 IS is so much smaller and lighter. It comes everywhere with me and is my favourite lens.

I'd say that, for what you want to shoot, the f4 IS is by far the better choice. You won't regret buying this lens; it's outstanding.

It boils down to one simple question really - do you *need* the extra stop?

If you do need f/2.8 then that's the decision made. If you don't then get the f/4L IS. It's sharper, lighter, weather sealed and more flexible - basically better in every way except it's a stop slower.

I bought the f/4L IS five years ago and loved it to death. At one point I upgraded to the f/2.8L IS mk1 but actually downgraded back to the f/4L IS shortly afterward as I wasn't happy with the drop in quality. I've only just parted with the f/4L IS again and now only because I've finally bitten the bullet and got the f/2.8L IS II.

I have shot with all variants of the 70-200 (minus the MkII version recently released). I think it really comes down to what you are shooting. If you're doing indoor wedding photography or indoor sports, the f/2.8 would probably take a slight edge. For everything else the f/4.0 IS would be my choice.

From a pure optics standpoint, I really felt like the 70-200 f/4 IS was the best subjectively with the sharpest images, color saturation, and focus. The extra f stop made no difference outdoors. There is also a huge difference in weight. I tried the f/2.8 during a day trip to the San Diego zoo and after about 2-3 hours of lugging that baby around my neck and wrist got really sore. The f/4 is an all day lens. It's like my little precision guided rocket where as the f/2.8 feels like a cluster bomb...lol.

I went with the f4 IS when I was mulling over the same descision, but it was a real close call. Being able to drag the shutter more to pick up ambient light comes in handy for snapshot style portraits. When I am using it for sports/action, mostly I am outside and don't need the extra stop. But in the fewer times when I am indoors shooting action, I really miss that stop.

Just get the sigma 70-200 2.8 OS. Best of both worlds, same price as both canon lenses you're looking at. Just as sharp as the f4 IS, sharper than the 2.8 non-IS.

Between the 2, I'd get the f4 IS. Not just because of the IS, but the IQ of the f4 IS lens is amazing.

drzenitram wrote in post #15935861
Just get the sigma 70-200 2.8 OS... Just as sharp as the f4 IS

No, it's not.

Was in pretty much the same boat back when I got my f4 IS, and I really feel I made the right choice - the f4 IS is amazing IMO, love it! Would not trade IS for one more stop.

I also went with the f4 IS - it really is a superb lens. Just ordered a 6D and looking forward to trying them both together.

Well, I did it. Decision made.

But first, I'd like to thank you all for the advice, knowledge, and expecience you so kindly offer.

So, I decided to go with the f4 IS. After reading all the posts here and several other references I feel pretty solid in this decision. This is the best lens for me at this time.

I'm practically leaping around here because I paid for 2-day shipping and it should be here Saturday. I'm so excited!!

Thank you all again!

daystar wrote in post #15937217
Well, I did it. Decision made. So, I decided to go with the f4 IS.

It really is an AWESOME lens. Great glass, great IS, lightweight/manageable size, and reasonable price are hard to argue against. As someone who also went from the 7-200 f/4L to the 70-200 f/4L IS, my bet is that you'll love your new lens.

Congrats, you are going to LOVE your new lens. Don't forget to post pics ...

I can't wait! And yes, pics for sure.

Vertigo1 wrote in post #15936881
No, it's not.

Yes... it certainly is. I have owned both lenses and the general consensus is also that the sigma os is just as sharp as the f4 IS @ f4 and above. The only advantage the f4 is has is weight and size.

Congrats to the OP, the f4 IS is certainly a nice lens.