I disagree with your position on the durability where the Tamron at least is concerned: I shoot in desert conditions on a monthly basis, as well as 12-14 hour weddings on the regular. That lens has put up with multiple drops and one seriously notable tripod knock. It is not built, in my mind, any less robustly than the Canon. These days high impact plastics make for professional constructs quite a bit as much as any metal. I beat the daylights out of my lenses and I don't think it's quite accurate to state that the Sigma and the Tamron are suddenly relegated to amateur status where it's just people on a budget taking pictures of their family. No. Acuity, distortion, CA, stabilization, lines per millimeter: the Tamron is every bit as good as the Canon lens where it counts: what happens on silicon and goes to the memory card. The image quality is simply excellent. And I say that as a "working professional" that hits up to 5 states a month of travel and photographic work. The Nikon VR II is NOT worth the extra money. period.
+Marc Morris Another thing about the "plastic" is the fact that it is dimensionally more stable than metal, keeping the glass inside in relation to each other more stable as well. For amateurs and semi professionals there is no reason nowadays to buy these very expensive brand lenses.
In one video you gave everyone so much useable information where now they can make an excellent choice on picking a lens. You do an amazing job helping the public out with your knowledge.
I have both the F4L IS and the F2.8L IS II. I bought the F4 first but before my son decided to take up ice hockey. After years of suffering with the high ISO because of being at indoor rinks, I bought the F2.8 and it was a huge improvement.
This video came just in time. I just bought a Sigma 70-200mm 2.8 and I'm a portrait/wedding photographer. It was the best for my budget. I researched the heck out of the differences. Seeing this video and getting your opinion on it is invaluable. THANK YOU!
I have to say IMO Tony is by far the best reviewer on youtube or anywhere else for that matter! I almost pulled the trigger on the Nikon 70-200 after just getting the Nikon 14-24 2.8 i am now going to save $1000 and get the Tamron! thank you Tony
Junior525 Tony and his wife Chelsea have the best photography channel on UA-cam hands down. They are with a subscribe. They have a really good book called Stunning Digital Photography you should check out.
Thank you so much, I've been really asking myself about my next major photo equip purchase. The few minutes you took about possibly buying a Tamron and having the money left over for a studio...nailed it.
I tried the tamron and the canon at B&H back and forth and I took so many pictures and to me the difference in quality isn't worth the extra $1000. You can't go wrong either way. Great video again tony, btw your book was the first photography book I bought when I purchased my Dslr last year.
Great review. Would love to see an update of it. Tamron has added the ultra sonic motor (usm) which addressed the noise issue and also has VC (equivalent to Canon’s IS) and still beats Canon on price by well over $1000. It’s almost a no-brainer!
Good review Tony. This is a lens I was looking to replace and to be honest the Tamron is my choice. This of all the reviews I've seen is the most concise and clear.
Thanks for a great review! I have had the Canon 70-200 mm f/2.8 II lens for a couple of months now, and let me just say it is my favourite lens. It is the one I take the most pictures with, and I estimate that it is about 50% of my pictures, if not more. The bottom line is that this focal length range has proven very useful to me. It may not be worth the price difference from the Tamron based on optical quality alone, but when you use it all the time, as I do, the extra build quality is very nice to have. Tony's review explained the differences and greatly helped me make up my mind.
Thanks to you, too, Tony, for a great video blog! I have the utmost respect for your knowledge and sincerity on the subject of photography and equipment for photography. The focus breathing issue on the Tamron was a major factor in deciding to go for the Canon. I felt like I would be cheated out of a bit of focal length if I chose the Tamron. It is not entirely fair to market the Tamron as 70-200 if it delivers significantly less focal length than 200 when focus is close, in my opinion. Other than that, the Tamron seemed fine. So, I later tested that in my photo store, not because I distrust your reviews, but because I wanted to see the difference for myself. I put the camera down on a specific spot, and put both lenses on 200 mm and on their closest focusing distances, 1.2 m and 1.3 m for Canon and Tamron, respectively, and took one picture with each lens. The difference was indeed significant, more so than I expected. The subject filled up way more of the frame with the Canon.
Tony.. You just solved a dilemma I had for over a year. A Tamron VC and accessories it is then! Brilliant n easy to digest video with no clutter. Thumbs up
The amount of vitally important information compressed in this one video is just pure honey! Tony, you have tactfully covered a lot of useful aspects of these lenses and photography in general, for which i say a massive 'Thank you!
I've used the Canon 70-200mm f/2.8 plenty of times when I worked for a photography studio, and I was wanting to buy the Sigma version of the same lens but they're all on backorder. Your review convinced me that the Tamron is just as good as even the canon so thanks!
