Which Lens?

[Fawks]

I am trying to decide between these two lenses for a 400d (rebel XTi). I am looking for a good vacation lens so the advertised ranges of these is very intriguing.

Tamron AF18-250mm F/3.5-6.3 Di-II LD Aspherical (IF) Macro
http://www.tamron.com/lenses/prod/18250_diII.asp

Sigma 18-200mm f3.5-6.3 DC OS
http://www.sigmaphoto.com/lenses/lenses_all_details.asp?id=3324&navigator=6

Any help is appreciated. Thanks!

 

[elianthony]

Almost the same specs for both with the exception being the Tamron having a bit longer focal length. What I would do is research some of the photo forum boards and websites for examples of shots taken with each lens. Check out some of the user reviews as well. I know that Tamron and Sigma are both capable of producing very good images, all comes down to you and your camera. Check out these pbase links for galleries and user experiences.

http://www.pbase.com/cameras/sigma/18_200_35_63_dc_os

http://www.pbase.com/cameras/tamron/af18_250_35_63_di_ii_ld_aspherical_if_ma

 

[LowNotSlow]

I had that sigma lens for a long long time and found it very versatile until it finally gave up on me. Granted, this was professional use so this thing was getting a workout 5 days a week.

 

[Fawks]

I am thinking I'll go with the Sigma. I don't think I am gonna do too much tripod work with this lens so the Optical Stab. would be nice. One day I'll start selling crack so I can afford some "L" lenses.

 

[LowNotSlow]

VR and all that crap is over rated. It's a bandaid, nothing more.