What would you prefer? Sigma 70-200 f2.8 APO II EX DG or Canon 70-200mm f4 IS?

I have these two options (both used lenses in very good condition) and they are going almost for the same price. I am here debating which one to choose as I may not have time to do full testing or even read a lot. Then, I want to rely on some sound advise from users and your experience. i want it mostly for portraits, events, night shooting. I am new to the business and trying to get the right tools. Have eos M, 5D original and 5D-III. I have the 70-300 non-L IS USM, which has giving me some very good results in daylight plus the fantastic 85mm 1.8; Also I have 17-40 F4, 50mm 1.4, and 100mm 2.8 macro. Thanks.

Heya,

It's simple.

If you need F2.8, you get the Sigma.

If you do not, you get the Canon.

Very best,

MalVeauX wrote in post #16715487
Heya,

It's simple.

If you need F2.8, you get the Sigma.

If you do not, you get the Canon.

Very best,

Why not getting the tamron 2.8? I dont know the prices but i dont think that the tammy is much more expensive than the sigma?

davidfarina wrote in post #16715535
Why not getting the tamron 2.8? I dont know the prices but i dont think that the tammy is much more expensive than the sigma?

This is the Mk II non-OS Sigma, it is much cheaper than the Tamron.

If you haven't handled the two lenses, I'd suggest doing so before making a final decision, because the Sigma is significantly bigger and heavier than the Canon - it's a very large beast indeed. I used to own the Sigma (non-IS f2.8), but found I was leaving it at home more often than not, just because I didn't want to lug it around with me. I eventually sold it, replaced it with the Canon f4 IS, and couldn't have been happier. I never, ever regretted my decision. With the IS on the Canon, my keeper rate went way up, even in low light. Having tried the experience, I would not now buy another lens in that focal range without IS.

The size and weight of the f2.8 lenses don't matter to some people, but they did matter to me. As did the lack of IS. Both aspects are worth considering when making your decision.

MalVeauX wrote in post #16715487
It's simple.
If you need F2.8, you get the Sigma.
If you do not, you get the Canon.

I would agree with this. If you are shooting outdoors/daylight, the Canon is the right choice (why lug around the big lens if you don't need it). But, if for example, you will be shooting indoor sports, f/4 is just not up to the task.

That extra stop is critical, if and only if you need it; otherwise everything points to the Canon.

I was not very impressed with the Sigma non-OS version. I would get the Canon or save a little more and get the Tamron, which IMO, is better than both.

Thank you all guys for the replies.

I have decided and wait to have the funds for the Tamron 2.8 VC. But at the same time, was also slightly considering I just could buy the used Canon 70-200 IS f4 and sell it when I get the money for the Tamron. In that way, I can have hands-on experience with the canon f4 and see how it works with the 5D-III. DOn't know if shooting at high iso (1600) I can get good shutter speeds at F6 or F8, since the lens is IS.

I really appreciate all your suggestions and experience sharing.

I had the Canon 70-200 f/4 IS, and its a wonderfull lens.
Very sharp, light weight, very nice IS.
I would definately choose the Canon

MalVeauX wrote in post #16715487
Heya,

It's simple.

If you need F2.8, you get the Sigma.

If you do not, you get the Canon.

Very best,

I too agree with this.

Unexpressive wrote in post #16717885
Thank you all guys for the replies.

I have decided and wait to have the funds for the Tamron 2.8 VC. But at the same time, was also slightly considering I just could buy the used Canon 70-200 IS f4 and sell it when I get the money for the Tamron. In that way, I can have hands-on experience with the canon f4 and see how it works with the 5D-III. DOn't know if shooting at high iso (1600) I can get good shutter speeds at F6 or F8, since the lens is IS.

I really appreciate all your suggestions and experience sharing.

IS has nothing to do with exposure. You will get the same shutter speed at iso 1600 and f8 with the canon and the tamron.

Add me to the list of the Canon f/4 L IS.

Just bought an used Canon 70-200 f4 IS. Looks like almost brand new condition. It is very light compared to the 2.8 I did some testing of my dog siting in a dark spot on the stairs. Focus is spot on and the 5d-iii copes very well with the challenge.

I have a shoot this Saturday with a new model. Will put the lens it to its paces.

Raw - with noise reduction applied in LR4 - 160mm - F4 - ISO 12600 1/60 SEC

THANK YOU ALL for all your ideas and suggestions and for your time to give your advise and suggestions.

I think you will be pleased with your choice. The Canon 70-200 f4 IS is never a bad choice.

Unexpressive wrote in post #16732970
Just bought an used Canon 70-200 f4 IS. Looks like almost brand new condition. It is very light compared to the 2.8 I did some testing of my dog siting in a dark spot on the stairs. Focus is spot on and the 5d-iii copes very well with the challenge.

I have a shoot this Saturday with a new model. Will put the lens it to its paces.

Raw - with noise reduction applied in LR4 - 160mm - F4 - ISO 12600 1/60 SEC

THANK YOU ALL for all your ideas and suggestions and for your time to give your advise and suggestions.

Good choice. I think you will love it.