Excellent, objective evaluation. I used my sister's Tamron 70-200 f2.8 this past weekend and could barely hear the autofocus. In fact, on a few occasions, I needed to check to see if I had inadvertently switched to manual focus. Not sure why TN says it's loud. Unless...Tamron's technology has changed over the last five years and has gotten quieter
Great review. I'm in the market for a 70-200 and your review has been very helpful. Instead of thinking so much about the lens and the brand I now can focus on the situation I will be using the lens. Thank you.
I use it on a 80D now. I´ve already use the Tamron on my uncle´s 6D, and on what concerns to the lens performance, the sharpness, the colors and fastness, they are very similar. Both great lenses, and if you are on a budget, don´t be afraid of buying the sigma. Great performer.
I've had my Sigma 70-200mm f2.8 OS for over 6 months now. love it! as a college student who doesn't have $2k to spend for a Nikon or Canon's version, the Sigma is definitely a good starting point. down the road I might get the Nikon 70-200mm 2.8
I definitely agree that I don't like the white build of some of the Canon lenses. Reminds me too much of gear from the past! Great review of each lens.
I watched this video weeks ago and got a Sigma 70-200 instead of the Canon for my A7RII. I bought it from Calumet for just 899 Euros. I was okay with it to get only decent sharpness by f2.8 like many reviewers said. But I was surprised how good and how sharp it is wide open. It is much sharper than my Nikkor 70-200 VRI. I think the A7RII and the Sigma are a very good combo. But if you use it for your Sony A, don't forget to update your Metabones adapter to the latest firmware. Thank's Tony for your good advice.
Looking at the comparisons to be fair the third party lenses especially Sigma looks impressive enough and saving a good bit of money, in saying that I love the Canon L, just the cost is the downfall. I currently own the Canon 70-200mm f/4.0 L IS USM hope to upgrade in the future to the f/2.8 L lens but it is pretty steep :) Great video!
After 4 years of using the Tamron, I like the Tamron, but it has some issues. I had to replace the zoom and focus ring rubber, had to send it to firmware update (can't work with DPAF cameras with stock firmware), and had a stabilizer issue with the R, but updating the R firmware fixed it. I took over 70k pictures with it (with 80D, 6D, 5D and R), and I still in love with it. It's always super sharp, the focus is good enough. I could photograph even the Andromeda galaxy with it. I can only recommend this lens :D
Great video Tony, thanks for sharing. Book is excellent, highly recommend it. Costs almost nothing & doesn't matter if you are an amateur or a pro, always something worth reading in it. Thanks again
This is one of the best comparisons I've viewed on youtube. Tony, does your review apply equally to the Nikon side? Does the Nikon flare and have similar aberrations as the Canon?
Mike Kojoori We're planning a comparison of Nikon portrait lenses now. The Nikon 70-200 is very different from the Canon--it has the same focal breathing problem that the Tamron & Sigma have. I haven't yet tested the image quality differences, but they're probably very minor.
I'm looking forward to it. At this point a telephoto zoom is just a luxury. I pay the bills with the 14-24 and the 24-70. It would be nice to have a fast, long lens for events, when they present themselves.
I've searched a lot of videos looking for my answers with regards to equestrian photography and this is bar far the best, well done, liked, subscribed and shared :) Thank you
Is focus breathing really a big issue? All you have to do is just step forward a step or two and the problem is solved. For people who dont have that huge budget to buy the Canon 70-200, I feel that Tamron 70-200 is the best option. Would you say the same Tony?
I bought an used Canon 70-200 2.8L non IS and a 2x L Tele-converter for $900. This was quit some time ago and I have had. If money is an issue these lens are so well built you might consider buying used. They real do hold up a long time.
a good review, without being too technical and pixel peaking. Nice to see a review which is about the use, not just the most expensive gear. I've used the sigma and the canon (mkII) on cropped and full frame. The canon is better, wide open in lower light than the sigma (indoors shooting on to a badly lit stage). Focuses better too I think. But my personal bag only has the sigma in it. The 85mm 1.8 takes some getting used to, but after some practise...I love it. A 50mm too is often on my camera by default. Such a great lens on full frame. On the crop for similar efforts, the newer Canon 35mm IS f/2 is very nice to use I think.
Nice, very helpful sir. I did purchase the Sigma 70-200mm f2.8 for my Sony a7r and am very much happy with it... I know, it may not be Canon or Nikon or Sony, but it's working fine for me... a bit short on budget
Super helpful video!!! I currently use the 60D and I really want to upgrade and hopefully buy one of these lenses. After reviewing your video I think that I will be purchasing a 6D and then down the line going with the Tamron lens. Thank you so much for you helpful video!
Correct me if im wrong, but Tony, the Sigma is NOT weather sealed, and that is a BIG drawback. BH response: Q: Is this lens weather sealed? Heather S from B&H Photo Video said: A: The Sigma 70-200mm f/2.8 is not weather sealed. 70-200mm f/2.8 EX DG APO OS HSM for Canon
Hey Tony & Chelsea , Thank you for all your advice and guidance, I just bought your Stunning Digital Photography book, I especially like your wildlife section. I actually bought one for my photography friend, a lot of information for a few dollars. keep up the great videos, I look forward to watching them.
