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Stabilized SuperZoom Test

Nov 7 2008

***PLEASE TAKE NOTE OF THE LETTER DESIGNATIONS AS YOU VIEW THE TESTS***
A = Canon 18-55 F3.5-5.6 IS
B = Canon 18-200 F3.5-5.6 IS
C = Sigma 18-200 F3.5-6.3 OS
D = Tamron 18-270 F3.5-6.3 VC
E = Canon 55-250 F4-5.6 IS
[Canon 40D body used for testing]

For FOCAL LENGTH/APERTURE COMPARISON see http://www.pbase.com/lightrules/isosvclenses
For RESOLUTION comments see http://www.pbase.com/lightrules/isosvctests
For EXPANDED COMMENTS & CONCLUSIONS see http://www.pbase.com/lightrules/image/105509533/original

Here is the rest of my SUMMARY-ANALYSIS between these superzooms:
AF (Noise): C noisiest, B/D less noisy and comparable
AF (Speed): B twice as fast as C/D
AF (LowLight): B quickest to achieve focus, though C/D do lock on
Barrel Distortion: B worst of the bunch, C/D better and comparable
Bokeh: D best, then B, then C (only slightly behind B)
Build: All solid and good consumer-grade quality
CA: All comparable and slightly below average
Contrast: B/D best with C trailing slightly behind
Flare: B best with the others acceptable (and not flagrant)
Handling: All comparable and pleasant in use
Shading: All comparable with strong effect wide open
Stabilization: All very effective and excellent, though I like D overall the best
10D Compatible: B no, C/D yes
Warranty (USA): B/C 1 yr, D 6 yrs
Best Value: C/D Tie
Best Pick: D
Comments & Conclusions
Comments & Conclusions
The Lenses
The Lenses
Main Tests
Main Tests
Flare
Flare
200mm v. 270mm
200mm v. 270mm
Compared to 200 F2.8 L II USM
Compared to 200 F2.8 L II USM
Bokeh
Bokeh
Bring Your A Game
Bring Your "A" Game