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View Full Version : 70-200 f/4 IS vs 70-200 f/2.8



DJ Lazy
06-14-2007, 12:29 PM
Looking to re-add the 70-200 back into my lens collection, but now with the f/4IS model out and little to no difference in price to the bigger heavier f/2.8.. im not sure which to go for.

I know the f/4IS has the new IS system... but will it work out to be "faster" than the f/2.8 non-IS.. most of you know my style of shooting...

So recommendations?

Mitsu3000gt
06-14-2007, 03:41 PM
I don't know your style of shooting but if I were looking at those 2 lenses, I would probaby take the f4/IS if I always shot in good light, or stationary subjects in poor light, and the f2.8/non-IS if I needed the fastest possible shutter speed in poor light to freeze action or needed crazy fast shutter speeds in good light.

I don't know if there are image quality differences or not because I'm not familar with the lenses beyond their specifications.

AccentAE86
06-14-2007, 04:23 PM
I've heard the F/4 versions are sharper. I've also heard the 2.8 non-IS version is soon to be discontinued. If you are not mainly shooting moving subjects in really low light, I'd just go for the F/4. I find the weight and bulk of the 2.8 to be a pain at times... but I need it unfortunately.

C4S
06-14-2007, 05:56 PM
Hand down .. F2.8 rocks!!


No replacement for fast lens!!!

BerserkerCatSplat
06-14-2007, 06:04 PM
f/2.8, no question. The f/4IS is a great lens by all accounts, but you'll be kicking yourself any time you're shooting anything moving in dim light. I miss the Sigma 70-200 f/2.8 I had for a while quite badly.

Ekliptix
06-14-2007, 07:13 PM
I'll probably never get a 2.8 because of how much larger and heavier it is. This is also because I do a lot of my shooting up in the mountains and carry my gear in a backpack. Also, the DOF at 2.8 and 200mm is often not usable, and also harder to accuratly focus on what you want to if it's moving.

I have not tried the IS version of the F4 but I sure love my F4.

redline
06-14-2007, 09:35 PM
What do you guys think about the using a f2.8 with the 2x extender?


I found at the GP that some times 200mm is not enough and it would be nice to get some more...

If anyone wants to take my 70-200mm f4 IS for a test let me know and we could meet up.

C4S
06-14-2007, 11:34 PM
I hv the 2x converter, I rarely use it, it works great on the 70-200mm F2.8IS! and F5.6 is still not bad at all, but very rare need to shoot @ 400mm!! I actually use the 1.4x on the 70-200mm more often. I am not sure if it will work on the 70-200 F4L.

I still like my 100-400IS more, if shooting at 400mm range .. However, not that often to shoot at 400mm anyway ..

If you will use the 400mm range a lots, you should consider the 100-400IS, I actually quite like the "pull-push" zoom! :D

redline
06-15-2007, 09:06 AM
I was at the camera store and they said it would "work" but not very well and did not recommond going over the 1.4x with the f4. I dont that i will need 400mm unless at car races so that is why i was thinking of getting the F2.8 with the 2x

DJ Lazy
06-15-2007, 09:47 AM
Originally posted by Ekliptix
I'll probably never get a 2.8 because of how much larger and heavier it is. This is also because I do a lot of my shooting up in the mountains and carry my gear in a backpack. Also, the DOF at 2.8 and 200mm is often not usable, and also harder to accuratly focus on what you want to if it's moving.

I have not tried the IS version of the F4 but I sure love my F4.

That is exactly my main concern.. that 2.8 is big and damn heavy. My bag is pretty heavy as it is now, and I did love my old f4 non-is..

i think i am going to check em both out this afternoon at TCS.

DJ Lazy
06-18-2007, 09:40 PM
Ended up going w/ the f/4 IS.. Will get some test shooting done soon and report back.:D :D :D

lint
06-18-2007, 10:01 PM
thought you sold the 70-200 f4 because you didn't shoot much at this focal range? What made you change your mind? Let's see some pics

DJ Lazy
06-18-2007, 10:19 PM
Originally posted by lint
thought you sold the 70-200 f4 because you didn't shoot much at this focal range? What made you change your mind? Let's see some pics


yea, i did sell it for that reason. lol however, since i sold it, i have been wanting to shoot alot more at this focal range. Go figure. haha

Will get some pics up soon.