It's a very long video, at the beginning i thought i will skip most of of it ... but .... the way it's presented ... i got answer for all of my questions. Thanx allot !!! You made my day !!! ;)
I loved your video. The explanations in the end for those thinking if the price difference is worth it and your way of getting to anyone^s heart. thank you !
For Chromatic Aberration test maybe as you had to adjust distance between the 200mm range for the lenses, you might have had to adjust shutter speed because maybe Canon's F/2.8 enters more light than the Sigma and Tamron lenses. It is possible since the 200mm of Sigma and Tamron is not the same as the 200mm of Canon. Just as 200mm should be the same for all lenses, and as we can see it isn't, then maybe the f/2.8 of the different lenses is also different depending on the companies measuring systems.
The two tamron lenses that I have actually are very durable. I do a lot of street photography and here in Korea they get bumped in crowds and the subway all the time and never had a issue. Just checked my main one and there no visible scratches or damage on it. Just if anyone is considering the tamrons
+TonyNorthrup Third party lenses are definitely worth it , especially when you consider how much you are paying for vs quality . However , Here is my take : 1. When you buy brand name lenses you have the garantee of compatibility with all future bodies and current bodies from the same manufacturer and they are built like tanks which is good for durability. 2. Third party lenses , although they perform as good as name brand lenses , they don't have the same built quality and when it comes to camera bodies you have to keep updating the lens firmware (if available) to ensure maximum compatibility with other bodies or future bodies ... is it ok with you ? Your call... 3. Last and not least : NAME BRAND LENSES HAVE A BETTER RESELL VALUE COMPARED TO THIRD PARTY LENSES. Personally speaking , I would go for the name brand lenses since maximum compatibility is important to me.
not really relevant for my as a hobby photographer, but it's always interesting to learn about the different types of lenses^^ i was wondering if you could do a review of the 18-200mm lenses sometime??
BTW will be using the 70D per your suggestions and that of your friends on previous videos..... True the 7d would work well for Africa, but need to think of future, as well.
Hi Tony and Chelsea, thanks for this video. This really help us, non pro to understand the big difference between these 3 great lenses. I did get both your books and I've learned allot reading Stunning Digital Photography. The only thing missing for me was a nice 70-200mm lens. Great work again
Mr. Northrup, When you went to your 50mm prime lens, I was impressed with the way the shot brought out your subject's eyes. My mother had hazel eyes, I always felt they were very unique and attractive. I would like to know the technicals of that shot, i.e., ISO, shutter speed and aperture setting. Many thanks and I am looking forward to learning more from all of your videos. Thanks again, Tony J. Tarquinio
Tony Tarquinio The settings won't work for other situations. Check Chapter 4 in Stunning Digital Photography for information on camera settings and Chapter 6 for portrait information.
I am leaning toward the Sigma 70-200 2.8 I have found it for as low as $1000, though I'd LOVE the canon... I will save and invest on some other needed things, maybe an ultra wide tokina 11-16 for video and and 85mm 1.8
I have a Tamron 70-200mm Lens f2.8 and I use it daily for portraits and concerts and festivals I also find that the 135 and the 50m Canon lens are best for portraiture and the 4omm lens is great for low light concert photography Brand is the decider of how much you will pay but if you are patient you can get great lenses on EBay and Gumtree - I would love to buy the genuine lenses for my canons 550D and 7D but they are just way too expensive and way out of my budget reach .. I favour the Tamron for quality and I favour canon for the 135 and 40/50mm lenses . which aren`t very expensive given the quality of photos
Northrups, I love watching your videos and reading your books on photography. Thanks for all the tips. One thing though, about what you said about Canon tele lenses color. I just learned recently that they always come in white because of a historical reason. In war, photographers would use telelens to get as close as possible to battlefield, but they would still be in danger if their camera couldn't be told apart from a gun quickly enough, so they got in agreement that their lenses should be painted in white. That way they could be distinguished from soldiers and their guns, putting themselves in a more risk-free situation.
+Tony Northrup well, that's a very good question cuz I can't remember where I heard of it since I've been watching tons of UA-cam videos on photography... but as soon as I find out I'll let you know. Thanks again for all the teaching.
+Tony Northrup I just found this under Canon L Lens: "usually have an off-white barrel (sometimes referred to as the color "putty") to reduce heat absorption under the sun that may otherwise affect the performance of the lens,[1] AS WELL AS TO IDENTIFY Canon's lenses (for example at sporting events), though these can be confused with Sony A and Pentax K-mount lenses which are also offered in (pure) white." Though it's not what I was referring to before, it might be a beginning.
Very accurate review......Excellent....i have found the 35 year old Minolta . 80-200mm f2.8 . APO lens is faster and as sharp, it is a Sony "A" mount lens.....
