SIGMA 70-200 hsm OS sample

[David88vert]

While I can spend more to get an older Nikon 70-200 VR, I'd rather not spend any more than absolutely necessary right now. I'll probably have a wait a little bit to even get the Sigma (buying a new house takes priority right now). I'm really looking for an in-between option that will get me a 2.8 telephoto now, and that I can resell next year and get a 70-200 VR II. Maybe a used 80-200 AF-S would work for now?

You're right about the sharpness. Just keep reading about how some people don't like it, but none of them state what they are shooting or how they are shooting it.

[RBS]

Maybe a used 80-200 AF-S would work for now?

It would definitely work for now, but honestly as a former Nikon user (Canon now) go for the 80-200 2.8 AF-D that uses the cameras built in motor. optics are PHENOMENAL and you can usually find them in VERY good condition for between 800-1000 bucks if not NEW for that price.


.. but again this is just my opinion on it and from my own personal experiences. IF fast or even slightly fast autofocus is NOT a concern.. got for the Tamron 70-200 2.8.. believe it or not the optics are comparable IF NOT BETTER than the Nikon VR I. that is said from experience and comparing 2 photos of the same exact thing using both lenses

[David88vert]

It would definitely work for now, but honestly as a former Nikon user (Canon now) go for the 80-200 2.8 AF-D that uses the cameras built in motor. optics are PHENOMENAL and you can usually find them in VERY good condition for between 800-1000 bucks if not NEW for that price.


.. but again this is just my opinion on it and from my own personal experiences. IF fast or even slightly fast autofocus is NOT a concern.. got for the Tamron 70-200 2.8.. believe it or not the optics are comparable IF NOT BETTER than the Nikon VR I. that is said from experience and comparing 2 photos of the same exact thing using both lenses

I've heard that the Tamron is good, but I do need the AF speed.
Can't use the AF-D except as a MF, as my D5100 does not have a built in motor. My D70 does, and I already have a 80-200 AF-D to use when I need to on it, but want somethign for the D5100, which means AF-S. It's either spend $1K now on a 80-200 AF-S,and later sell it and get the 70-200 VR, or wait a while to spend $1500 for a used VR.

Or, I could get the Sigma IF it is going to be good enough that I wouldn't ever need to upgrade. I've heard good things about Sigma's HSM speed, and that their AF on the lens is good, and that their OS works also. But I've also heard that the lens is soft except for the extreme center when at 200mm. Think towards an FX future, I like to buy lenses that will work with future bodies, which buying the Nikon protects.