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Which is the Better Lens

Discussion

8 replies
Posted by Kevin Batchelor on December 6, 2007 at 5:42 PM
I am looking to get a 500mm zoom for my Nikon D80. I have found the following lenses that are in my price range.

Which is the better lens and why?

Thanks

http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/397525-REG/Sigma_734306_Zoom_Telephoto_170_500mm_f_5_6_3.html

http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/335381-REG/Tamron_AF08N700_200_500mm_f_5_6_3_Di_LD.html

Posted by Michael Eckstein on December 6, 2007 at 9:53 PM
I have used both. They are both quite sharp at 500mm. The auto focus on the 170/500 is much slower than the 50/500. Of course the 50/500 is heavier. If you don't need the A/F speed or the 50/500 zoom range than the 50/170 is a better buy.
Posted by Kent Staubus on December 6, 2007 at 10:15 PM
My first choice would be the Sigma 50-500mm, and second choice would be the Tamron 200-500mm. I would suggest you look for the 50-500mm on eBay. There should be some good deals on it starting in January. I buy most of my lenses used and haven't regretted it, especially on a third party lens.


Kent in SD
Posted by Avi Hirschfield on December 7, 2007 at 3:32 AM
Kevin having owned both lenses @ still use the 200-500 Tamron occasionally -I borrow it from a friend the Tamron is stronger and sharper.The 50-500 is a nice lens but pick's up dust on the inner lens( NOT SEALED PROPERLY) I have seen tis on about 3 or 4 lenses allready.
The 170-500 is very average
.AVI :wavey:
Posted by Jim Erhardt on December 7, 2007 at 6:46 AM
In terms of image quality, the Nikon 300 f/4 blows them both away and can be used with teleconverters. Just something to think about...
Posted by Avi Hirschfield on December 7, 2007 at 7:35 AM
Agree with Jim on that one :biggrin:
Posted by Don George on December 7, 2007 at 11:56 AM
If your looking for zoom capability the 300F4 won't do it. If your set on one of the lens you mentioned I'd go for the Tamron 200-500. Of course if you have the budget one of the Nikon
zooms would be the way to go.
Posted by Kevin Batchelor on December 7, 2007 at 8:09 PM
Unfortunatly a Prime lens or a Nikon is not in the budget.

I am looking for a lens primarily for wildlife photography. Preferably one I can change the focal length on.

I currently have a Tamron 70/300 zoom with macro.... and I am looking for something a bit larger. Up until this thread I didnt know the Sigma 50/500 even existed. I checked it out on amazon and it is at the verrrrry top of my budget.

One characteristic that I liked about the Tamron was the adapter that went between the lens and the hood to allow you to rotate filters with the hood in place.

Now that I have had a brief chance to look at the 50/500 (which would reduce the need for me to put on my 70/300) what are your opinions between the Sigma 50/500 and the Tamron 200/500.

Thanks for your help.... If I can get the time off I am going on the Wolf Weekend that was mentioned here so I need to get the lens before then and get a little time to work with it.

Also let me say that I am what I would consider a serious amature. I dont sell my photography (although I would like to) and I am happy with the performance of my Tamron 70/300 with macro. Im saying this to give you some idea of the quality I am after.... I have no doubt that I would be extremely happy with a prime lens..but it just is not in the budget.
Posted by Kent Staubus on December 8, 2007 at 8:38 PM
If you use Nikon, there is a third option. The Sigma 400mm f5.6. Not a zoom, but a very fine lens that sells for around $400 or so on eBay. ONLY buy the one that says "macro" and uses the 77mm (not 72mm) filter. Likely won't work well with a 1.4x. As for the 500mm choice, mine would be the Sigma. With a tripod of course.


Kent in SD