Hey Tony, stunning review, completely makes sense and really helped me think about which one is best for me compared to the sum what biased review by digitalrevTV. thanks.
There is an option for that black touch on the 80-200mm F2.8 drainpipe :D . But no I.S and rather slow focusing. That lens albeit being old, goes for 700$ used. Great review!! And agree on the color white being to ..... cheesy
Great share on this but canon has the best glass You can get the canon 70-200 on sale on digilh.com/canon70-2002.8lens and read the customer reviews there to see why it is 5star rated
Kevin Wallenway I'm sorry I forgot to detail my comment , I meant the Canon 80-200m f2.8 . I actually think Nikon has sharper lenses from what I've seen , but I'm a Canon person so Canon it is :)
Yes Tony I saw that but that is with the 24-105 do you guys plan on doing a test with all Sigma Tamron nikon and canon? Well there are others on UA-cam but you guys put everything in practical every sense. I am looking to either get the 70-200 2.8 or the 24-70 2.8 I haven't been able to make up my mind. My uncle said that the 24-70 is better because it is amazing in video and at 70mm great for portraits.
Hi Tony - Which is the best 70-200 now? Would u like to update this video? Also i heard Nikon 70-200 VRII has been discontinued? You think they are coming up with something good?
I just got into photography months ago and I just picked up the Canon Rebel t5i I am a paintball player so I like taking action shots I'm looking for a good zoom lens but something that won't break my bank
Tony, I watch a lot of your videos and take your advice very seriously. I love my yongnuo flash and controllers. I just got my copy of the tamron 70-200 f2.8 vc lens, and I love it. mine is silent when focussing. I literally have to put my ear to the body to hear it. my nikon kit lens is much louder, and slower to focus. I wonder if your sample was a banged up media one, or they changed their motor.
Order the Tamron 70-200 on Amazon at help.tc/t200
Order the Sigma 70-200 on Amazon at help.tc/s200
Order the Canon 70-200 on Amazon at help.tc/c200
Ks.Tadeusz Guz
Ks.Tadeusz Guz.pl
Which one fits the Nikon d5300?
gabbies makeup & mascara I think they all have Nikon mount.
Does everything that you stat in this review still stand up in 2017?
Is this true with the updated 70-200 lenses?
Very balanced and unbiased review yet professional. Almost unique characteristic and highly ethical.
discoverer Thanks!!
"It's probably more than you will spend on your body"
You underestimate how much I can eat.
Underrated comment!
3 years later running across this and it cracked me up 😂😂😂.
😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂
I disagree with your position on the durability where the Tamron at least is concerned: I shoot in desert conditions on a monthly basis, as well as 12-14 hour weddings on the regular. That lens has put up with multiple drops and one seriously notable tripod knock. It is not built, in my mind, any less robustly than the Canon. These days high impact plastics make for professional constructs quite a bit as much as any metal. I beat the daylights out of my lenses and I don't think it's quite accurate to state that the Sigma and the Tamron are suddenly relegated to amateur status where it's just people on a budget taking pictures of their family. No. Acuity, distortion, CA, stabilization, lines per millimeter: the Tamron is every bit as good as the Canon lens where it counts: what happens on silicon and goes to the memory card. The image quality is simply excellent. And I say that as a "working professional" that hits up to 5 states a month of travel and photographic work. The Nikon VR II is NOT worth the extra money. period.
+Marc Morris Another thing about the "plastic" is the fact that it is dimensionally more stable than metal, keeping the glass inside in relation to each other more stable as well. For amateurs and semi professionals there is no reason nowadays to buy these very expensive brand lenses.
In one video you gave everyone so much useable information where now they can make an excellent choice on picking a lens. You do an amazing job helping the public out with your knowledge.
I have both the F4L IS and the F2.8L IS II. I bought the F4 first but before my son decided to take up ice hockey. After years of suffering with the high ISO because of being at indoor rinks, I bought the F2.8 and it was a huge improvement.
The comment I needed as a ice hockey player.
This video came just in time. I just bought a Sigma 70-200mm 2.8 and I'm a portrait/wedding photographer. It was the best for my budget. I researched the heck out of the differences. Seeing this video and getting your opinion on it is invaluable. THANK YOU!
I have to say IMO Tony is by far the best reviewer on youtube or anywhere else for that matter! I almost pulled the trigger on the Nikon 70-200 after just getting the Nikon 14-24 2.8 i am now going to save $1000 and get the Tamron! thank you Tony
I am just now pricing and comparing these lenses, no idea how glad I am you just posted this video.
Dear lord.. this guy just gave me the answers i was looking for and gave the best review out there
Junior525 Tony and his wife Chelsea have the best photography channel on UA-cam hands down. They are with a subscribe. They have a really good book called Stunning Digital Photography you should check out.
Junior525 indeed.....
Thank you so much, I've been really asking myself about my next major photo equip purchase. The few minutes you took about possibly buying a Tamron and having the money left over for a studio...nailed it.
