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lightrules | profile | all galleries >> Lens Tests by LightRules >> Canon 17-85 f4-5.6 IS USM v. Sigma 18-50 f2.8 EX DC tree view | thumbnails | slideshow

Canon 17-85 f4-5.6 IS USM v. Sigma 18-50 f2.8 EX DC

Sep 29 2005
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lightrules 12-Oct-2007 20:01
I've been reading and hearing that the new Macro version is excellent and "much" better than the older version. While I do believe it's probably very good, I don't buy that it's "much better" than the older version. The older EX lens is still excellent and offers high bang for buck for your money. It's also smaller in size and weight.
xing 12-Oct-2007 19:59
Hi!
How does Sigma 18-50 Macro compare to 'old' non-macro edition? I read that new one is even better than the old besides the macro ability.

TIA.
Richard 06-Mar-2006 07:21
fstopjojo - Thanks for your very speady reply. I think that I am going to follow in your footsteps with the new Canon 17-55 IS USM f2.8. Has to be a clear winner but need to find the cash otherwsie it will be the 24-70!.

Also - congrats on a superb website!
lightrules 05-Mar-2006 21:28
Richard, you've listed some fine options (1785/1850/2470). The obvious perk of the first 2 is they both give you 17-18mm wide, which is nice on a crop body. The perks of the 2470 are that it is FF compatible and build like a tank; "feels solid" in hand. I think the main decision is whether 24mm is a wide enough starting point, or if you need a 17-18mm starting point as your walkaround zoom. Optically the EX lenses are better than the 1785, but the Canon lens gives you IS, the best range, and the best AF with its ring USM unit. So every lens is a compromise in some way; you just need to decide what's more important to you. You need to make this decision from here. For me, I am probably selling my 1785IS for the new 1755IS, and I might pick up another 2470EX just because I like the darn thing so much for its build and optics. Best wishes on your choice.
Richard 05-Mar-2006 19:46
Me Again!

Or the Sigma 18 - 50 f2.8 EX DC

Mmmmm?

Your comments would be really helpful!
Richard 05-Mar-2006 19:40
Hi

Am buying the new Canon 30D and am caght between the Canon 17 - 85 IS USM and the Sigma 24 - 70 2.8 EX DG Macro.

Initially I would like, the 'ideal' walkaround lens that I can use close up with the kids and family (some fast moving toddlers), at the school play, on holiday etc - Well pretty well everything! My dealer suggested the Sigma 24 - 70 2.8 EX DG Macro with Sigma 70 - 300 4-5.6 APO Macro Super DG as opposed to the Canon EF S 17-85 USM and the Canon EF 4-5.6 70-300 IS USM.

I am drawn by the wide angle of the canon but wonder if the Sigma would be a better option. However, whilst the 30D is about to hit the shelf, is the Sigma going to be ok or will the Canon be a safer bet all round and get a better throw at both ends. I also plan on getting the 430EX Canon flash so do I need the 2.8 Sigma?

Please put me out of my misery!
lightrules 21-Feb-2006 16:00
I don't think the new EFS lens will be out until May. But it certainly interests me a lot. We'll see when it comes out; it will be a very popular lens.
Guest 21-Feb-2006 14:51
Hi, any chance of getting your hands on the new EFS 17-55 f2.8 IS and testing it out against the Sigma 18-50EX? ;) How do you feel about the price difference, assuming the optics will be close? Is the IS worth that much more IYO?
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