Debating on 70-200 IS USM f/2.8L Mark I or II

After reading this thread (and many similar ones) it sounds like the OP meant to ask which is the better bang for the buck. Whether the price difference can justify getting the MKI over the MKII is not a question anyone on this board can answer for you - there is a difference between the two lenses - but it seems to be more dependent on your budget. If you can swing the MKII without putting a strain on your finances, get it, you will be thrilled. If you can more readily finance the MKI, you will still be extremely satisfied with the lens.

Andy_Cam wrote in post #10713011
Aside from a couple of quick test shots in a shop, I have not used the MkI, but the MkII makes me smile every time I use it and even more so when looking at the images.

The SOC results are awesome TBQFH. I regularly don't bother with any PP at all.

An example of the detail when coupled with a 5DII:

IMAGE LINK: http://www.flickr.com/​photos/monk3y/48876115​44

and the shot at 100% - with me in the eyes.

IMAGE LINK: http://www.flickr.com/​photos/monk3y/48870081​65

andy, that's some crazy damn detail.... thanks for posting that.

john stakes wrote in post #10707640
So Canon marketing has proven effective. The MkI was $1700 until the MkII was released. Very few would shell out an extra $800, making it out of reach to most but close enough to drool. So bump up the price of the MkI, sell the first shipment of MkIIs at MSRP, and then drop the price on the MkII. Now it's "only" $400 more. There is no denying the MkII is a FANTASTIC lens, you just have to determine whether you need it. The advantages are known, but it's worth is subjective. Compare the 55-250 to the 70-200 2.8, and you will notice very little difference in image quality, given the same settings. I opted for the MkI because it cost me just enough to hurt me ($1500). The MkII would have dang near crippled me. Chances are if you are debating, you will be happy with the MkI.

Interesting point, but if it's overpriced now by $400, why is the OP considering purchasing it as new. Surely used would be the better choice here..

If i had the option to buy an $400 overpriced mk1, or pay $400 more for the mk2, the clear choice here is go the the latter.