I tried the tamron and the canon at B&H back and forth and I took so many pictures and to me the difference in quality isn't worth the extra $1000. You can't go wrong either way. Great video again tony, btw your book was the first photography book I bought when I purchased my Dslr last year.
I think one of the biggest differences is in autofocusing
honestly the way you review products is simply amazing. You are the best when it comes to proper reviews.
Great review. Would love to see an update of it. Tamron has added the ultra sonic motor (usm) which addressed the noise issue and also has VC (equivalent to Canon’s IS) and still beats Canon on price by well over $1000. It’s almost a no-brainer!
Good review Tony. This is a lens I was looking to replace and to be honest the Tamron is my choice. This of all the reviews I've seen is the most concise and clear.
Thanks for a great review!
I have had the Canon 70-200 mm f/2.8 II lens for a couple of months now, and let me just say it is my favourite lens. It is the one I take the most pictures with, and I estimate that it is about 50% of my pictures, if not more. The bottom line is that this focal length range has proven very useful to me.
It may not be worth the price difference from the Tamron based on optical quality alone, but when you use it all the time, as I do, the extra build quality is very nice to have.
Tony's review explained the differences and greatly helped me make up my mind.
Thanks, Martin!
Thanks to you, too, Tony, for a great video blog! I have the utmost respect for your knowledge and sincerity on the subject of photography and equipment for photography.
The focus breathing issue on the Tamron was a major factor in deciding to go for the Canon. I felt like I would be cheated out of a bit of focal length if I chose the Tamron. It is not entirely fair to market the Tamron as 70-200 if it delivers significantly less focal length than 200 when focus is close, in my opinion. Other than that, the Tamron seemed fine.
So, I later tested that in my photo store, not because I distrust your reviews, but because I wanted to see the difference for myself. I put the camera down on a specific spot, and put both lenses on 200 mm and on their closest focusing distances, 1.2 m and 1.3 m for Canon and Tamron, respectively, and took one picture with each lens. The difference was indeed significant, more so than I expected. The subject filled up way more of the frame with the Canon.
you can never guess this guy's age.
+GunnedOutlaw Acts like one too.
+Shalaka Juvekar I'm gonna guess late 30s....
+Shalaka Juvekar I looked it up and he was 40 in this video, so I was close :3
he is a vampire
Yoo freal! This guy goes from lookon 35 banker . to 45 yr old samurai. Smart dude tho
Tony.. You just solved a dilemma I had for over a year. A Tamron VC and accessories it is then!
Brilliant n easy to digest video with no clutter. Thumbs up
The amount of vitally important information compressed in this one video is just pure honey! Tony, you have tactfully covered a lot of useful aspects of these lenses and photography in general, for which i say a massive 'Thank you!
Havn't seen the vid yet but am surprised to see the Tamron outscore the Great White on this website. www.cameraegg.org/best-lenses-for-canon-eos-6d/
not surprised.. I've got the sigma version though, and it's brilliant so far! never used the canon version so i can't compare :)
I've used the Canon 70-200mm f/2.8 plenty of times when I worked for a photography studio, and I was wanting to buy the Sigma version of the same lens but they're all on backorder. Your review convinced me that the Tamron is just as good as even the canon so thanks!
Ordered your book yesterday and waiting for it to arrive!
Thanks, Mike!
I really enjoyed this review, Tony is the youtube reviewer you have been looking for.
The Canon lens is now around $1899 on Amazon brand new.
Excellent, objective evaluation. I used my sister's Tamron 70-200 f2.8 this past weekend and could barely hear the autofocus. In fact, on a few occasions, I needed to check to see if I had inadvertently switched to manual focus. Not sure why TN says it's loud. Unless...Tamron's technology has changed over the last five years and has gotten quieter
Would have love to see what the results on the DX looked liked
Great review. I'm in the market for a 70-200 and your review has been very helpful. Instead of thinking so much about the lens and the brand I now can focus on the situation I will be using the lens. Thank you.
I own the Sigma 70-200 2.8. It's a wonderful lens
Carlos Amadis what body? And have u compared it with tamron. Any suggestions?
I use it on a 80D now. I´ve already use the Tamron on my uncle´s 6D, and on what concerns to the lens performance, the sharpness, the colors and fastness, they are very similar. Both great lenses, and if you are on a budget, don´t be afraid of buying the sigma. Great performer.
Carlos Amadis Is Tamron really that loud?
Radim Nejedlý No. They are silent. The Canon is slightly more silent. If u are thinking of buying one don't be afraid.
Carlos Amadis what about is
I've had my Sigma 70-200mm f2.8 OS for over 6 months now. love it! as a college student who doesn't have $2k to spend for a Nikon or Canon's version, the Sigma is definitely a good starting point. down the road I might get the Nikon 70-200mm 2.8
Holy shit! It's a white Jamie Fox
+Vigilant Lance Clegane Young Col. Sanders....
Canon's Jamie Fox
ay mama mia..
Vigilant Lance lol
Vigilant Lance he does lol
I definitely agree that I don't like the white build of some of the Canon lenses. Reminds me too much of gear from the past! Great review of each lens.
did you guys get a special deal for two jackets in partner look? thx for the video!
I watched this video weeks ago and got a Sigma 70-200 instead of the Canon for my A7RII. I bought it from Calumet for just 899 Euros. I was okay with it to get only decent sharpness by f2.8 like many reviewers said. But I was surprised how good and how sharp it is wide open. It is much sharper than my Nikkor 70-200 VRI. I think the A7RII and the Sigma are a very good combo. But if you use it for your Sony A, don't forget to update your Metabones adapter to the latest firmware. Thank's Tony for your good advice.
Looking at the comparisons to be fair the third party lenses especially Sigma looks impressive enough and saving a good bit of money, in saying that I love the Canon L, just the cost is the downfall. I currently own the Canon 70-200mm f/4.0 L IS USM hope to upgrade in the future to the f/2.8 L lens but it is pretty steep :)
Great video!
After 4 years of using the Tamron, I like the Tamron, but it has some issues. I had to replace the zoom and focus ring rubber, had to send it to firmware update (can't work with DPAF cameras with stock firmware), and had a stabilizer issue with the R, but updating the R firmware fixed it. I took over 70k pictures with it (with 80D, 6D, 5D and R), and I still in love with it. It's always super sharp, the focus is good enough. I could photograph even the Andromeda galaxy with it. I can only recommend this lens :D
Great video Tony, thanks for sharing. Book is excellent, highly recommend it. Costs almost nothing & doesn't matter if you are an amateur or a pro, always something worth reading in it. Thanks again
This is one of the best comparisons I've viewed on youtube. Tony, does your review apply equally to the Nikon side? Does the Nikon flare and have similar aberrations as the Canon?
Mike Kojoori We're planning a comparison of Nikon portrait lenses now. The Nikon 70-200 is very different from the Canon--it has the same focal breathing problem that the Tamron & Sigma have. I haven't yet tested the image quality differences, but they're probably very minor.
I'm looking forward to it. At this point a telephoto zoom is just a luxury. I pay the bills with the 14-24 and the 24-70. It would be nice to have a fast, long lens for events, when they present themselves.
I've searched a lot of videos looking for my answers with regards to equestrian photography and this is bar far the best, well done, liked, subscribed and shared :) Thank you
+DJM Photography Thanks!
Is focus breathing really a big issue? All you have to do is just step forward a step or two and the problem is solved. For people who dont have that huge budget to buy the Canon 70-200, I feel that Tamron 70-200 is the best option. Would you say the same Tony?
I own the Tamron 70-200 F2.8 VC because for me it's a hobby and I love it.
I bought an used Canon 70-200 2.8L non IS and a 2x L Tele-converter for $900. This was quit some time ago and I have had. If money is an issue these lens are so well built you might consider buying used. They real do hold up a long time.
Quite possibly the best, most sensible advice I've heard in a while. Thank you!
got the canon f/2.8L IS II for $2100 new a few months back. it's awesome!
a good review, without being too technical and pixel peaking. Nice to see a review which is about the use, not just the most expensive gear.
I've used the sigma and the canon (mkII) on cropped and full frame. The canon is better, wide open in lower light than the sigma (indoors shooting on to a badly lit stage). Focuses better too I think. But my personal bag only has the sigma in it.
The 85mm 1.8 takes some getting used to, but after some practise...I love it. A 50mm too is often on my camera by default. Such a great lens on full frame. On the crop for similar efforts, the newer Canon 35mm IS f/2 is very nice to use I think.
When it comes to photography reviews you're the best Tony! Great reviews and non biased. Keep up the good work...
I've been enjoying many of your videos and I've grown to really like your style.
Thanks, many thanks.
Nice, very helpful sir. I did purchase the Sigma 70-200mm f2.8 for my Sony a7r and am very much happy with it... I know, it may not be Canon or Nikon or Sony, but it's working fine for me... a bit short on budget
Very informative! Thank you for making the effort to review the three lenses. Very comprehensive. Great work.
Super helpful video!!! I currently use the 60D and I really want to upgrade and hopefully buy one of these lenses. After reviewing your video I think that I will be purchasing a 6D and then down the line going with the Tamron lens. Thank you so much for you helpful video!
Correct me if im wrong, but Tony, the Sigma is NOT weather sealed, and that is a BIG drawback.
BH response:
Q: Is this lens weather sealed?
Heather S from B&H Photo Video said:
A: The Sigma 70-200mm f/2.8 is not weather sealed.
70-200mm f/2.8 EX DG APO OS HSM for Canon
Hey Tony & Chelsea , Thank you for all your advice and guidance, I just bought your Stunning Digital Photography book, I especially like your wildlife section. I actually bought one for my photography friend, a lot of information for a few dollars. keep up the great videos, I look forward to watching them.
Thanks, Dan!!
It's a very long video, at the beginning i thought i will skip most of of it ... but .... the way it's presented ... i got answer for all of my questions. Thanx allot !!! You made my day !!! ;)
I like because you're honest and documented
This was one of the most useful videos that I have ever seen. Thank you for that.
I loved your video. The explanations in the end for those thinking if the price difference is worth it and your way of getting to anyone^s heart. thank you !
Great video as usual guys with very helpful real world examples. Love it!
For Chromatic Aberration test maybe as you had to adjust distance between the 200mm range for the lenses, you might have had to adjust shutter speed because maybe Canon's F/2.8 enters more light than the Sigma and Tamron lenses. It is possible since the 200mm of Sigma and Tamron is not the same as the 200mm of Canon. Just as 200mm should be the same for all lenses, and as we can see it isn't, then maybe the f/2.8 of the different lenses is also different depending on the companies measuring systems.
I notice that Matt Granger found the Canon to have by far the greatest focus breathing! Interesting how different your results are.
Great analysis as always! Thanks for helping me choose my new 70-200mm! I think the Tamron would be a very good choice!
The two tamron lenses that I have actually are very durable. I do a lot of street photography and here in Korea they get bumped in crowds and the subway all the time and never had a issue. Just checked my main one and there no visible scratches or damage on it. Just if anyone is considering the tamrons
Thank you so much for this video. I was debating between these three lenses and this video definitely helped me make my choice. Thanks again!
+TonyNorthrup Third party lenses are definitely worth it , especially when you consider how much you are paying for vs quality .
However , Here is my take :
1. When you buy brand name lenses you have the garantee of compatibility with all future bodies and current bodies from the same manufacturer and they are built like tanks which is good for durability.
2. Third party lenses , although they perform as good as name brand lenses , they don't have the same built quality and when it comes to camera bodies you have to keep updating the lens firmware (if available) to ensure maximum compatibility with other bodies or future bodies ... is it ok with you ? Your call...
3. Last and not least : NAME BRAND LENSES HAVE A BETTER RESELL VALUE COMPARED TO THIRD PARTY LENSES.
Personally speaking , I would go for the name brand lenses since maximum compatibility is important to me.
methodical way of conducting the test, thanks
not really relevant for my as a hobby photographer, but it's always interesting to learn about the different types of lenses^^
i was wondering if you could do a review of the 18-200mm lenses sometime??
BTW will be using the 70D per your suggestions and that of your friends on previous videos..... True the 7d would work well for Africa, but need to think of future, as well.
I have crop sensor Nikon D3500. Now I decided to buy Sigma 70-200 as it is my first professional lens. I hope I am doing right decision)
Great review. Thank you.
I have five f2.8 zoom lenses on my APS-C Sony. The Sigma 70-200 is my sharpest lens. I really like it.
Awesome video on this subject! I was skeptical about the Tamron, but my mind is made up now!
hai Tony im Nikon d800 shooter but must admit it canon has the best 70-200mm 2.8 on the marcked at the moment
Hi Tony and Chelsea, thanks for this video. This really help us, non pro to understand the big difference between these 3 great lenses. I did get both your books and I've learned allot reading Stunning Digital Photography. The only thing missing for me was a nice 70-200mm lens. Great work again
Awesome review. The price conservation part was totally worth it (y)
Thanks for the reply Tony. Thanks also for the sdp book. I really like it.
Love the business advice in this, just got yourself another sub. Cheers, keep it up...
The Canon is the most consistent in sharpness and bokeh. My favorite is the Minolta 70-200 2.8 af with the Sony full frame.
Best comparison of third party vs native lenses. I'm a Sony shooter and I completely agree; Tamron > Sony's G lens.
Thank you, I've been going back and forth with on my final decision and your review really helped me out!!!
Thanks, very professional, explained everything, you certainly know your stuff and can put it across very plainly.
Mr. Northrup,
When you went to your 50mm prime lens, I was impressed with the way the shot brought out your subject's eyes. My mother had hazel eyes, I always felt they were very unique and attractive. I would like to know the technicals of that shot, i.e., ISO, shutter speed and aperture setting. Many thanks and I am looking forward to learning more from all of your videos. Thanks again,
Tony J. Tarquinio
Tony Tarquinio The settings won't work for other situations. Check Chapter 4 in Stunning Digital Photography for information on camera settings and Chapter 6 for portrait information.
I am leaning toward the Sigma 70-200 2.8 I have found it for as low as $1000, though I'd LOVE the canon... I will save and invest on some other needed things, maybe an ultra wide tokina 11-16 for video and and 85mm 1.8
Really good review and great summary at the end.
I have a Tamron 70-200mm Lens f2.8 and I use it daily for portraits and concerts and festivals I also find that the 135 and the 50m Canon lens are best for portraiture and the 4omm lens is great for low light concert photography Brand is the decider of how much you will pay but if you are patient you can get great lenses on EBay and Gumtree - I would love to buy the genuine lenses for my canons 550D and 7D but they are just way too expensive and way out of my budget reach .. I favour the Tamron for quality and I favour canon for the 135 and 40/50mm lenses . which aren`t very expensive given the quality of photos
Great review. Another great option, Canon's 135mm f2L
You are really professional and you cleared things up for me thanks!
Northrups, I love watching your videos and reading your books on photography. Thanks for all the tips. One thing though, about what you said about Canon tele lenses color. I just learned recently that they always come in white because of a historical reason. In war, photographers would use telelens to get as close as possible to battlefield, but they would still be in danger if their camera couldn't be told apart from a gun quickly enough, so they got in agreement that their lenses should be painted in white. That way they could be distinguished from soldiers and their guns, putting themselves in a more risk-free situation.
+Daniel Mauricio Oh, interesting story! I hadn't heard that. What's your source for this? I can't find anything on the topic.
+Tony Northrup well, that's a very good question cuz I can't remember where I heard of it since I've been watching tons of UA-cam videos on photography... but as soon as I find out I'll let you know. Thanks again for all the teaching.
+Tony Northrup I just found this under Canon L Lens: "usually have an off-white barrel (sometimes referred to as the color "putty") to reduce heat absorption under the sun that may otherwise affect the performance of the lens,[1] AS WELL AS TO IDENTIFY Canon's lenses (for example at sporting events), though these can be confused with Sony A and Pentax K-mount lenses which are also offered in (pure) white." Though it's not what I was referring to before, it might be a beginning.
+Daniel Mauricio He's clearly already aware of this. He mentioned it in the video... Does anyone actually watch full videos before commenting on them?
+D Mac I do watch full video. Have you read all previous comments between him and me? People should read first, talk later.
Very accurate review......Excellent....i have found the 35 year old Minolta . 80-200mm f2.8 . APO lens is faster and as sharp, it is a Sony "A" mount lens.....
Whatever said, for shooting people on the full-frame matrix I prefer lenses with a fixed focal length.
Hey Tony, stunning review, completely makes sense and really helped me think about which one is best for me compared to the sum what biased review by digitalrevTV. thanks.
Tony, you are explaining wonderful. thank you so much!
There is an option for that black touch on the 80-200mm F2.8 drainpipe :D . But no I.S and rather slow focusing. That lens albeit being old, goes for 700$ used. Great review!! And agree on the color white being to ..... cheesy
Great share on this but canon has the best glass
You can get the canon 70-200 on sale on digilh.com/canon70-2002.8lens and read the customer reviews there to see why it is 5star rated
Kevin Wallenway I'm sorry I forgot to detail my comment , I meant the Canon 80-200m f2.8 . I actually think Nikon has sharper lenses from what I've seen , but I'm a Canon person so Canon it is :)
Yes Tony I saw that but that is with the 24-105 do you guys plan on doing a test with all Sigma Tamron nikon and canon? Well there are others on UA-cam but you guys put everything in practical every sense. I am looking to either get the 70-200 2.8 or the 24-70 2.8 I haven't been able to make up my mind. My uncle said that the 24-70 is better because it is amazing in video and at 70mm great for portraits.
Great, straightforward advice! Thank you, Tony.
Hi Tony - Which is the best 70-200 now? Would u like to update this video? Also i heard Nikon 70-200 VRII has been discontinued? You think they are coming up with something good?
Do you still recommend the Sigma today? Or is there a better 70-200 2.8 at the same price today?
Thanks for the comparison tests.Good video
shuswaptoy You're welcome!
I'm getting the Canon 70-200 isii any day now
I wish sigma or tamron had one out for sony. I used the a mount sigma and it was AMAZING but id rather not have to use that la-ea4 adapter.
thankyou Mr. Tony! this video very helpful for me, especially in budget problem. thanks a lot!!!
Actually you can very well get a 50mm Nikon for around $100: see the 1.8D version. Unfortunately it won't autofocus on the low end bodies.
haha! yeah, that's the beginning of a list of reasons that Canon is at many times better than Nikon for the majority of people.
I just got into photography months ago and I just picked up the Canon Rebel t5i I am a paintball player so I like taking action shots I'm looking for a good zoom lens but something that won't break my bank
Tony, I watch a lot of your videos and take your advice very seriously. I love my yongnuo flash and controllers. I just got my copy of the tamron 70-200 f2.8 vc lens, and I love it. mine is silent when focussing. I literally have to put my ear to the body to hear it. my nikon kit lens is much louder, and slower to focus.
I wonder if your sample was a banged up media one, or they changed their motor.
What is your opinion of the Tamron vs the older Canon 70-200 f2.8 non is? The non is is just slightly cheaper now a days than the Tamron.